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

Should you visit Zermatt or Chartres?

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 Chartres 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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Chartres

Chartres is a historic, grand, and spectacular town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for food and museums.

Zermatt and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Chartres?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Chartres are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chartres attracts visitors for its museums. Zermatt is more touristy than Chartres and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Chartres is famous for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Chartres Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Chartres is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

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 Chartres? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Zermatt or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is great for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Zermatt for the nightlife scene. 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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Zermatt or Chartres Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is great for its luxury resorts. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Chartres Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Chartres?

Zermatt is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zermatt is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zermatt or Chartres Better for Families?

Zermatt is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Zermatt or Chartres Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is a good town for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Zermatt or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

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

Chartres 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 Chartres. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

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 Chartres a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Chartres is a very walkable destination. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Chartres because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chartres.

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

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 Chartres, you'll find food and museums. This town 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chartres has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Chartres?

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.

Chartres is a great place to explore. 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Chartres. 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 Chartres, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Chartres much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chartres would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chartres 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 Chartres.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Chartres?

Chartres has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Chartres, 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Chartres. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is a little warmer than Chartres. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Chartres averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chartres. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chartres. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Chartres. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Chartres in the Autumn?

Both Chartres and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

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

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Chartres. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Chartres in the Winter?

Both Chartres and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chartres for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chartres. It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. Zermatt is around the same temperature as Chartres in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Chartres fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Chartres. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Chartres in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Chartres. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chartres in the spring for the small town charm.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than Chartres. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Chartres averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chartres during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 173 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 Chartres. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chartres and Zermatt