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

Should you visit Zurich or Hannover?

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 Hannover. 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. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

Hannover

Hannover is a vibrant, cultural, and dynamic 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 Hannover: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Hannover?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zurich than Hannover. While Hannover is larger than Zurich, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is very popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hannover attracts visitors for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Hannover and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Hannover is famous for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system.

How is Zurich different from Hannover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Hannover offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.

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

Zurich is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Hannover. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

Is Zurich or Hannover Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Hannover are excellent 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.

Hannover has a large number of nightlife venues. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

Is Zurich or Hannover Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for live music. However, Hannover 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.

Hannover is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Hannover Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 people head to Hannover to see the old town. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Hannover?

Zurich is very popular for shopping. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Zurich. 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.

Hannover offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

Is Zurich or Hannover Better for Families?

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

Zurich is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hannover is a family-friendly place to visit. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.

Is Zurich or Hannover Better for Couples?

Zurich is a great city for romance. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Hannover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.

Is Zurich or Hannover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Hannover 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 Hannover. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.

Is Zurich or Hannover Better for Students?

Zurich is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Hannover is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.

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

Both Zurich and Hannover offer excellent public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

The public transit in Hannover can get you to most places easily. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus lines.

Is Zurich or Hannover a more walkable city?

Zurich and Hannover 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.

Hannover is a very walkable destination. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Hannover or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Hannover?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zurich or Hannover to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zurich than Hannover 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 Hannover.

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

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 Hannover. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Hannover?

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.

Hannover 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 Hannover?

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 Hannover. 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 Hannover?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Hannover. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany, and The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Hannover?

Hannover has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Hannover, 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 Hannover?

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 Hannover in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Hannover. The summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hannover this time of year.

In July, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Hannover. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Hannover fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Hannover. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 198 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Hannover. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Hannover in the Autumn?

Both Hannover and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Hannover for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Zurich is a little warmer than Hannover in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Hannover fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Hannover during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives more rain than Hannover. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Hannover in the Winter?

Both Hannover and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hannover in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hannover can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. In the winter, Zurich is much warmer than Hannover. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Hannover averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Hannover. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 42 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Hannover. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Hannover in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Hannover. Many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Hannover for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Hannover. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Hannover fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hannover during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Hannover. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hannover and Zurich