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

Should you visit Zurich or Avignon?

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 Avignon. 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 live music, food, and shopping.

Avignon

Avignon is a quaint, charming, and scenic town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Zurich and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Avignon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich than Avignon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zurich is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Avignon is known for its museums, food, and small town charm. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Avignon is popular for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

How is Zurich different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Avignon 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 Avignon are among the most recognizable in the world. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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 Avignon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avignon 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 Avignon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity 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 Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Zurich or Avignon Better for Music?

Zurich is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Avignon is not a live music destination.

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.

Avignon is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the terrific old town areas in both Zurich and Avignon.

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.

Avignon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Avignon?

Zurich is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Zurich specifically to go shopping. 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.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Zurich or Avignon Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zurich. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Zurich or Avignon Better for Couples?

Zurich and Avignon both excellent 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.

Avignon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Zurich or Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Avignon 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 Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Zurich or Avignon Better for Students?

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

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Avignon is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Avignon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Zurich or Avignon a more walkable city?

Avignon is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Avignon on foot. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zurich or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zurich than Avignon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-2 days is enough time in Avignon.

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

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.

Avignon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Avignon?

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.

Avignon 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 Avignon?

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 Avignon. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Avignon?

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.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Avignon?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Avignon, 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 Avignon?

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 Avignon in the Summer?

Both Avignon and Zurich during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

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

In Avignon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zurich. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 354 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Avignon. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Avignon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Avignon. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Avignon for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

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

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Avignon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Avignon. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Avignon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Avignon. Many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Avignon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. Zurich is much colder than Avignon in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Avignon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 146 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Avignon. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Avignon in the Spring?

Both Avignon and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Avignon for the small town charm during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Avignon. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Avignon. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Zurich