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

Should you visit Zurich or Korcula?

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 Korcula. 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Korcula

Korcula is a scenic, laid back, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Zurich and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Zurich or Korcula?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Korcula than Zurich, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Korcula is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Zurich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Korcula is well known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. Also, Korcula is famous for St Mark's Cathedral.

How is Zurich different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich
Korcula

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zurich. 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 Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.


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

Zurich
Korcula

Both Zurich and Korcula offer a number of very good 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.

Korcula has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Zurich
Korcula

Zurich is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Music?

Zurich
Korcula

Zurich is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Korcula 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.

Korcula is not a live music destination.


Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zurich
Korcula

Korcula is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Zurich
Korcula

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

Many people visit Korcula for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Zurich
Korcula

Zurich is renowned for its old town. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Zurich is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.


Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Zurich
Korcula

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

Korcula is a popular spot for hiking. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Korcula?

Zurich
Korcula

Zurich is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Korcula has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Families?

Zurich
Korcula

Both Zurich and Korcula are very good 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 Korcula. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.


Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Couples?

Zurich
Korcula

Zurich and Korcula both very good 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.

Korcula makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich
Korcula

Both Zurich and Korcula 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 Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Zurich or Korcula Better for Students?

Zurich
Korcula

Zurich is renowned for students. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Zurich is a very popular city for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

It's common for students to visit Korcula. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.


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

Zurich
Korcula

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

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

While Korcula offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

Is Zurich or Korcula a more walkable city?

Zurich
Korcula

Zurich is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable city. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Korcula?

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

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Korcula. 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 Korcula. 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 Korcula 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.


  • How many days in Zurich or Korcula? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zurich 2-5 
    Korcula 2-3

One day in Zurich or Korcula?

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Korcula. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Zurich or Korcula?

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Korcula 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 Korcula?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Korcula. This island 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 from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Korcula or Zurich?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $268, while the average daily cost in Korcula is $96. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zurich and Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zurich $170
    Korcula $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zurich $340
    Korcula $124
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Zurich or Korcula? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zurich


Hotels in Korcula


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zurich Hotel Prices and Korcula Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Korcula $1.50
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Airport Zurich Transfer Mercedes S Class 3pax: $180
  • Airport Zurich Transfer Mercedes V-Class 6pax: $168
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich City by Luxury Van: $135
  • Arrival Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Luxury Van: $91
  • Arrival Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich City in Private Car/Van: $95
  • Davos: Private Transfer to/from Zurich Airport: $604
  • Departure Private Transfer from Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH by Luxury Van: $135
  • Departure Transfer from Zurich City to Zurich Airport ZRH in Private Car/Van: $95
  • Departure Transfer: Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH in Luxury Van: $91
  • EnglishPrivate One Way Transfer Zurich Airport To Davos: $373
  • From Zurich Airport: Private Transfer to Lucerne: $315
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $258

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Korcula

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Korcula:

  • Island Stupe / Moro Beach Transfer: $26
  • Private One Way Transfer from Orebić to Dubrovnik: $204

Is it cheaper to fly into Zurich or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula and Zurich change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zurich $62
    Korcula $30
Typical Food Prices in Zurich

Some typical examples of dining costs in Zurich are as follows:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Korcula

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Korcula.

  • Private Half-Day Cooking Workshop Gastronomy in Korcula: $87
  • Korcula walking tour and dinner for Food Lovers: $227
  • Korčula: Island Yacht Cruise with Wine Tasting and Dinner: $320

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Korcula $12

Tours and Activities in Zurich

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zurich are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Reading Tour: $5.49
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.34
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.39
  • Zurich Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.39
  • Fun adventure tour of Outdoor Escape Game: $8.51
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Dark Side of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Zürich: Swiss Finance Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Highlights Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $14
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours: $14

Tours and Activities in Korcula

Here are a few actual costs in Korcula for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Semi-Submarine Tour: $21
  • Private Korcula Eco Tour with Guide: $27
  • Korčula: 3 Island Hop-on Hop-off Tour Daily Ticket: $32
  • 3 Islands Tour - HopOnHopOff - Daily Ticket : $33
  • Half day Lago di Korcula Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour: $64
  • Bits of History - Half day kayak Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Lumbarda Sunset and Evening Kayaking Experience: $65
  • Lumbarda: Half-Day Kayaking and History Tour: $66
  • Lumbarda: Sunset Kayak Tour: $66
  • Korčula for Early Risers and Coffee Lovers Private Walking Tour: $70
  • 1 Hour Private Walking Tour in Korcula : $75
  • Korčula & Pelješac: Wine & Culture Experience from Dubrovnik: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zurich $29
    Korcula $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $31
  • eTukTuk Hot Stone BBQ and Wine Tour Zürich: $129
  • Informative wine tasting with Italian appetizers in the secure wine cellar: $156

Sample the Local Flavors in Korcula

Also in Korcula, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting at Black Island Winery: $30
  • Slurp of Grk Wine Tour: $91
  • Day Tour from Dubrovnik - Korčula and Pelješac Wine Tasting: $92
  • Wine Tour Korcula: $98
  • Half-Day Bike Tour in Lumbarda with Wine Tasting: $104
  • Korcula Bike & Wine Tour: $110
  • Private Korcula wine tour and tasting : $130
  • Wine tour Korčula - private tour: $145
  • Enchanted Forest Hike and Wine Tasting Private Tour: $158
  • Korcula Island Sightseeing Tour Including Wine Tasting: $185


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

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


Which is Bigger, Zurich or Korcula?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Korcula, 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Korcula. Most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Korcula because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Zurich is cooler than Korcula in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Korcula. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zurich 21°C (70°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Korcula. The autumn months attract visitors to Zurich because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

In the autumn, Zurich is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Korcula averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zurich 13°C (56°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Korcula in the Winter?

Both Korcula and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Korcula for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. In January, Zurich is generally much colder than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives less rain than Korcula. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zurich 3°C (37°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Korcula in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Zurich is cooler than Korcula in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Korcula. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zurich 12°C (53°F) 
    Korcula 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Korcula and Zurich

Zurich Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)