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

Should you visit Zermatt or Como?

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

Zermatt

Zermatt is a charming, stunning, and iconic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Como

Como is a scenic, trendy, and fun lake area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Zermatt and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Como?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Como, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and small town charm, while Como is more popular for its food, beaches, and shopping. Zermatt is well known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Como is well known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Como Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is renowned for skiing and snowboarding. However, Como 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.

Como is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Zermatt and Como have respectable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Zermatt offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

While most people don't head to Como specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

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

Como 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.

Como has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Zermatt has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Zermatt or Como Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Como 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.

Como is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Como Better for Beaches?

Como is very good for its beaches. However, Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Como to enjoy the beach. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Is Zermatt or Como Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Como?

Como is very popular for shopping. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Como is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

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.

Is Zermatt or Como Better for Families?

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

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, Como is very family-friendly. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Is Zermatt or Como Better for Couples?

Both Zermatt and Como are terrific 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.

Como has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Is Zermatt or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zermatt and Como are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Many backpackers visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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

Both Zermatt and Como offer notable 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.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Zermatt or Como a more walkable city?

Zermatt is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Como or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Zermatt or Como. 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 Como.

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zermatt. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Como, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This lake area 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 Como?

Zermatt is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Como, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Como has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Como?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the charming destination of Zermatt. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Como is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Como?

The breathtaking town of Zermatt offers skiing and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Como. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Como. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.

When comparing the travel costs between Zermatt and Como, we can see that Como 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 Como Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Como?

Como has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Como, 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 Como?

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 Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Zermatt during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Como. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Como, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zermatt. In the summer, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Como. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Como. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Como. 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 Como in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Zermatt is around the same temperature as Como in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

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

Como receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Como. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Como in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Como. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Como for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Como can be very cold during winter. Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Zermatt is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Como averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Como. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Como. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Como because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Como. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Como. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Como and Zermatt