A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Stockholm for Music, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Zurich or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm. 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a coastal, safe, and expensive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Stockholm?

You'll generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Zurich. Stockholm is bigger than Zurich, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Stockholm is better known for its music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Zurich is more popular for its food and shopping. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Stockholm is well known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town).

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Zurich different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Zurich and Stockholm.

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.

Stockholm offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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

Zurich is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Zurich or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Stockholm are very good 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.

Stockholm has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Zurich or Stockholm Better for Music?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

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 Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the fantastic old town areas in both Zurich and Stockholm.

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.

Stockholm has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Stockholm?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Zurich or Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm 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, Stockholm is very family-friendly. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Stockholm are notable 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 Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Zurich or Stockholm Better for Students?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Zurich or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Stockholm?

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

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

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

One day in Zurich or Stockholm?

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.

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Stockholm?

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.

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, 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 Stockholm?

You'll find food and shopping around the liberal 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 Stockholm. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Stockholm?

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.

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Stockholm?

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

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Stockholm. Most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Zurich is a little warmer than Stockholm in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Stockholm this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Stockholm in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Stockholm. The autumn months attract visitors to Zurich because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

In the autumn, Zurich is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Stockholm averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Stockholm. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. In January, Zurich is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Stockholm in the Spring?

Both Stockholm and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stockholm in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Zurich is much warmer than Stockholm in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Stockholm. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Stockholm. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Zurich