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

Should you visit Zermatt or Graz?

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 Graz 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.

Graz

Graz is a cultural, historical, and beautiful city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Graz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Zermatt or Graz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Graz are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Graz attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Graz and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Graz is famous for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Graz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Graz Better for Skiing?

Zermatt
Graz

Zermatt is renowned for skiing. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a skiing destination.


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

Zermatt
Graz

Graz 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 Graz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz 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 Graz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt
Graz

Both Zermatt and Graz offer great 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.

Graz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Is Zermatt or Graz Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt
Graz

Both Zermatt and Graz are great 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.

Graz has a large number of nightlife venues. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.


Is Zermatt or Graz Better for Resorts?

Zermatt
Graz

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

Graz is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Graz Better for its Old Town?

Zermatt
Graz

Graz is very popular for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Graz has a world-famous historical area. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Graz Better for Hiking?

Zermatt
Graz

Zermatt is renowned for hiking. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Graz?

Zermatt
Graz

Both Zermatt and Graz are great 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.

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Is Zermatt or Graz Better for Families?

Zermatt
Graz

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Graz.

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, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Is Zermatt or Graz Better for Couples?

Zermatt
Graz

Zermatt is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Graz is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.


Is Zermatt or Graz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt
Graz

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

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Zermatt or Graz Better for Students?

Zermatt
Graz

Graz is a well-known place for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Graz is very popular with students. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Zermatt
Graz

Graz is a well-known place 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Graz. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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 Graz a more walkable city?

Zermatt
Graz

Zermatt and Graz both are world-class when exploring on foot.

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.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Graz. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Graz or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Graz?

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

Couples should spend more time in Zermatt than Graz. 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 Graz 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 Graz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zermatt 2-5 
    Graz 2-3

One day in Zermatt or Graz?

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.

In Graz, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Graz?

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.

In Graz, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Graz has to offer.


Five days in Zermatt or Graz?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the stunning 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.

Graz 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 Graz?

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 Graz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Graz. 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Graz 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 Graz is $120. 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 Graz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zermatt $126
    Graz $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zermatt $252
    Graz $144
Compare Hotels in Zermatt and Graz

Looking for a hotel in Zermatt or Graz? 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 Graz


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 and Graz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zermatt $53
    Graz $19

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: $127
  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer: $118

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

Also for Graz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58
  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Zermatt or Graz?

Prices for flights to both Graz 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
    Graz $35

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
    Graz $14

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 Graz

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

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Kunsthaus Graz Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Graz city tours: $14
  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Guided Tour: Courtyards of Graz: $138
  • Tour with Private Guide: $176
  • Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $191

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zermatt $28
    Graz $17

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 Graz, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Graz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Graz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Graz 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 Graz.

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


Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Graz?

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

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 Graz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Graz. 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 Graz because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is around the same temperature as Graz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Graz averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Graz. 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 Graz. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 236 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Graz. Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Graz. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Graz receives 126 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F) 
    Graz 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Graz in the Autumn?

Both Graz 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 shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Graz this time of year.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Graz. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Graz during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 139 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Graz. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Graz receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Graz in the Winter?

Both Graz 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 Graz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Graz. It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. Zermatt is much warmer than Graz in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Graz fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Graz. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 95 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Graz. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Graz receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F) 
    Graz 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Graz in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Zermatt is around the same temperature as Graz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Graz averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Graz during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 158 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 Graz. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Graz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Graz and Zermatt

Zermatt Graz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)