A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zermatt vs. Beaune for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zermatt or Beaune?

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 Beaune can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Beaune

Beaune is a vineyard-filled, cultural, and historic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Beaune: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Beaune?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Beaune are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Beaune attracts visitors for its museums, food, and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Beaune and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Beaune is famous for its surrounding vineyards and world-renowned wines.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Beaune?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Beaune Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is terrific for winter skiing. However, Beaune is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around 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.

Beaune is not a skiing destination.

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

Beaune 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 Beaune specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Top sights and museums around town include Hôtel-Dieu (a former hospital), Château de Savigny, and Château de la Rochepot.

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 Beaune? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaune is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Beaune has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The restaurant scene is made up of small, narrow, local bistros that serve local dishes with regional ingredients. Many of the menus are focused on wine with the dishes designed specifically to compliment the wines. This is a tourist town, and you'll find many visitors come specifically to enjoy the French cuisine.

Zermatt has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Zermatt or Beaune Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Beaune is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Zermatt know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Beaune has a few options to choose from. You'll find bars and pubs as well as many places to sip French wine and enjoy the evening.

Is Zermatt or Beaune Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a great destination for its resorts. However, Beaune is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Zermatt to choose from. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Beaune is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Beaune Better for its Old Town?

Beaune is very popular for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Beaune has a world-famous historical area. The old town is walled and compact. It is centered around the medieval hospital complex and it is filled with cobblestone streets and shops.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Beaune Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Beaune is not a hiking destination.

Zermatt is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Beaune is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Beaune?

Zermatt is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Beaune is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Zermatt is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Beaune has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Boutiques, wine shops, and independent vendors are fun to explore in town.

Is Zermatt or Beaune Better for Families?

Zermatt is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beaune is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Zermatt is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Beaune offers lots of family activities. The town has museums like Hospices de Beaune, Hotel-Dieu (a formal hospital), as well as vineyards that you can hike through. Many people enjoy taking a hot air balloon ride while they're in the region.

Is Zermatt or Beaune Better for Couples?

Both Zermatt and Beaune are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Zermatt has plenty to offer. 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.

Beaune has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples will enjoy exploring vineyards, sipping French wine, and wandering through the charming old town. There are breathtaking hot air balloon rides and wonderful French restaurants that make for a romantic trip.

Is Zermatt or Beaune Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a great destination for backpackers. However, Beaune is a town with minimal options 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.

Beaune is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a charming town, but it's not on many backpacker's itineraries. There are also a limited number of hostels to choose from.

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

Both Zermatt and Beaune offer nice public transit options.

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

Beaune has some public transit options. While you can walk around the historic center, it's possible to take a bus if you're traveling further.

Is Zermatt or Beaune a more walkable city?

Zermatt and Beaune both are first-rate 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 Beaune. It's a walkable town that's perfect for taking a stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaune or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Beaune?

It's fun to spend time in either Zermatt or Beaune. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zermatt due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 2-4 days is enough time in Beaune.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Beaune. 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 Beaune. 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 Beaune 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 Beaune?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Zermatt. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Beaune, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Zermatt or Beaune?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Beaune, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaune has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Beaune?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Beaune 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 Beaune?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Zermatt. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaune. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Beaune. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zermatt and Beaune, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Beaune much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beaune would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beaune and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Zermatt would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zermatt than you might in Beaune.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Beaune?

Beaune has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Beaune, 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 Beaune?

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 Beaune in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Beaune. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Beaune for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaune this time of the year. In Zermatt, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaune during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Beaune receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Beaune. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Beaune in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Beaune. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Beaune because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Beaune. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Beaune fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Beaune. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaune receives 121 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Beaune. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Beaune in the Winter?

Both Beaune and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaune this time of year.

It's quite cold in Beaune in the winter. The weather in Zermatt can be very cold. Zermatt is much warmer than Beaune in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Beaune fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Beaune during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Beaune receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Beaune. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Beaune in the Spring?

Both Beaune and Zermatt during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Beaune for the small town charm.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than Beaune. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Beaune averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaune. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaune receives 178 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Beaune. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Beaune and Zermatt