A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Atlanta for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Zurich or Atlanta?

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 Atlanta. 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Atlanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Atlanta?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Atlanta than Zurich, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Atlanta is more popular for its museums and big city activities, while Zurich is known for its music, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Zurich is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Atlanta is popular for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also home to the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Zurich different from Atlanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlanta is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Atlanta are among the most recognizable in the world. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

Both Zurich and Atlanta offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. 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.

Atlanta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Is Zurich or Atlanta Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Atlanta are great when it comes to partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Atlanta has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Is Zurich or Atlanta Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for its music scene. However, Atlanta 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.

Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Atlanta Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta 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.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Atlanta?

Both Zurich and Atlanta 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 Atlanta specifically to go shopping. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Is Zurich or Atlanta Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Atlanta are great 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 Atlanta. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Is Zurich or Atlanta Better for Couples?

Zurich is a great city for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Zurich or Atlanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Atlanta 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 Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Zurich or Atlanta Better for Students?

Zurich is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

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 Atlanta. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Is Zurich or Atlanta 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. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

Zurich offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Zurich or Atlanta a more walkable city?

Zurich is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

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

Should I spend more time in Atlanta or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Atlanta?

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

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Atlanta. 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 Atlanta. 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 Atlanta 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 Atlanta?

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Atlanta is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Atlanta?

In Zurich, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Atlanta 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 Atlanta?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. 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 Atlanta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the suburban big city of Atlanta. This city 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, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Atlanta, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Atlanta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Zurich is in Europe and Atlanta is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Atlanta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Atlanta 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 Atlanta.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Atlanta?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Atlanta, 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 Atlanta?

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 Atlanta in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Atlanta. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Atlanta for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Zurich is cooler than Atlanta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Atlanta averages at about 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Atlanta. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 271 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. Zurich usually gets less rain in July than Atlanta. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Atlanta in the Autumn?

Both Atlanta and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Atlanta because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Zurich is generally cooler than Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Atlanta fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlanta. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Atlanta during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Atlanta in the Winter?

Both Atlanta and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 Atlanta this time of year.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. Zurich is much colder than Atlanta in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Atlanta fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Atlanta. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 164 hours of full sun.

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zurich usually gets less rain in January than Atlanta. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Atlanta in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Atlanta. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Atlanta for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Zurich is much colder than Atlanta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Atlanta averages at about 65°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlanta this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Atlanta during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Zurich usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Atlanta and Zurich