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

Should you visit Zurich or Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux. 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. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a elegant, charming, and romantic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Bordeaux?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Zurich, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bordeaux is better known for its food and big city activities, while Zurich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping. Bordeaux is more touristy than Zurich and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Zurich different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Zurich know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Zurich or Bordeaux Better for Music?

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

Zurich has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Bordeaux?

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

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 visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Zurich or Bordeaux Better for Families?

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

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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Zurich or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Zurich and Bordeaux both superb 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.

Bordeaux makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Is Zurich or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Zurich or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Zurich is a world-class destination for students. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

Both Zurich and Bordeaux offer superb public transit options.

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

The public transit in Bordeaux can get you to most places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Is Zurich or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Zurich and Bordeaux both are superb 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.

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Bordeaux?

In either Zurich or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zurich has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Zurich than Bordeaux. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

The beautiful city of Zurich offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in Zurich or Bordeaux?

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Zurich or Bordeaux?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Bordeaux. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Bordeaux?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Bordeaux. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Zurich is around the same temperature as Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Zurich is around the same temperature as Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Bordeaux. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zurich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Zurich is generally much colder than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In January, Zurich usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zurich for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Bordeaux. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Zurich