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

Should you visit Zermatt or Oslo?

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 Oslo 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. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Oslo

Oslo is a park-filled, green, and clean city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Zermatt and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Oslo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Oslo are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Oslo is known for its museums and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Oslo and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Oslo is popular for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Oslo Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for snow skiing. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo is not a skiing destination.

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

Oslo 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 Oslo specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch 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 Oslo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Oslo has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Zermatt or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Zermatt has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Oslo. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Zermatt or Oslo Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is notable for its resorts. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Oslo Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Oslo?

Zermatt is notable for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Zermatt or Oslo Better for Families?

Oslo is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Oslo is one of the most popular family destinations. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

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.

Is Zermatt or Oslo Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Oslo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Is Zermatt or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is notable for backpackers. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Oslo is a good town to visit for backpackers. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Zermatt or Oslo Better for Students?

Oslo is a well-known place for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Oslo is very popular with students. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Oslo 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.

Oslo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

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 Oslo a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Oslo is a very walkable town. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Oslo?

In either Zermatt or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zermatt has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Zermatt than Oslo. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

Families should spend more time in Oslo than Zermatt. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Oslo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Zermatt than Oslo. 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 Oslo 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 Oslo?

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.

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

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.

Because Oslo 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 Oslo has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the charming 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.

Oslo 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 Oslo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Zermatt or Oslo?

The stunning 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 Oslo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oslo. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Oslo, 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 Oslo?

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 Oslo in the Summer?

Both Oslo and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Oslo in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Oslo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Oslo. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Oslo in the Autumn?

Both Oslo and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oslo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Zermatt is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zermatt in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Oslo averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Oslo. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Oslo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Oslo. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Oslo can be very cold during winter. Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Oslo fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Zermatt or Oslo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Oslo. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Oslo because of the activities around the city.

Zermatt is much warmer than Oslo in the spring. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Oslo. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oslo and Zermatt