A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Aix-en-Provence. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a historic, vibrant, and laid-back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Zurich and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich than Aix-en-Provence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zurich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its food. Zurich is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Zurich different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aix-en-Provence and Zurich. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

Zurich is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Zurich can be an interesting and educational experience. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Is the Food Better in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aix-en-Provence is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Aix-en-Provence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for its music scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Aix-en-Provence is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Zurich has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

Both Zurich and Aix-en-Provence are world-class shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Many people travel to Aix-en-Provence specifically to go shopping. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Zurich is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Zurich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Zurich and Aix-en-Provence both great destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Aix-en-Provence makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Aix-en-Provence are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Zurich is terrific for students. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Zurich is a great destination for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Students come from all over to stay in Aix-en-Provence. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zurich is well known for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Zurich can get you to most places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Zurich or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Zurich and Aix-en-Provence both are great when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable destination. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Aix-en-Provence. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zurich that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Aix-en-Provence 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 Zurich.

One day in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

The beautiful destination of Zurich offers live music and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

The city of Zurich offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Aix-en-Provence 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.

Five days in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

Zurich is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Aix-en-Provence much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aix-en-Provence would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aix-en-Provence 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 Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich than you might in Aix-en-Provence.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zurich Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Zurich or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Zurich or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Aix-en-Provence. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Zurich is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zurich is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. Zurich is much colder than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zurich is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Zurich