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

Should you visit Zermatt or Budapest?

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

Zermatt

Zermatt is a iconic, breathtaking, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Budapest

Budapest is a cultural, artistic, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Zermatt and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Budapest?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Budapest are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Budapest attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Budapest and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is terrific for skiing. However, Budapest is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

Budapest is not a skiing destination.

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

Budapest 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 Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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 Budapest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Budapest are very good when it comes to partying.

Zermatt offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Budapest has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for Resorts?

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

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

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is terrific for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking. 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Budapest?

Both Zermatt and Budapest are very good 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.

Budapest is well-known for its shopping. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for Families?

Zermatt is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zermatt is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for Couples?

Zermatt is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is very popular for backpackers. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Budapest is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Many backpackers visit Zermatt. 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.

Is Zermatt or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is very popular for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Budapest is very popular 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.

Budapest has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro, 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 Budapest a more walkable city?

Zermatt and Budapest both are fantastic 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 Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Budapest?

In either Zermatt or Budapest, 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 Budapest. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Budapest. 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 Budapest. 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 Budapest than Zermatt 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 Budapest.

One day in Zermatt or Budapest?

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.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Budapest?

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.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Budapest has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Budapest?

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.

Budapest is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Budapest has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Zermatt or Budapest?

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 Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zermatt or Budapest in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Budapest. The summer months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Budapest. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Budapest in the Autumn?

Both Budapest and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Budapest. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Budapest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Budapest can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zermatt. Zermatt is much warmer than Budapest in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Budapest. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Budapest. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

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

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Budapest. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Zermatt