A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zermatt vs. Innsbruck for Skiing, Hiking, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Zermatt or Innsbruck?

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

Zermatt

Zermatt is a breathtaking, charming, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a adventurous, high energy, and outdoorsy city. 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 skiing, nightlife, and food.

Zermatt and Innsbruck: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Innsbruck?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Innsbruck are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, museums, resorts, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Innsbruck attracts visitors for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Zermatt is famous for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Innsbruck is famous for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Innsbruck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is very popular for snow skiing. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for skiing and snowboarding.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Zermatt. 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.

Innsbruck draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. This city offers easy access to excellent skiing without having to travel too far. There are 9 ski resorts around town that make up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. Each resort has its own personality and style. You can reach the Seegrube mountain in about 20 minutes using the funicular and cable car.

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

Zermatt is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

Zermatt offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Zermatt and Innsbruck offer superb 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.

Innsbruck has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is known for the hearty and filling food that is perfect for a cold winter day. There are cafes and restaurants around old town that offer traditional dishes including käsespätzle, wiener schnitzel, and apfelstrudel. If you're ready for something a little less heavy, there are a number of ethnic restaurants to choose from outside of the old town.

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Innsbruck are superb 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.

Innsbruck has a large number of nightlife venues. With its large student population and wide range of young visitors who enjoy high energy activities, there's plenty to do here when the sunsets. There are bars and dance clubs that stay active late into the night.

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is notable for its resorts. However, Innsbruck is not a resort destination.

In Zermatt, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Innsbruck is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for its Old Town?

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

Innsbruck has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with charming restaurants and cafes as well as comfortable outdoor places to relax when the weather is nice. One of the most notable landmarks is the The Goldenes Dachl, or the "little golden roof", but the atmosphere around old town is what makes this place really special.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Zermatt visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Innsbruck. The city is nestled in the Austrian mountains with many beautiful hikes just outside of town. There are hikes for all skill levels that offer spectacular views of some of the best scenery in Austria.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Innsbruck?

Zermatt is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zermatt is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Innsbruck.

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, Innsbruck is very family-friendly. The city has a pleasant atmosphere with a charming old town and plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. There's also the popular Swarovski Crystal Worlds, which is fun for kids and adults alike. The Alpine Zoo and the city's many parks and playgrounds all make it a great stop if you're traveling with kids.

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for Couples?

Zermatt is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Zermatt is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Innsbruck makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's old town is filled with restaurants that make for great date nights. There are also many hikes, viewpoints, and activities that are perfect for a couple's getaway.

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zermatt and Innsbruck are superb 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 Innsbruck. The city has a number of hostels and affordable restaurants that make it a reasonable option for backpackers and budget travelers. Outdoor activities like nearby hiking are affordable ways to spend the day as well.

Is Zermatt or Innsbruck Better for Students?

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

Innsbruck is very popular with students. The city's laid back vibe and wide range of universities make it a great place for students. There are cafes, bars, and many outdoor activities that students enjoy while they're in the area.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around 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 Innsbruck a more walkable city?

Zermatt is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Innsbruck is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, and if you stay anywhere nearby, it's easy to reach it on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Innsbruck or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Innsbruck?

It's fun to spend time in either Zermatt or Innsbruck. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zermatt due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 2-4 days is enough time in Innsbruck.

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

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Zermatt. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Innsbruck, you'll find food and skiing. 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 Innsbruck?

You'll find shopping and skiing around the breathtaking destination of Zermatt. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Innsbruck, you'll find skiing and nightlife. 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 Innsbruck has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Innsbruck?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the stunning town of Zermatt. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck?

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Innsbruck. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Innsbruck. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Innsbruck?

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