A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Annecy for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Zurich or Annecy?

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 Annecy. 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 beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Zurich and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Annecy?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zurich than Annecy, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zurich is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Annecy is more popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Zurich and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster.

How is Zurich different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Annecy 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 Annecy?

Zurich is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Is the Food Better in Zurich or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy 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 Annecy, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

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 Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Zurich has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Zurich or Annecy Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for its live music scene. However, Annecy is not a live music destination.

Zurich has a thriving music scene. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Annecy is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Zurich and Annecy.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Annecy has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Is Zurich or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Annecy is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Annecy?

Zurich is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Zurich draws large crowds to its stores. 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 visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Zurich or Annecy Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Annecy are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Annecy. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Is Zurich or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Annecy is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Zurich or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Annecy are notable 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 Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Zurich or Annecy Better for Students?

Zurich is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Annecy is not popular with students.

Is Zurich or Annecy Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zurich is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its public transit.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Annecy has a few public transit options. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Zurich or Annecy a more walkable city?

Zurich and Annecy both are high quality 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.

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Zurich or Annecy. 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 Annecy.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Annecy 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 Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

A weekend in Zurich or Annecy?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Annecy is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the beautiful destination of Zurich. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This alpine 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.

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 Zurich and Annecy, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Annecy much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Annecy would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Annecy 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 Annecy.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Annecy?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Annecy, 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 Annecy?

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 Zurich or Annecy in the Summer?

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

Zurich is around the same temperature as Annecy in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Annecy. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Zurich is around the same temperature as Annecy. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Annecy averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Annecy. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Annecy in the Winter?

Both Annecy and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Annecy because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Annecy can be very cold. Zurich can be very cold during winter. In January, Zurich is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Annecy in the Spring?

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

Zurich is around the same temperature as Annecy in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Annecy. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Zurich