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

Should you visit Zurich or Dingle?

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 Dingle. 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. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Dingle

Dingle is a natural, scenic, and rustic peninsula. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Zurich and Dingle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Zurich or Dingle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich. Although Zurich and Dingle are both popular with visitors, Zurich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zurich is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Dingle is known for its beaches and hiking. 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. Dingle is popular for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs.

How is Zurich different from Dingle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options 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.

While most people don't head to Dingle specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the natural beauty, but there are a couple of landmarks in the area including the Eask Tower, Gallarus Oratory, and the Blasket Centre.


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

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Zurich is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dingle. You'll find great seafood throughout the peninsula. There's also traditional Irish food available including Irish stew or cabbage and bacon.

Is Zurich or Dingle Better for Nightlife?

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

Dingle doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area's not known for its nightlife but you can visit The Hillgrove, which is the peninsula's only nightclub. It's in a hotel and there is weekly entertainment.

Is Zurich or Dingle Better for Music?

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich is a great destination for its music scene. However, Dingle 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.

Dingle is not a live music destination.


Is Zurich or Dingle Better for Beaches?

Zurich
Dingle

Dingle is a well-known place for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Dingle for it's beautiful beaches. It's not hard to find a quiet beach with scenic views and a serene setting. Some of the best beaches in the area include Coumeenole, Brandon Bay, and Ventry.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Dingle Better for its Old Town?

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Dingle does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Zurich offers plenty to see. 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.

Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Dingle Better for Hiking?

Zurich
Dingle

Dingle is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Dingle is a popular spot for hiking. There are a variety of walking paths and hiking trails that take you through the coastal setting, rolling mountains, and remote nature. Some of the best trails in the area include the long distance hiking trail the Dingle Way, Mount Brandon, and Glenteenassig Forest Park.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Dingle?

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zurich or Dingle Better for Families?

Zurich
Dingle

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

Zurich is known to be 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.

Dingle offers lots of family activities. There are coastal walks and beaches that are perfect for kids. You can also visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, do a dolphin tour, or enjoy some watersports. Horseback riding and Sandy Feet Farm are both fun as well.

Is Zurich or Dingle Better for Couples?

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich and Dingle 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.

Dingle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.


Is Zurich or Dingle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich
Dingle

Dingle 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.

Dingle is a great peninsula to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels on the peninsula and there are interesting music festivals and other events that make this a good backpacker destination.

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 Dingle Better for Students?

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich is an unbeatable place for students. However, Dingle is not popular with students.

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.

Dingle is not popular with students.

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

Zurich
Dingle

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

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Dingle. Bus Eireann offers buses daily to Tralee and then there are connections to other destinations.


Is Zurich or Dingle a more walkable city?

Zurich
Dingle

Zurich is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options 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.

Dingle is generally not a very walkable city. If you have enough time, there are countless walking trails throughout the peninsula.

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

Should I spend more time in Dingle or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Dingle?

In either Zurich or Dingle, 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 Dingle. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


  • How many days in Zurich or Dingle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zurich 2-5 
    Dingle 2-5

One day in Zurich or Dingle?

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 when visiting the destination of Dingle. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Dingle?

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.

Dingle 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 Dingle?

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 Dingle. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Dingle?

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 food when visiting the picturesque destination of Dingle. This peninsula offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Dingle or Zurich?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $268, while the average daily cost in Dingle is $128. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zurich and Dingle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zurich $170
    Dingle $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zurich $340
    Dingle $146
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Dingle

Looking for a hotel in Zurich or Dingle? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zurich


Hotels in Dingle


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zurich Hotel Prices and Dingle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Dingle $18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Airport Zurich Transfer Mercedes S Class 3pax: $179
  • Airport Zurich Transfer Mercedes V-Class 6pax: $168
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich City by Luxury Van: $138
  • Arrival Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Luxury Van: $91
  • Arrival Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich City in Private Car/Van: $95
  • Davos: Private Transfer to/from Zurich Airport: $601
  • Departure Private Transfer from Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH by Luxury Van: $138
  • Departure Transfer from Zurich City to Zurich Airport ZRH in Private Car/Van: $95
  • EnglishPrivate One Way Transfer Zurich Airport To Davos: $374
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $78
  • From Zurich Airport: Private Transfer to Lucerne: $314
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dingle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dingle:

  • Dingle To Kerry Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Zurich or Dingle?

Prices for flights to both Dingle and Zurich change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zurich $62
    Dingle $43
Typical Food Prices in Zurich

Some typical examples of dining costs in Zurich are as follows:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $13

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Dingle $10

Tours and Activities in Zurich

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zurich are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Reading Tour: $5.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Zurich Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Best of Zürich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Fun adventure tour of Outdoor Escape Game: $8.54
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Zürich: Swiss Finance Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Dark Side of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours: $14

Tours and Activities in Dingle

Here are a few actual costs in Dingle for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Boat Tour of Dingle Peninsula: $14
  • Dingle Peninsula Virtual Tour: $16
  • Dingle Bay Cliff Tour: $21
  • 2-hour Guided Mini Eco Tour at Dingle, Ireland: $49
  • Morning Tasting and Sightseeing Guided Tour in Dingle Ireland: $55
  • Self-Guided eBike Tour: $59
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Drive Group Tour: $76
  • Blasket Eco Tour.: $82
  • Dingle Dolphin Blasket Adventures: $84
  • Dingle Boat Tours Wildlife RIB Adventure: $87
  • Blasket Island Sea Life Rib Tour,: $93
  • Wildlife Tour: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zurich $29
    Dingle $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $31
  • eTukTuk Hot Stone BBQ and Wine Tour Zürich: $129


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

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


Which is Bigger, Zurich or Dingle?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Dingle. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Dingle, 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 Dingle?

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 Dingle in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Zurich is a little warmer than Dingle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Dingle averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Dingle during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Dingle. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zurich 21°C (70°F) 
    Dingle 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Dingle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Dingle. Many travelers come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Dingle in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Dingle. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Dingle. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 79 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Dingle. Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Dingle. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zurich 13°C (56°F) 
    Dingle 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Dingle in the Winter?

Both Dingle 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 Dingle for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. Zurich is much colder than Dingle in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Dingle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Dingle during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dingle. In January, Zurich usually receives less rain than Dingle. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zurich 3°C (37°F) 
    Dingle 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Dingle in the Spring?

Both Dingle 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 Dingle because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zurich is a little warmer than Dingle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Dingle averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dingle. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 150 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Dingle. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zurich 12°C (53°F) 
    Dingle 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dingle and Zurich

Zurich Dingle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)