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

Should you visit Zermatt or Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg 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. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a charming, scenic, and character-filled town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Heidelberg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Heidelberg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, museums, resorts, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Heidelberg is more popular for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Zermatt is more touristy than Heidelberg and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Heidelberg is well known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for Skiing?

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

Heidelberg is not a skiing destination.

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

Zermatt is adequate for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Zermatt or Heidelberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Heidelberg are high quality 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.

Heidelberg has a large number of nightlife venues. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

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

Heidelberg has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for Hiking?

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

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Heidelberg?

Zermatt is a great town for its shopping areas. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Zermatt is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

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.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zermatt and Heidelberg are high quality 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 Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Is Zermatt or Heidelberg Better for Students?

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

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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 Heidelberg a more walkable city?

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

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.

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Heidelberg?

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

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

With shopping and skiing around the breathtaking town of Zermatt, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Zermatt, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Heidelberg, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Heidelberg has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Heidelberg?

Zermatt, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg?

Zermatt is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heidelberg. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Heidelberg. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Heidelberg. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Heidelberg. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

Both Heidelberg and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Heidelberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Heidelberg. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Heidelberg in the Winter?

Both Heidelberg and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Heidelberg in the winter. The weather in Zermatt can be very cold. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Heidelberg. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Heidelberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Heidelberg. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty.

In April, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 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 Heidelberg. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Zermatt