A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zermatt vs. La Rochelle for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Zermatt or La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a quaint, charming, and peaceful coastal town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Zermatt and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or La Rochelle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and La Rochelle are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while La Rochelle attracts visitors for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm. Zermatt is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. La Rochelle is famous for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is very popular for skiing. However, La Rochelle is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Zermatt should be on your list. 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.

La Rochelle is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zermatt or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to La Rochelle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is great for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Zermatt for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is great for its luxury resorts. However, La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

La Rochelle is very good for its beaches. However, Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

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

La Rochelle has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is very popular for hiking. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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 people include a hike when visiting La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or La Rochelle?

Zermatt is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town 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 La Rochelle to go shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zermatt is very family-friendly. 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

Both Zermatt and La Rochelle are world-class destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

La Rochelle has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle Better for Students?

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

La Rochelle is a good coastal town to visit for students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Both Zermatt and La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle has some public transit options. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Is Zermatt or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Zermatt is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town 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.

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Zermatt or La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the charming town of Zermatt. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This coastal town 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning destination of Zermatt. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

La Rochelle 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. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 La Rochelle has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the breathtaking town of Zermatt. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. Since La Rochelle is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as La Rochelle. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is a little warmer than La Rochelle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 20°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Rochelle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as La Rochelle. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than La Rochelle. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

Both La Rochelle and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

In October, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or La Rochelle in the Winter?

Both La Rochelle and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. Zermatt is cooler than La Rochelle in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as La Rochelle. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or La Rochelle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and La Rochelle. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to La Rochelle in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than La Rochelle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as La Rochelle during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 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 La Rochelle. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Zermatt