A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zermatt vs. Tromso for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zermatt or Tromso?

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 Tromso 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.

Tromso

Tromso is a spectacular, remote, and one-of-a-kind town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Zermatt and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Tromso?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Tromso, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, museums, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Tromso is more popular for its small town charm. Zermatt is more touristy than Tromso and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Tromso is well known for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Tromso Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso is not a skiing destination.

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

Zermatt is adequate for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

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

Both Zermatt and Tromso offer superb 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.

Tromso has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Zermatt or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a great town for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Zermatt has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Zermatt or Tromso Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Tromso is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Tromso?

Zermatt is a great town for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Zermatt. 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Zermatt or Tromso Better for Families?

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

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, Tromso is very family-friendly. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Is Zermatt or Tromso Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Tromso is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Zermatt or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Zermatt or Tromso Better for Students?

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

Tromso is a good town to visit for students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Both Zermatt and Tromso 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.

Tromso has some public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Zermatt or Tromso a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Tromso is very walkable. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Tromso?

Both Zermatt and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Zermatt. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Tromso. 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 Tromso. 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 Tromso 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 Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Tromso?

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.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Tromso?

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.

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

A week in Zermatt or Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming 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 Tromso. Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Tromso?

Tromso has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

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

In July, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tromso. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Tromso. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Tromso in the Autumn?

Both Tromso 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 Tromso for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tromso can be very cold during autumn. Zermatt is much warmer than Tromso in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tromso. It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Tromso. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Tromso in the Winter?

Both Tromso 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. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Tromso because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. Zermatt can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Tromso averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Tromso. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Tromso in the Spring?

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

It's quite cold in Tromso in the spring. In April, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 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 Tromso. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Zermatt