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

Should you visit Zermatt or Linz?

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 Linz 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.

Linz

Linz is a historic, beautiful, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

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


Is there more to do in Zermatt or Linz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Linz are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Linz attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Linz and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Linz is famous for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Linz Better for Skiing?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a skiing destination.


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

Zermatt
Linz

Linz 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 Linz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art 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 Linz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Zermatt or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.


Is Zermatt or Linz Better for Resorts?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Zermatt
Linz

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

Many visitors go to Linz to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Linz Better for Hiking?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Linz?

Zermatt
Linz

Both Zermatt and Linz are superb shopping destinations.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Linz is well-known for its shopping. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Is Zermatt or Linz Better for Families?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz is a family-friendly town. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Zermatt or Linz Better for Couples?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Linz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.


Is Zermatt or Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

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

Zermatt
Linz

Both Zermatt and Linz 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.

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Zermatt or Linz a more walkable city?

Zermatt
Linz

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Linz is a very walkable destination. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Linz or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Linz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Linz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Linz 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 Linz.

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

One day in Zermatt or Linz?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zermatt. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Linz, you'll find museums and food. This town 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 Linz?

Zermatt is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Linz, 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 Linz has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Linz?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the iconic destination of Zermatt. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Linz 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 Linz?

The iconic town of Zermatt offers skiing and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Linz. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Linz. 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 in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Linz 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 Linz is $122. 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 Linz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zermatt $126
    Linz $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zermatt $252
    Linz $126
Compare Hotels in Zermatt and Linz

Looking for a hotel in Zermatt or Linz? 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 Linz


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 Linz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zermatt $53
    Linz $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Zermatt or Linz?

Prices for flights to both Linz 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
    Linz $34

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

Typical Food Prices in Linz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Linz are as follows:


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    $4.50
  • Lunch
    $9.11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zermatt $56
    Linz $14

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 Linz

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

  • Linz Harbor Cruise: $15
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • What the bloody hell is there in Linz? 1,5 hour walking tour: $24
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private History Tour with a Linzer Cake Tasting: $149
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176
  • Linz Old Town Highlights Walking Tour with Pöstlingbergbahn: $191
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour: $210
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour : $214

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zermatt $28
    Linz $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Zermatt

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais: $84


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

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


Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Linz?

Linz has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Linz, 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 Linz?

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 Linz in the Summer?

Both Linz and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Linz in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is a little warmer than Linz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Linz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Linz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Linz during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Linz. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F) 
    Linz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Linz in the Autumn?

Both Linz and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Linz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Linz. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Linz. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Linz. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F) 
    Linz 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Linz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Linz. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Linz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Linz can be very cold. Zermatt can be very cold during winter. Zermatt is much warmer than Linz in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Linz fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Linz during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Linz. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F) 
    Linz -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Linz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Linz. The spring months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Linz this time of year.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than Linz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Linz averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Linz. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Linz. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F) 
    Linz 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Linz and Zermatt

Zermatt Linz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)