A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Zurich or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a ancient, famous, and iconic archeological site. And you can't forget about the museums.

Zurich and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich. Although Zurich and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Zurich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zurich is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Zurich and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Zurich 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.

How is Zurich different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii are among the most recognizable in the world. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Zurich or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Zurich has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Zurich or Pompeii Better for Music?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Zurich has diverse options. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Pompeii?

Zurich is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Zurich or Pompeii Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Pompeii are high quality 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 Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Zurich or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Zurich or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Pompeii are good 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 Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Zurich or Pompeii Better for Students?

Zurich is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Zurich offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Zurich or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Pompeii on foot. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Pompeii?

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

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii?

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

A weekend in Zurich or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Pompeii?

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 museums when visiting the one-of-a-kind destination of Pompeii. This archeological site 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Zurich or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Zurich during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pompeii in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zurich is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Pompeii, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zurich. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Pompeii. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Pompeii. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zurich is generally cooler than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Pompeii. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the museums.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. Zurich is much colder than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Zurich usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zurich is cooler than Pompeii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Pompeii averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Pompeii. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Zurich