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

Should you visit Zermatt or Munich?

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 Munich 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Munich

Munich is a multicultural, economically thriving, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zermatt and Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Munich?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Munich than Zermatt, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Munich is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Zermatt is more touristy than Munich and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Munich is well known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. Also, Munich is famous for The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Zermatt different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for winter skiing. However, Munich is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Zermatt is among the best in 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.

Munich is not a skiing destination.

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

Munich 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 Munich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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 Munich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Munich offer excellent 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.

Munich has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Nightlife?

Munich is very popular for nightlife. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

Munich is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Zermatt has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Music?

Munich is very popular for live music. However, Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Munich is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is well known for its resorts. However, Munich is not a resort destination.

Zermatt is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Munich is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Munich is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Zermatt draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Munich?

Munich is very popular for shopping. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Munich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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.

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Munich.

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, Munich is very family-friendly. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Zermatt has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Munich is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich is very popular for backpackers. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Munich is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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.

Is Zermatt or Munich Better for Students?

Munich is very popular for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Munich is very popular for its public transit. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Munich has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Zermatt or Munich a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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.

Munich is very walkable. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Munich?

In either Zermatt or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Munich has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Munich than Zermatt. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Munich. 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 Munich. 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 Munich than Zermatt 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 Munich.

One day in Zermatt or Munich?

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.

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city 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 Munich?

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.

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Munich has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Munich?

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.

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Zermatt or Munich?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the iconic 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 Munich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Munich. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Munich. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Munich for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Munich this time of the year. In Zermatt, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Munich during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 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 Munich. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Munich in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Munich. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Munich in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Munich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Munich. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Munich. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Munich in the Winter?

Both Munich and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Munich can be very cold during winter. Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Munich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Munich averages at about -1°C (31°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Munich. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Munich in the Spring?

Both Munich and Zermatt during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Munich because of the activities around the city.

In April, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Munich. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Munich and Zermatt