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

Should you visit Zurich or Dresden?

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 Dresden. 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a architectural, cultural, and park-filled city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Dresden?

Both Dresden and Zurich have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Zurich is more popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Dresden is known for its big city activities. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Dresden is popular for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady).

How is Zurich different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden 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.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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

Zurich is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden 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 Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Zurich or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Dresden are superb when it comes to partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Dresden has a large number of nightlife venues. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

Is Zurich or Dresden Better for Music?

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

Dresden is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

Zurich offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Dresden?

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Is Zurich or Dresden Better for Families?

Zurich is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options 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.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Zurich or Dresden Better for Couples?

Zurich is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Zurich or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Dresden 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 Dresden. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Is Zurich or Dresden Better for Students?

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

While Dresden offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Zurich or Dresden a more walkable city?

Zurich and Dresden 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.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zurich and Dresden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than in Dresden. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dresden.

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

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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Dresden. 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 Dresden?

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.

Dresden 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 Dresden?

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 Dresden. 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 Dresden?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the park-filled destination of Dresden. 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.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Dresden, 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 Dresden?

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 Dresden in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Zurich is around the same temperature as Dresden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Dresden averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Dresden. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Dresden in the Autumn?

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

In October, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Dresden. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Dresden in the Winter?

Both Dresden 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 Dresden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dresden can be very cold during winter. Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. Zurich is much warmer than Dresden in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Dresden. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Dresden in the Spring?

Both Dresden 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 Dresden because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Zurich is a little warmer than Dresden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Dresden averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Dresden. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dresden and Zurich