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

Should you visit Zermatt or Connemara?

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

Zermatt

Zermatt is a breathtaking, charming, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Connemara

Connemara is a dramatic, breathtaking, and scenic region. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Zermatt and Connemara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Connemara?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Connemara, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Connemara is more popular for its museums and beaches. Zermatt is more touristy than Connemara and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Connemara is well known for its bog-filled landscape and its hidden coves.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Connemara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Connemara Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is terrific for snow skiing. However, Connemara 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.

Connemara is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Connemara is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most people visit the region for the natural beauty, you will also find Kylemore Abbey, Ballynahinch Castle, and Clifden Castle nearby.

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 Connemara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Connemara offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zermatt makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Connemara has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The area has been influenced by the improving food scene in nearby regions. You'll find everything from fine dining restaurants to food trucks that use local ingredients and recipes. The area has no shortage of seafood, shellfish, and even Connemara lamb.

Is Zermatt or Connemara Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Connemara is not a good region for nightlife.

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.

Connemara doesn't offer many options. You'll find some bars in the area but most people visit for the natural beauty, not the nightlife scene.

Is Zermatt or Connemara Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Connemara 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.

Connemara is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Connemara Better for Beaches?

Connemara is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Connemara is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find wide stretches of sandy beach as well as hidden coves that offer a peaceful retreat. Some of the best beaches in the area include Dog’s Bay Beach, Trá an Dóilín, and Glassilaun Beach.

Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Is Zermatt or Connemara Better for Hiking?

You'll find world-class hiking in both Zermatt and Connemara.

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.

Known for its hiking, Connemara draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The landscape is considered to be some of the most beautiful in all of Ireland and there are many walks and hikes that let you experience it. Some of the best hikes are The Cong and Clonbur Forest Trail, the Claddaghduff Quay to Omey Island Walk, and Mount Gable Walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Connemara?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Connemara is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zermatt. 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.

Connemara is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zermatt or Connemara Better for Families?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Connemara is not a good region for its kid-friendly activities.

Zermatt is known to be 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.

Connemara is not always a place people visit with their families. There are plenty of places to explore outdoors such as Connemara National Park as well as the nearby beaches. You'll also find several playgrounds in the area.

Is Zermatt or Connemara Better for Couples?

Zermatt is terrific for couples. Also, Connemara is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for romance.

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.

Connemara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find romantic hotels and beautiful walks through hidden coves and dramatic countryside. Couples will enjoy exploring castles and getting lost in the beauty.

Is Zermatt or Connemara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Connemara is not a good region for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zermatt is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Connemara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in the area, you really need a car to explore the area in depth. This turns off a lot of backpackers.

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

Zermatt is a popular place for its public transit. However, Connemara is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Connemara. There are a few buses in the area but you really need a private vehicle to get around to most places.

Is Zermatt or Connemara a more walkable city?

Zermatt is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Connemara is not a good region for its walkability.

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.

Connemara is not a very walkable town. You really need a vehicle to experience everything that the region has to offer.

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

Should I spend more time in Connemara or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Connemara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Connemara. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Connemara. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 2-3 days is enough time in Connemara.

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

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Zermatt. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Connemara, you'll find food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This region 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 Connemara?

You'll find shopping and skiing around the charming destination of Zermatt. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Connemara, you'll find museums 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Connemara has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Connemara?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the breathtaking town of Zermatt. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Connemara is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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 Connemara?

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Connemara. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Connemara. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 in Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Zermatt or Connemara?

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 Connemara in the Summer?

Both Connemara and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Connemara because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Connemara. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Connemara fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Connemara during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Connemara receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Connemara. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Connemara in the Autumn?

Both Connemara and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Connemara this time of year.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Connemara in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Connemara fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Connemara. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Connemara receives 96 hours of full sun.

Connemara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Connemara. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Connemara in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Connemara. 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 Connemara for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. In the winter, Zermatt is cooler than Connemara. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Connemara averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Connemara during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Connemara receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

Connemara receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Zermatt usually receives less rain than Connemara. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Connemara in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Connemara. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Connemara in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Connemara. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Connemara fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Connemara. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Connemara receives 153 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Connemara. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Connemara and Zermatt