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

Should you visit Zermatt or Paris?

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 Paris 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. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Zermatt and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris. Although Zermatt and Paris are both popular with visitors, Paris has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Zermatt is known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and small town charm. Zermatt is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Paris is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Zermatt different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Paris Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is terrific for skiing. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a skiing destination.

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

Paris is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Zermatt or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is very popular for theatre. However, Zermatt is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Zermatt is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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.

Paris has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

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

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris Better for Music?

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

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Is Zermatt or Paris Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is great for its luxury resorts. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Paris Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is terrific for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Paris?

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

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Zermatt does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination during the Christmas season. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Zermatt does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Zermatt or Paris Better for Families?

Paris 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.

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

Both Zermatt and Paris 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.

Paris has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Is Zermatt or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts 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 Paris Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Paris 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.

Paris has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

Zermatt is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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.

Paris is a very walkable town. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Paris?

Both Zermatt and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Zermatt. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Zermatt. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.

One day in Zermatt or Paris?

In Zermatt, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this breathtaking destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Because Paris 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Because Paris 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Zermatt or Paris?

Zermatt is a fun place to experience. In Zermatt, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Zermatt or Paris?

You'll find nightlife and food around the stunning destination of Zermatt. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Zermatt and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Paris. 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 Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. 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 Paris. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris 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 city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In the autumn, Zermatt is a little warmer than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zermatt in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Paris during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Paris. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris 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 Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. In January, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Paris. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Paris. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Paris in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Paris. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Paris during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 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 Paris. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Zermatt