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

Should you visit Zurich or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix. 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 historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a desert, laid back, and sprawling city. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Zurich and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Phoenix?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zurich than Phoenix. While Phoenix is larger than Zurich, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Phoenix is known for its hiking. Zurich is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Phoenix is popular for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Zurich different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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

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

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.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Zurich or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Zurich has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Zurich or Phoenix Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for its music scene. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Phoenix Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Zurich offers plenty to see. 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.

Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Phoenix is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Phoenix?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Zurich specifically to go shopping. 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.

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Zurich or Phoenix Better for Families?

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

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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Zurich or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Zurich is a great city for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

Is Zurich or Phoenix Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

Zurich is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

Is Zurich or Phoenix Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Phoenix is not popular with students.

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.

Phoenix is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Phoenix is not known for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Zurich or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Zurich is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

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.

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zurich and Phoenix. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than in Phoenix. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

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

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 nightlife when visiting the destination of Phoenix. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix. 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 Phoenix?

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 laid back destination of Phoenix. 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, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When comparing the travel costs between Zurich and Phoenix, 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. Even though Zurich is in Europe and Phoenix is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Phoenix?

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

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Phoenix. Most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Phoenix can become quite hot in the summer. In the summer, Zurich is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Phoenix averages at about 98°F (36°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Phoenix. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Phoenix in the Autumn?

Both Phoenix and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Zurich because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year.

In October, Zurich is generally much colder than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Phoenix fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Phoenix in the Winter?

Both Phoenix and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Phoenix for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. Zurich is much colder than Phoenix in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Phoenix. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Phoenix in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Phoenix. Many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zurich is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Phoenix averages at about 74°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Zurich