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

Should you visit Zurich or Dijon?

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 Dijon. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Dijon

Dijon is a culinary, relaxing, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Dijon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Dijon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Dijon attracts visitors for its food and big city activities. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Dijon is famous for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

How is Zurich different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Zurich and Dijon.

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.

Dijon offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

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

Dijon 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 Dijon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

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 Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is notable for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Zurich has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Zurich or Dijon Better for Music?

Zurich is notable for live music. However, Dijon is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Dijon is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Dijon Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is terrific for its historic old town. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Dijon?

Zurich is terrific for shopping. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Zurich or Dijon Better for Families?

Zurich is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Dijon is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Zurich or Dijon Better for Couples?

Zurich and Dijon 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.

Dijon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

Is Zurich or Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Dijon are nice 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 Dijon. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Zurich or Dijon Better for Students?

Zurich is terrific for students. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

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

Zurich is notable for its public transit. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Zurich can move around easily with public transportation. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Dijon has some public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

Is Zurich or Dijon a more walkable city?

Zurich is notable for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Dijon?

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

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

In Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this liberal destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

A weekend in Zurich or Dijon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Dijon 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 Dijon?

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dijon. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Dijon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the culinary destination of Dijon. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Dijon?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

Both Dijon and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dijon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Dijon. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Dijon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Dijon during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Dijon. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Dijon in the Autumn?

Both Dijon and Zurich during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dijon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Zurich is around the same temperature as Dijon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Dijon. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Dijon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Dijon. Many visitors come to Zurich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dijon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dijon can be very cold during winter. Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Zurich is around the same temperature as Dijon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Dijon averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Dijon. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Dijon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Dijon. Most visitors come to Zurich for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Dijon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Dijon. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Dijon. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Dijon. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dijon and Zurich