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

Should you visit Zermatt or Lindau?

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 Lindau 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 skiing, nightlife, and food.

Lindau

Lindau is a scenic, alpine, and picturesque town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food.

Zermatt and Lindau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Lindau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Lindau 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 Lindau attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Zermatt is more touristy than Lindau and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Lindau is famous for its lakefront location and quaint old town.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Lindau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Lindau Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is terrific for winter skiing. However, Lindau is not a skiing destination.

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.

Lindau is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Zermatt and Lindau 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 Lindau specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town is more about it's beautiful setting than landmarks and museums, but there are some interesting sights including the harbor and lighthouse.

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

Both Zermatt and Lindau 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.

Lindau has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the waterfront for the best seafood restaurants. Many restaurants use seasonal ingredients and serve local fish. The local whitefish is particularly popular. Dishes are influenced by the town's proximity to Switzerland and Austria, so you'll enjoy a hybrid of flavors and recipes.

Is Zermatt or Lindau Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Zermatt know how to have a good time. 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.

Lindau doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's not known for its nightlife scene but there are bars where you can enjoy a relaxing night out.

Is Zermatt or Lindau Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a great destination for its resorts. However, Lindau 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.

Lindau is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Lindau Better for its Old Town?

Lindau 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 Lindau. The old town is located on Lindau island in Lake Constance. It has quaint buildings and many waterfront restaurants.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Lindau Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Lindau is not a hiking destination.

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.

Lindau is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Lindau?

Zermatt is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Lindau 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.

Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zermatt or Lindau Better for Families?

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

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, Lindau is very family-friendly. Head to the waterfront where there's a playground, stand up paddleboarding, paddleboats, and more. Kids will also enjoy climbing to the top of the Old Lighthouse or exploring the Museum of Local History.

Is Zermatt or Lindau Better for Couples?

Zermatt is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Lindau is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lindau is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming old town, beautiful waterfront, great seafood restaurants, and nice hotels, couples will really enjoy a few days away at this lakefront town. It's the perfect place to have a romantic weekend.

Is Zermatt or Lindau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Lindau 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 backpackers visit Lindau. The town has a couple of hostels and affordable hotels that make this waterfront town accessible to backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Zermatt is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Zermatt, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lindau. It's possible to reach town by bus or train and once you're in town you can walk many places.

Is Zermatt or Lindau a more walkable city?

Zermatt is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Lindau 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.

Lindau is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and there are also many walks into the countryside.

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

Should I spend more time in Lindau or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Lindau?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Zermatt. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lindau 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lindau has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Lindau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lindau 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 Lindau?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the breathtaking destination of Zermatt. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Lindau. Since Lindau is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Lindau?

Lindau has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Lindau, 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.