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

Should you visit Zermatt or Koblenz?

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

Zermatt

Zermatt is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Koblenz

Koblenz is a dynamic, accessible, and historic city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Zermatt and Koblenz: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Zermatt or Koblenz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Koblenz are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koblenz attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Koblenz and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Koblenz is famous for its location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, its popularity with river cruises, and its many nearby vineyards.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Koblenz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Koblenz Better for Skiing?

Zermatt
Koblenz

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

Koblenz is not a skiing destination.


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

Zermatt
Koblenz

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

Koblenz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors head to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which can be reached by chairlift. Also make sure you visit the Forum Confluentes, the State Museum, the Romanticum, and the Koblenz Sparkling Wine 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 Koblenz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zermatt. 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.

Koblenz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is large enough to have a diversity of restaurants that serve everything from local German specialties to other European dishes. If you want to enjoy some regional cuisine, try the Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Döppekooche (potato cakes), or locally brewed beer.

Is Zermatt or Koblenz Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Koblenz is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Zermatt is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Koblenz doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a smaller city, but there are still pubs around town that attract a crowd. Enjoy the local beer and chat with the locals on a relaxing night out.


Is Zermatt or Koblenz Better for Resorts?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is well known for its resorts. However, Koblenz 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.

Koblenz is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Koblenz Better for its Old Town?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Koblenz is very good for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Koblenz to see the historical old town. The old town is fun to explore with its beautiful churches and quaint ice cream shops.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Koblenz Better for Hiking?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Koblenz 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.

Koblenz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Koblenz?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Koblenz has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of clothing shops in the old town where you can find a deal or splurge on a new outfit.

Is Zermatt or Koblenz Better for Families?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koblenz is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Zermatt is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

For families, Koblenz is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy the chairlift across the river that leads to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. It's also fun to take a stroll along the river, grab ice cream in old town, and play at one of the parks around town.

Is Zermatt or Koblenz Better for Couples?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Koblenz is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Seeped in romantic walks and historic buildings, couples will enjoy visiting this beautiful German town. Sip Reisling at one of the many restaurants or wander through the quaint old town.


Is Zermatt or Koblenz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is well known for backpackers. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zermatt is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koblenz. There are a few affordable accommodation options around town. Food is reasonably priced as well so backpackers can enjoy a visit without breaking the bank.

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

Zermatt
Koblenz

Both Zermatt and Koblenz 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.

Koblenz has some public transit options. There are buses that travel the major routes around town. There's also a cable car that takes you up to the fortress.

Is Zermatt or Koblenz a more walkable city?

Zermatt
Koblenz

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Zermatt on foot is easy. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

Koblenz is a somewhat walkable town. If you stay in the old town, you'll have no trouble walking around, but the train station is a good distance from the old town.


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

Should I spend more time in Koblenz or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Koblenz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Koblenz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Koblenz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-2 days is enough time in Koblenz.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Koblenz. 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 Koblenz. 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 Koblenz 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 Koblenz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zermatt 2-5 
    Koblenz 1-2

One day in Zermatt or Koblenz?

In Zermatt, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Koblenz, you'll find museums and 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 Koblenz?

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

In Koblenz, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koblenz has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Koblenz?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koblenz 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 Koblenz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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


Which place is cheaper, Koblenz 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 Koblenz is $133. 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 Koblenz in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Zermatt or Koblenz? 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 Koblenz


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 Koblenz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zermatt $53
    Koblenz $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

  • 3-Hour Private Transfer from Zermatt and Saa to Geneva Airport: $235
  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer: $118
  • Cervinia, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $127
  • Private Transfer Zurich Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $1,087
  • Zermatt to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $141

Is it cheaper to fly into Zermatt or Koblenz?

Prices for flights to both Koblenz 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
    Koblenz $30

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
    Koblenz $32

Tours and Activities in Zermatt

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zermatt are as follows:

  • Sion Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Sunnegga Funicular Ticket for Iconic Matterhorn Viewpoint: $51
  • Sunnegga Funicular Ticket for Iconic Matterhorn Viewpoint: $63
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket: $104
  • Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train Ticket: $108
  • Tapas tour in Zermatt: $111
  • Alpine Village Tour 2 hours: $126
  • Mount Gornergrat: Zermatt's Spectacular Summit Ticket: $152
  • Ticket for Zermatt Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: $154
  • Majestic Matterhorn: Zermatt to Glacier Paradise Cableway Ticket: $181
  • Mount Gornergrat Spectacular Summit Train Ticket: $183
  • Romance and Charms of Zermatt – Walking Tour: $221

Tours and Activities in Koblenz

Here are a few actual costs in Koblenz for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Old Town Sightseeing Cruise along the Rhine: $15
  • Cochem 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise: $15
  • Sightseeing Shippingtour around Koblenz: $16
  • Rhine Valley Castles and Palaces Boat Tour: $19
  • Panoramic Cruise on Moselle River to Winningen: $20
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Rhine: $20
  • Historical Sparkling Wine Museum Guided Tour: $20
  • Christmas Boat Tour with Mulled Wine: $21
  • Cochem Evening Panorama Cruise : $27
  • Private city tour VW Bulli meets mining museum in Bochum: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zermatt $28
    Koblenz $8.34

Sample the Local Flavors in Zermatt

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais: $84

Sample the Local Flavors in Koblenz

Also in Koblenz, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private wine tasting meets Bulli in the Ruhr area: $75


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

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


Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Koblenz?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zermatt or Koblenz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Koblenz. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Koblenz for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Zermatt is a little warmer than Koblenz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Koblenz averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Zermatt, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Koblenz during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Koblenz receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Koblenz. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F) 
    Koblenz 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Koblenz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Koblenz. 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 Koblenz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Koblenz. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Koblenz fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Koblenz. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koblenz receives 109 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Koblenz. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F) 
    Koblenz 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Koblenz in the Winter?

Both Koblenz and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Koblenz this time of year.

It's quite cold in Koblenz in the winter. The weather in Zermatt can be very cold. Zermatt is much warmer than Koblenz in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Koblenz fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Koblenz during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Koblenz receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Koblenz. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F) 
    Koblenz 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Koblenz in the Spring?

Both Koblenz and Zermatt during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Koblenz for the small town charm.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than Koblenz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Koblenz averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Koblenz. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koblenz receives 145 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Koblenz. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F) 
    Koblenz 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Koblenz and Zermatt

Zermatt Koblenz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)