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

Should you visit Zermatt or Honfleur?

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 Honfleur 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Honfleur

Honfleur is a scenic, historic, and peaceful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Zermatt and Honfleur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Honfleur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Honfleur are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Honfleur is known for its museums, food, and beaches. Zermatt is more touristy than Honfleur and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Honfleur is popular for its influence over Impressionist art, its stunning harbor, and its beautiful buildings.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Honfleur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Honfleur Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Honfleur 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.

Honfleur is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Honfleur is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Some of the most notable sights around the town include Saint Catherine's Church, Le Vieux Bassin, Notre-Dame de Grace, and the Normandy Bridge.

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 Honfleur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Honfleur is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Honfleur has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Located on the coast of Normandy along the English Channel, seafood is a defining element for most dishes here. Foodies flock to this town for its Michelin starred restaurants as well as its local cafes and quaint eateries. For land-lovers, there's a popular local cider-braised pork that you must-try. And for dessert make sure you try the Tarte Tatin.

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.

Is Zermatt or Honfleur Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Honfleur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Honfleur has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Restaurants come to life at night when music flows out onto the streets. The town is not known for its partying, but that doesn't mean that it's a sleepy place that shuts down when the sun sets.

Is Zermatt or Honfleur Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Honfleur 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.

Honfleur is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Honfleur Better for Beaches?

Honfleur is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Honfleur is a good spot to see the beach. The town sits by the estuary of the Seine and there are two beaches not far from town. Butin Beach is the closest to town and the most popular, but Vasouy Beach is more relaxed and natural.

Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Is Zermatt or Honfleur Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Honfleur 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.

Honfleur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Honfleur?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Honfleur is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Honfleur has some nice offerings. It's a charming town with boutique shops, chocolate shops, and the standard tourist places that sell souvenirs and t-shirts.

Is Zermatt or Honfleur Better for Families?

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

Zermatt is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Honfleur. Located on the coast of Normandy, the town has boat rides, quirky museums, and Vieux Bassin, which is a beautiful and lively harbor. For kids who need to stretch their legs, there are many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy.

Is Zermatt or Honfleur Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Honfleur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Honfleur frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It has, arguably, one of the area's most beautiful harbors. There are also many great seafood restaurants, relaxing gardens, and spas that are perfect for couples.

Is Zermatt or Honfleur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Honfleur is lacking in options for backpackers.

Zermatt is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Honfleur is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll likely have more luck looking for an apartment than a hostel, so if you're looking for a place to stay with a social setting, you may be out of luck.

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

Zermatt is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Honfleur is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Honfleur. HO Buses travel from the outskirts or town into the center and are used mainly by locals. If you plan to head into Normandy to see the countryside, you'll want to have a car.

Is Zermatt or Honfleur a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Honfleur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of 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.

Honfleur is a very walkable town. The city center is compact and easy to explore on foot. There are also many coastal walks leading out of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Honfleur or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Honfleur?

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

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

The beautiful town of Zermatt offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Honfleur, you'll find museums and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Honfleur?

Zermatt is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zermatt, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Honfleur, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honfleur has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Honfleur?

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zermatt, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honfleur 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 Honfleur?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honfleur. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Honfleur. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Honfleur?

Honfleur has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Honfleur, 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.