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

Should you visit Zurich or Toulon?

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 Toulon. 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.

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Zurich and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich. Although Zurich and Toulon are about the same size, Zurich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Toulon attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Zurich is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Zurich different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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

Zurich is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zurich makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for Music?

Zurich is a well-known place for live music. However, Toulon is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Toulon is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a moderate port city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for Beaches?

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

Toulon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Toulon?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Toulon is well-known for its shopping. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for Families?

Zurich is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for Couples?

Zurich is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Toulon 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 Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

Is Zurich or Toulon Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for students. However, Toulon is not popular with 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.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Zurich or Toulon a more walkable city?

Zurich and Toulon 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.

Toulon is a very walkable destination. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Toulon?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zurich. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Toulon. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Toulon?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Don't miss the shopping, 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.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the beautiful destination of Zurich. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the off-the-beaten-path destination of Toulon. This port city 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Toulon?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Toulon. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

Both Toulon 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 Toulon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally cooler than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Toulon. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon 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. Also, most visitors come to Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Toulon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Toulon. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Toulon 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 Toulon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Toulon averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulon. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Toulon in the Spring?

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

In April, Zurich is generally cooler than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Toulon. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Zurich