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

Should you visit Zurich or Siena?

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 Siena. 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. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Siena

Siena is a history, beautiful, and romantic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Siena?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Siena. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its nightlife, music, and shopping, while Siena attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Siena is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

How is Zurich different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Zurich and Siena.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Siena offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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

Both Zurich and Siena offer a number of high quality 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.

Siena has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Zurich or Siena Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is notable for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Zurich has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Zurich or Siena Better for Music?

Zurich is notable for live music. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Zurich and Siena.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Siena has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Siena?

Zurich is very popular for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Zurich or Siena Better for Families?

Zurich is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Zurich is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Zurich or Siena Better for Couples?

Siena 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.

Siena is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Siena are nice 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 Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Zurich or Siena Better for Students?

Zurich is very popular for students. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Siena is a great city to visit as a student. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

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

Public transit in Zurich is fairly effecient and thorough. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Zurich or Siena a more walkable city?

Zurich and Siena both are high quality 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.

Siena is a very walkable destination. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Siena?

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

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Siena. 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.

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

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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Siena. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Siena?

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.

Siena 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 Siena?

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 Siena. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Siena?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the medieval destination of Siena. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Siena?

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

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 Siena in the Summer?

Both Siena and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Siena in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Siena. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Siena. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Siena during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Siena. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Siena in the Autumn?

Both Siena and Zurich during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Siena for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zurich is cooler than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Siena. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Siena. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Siena in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Siena. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Siena because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zurich is much colder than Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Siena during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Siena. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Siena in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Siena. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

In April, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Siena. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Siena. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Siena. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Zurich