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

Should you visit Zermatt or Giverny?

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 Giverny 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. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Giverny

Giverny is a peaceful, serene, and inspiring 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 food and museums.

Zermatt and Giverny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Home and Gardens of Claude Monet
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Zermatt or Giverny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Giverny are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Giverny attracts visitors for its museums. Zermatt is famous for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Giverny is famous for being the home and inspiration for Claude Monet.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Giverny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Giverny Better for Skiing?

Zermatt
Giverny

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

Giverny is not a skiing destination.


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

Zermatt
Giverny

Giverny 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 Giverny specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town is most notable as the home of Claude Monet between 1883 and 1926. Highlights of a visit include visiting Jardin d'Eau (The Water Garden), The Normandy Garden, and Monet's House.

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 Giverny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt
Giverny

Zermatt is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Zermatt has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Giverny area. There are cozy cafes and charming restaurants in the town. If you visit as part of a tour, a restaurant stop may be included.

Is Zermatt or Giverny Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt
Giverny

Zermatt is great for nightlife and partying. However, Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Zermatt for the nightlife scene. 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.

Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Zermatt or Giverny Better for Resorts?

Zermatt
Giverny

Zermatt is great for its luxury resorts. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Giverny Better for Hiking?

Zermatt
Giverny

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Giverny?

Zermatt
Giverny

Zermatt is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zermatt is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Zermatt or Giverny Better for Families?

Zermatt
Giverny

Zermatt is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Giverny is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zermatt is very family-friendly. 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.

Giverny is not the most family-friendly destination. The gardens are stunning and the house is impressive, but it's best to prepare younger kids with some activities beforehand. Even the most art-minded children will appreciate a hands-on activity that helps bring the experience to life.

Is Zermatt or Giverny Better for Couples?

Zermatt
Giverny

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

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.

Giverny is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting seeped in romance and the gardens bring art to life. On occasion you may even see a young couple get engaged during their visit.

Is Zermatt or Giverny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt
Giverny

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

Many backpackers 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.

Giverny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many people, backpackers included, visit the town as a day trip from Paris. It's possible to visit by train and shuttle bus.


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

Zermatt
Giverny

Both Zermatt and Giverny offer nice 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.

Giverny has some public transit options. You can reach Giverny by train from Paris. You'll leave from the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris and arrive in the town of Vernon. The trip is about 45 minutes. From there you can take a bus or taxi on to Giverny.

Is Zermatt or Giverny a more walkable city?

Zermatt
Giverny

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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.

Giverny is a somewhat walkable town. Many people choose to walk between the town of Vernon and Giverny, both of which are worth visiting. They're separated by about 6 kilometers (3.5 miles).

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

Should I spend more time in Giverny or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Giverny?

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

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Giverny. 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 Giverny. 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 Giverny 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.


  • How many days in Zermatt or Giverny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zermatt 2-5 
    Giverny 1-2

One day in Zermatt or Giverny?

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 Giverny, you'll find food and museums. This town 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 Giverny?

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 Giverny, you'll find museums and food. 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 Giverny has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Giverny?

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.

Giverny 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 Giverny?

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 Giverny. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Giverny. 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 Coach Bus Tours in France, and The Best Adventure Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Giverny or Zermatt?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zermatt is $223, while the average daily cost in Giverny is $134. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zermatt and Giverny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zermatt $126
    Giverny $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zermatt $252
    Giverny $128
Compare Hotels in Zermatt and Giverny

Looking for a hotel in Zermatt or Giverny? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zermatt


Hotels in Giverny


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zermatt Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zermatt $53
    Giverny $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

  • Private Transfer Zurich Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $1,087
  • 3-Hour Private Transfer from Zermatt and Saa to Geneva Airport: $235
  • Zermatt to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $141
  • Cervinia, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $126
  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Zermatt or Giverny?

Prices for flights to both Giverny and Zermatt change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zermatt $57
    Giverny $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zermatt

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zermatt.

  • Evening Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zermatt $56
    Giverny $28

Tours and Activities in Zermatt

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zermatt are as follows:

  • Basel Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $885
  • Basel: Gornergrat Railway & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tour: $1,067
  • Bern Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $856
  • Bern Private Tour: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise: $801
  • Bern: Gornergrat Railway & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tour: $984
  • From Basel: Zermatt and Mt. Gornergrat Small Group Tour: $530
  • From Bern: Zermatt Guided Tour with Matterhorn Railway Pass: $530
  • From Zurich: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise Private Tour: $885
  • Interlaken Private Tour to Gornergrat & Matterhorn Paradise: $1,026
  • Interlaken Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $843
  • Interlaken Private Tour: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise: $801
  • Majestic Hiking Private Tour in Zermatt with pick up: $1,692

Tours and Activities in Giverny

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Giverny.

  • Bike tour from Vernon to Giverny with local guide: $37
  • Monet’s House and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour: $59
  • Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour: $60
  • Monet's House and Gardens Guided Tour: $62
  • Guided Tour of Monet's Gardens/small group: $63
  • Guided tour Monet's house and gardens/small group: $64
  • Trip from Paris to Monet's house in Giverny Skip the Line: $96
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $256
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $278
  • Giverny Private Guided Walking Tour: $294

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zermatt $28
    Giverny $7.12

Sample the Local Flavors in Zermatt

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais: $84


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

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


Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Giverny?

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

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 Giverny in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Giverny. 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 Giverny because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is a little warmer than Giverny. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Giverny averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Giverny. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Giverny. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 241 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Giverny. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F) 
    Giverny 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Giverny in the Autumn?

Both Giverny and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Giverny this time of year.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Giverny. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Giverny fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Giverny during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Giverny. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F) 
    Giverny 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Giverny in the Winter?

Both Giverny and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Giverny for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Giverny. It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. Zermatt is around the same temperature as Giverny in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Giverny fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Giverny. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 62 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Giverny. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F) 
    Giverny 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Giverny in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Giverny. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Giverny in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than Giverny. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Giverny averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Giverny during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Giverny. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F) 
    Giverny 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Giverny and Zermatt

Zermatt Giverny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)