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

Should you visit Zurich or Austin?

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 Austin. 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 liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Austin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Austin than Zurich. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Austin is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Zurich attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Zurich is more touristy than Austin and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital.

How is Zurich different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Zurich and Austin.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Austin 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 Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Zurich or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Is Zurich or Austin Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Zurich is revered around the world. 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.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Austin?

Zurich is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Zurich or Austin Better for Families?

Zurich is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Zurich is 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Zurich or Austin Better for Couples?

Zurich is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Zurich or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Austin is a great city to visit for backpackers. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

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

Is Zurich or Austin Better for Students?

Zurich is a world-class destination for students. Also, Austin 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 Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Zurich is a great destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Zurich is fairly effecient and thorough. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Zurich or Austin a more walkable city?

Zurich is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zurich and Austin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than in Austin. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Austin. 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 Austin. 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 Austin than Zurich 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 Austin.

One day in Zurich or Austin?

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.

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

A weekend in Zurich or Austin?

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.

Austin 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 Austin?

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 Austin. 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 Austin?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the entrepreneurial destination of Austin. 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 99% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Austin, 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 Austin?

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 Austin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Austin. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Zurich is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Austin. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Austin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Austin. Most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Austin because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Zurich is much colder than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Austin. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Austin. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin 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 Austin this time of year.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. In the winter, Zurich is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Austin during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Austin. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Austin in the Spring?

Both Austin and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Zurich is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Austin. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Zurich