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

Should you visit Zermatt or Kitzbuhel?

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 Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and world-class ski resort. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Zermatt and Kitzbuhel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Kitzbuhel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Kitzbuhel are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its resorts and shopping, while Kitzbuhel attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Zermatt is more touristy than Kitzbuhel and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Kitzbuhel is famous for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Kitzbuhel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel Better for Skiing?

Both Zermatt and Kitzbuhel are destinations which offer world-class snow skiing.

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.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Kitzbuhel is among the best in the world. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

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

Both Zermatt and Kitzbuhel have reasonable landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

While most people don't head to Kitzbuhel specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

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

Both Zermatt and Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel Better for Resorts?

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

Kitzbuhel is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel Better for Hiking?

You'll find world-class hiking in both Zermatt and Kitzbuhel.

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.

Known for its hiking, Kitzbuhel draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Kitzbuhel?

Zermatt is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its shopping areas.

Zermatt is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Kitzbuhel to go shopping. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel Better for Families?

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

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, Kitzbuhel is very family-friendly. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zermatt and Kitzbuhel are great 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 Kitzbuhel. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

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

Both Zermatt and Kitzbuhel offer nice 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.

Kitzbuhel has some public transit options. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

Is Zermatt or Kitzbuhel a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its ease of walking around.

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.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable destination. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kitzbuhel or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Kitzbuhel?

Both Zermatt and Kitzbuhel have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Zermatt. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 4-7 days is enough time in Kitzbuhel.

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

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.

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This ski resort 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 Kitzbuhel?

You'll find shopping and skiing around the iconic 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.

Kitzbuhel might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Zermatt or Kitzbuhel?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the breathtaking 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.

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kitzbuhel has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Zermatt or Kitzbuhel?

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 Kitzbuhel. Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Budget Tours to Austria, and The Best Luxury Tours to Austria.

When comparing the travel costs between Zermatt and Kitzbuhel, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Kitzbuhel?

Kitzbuhel has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Kitzbuhel, 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.