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

Should you visit Zurich or Girona?

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 Girona. 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. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Girona

Girona is a ancient, charming, and beautiful city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Zurich and Girona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Girona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zurich than Girona. Zurich is bigger than Girona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zurich is better known for its nightlife, music, and shopping, while Girona is more popular for its small town charm and quaint atmosphere. Zurich is more touristy than Girona and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster. Girona is well known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Zurich different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Zurich and Girona.

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.

Girona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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

Both Zurich and Girona 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.

Girona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Zurich or Girona Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Zurich or Girona Better for Music?

Zurich is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Girona is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Girona is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the terrific old town areas in both Zurich and Girona.

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.

Girona has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Girona?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Is Zurich or Girona Better for Families?

Zurich is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Zurich or Girona Better for Couples?

Zurich and Girona 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.

Girona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Zurich or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Girona are notable 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 Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Zurich or Girona Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

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

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

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

Girona has some public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Is Zurich or Girona a more walkable city?

Girona 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 Girona on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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 Girona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Girona or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zurich or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zurich than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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

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 shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Girona. 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 Girona?

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.

Girona 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 Girona?

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 Girona. 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 Girona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the liberal 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 shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Girona. 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 Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Girona?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

Both Girona and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

Zurich is cooler than Girona in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Girona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Girona during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Girona. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Girona in the Autumn?

Both Girona and Zurich during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Girona. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Girona. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Girona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Girona. Many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Girona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. In January, Zurich is generally much colder than Girona. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Girona fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Girona during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Girona. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Girona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Girona. Many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Girona for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Zurich is around the same temperature as Girona in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Girona. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Girona. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Girona and Zurich