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

Should you visit Zermatt or Galway?

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 Galway 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. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Galway

Galway is a lively, friendly, and cultural 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 Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Galway?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Galway are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Galway is known for its museums and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Galway and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Galway is popular for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Galway Better for Skiing?

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

Visitors will find world class skiing in Zermatt. 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.

Galway is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Galway is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

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 Galway? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Zermatt or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Galway are superb 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.

Galway has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Zermatt or Galway Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is notable for its resorts. However, Galway is not a resort destination.

In Zermatt, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Galway is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Galway Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway is not a hiking destination.

Around Zermatt visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Galway?

Zermatt is notable for shopping. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Zermatt or Galway Better for Families?

Zermatt is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Galway is a family-friendly town. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Zermatt or Galway Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Zermatt is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Zermatt or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zermatt and Galway are superb 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 Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Zermatt or Galway Better for Students?

Galway is very good for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Galway is a good city to visit for students. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Both Zermatt and Galway 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.

Galway has some public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

Is Zermatt or Galway a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of 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.

Galway is a very walkable town. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Galway?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Zermatt. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Galway, you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 Galway?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Zermatt or Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Galway 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 Galway?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Zermatt. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galway. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galway. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Galway?

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

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 Galway in the Summer?

Both Galway and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Galway in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Galway in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Galway 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 Galway during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Zermatt or Galway in the Autumn?

Both Galway and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Galway for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Zermatt is a little warmer than Galway. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zermatt in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Galway averages at about 11°C (52°F).

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

Galway 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 Galway. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Galway in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Galway. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Galway because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zermatt can be very cold during winter. In January, Zermatt is generally cooler than Galway. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

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

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

Should I visit Zermatt or Galway in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Galway. The spring months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Galway in the spring. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

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

Typical Weather for Galway and Zermatt