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

Should you visit Zermatt or Dresden?

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 Dresden 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. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Dresden

Dresden is a architectural, cultural, and park-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Dresden?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Dresden, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Dresden is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Dresden and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Dresden is well known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady).

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Dresden Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for winter skiing. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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 Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Zermatt is an experience not to be missed. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Zermatt or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Dresden are great 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.

Dresden has a large number of nightlife venues. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

Is Zermatt or Dresden Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a great destination for its resorts. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Dresden 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 Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Dresden Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Dresden?

Zermatt is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Is Zermatt or Dresden Better for Families?

Zermatt is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options 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.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Zermatt or Dresden Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Zermatt or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

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

Both Zermatt and Dresden 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.

Dresden has some public transit options. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Zermatt or Dresden a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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.

Dresden is very walkable. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Dresden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Dresden. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dresden.

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

In Zermatt, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Dresden, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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 Dresden?

In Zermatt, 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 Zermatt has to offer.

In Dresden, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Dresden has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Dresden?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Dresden is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dresden. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dresden. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Dresden, 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 Dresden?

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 Dresden in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Dresden. 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 Dresden because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Dresden. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Dresden in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Dresden. 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 and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Dresden in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Dresden. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Dresden in the Winter?

Both Dresden 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 Dresden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dresden. It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Dresden. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Dresden averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Dresden. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Dresden in the Spring?

Both Dresden 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 Dresden in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Dresden. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dresden and Zermatt