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

Should you visit Zurich or Paris?

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 Paris. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Zurich and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Zurich. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Zurich attracts visitors for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Zurich and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Zurich different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris 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 Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Zurich or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Zurich is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Zurich is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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 Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Paris is a world class party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Zurich or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Is Zurich or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Zurich has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Paris?

Both Zurich and Paris are amazing shopping destinations.

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 people travel to Paris specifically to go shopping. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Is Zurich or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Zurich does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination during the Christmas season. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Zurich does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Zurich or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zurich. 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.

Is Zurich or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris 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.

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris 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 Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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 Paris Better for Students?

Zurich and Paris are both amazing 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 Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

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

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

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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

Is Zurich or Paris a more walkable city?

Zurich and Paris 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.

Paris is a very walkable destination. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Paris?

Both Zurich and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Zurich. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Zurich. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.

One day in Zurich or Paris?

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.

Paris is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Paris?

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.

Paris is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Paris?

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 Paris. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Paris?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the liberal 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.

Paris is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Zurich and Paris, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Paris. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Paris. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Paris. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Zurich is around the same temperature as Paris in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Paris during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives more rain than Paris. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zurich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Zurich is much colder than Paris. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Paris averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Paris. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Paris in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Paris. Most visitors come to Zurich for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Paris. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Paris during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Paris. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Zurich