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

Should you visit Zermatt or Ghent?

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 Ghent 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Ghent?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Ghent are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and small town charm, while Ghent is known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Ghent is popular for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Ghent 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.

Ghent is not a skiing destination.

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

Ghent is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Ghent specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Ghent 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.

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is very popular for nightlife. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

Ghent is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Zermatt has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for Resorts?

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

Ghent is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Ghent 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 Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Ghent?

Both Zermatt and Ghent are high quality shopping destinations.

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.

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for Families?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly town. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Zermatt or Ghent Better for Students?

Ghent is very popular for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Ghent is very popular for its public transit. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Ghent has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Zermatt or Ghent a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Ghent 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.

Ghent is a very walkable town. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Ghent?

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

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

In Zermatt, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this stunning destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Ghent, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Ghent, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Ghent?

Zermatt is a fun place to experience. In Zermatt, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Ghent 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 Ghent?

You'll find nightlife and food around the charming destination of Zermatt. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Ghent?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Ghent, 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent in the Summer?

Both Ghent and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Ghent in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Ghent. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Ghent. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Ghent in the Autumn?

Both Ghent and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Ghent because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Zermatt is a little warmer than Ghent. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zermatt in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Ghent averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Ghent. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Ghent in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Ghent. The winter months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ghent in the winter. The weather in Zermatt can be very cold. In January, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Ghent. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Ghent in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Ghent. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the natural beauty.

Zermatt is much warmer than Ghent in the spring. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Ghent. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Zermatt