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

Should you visit Zermatt or Flam?

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 Flam 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Flam

Flam is a beautiful, natural, and breathtaking village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and hiking.

Zermatt and Flam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Flam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Flam are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Flam is known for its small town charm. Zermatt is more touristy than Flam and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Flam is popular for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Flam Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Flam is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around 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.

Flam is not a skiing destination.

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

Zermatt is adequate for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.

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

Both Zermatt and Flam offer high quality 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.

Flam has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

Is Zermatt or Flam Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a great town for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Zermatt has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Zermatt or Flam Better for Resorts?

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

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

Flam is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Flam Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the nearby hiking options.

Zermatt is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Flam is a popular spot for hiking. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Flam?

Zermatt is a great town for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Zermatt or Flam Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Flam.

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, Flam is very family-friendly. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.

Is Zermatt or Flam Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its romantic activities.

Zermatt is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Flam is a very popular place to visit for couples. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

Is Zermatt or Flam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Zermatt is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Both Zermatt and Flam offer good 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.

Flam has some public transit options. There is a local bus service through the area.

Is Zermatt or Flam a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its high level of walkability.

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.

Flam is a very walkable town. There are many great walks in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Flam or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Flam 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 Flam.

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

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.

Flam is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This village 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 Flam?

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.

Flam might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Flam has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Flam?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the breathtaking 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.

Flam 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 Flam?

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 Flam. Since Flam is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Flam?

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

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 Flam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Flam. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Flam for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Zermatt is much warmer than Flam in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Flam fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Flam. Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets less rain in July than Flam. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Flam receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Flam in the Autumn?

Both Flam and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Flam because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Zermatt is much warmer than Flam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zermatt in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Flam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives less rain than Flam. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Flam receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Flam in the Winter?

Both Flam and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Flam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Flam in the winter. The weather in Zermatt can be very cold. In January, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Flam fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zermatt usually gets less rain in January than Flam. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Flam receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Flam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Flam. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Flam for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Zermatt is much warmer than Flam in the spring. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Flam fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Flam receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Flam. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Flam receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Flam and Zermatt