A Travel Price Comparison for Switzerland Zermatt vs. Basel for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zermatt or Basel?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Zermatt and Basel can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a breathtaking, charming, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Basel

Basel is a beautiful, vibrant, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Basel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Basel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Basel are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Basel attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Basel and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Basel and Zermatt. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Basel is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Zermatt is among the best in the world. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Basel is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zermatt or Basel?

Basel is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Basel specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

Is the Food Better in Zermatt or Basel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zermatt. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Zermatt has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is notable for its resorts. However, Basel is not a resort destination.

Zermatt is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Basel is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Basel is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Zermatt draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Basel?

Both Zermatt and Basel are excellent shopping destinations.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

Basel is well-known for its shopping. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Basel.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly place to visit. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Basel is very family-friendly. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Zermatt has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

Basel is a good town for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is notable for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zermatt is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

Basel is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Students?

Basel is a well-known place for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Basel is very popular with students. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

Is Zermatt or Basel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Basel is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Basel. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Zermatt or Basel a more walkable city?

Zermatt and Basel both are terrific when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Zermatt on foot. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Basel. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Zermatt Worth Visiting? and Is Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Basel. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Basel. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Basel. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Zermatt, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Zermatt than Basel. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zermatt that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zermatt than Basel if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Zermatt.

One day in Zermatt or Basel?

In Zermatt, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Basel, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Zermatt or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Basel, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Basel has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Basel?

Zermatt is a fun place to experience. In Zermatt, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Basel is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Zermatt or Basel?

You'll find nightlife and food around the stunning destination of Zermatt. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Basel. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Basel. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland.

When comparing the travel costs between Zermatt and Basel, we can see that Basel is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zermatt Expensive? and Is Basel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Basel?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Basel, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Zermatt or Basel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zermatt or Basel in the Summer?

Both Basel and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is around the same temperature as Basel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Basel averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Basel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Basel during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Basel. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Basel in the Autumn?

Both Basel and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Basel in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Basel. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Basel. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Basel. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Basel in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Basel. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Basel can be very cold during winter. Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. Zermatt is much warmer than Basel in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Basel during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of rain as Basel. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Basel in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Basel. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Basel because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than Basel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Basel averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Basel. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Basel. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Basel and Zermatt