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

Should you visit Zurich or Howth?

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 Howth. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Howth

Howth is a scenic, peaceful, and coastal fishing village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Zurich and Howth: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Howth?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zurich than Howth, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zurich is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Howth is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster. Howth is well known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin.

How is Zurich different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Howth 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

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

Zurich is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for its live music scene. However, Howth is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Howth is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for Beaches?

Howth is a well-known place for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Howth for it's beautiful beaches. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Howth does not have a 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.

Howth does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for Hiking?

Howth is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Howth is a popular spot for hiking. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Howth?

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for Families?

Zurich is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for Couples?

Zurich is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Howth is a good city for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget 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.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.

Is Zurich or Howth Better for Students?

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

Howth is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is well known for its public transit. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Zurich or Howth a more walkable city?

Zurich and Howth 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.

Howth is a very walkable destination. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

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

Should I spend more time in Howth or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Howth?

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

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

In Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this liberal destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Howth. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Howth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Howth 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 Howth?

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Howth. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Howth?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the peaceful destination of Howth. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Zurich or Howth?

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 Howth in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Howth. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Howth for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Zurich is a little warmer than Howth in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Howth fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Howth during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Howth. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Howth receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Howth in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Howth. Many travelers come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Howth in the autumn for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Zurich is a little warmer than Howth. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Howth averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Howth. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 97 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Howth. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Howth receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Howth in the Winter?

Both Howth 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 Howth for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Zurich is generally much colder than Howth. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Howth fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Howth during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Howth. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Howth receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Howth in the Spring?

Both Howth and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zurich for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches and the small town charm.

Zurich is a little warmer than Howth in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Howth fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Howth. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 157 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Howth and Zurich