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

Should you visit Zermatt or Gjovik?

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 Gjovik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a charming, stunning, and iconic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Gjovik

Gjovik is a accessible, friendly, and relaxed town. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Gjovik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Gjovik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Gjovik, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Gjovik is more popular for its museums. Zermatt is more touristy than Gjovik and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Gjovik is well known for its beautiful surrounding countryside and nice landscape.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Gjovik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Gjovik Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Gjovik is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

Gjovik is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Gjovik is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of sights and attractions near town such as the Gjøvik Olympic Cavern Hall and the Royal Palace.

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 Gjovik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Gjovik offer very good 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.

Gjovik has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many local restaurants that range from fine dining opportunities to local cafes. Dishes usually include local ingredients that are fresh and high quality.

Is Zermatt or Gjovik Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Zermatt has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Gjovik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find some bars and pubs around town as well as a couple of nightclubs.

Is Zermatt or Gjovik Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Gjovik is not a resort destination.

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

Gjovik is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Gjovik Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Gjovik is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking. 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.

Gjovik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Gjovik?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Gjovik is a great destination for shopping. The town center has some nice retail shops with clothing and other interesting items.

Is Zermatt or Gjovik Better for Families?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zermatt. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Gjovik. You'll find a combination of museums and outdoor adventure activities. There are climbing parks, Olympic centers, and art galleries that the whole family can enjoy.

Is Zermatt or Gjovik Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Zermatt 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.

Gjovik is a nice destination for couples. You'll find romantic hotels and many great museums or outdoor parks that couples will appreciate.

Is Zermatt or Gjovik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Gjovik. There's at least one hostel around town, and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Zermatt or Gjovik Better for Students?

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

Gjovik is a good town to visit for students. The location offers access to much of what Norway has to offer, making it a nice place to base yourself while you're studying.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Both Zermatt and Gjovik 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.

Gjovik has some public transit options. There are buses that travel through town.

Is Zermatt or Gjovik a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Zermatt. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

Gjovik is somewhat walkable. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas as well as walking paths just outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Gjovik or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Gjovik?

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

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

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 Gjovik, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Gjovik?

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 Gjovik, 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 Gjovik has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Gjovik?

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.

Gjovik 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 Gjovik?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the stunning 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 Gjovik. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Gjovik. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Norway, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Gjovik?

Gjovik has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Gjovik, 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 Gjovik?

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 Gjovik in the Summer?

Both Gjovik and Zermatt during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Gjovik this time of year.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Gjovik. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Gjovik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Gjovik, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zermatt. In the summer, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gjovik. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gjovik receives 246 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Gjovik. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Gjovik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Gjovik. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Gjovik for the shopping scene.

Zermatt is much warmer than Gjovik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Gjovik fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Gjovik during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Gjovik receives 86 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Gjovik. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Gjovik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Gjovik. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Gjovik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Gjovik can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zermatt. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Gjovik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Gjovik averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Gjovik. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gjovik receives 40 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Gjovik. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Gjovik in the Spring?

Both Gjovik and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Gjovik. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Gjovik fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gjovik during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Gjovik receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Gjovik. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Gjovik and Zermatt