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

Should you visit Zurich or Florence?

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 Florence. 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence. Although Zurich and Florence are roughly the same size, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is better known for its museums, food, and impressive beauty, while Zurich is more popular for its nightlife, music, and shopping. Florence is more touristy than Zurich and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). 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 Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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.

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

Florence 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 Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Zurich has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Music?

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

Zurich has a thriving music scene. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Zurich and Florence.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Florence has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Florence?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Zurich draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Families?

Zurich is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zurich is very family-friendly. 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Zurich or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Zurich and Florence are both world-class destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Many students frequent Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

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

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

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Zurich or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Florence?

Both Zurich and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Zurich. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Florence. 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 Florence than Zurich. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Zurich 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 Florence.

One day in Zurich or Florence?

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 Florence. 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 Florence?

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.

Florence 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 Florence?

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 Florence. 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.

A week in Zurich or Florence?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the artistic destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Florence, 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 Florence?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zurich or Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Florence. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Zurich is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Florence. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Zurich is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Florence during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Florence. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. In January, Zurich is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Florence. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Florence. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Florence. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty.

Zurich is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Florence during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Zurich