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

Should you visit Zermatt or Salzburg?

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

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zermatt and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Salzburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Salzburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and small town charm, while Salzburg is more popular for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Zermatt is well known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Salzburg is well known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is terrific for snow skiing. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a skiing destination.

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

Salzburg 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 Salzburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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 Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Salzburg 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.

Salzburg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for Music?

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

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for Resorts?

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

Salzburg is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is very popular for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Salzburg has a world-famous historical area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Salzburg?

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

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg Better for Families?

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

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, Salzburg is very family-friendly. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Both Zermatt and Salzburg are terrific 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.

Salzburg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zermatt and Salzburg are excellent destinations for backpackers.

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.

Many backpackers visit Salzburg. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Is Zermatt or Salzburg Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Salzburg is a well-known place 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Salzburg. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Salzburg a more walkable city?

Zermatt is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Salzburg?

In either Zermatt or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Salzburg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Salzburg than Zermatt. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Salzburg. 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.

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

One day in Zermatt or Salzburg?

The beautiful town of Zermatt offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Salzburg?

Zermatt is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zermatt, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Salzburg?

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zermatt, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Salzburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Salzburg has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Zermatt or Salzburg?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Salzburg?

Salzburg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Salzburg, 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 Salzburg?

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 Salzburg in the Summer?

Both Salzburg 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 Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Salzburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg 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. Also, many visitors come to Salzburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Salzburg. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Salzburg in the Winter?

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

Salzburg can be very cold during winter. Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Salzburg averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Salzburg in the Spring?

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

In April, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Salzburg. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Zermatt