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

Should you visit Zermatt or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse 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. It's also popular because of the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a relaxed, dynamic, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Toulouse?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Toulouse, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Toulouse is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Toulouse Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a skiing destination.

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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 Toulouse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Toulouse 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.

Toulouse has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Toulouse are superb when it comes to partying.

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.

Toulouse has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Zermatt or Toulouse Better for Resorts?

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

Toulouse is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Toulouse is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Toulouse Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Toulouse?

Both Zermatt and Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is well-known for its shopping. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Is Zermatt or Toulouse Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Toulouse.

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, Toulouse is very family-friendly. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Zermatt or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Toulouse is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Is Zermatt or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Zermatt or Toulouse Better for Students?

Toulouse is very good for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Toulouse is a good city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Both Zermatt and Toulouse offer notable 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.

Toulouse has some public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Zermatt or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Zermatt or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zermatt due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

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

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 Toulouse, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toulouse has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulouse. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Toulouse. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulouse. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Toulouse. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Toulouse in the Autumn?

Both Toulouse and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Toulouse for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zermatt is around the same temperature as Toulouse in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulouse during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Toulouse in the Winter?

Both Toulouse and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zermatt can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zermatt is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Toulouse averages at about 6°C (44°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Zermatt or Toulouse in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Toulouse. The spring months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

In April, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulouse during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 178 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 Toulouse. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Zermatt