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

Should you visit Zurich or Portofino?

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 Portofino. 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.

Portofino

Portofino is a opulent, exclusive, and luxurious seaside village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Zurich and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Portofino?

Both Portofino and Zurich have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Zurich is better known for its museums, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Portofino is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Portofino is more touristy than Zurich and is known for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Zurich different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich is notable for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.

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

Both Zurich and Portofino offer a number of superb 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.

Portofino has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Portofino are superb when it comes to partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Portofino has a large number of nightlife venues. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for Music?

Zurich is notable for its live music scene. However, Portofino is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Portofino is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Portofino is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zurich is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Portofino for its luxury resorts. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Portofino is a good destination for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Portofino offers a nice beach destination. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Portofino. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for Hiking?

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

Portofino is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Portofino?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for Families?

Zurich is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village 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.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for Couples?

Portofino 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.

Portofino is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

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 Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village 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.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

Is Zurich or Portofino Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for students. However, Portofino 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.

Portofino is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is notable for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Zurich or Portofino a more walkable city?

Portofino 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 Portofino on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

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 Portofino Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Portofino?

In either Zurich or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zurich has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Zurich than Portofino. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Portofino 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 Portofino?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Zurich. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Portofino might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Portofino?

You'll find live music and food around the beautiful destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Portofino 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 Portofino?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Zurich. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portofino. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Portofino?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Portofino is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Portofino, we can see that Portofino is more expensive. And not only is Zurich much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zurich would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zurich 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 Portofino would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portofino than you might in Zurich.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Portofino?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 650 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Portofino, 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.