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

Should you visit Zermatt or Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux 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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a elegant, charming, and romantic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Bordeaux are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bordeaux attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities. Zermatt is famous for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Bordeaux is famous for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Bordeaux Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Bordeaux is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Zermatt should be on your list. 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.

Bordeaux is not a skiing destination.

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

Bordeaux is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Bordeaux is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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 Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Zermatt or Bordeaux Better for Resorts?

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

Zermatt is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is very good for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bordeaux to see the historical old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Bordeaux Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

People visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Bordeaux?

Both Zermatt and Bordeaux are great 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.

Bordeaux is well-known for its shopping. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Zermatt or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Zermatt is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Zermatt or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Zermatt makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Bordeaux is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Is Zermatt or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Zermatt or Bordeaux Better for Students?

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

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

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 Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Bordeaux?

In either Zermatt or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zermatt has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Zermatt than Bordeaux. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

The beautiful town of Zermatt offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city 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 Bordeaux?

Zermatt is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zermatt, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Bordeaux, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. 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 Bordeaux has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Bordeaux?

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zermatt, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Zermatt or Bordeaux?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zermatt and Bordeaux, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bordeaux would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Bordeaux. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In Zermatt, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zermatt usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 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 Bordeaux. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Bordeaux. The autumn months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

In October, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Bordeaux. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. Zermatt is cooler than Bordeaux in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In January, Zermatt usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Zermatt during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Zermatt often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Bordeaux. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Zermatt