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

Should you visit Zurich or Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg. 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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a charming, picturesque, and impressive city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Strasbourg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Strasbourg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. 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. Strasbourg is famous for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

How is Zurich different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Strasbourg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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

Both Zurich and Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Zurich or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great city for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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 Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Zurich or Strasbourg Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for live music. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Strasbourg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Strasbourg?

Zurich is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Zurich. 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.

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Zurich or Strasbourg Better for Families?

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

Zurich is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Zurich or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Zurich and Strasbourg both high quality destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Strasbourg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Zurich or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Zurich or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Both Zurich and Strasbourg offer high quality public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

The public transit in Strasbourg can get you to most places easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Is Zurich or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Zurich and Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a very walkable destination. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Strasbourg?

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

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

With live music and food around the beautiful city of Zurich, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg?

With food and shopping around the destination of Zurich, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Zurich, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg?

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Strasbourg. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Strasbourg?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Strasbourg. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Strasbourg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Strasbourg. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

Both Strasbourg and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zurich is a little warmer than Strasbourg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Strasbourg in the Winter?

Both Strasbourg and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Strasbourg can be very cold. Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zurich is much warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Strasbourg. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Strasbourg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Strasbourg. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year.

In April, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Zurich