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

Should you visit Zurich or Dusseldorf?

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 Dusseldorf. 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 live music, food, and shopping.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a historic, fun-filled, and cultural 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 Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Dusseldorf?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Zurich than Dusseldorf. While Dusseldorf is larger than Zurich, Zurich has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Zurich is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Dusseldorf attracts visitors for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Dusseldorf is famous for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany.

How is Zurich different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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

Both Zurich and Dusseldorf offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. 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.

Dusseldorf has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Is Zurich or Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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 Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Zurich or Dusseldorf Better for Music?

Zurich is a great destination for live music. However, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

Zurich has a world-famous historical 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Dusseldorf?

Zurich is very popular for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Zurich or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Dusseldorf are excellent family-friendly destinations.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dusseldorf. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Zurich or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Zurich and Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Is Zurich or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Zurich or Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Zurich is very popular for students. However, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

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

Dusseldorf has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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

Is Zurich or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Zurich and Dusseldorf both are excellent 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.

Dusseldorf is a very walkable destination. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Dusseldorf?

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

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

With live music and food around the historic city of Zurich, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Zurich or Dusseldorf?

With food and shopping around the destination of Zurich, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf?

Zurich, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. 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 Dusseldorf?

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Dusseldorf. 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 Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Dusseldorf, 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 Dusseldorf?

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 Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Dusseldorf. The summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

In July, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Dusseldorf. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Zurich is a little warmer than Dusseldorf in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Dusseldorf. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dusseldorf can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. In the winter, Zurich is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

Both Dusseldorf and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Dusseldorf. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Zurich