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

Should you visit Zermatt or Vienna?

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 Vienna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a charming, stunning, and iconic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Vienna

Vienna is a artistic, musical, and ritzy city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zermatt and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Vienna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Vienna are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and small town charm, while Vienna attracts visitors for its museums, music, historical sights, and shopping. Zermatt is famous for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Vienna is famous for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Vienna 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.

Vienna is not a skiing destination.

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

Vienna 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 Vienna specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches 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 Vienna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Vienna 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.

Vienna has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for Music?

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

Vienna is a world class music destination. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Vienna 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.

Vienna is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

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

Vienna has a world-famous historical area. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Vienna 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.

Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Vienna?

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

Vienna is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

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 Vienna Better for Families?

Zermatt is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for Couples?

Both Zermatt and Vienna 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.

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Vienna is a good town to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Zermatt or Vienna Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Vienna. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Vienna 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.

Vienna has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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 Vienna a more walkable city?

Zermatt and Vienna both are terrific when exploring on foot.

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.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Vienna?

In either Zermatt or Vienna, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zermatt than Vienna 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 Vienna?

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.

In Vienna, 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 Vienna?

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.

In Vienna, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Vienna?

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.

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

A week in Zermatt or Vienna?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the iconic 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 Vienna. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Vienna. 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Vienna?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Vienna, 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna in the Summer?

Both Vienna and Zermatt during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Vienna for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is around the same temperature as Vienna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Vienna averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zermatt. In the summer, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Vienna. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Vienna. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Vienna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Vienna. 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 Vienna in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Vienna. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Vienna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Vienna. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Vienna can be very cold during winter. Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. Zermatt is much warmer than Vienna in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Vienna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Vienna. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Vienna. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Vienna in the Spring?

Both Vienna and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Vienna because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zermatt is around the same temperature as Vienna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Vienna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. Zermatt usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Vienna. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Zermatt