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

Should you visit Zurich or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. 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 historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a vibrant, friendly, and relaxed city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Zurich or Toulouse?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toulouse than Zurich, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Toulouse is more popular for its food and big city activities, while Zurich is known for its music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Zurich is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also home to Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Zurich different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich
Toulouse

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

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.

Toulouse offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.


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

Zurich
Toulouse

Toulouse is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Toulouse, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Zurich or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Zurich
Toulouse

Both Zurich and Toulouse 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.

Toulouse has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Zurich or Toulouse Better for Music?

Zurich
Toulouse

Zurich is great for its music scene. However, Toulouse is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich draws a good crowd. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Toulouse is not a live music destination.


Is Zurich or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Zurich
Toulouse

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Toulouse?

Zurich
Toulouse

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Zurich specifically to go shopping. 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.

Toulouse is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Is Zurich or Toulouse Better for Families?

Zurich
Toulouse

Both Zurich and Toulouse are very good family-friendly destinations.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.


Is Zurich or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Zurich
Toulouse

Zurich and Toulouse both very good 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.

Toulouse makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Is Zurich or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich
Toulouse

Zurich is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

Zurich is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Zurich or Toulouse Better for Students?

Zurich
Toulouse

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

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.

Toulouse is a good city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.


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

Zurich
Toulouse

Zurich is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Zurich offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Toulouse has a few public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Zurich or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Zurich
Toulouse

Zurich and Toulouse both are very good 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.

Toulouse is a very walkable destination. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Zurich or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zurich due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Toulouse. 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 Toulouse 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.


  • How many days in Zurich or Toulouse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zurich 2-5 
    Toulouse 2-4

One day in Zurich or Toulouse?

The beautiful city of Zurich offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Toulouse is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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 Toulouse?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Toulouse. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Toulouse?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Toulouse. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulouse or Zurich?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $273, while the average daily cost in Toulouse is $136. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zurich and Toulouse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zurich $173
    Toulouse $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zurich $346
    Toulouse $146
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Toulouse

Looking for a hotel in Zurich or Toulouse? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zurich


Hotels in Toulouse


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zurich Hotel Prices and Toulouse Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Toulouse $45
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    $29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Switzerland: Private Transfer to Interlaken & Grindelwald: $618
  • Private Transfer between Zurich and Interlaken: $444
  • Private Transfer From Zurich to Vaduz, 2 Hour Stop in Balzers: $296
  • Private Transfer From Zurich to St. Gallen, With a 2 Hour Stop: $282
  • Private Transfer From St. Gallen to Zurich With a 2 Hour Stop: $282
  • Private Sightseeing Transfer from Zurich to Basel With Stops: $271
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Basel in Luxury Van: $264
  • Private Arrival Transfer: from Zurich Airport to Zug: $258
  • Private Transfer from Zurich to Interlaken with English Driver: $243
  • Private Transfer From Zurich to Bern: $232
  • Private Transfer Zurich city to Zurich Airport ZRH by Minibus: $213
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Basel City in Car or Van: $209

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulouse

Also for Toulouse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Transfer Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse by Car or Van: $42
  • Transfer from BLAGNAC Airport to all other destinations in Toulouse: $54
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse city centre to Toulouse Airport: $66
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse Airport to City centre: $67
  • Private transfer from or to Toulouse Airport: $88
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toulouse to Toulouse Airport TLS in Luxury Van: $93
  • Transfer Toulouse to Carcassonne center: $243

Is it cheaper to fly into Zurich or Toulouse?

Prices for flights to both Toulouse and Zurich change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zurich $63
    Toulouse $37
Typical Food Prices in Zurich

Some typical examples of dining costs in Zurich are as follows:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $14

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zurich

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zurich.

  • Zürich Food Tour: $100
  • Culinary Tour from Zurich with Traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue Dinner: $153

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulouse

For Toulouse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • No Diet Club - Best food tour in Toulouse !: $53
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $77
  • Traditional Toulouse Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $105
  • Victor Hugo Market Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $106
  • Marché Victor Hugo Small Group Food Tour: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Toulouse $17

Tours and Activities in Zurich

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zurich are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour to Explore the Gems of Zürich: $281
  • 3 Hours Private Tour Around Zurich: $229
  • 3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour - Cruise on the Lake - Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg: $103
  • A Cairo Adventure to Memphis, Sakkara, and Dahshur Pyramids: $56
  • A Guided Tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo: $78
  • A Thrifty Luxor Adventure to the West Bank's Top Sights: $61
  • Adventure to Mount Pilatus from Zurich: $188
  • Best Intro Tour of Zurich with a Local: $159
  • Best of Zürich & Surroundings: Walking Tour, Cable Car and Ferry: $89
  • Best of Zurich Tour with Felsenegg Cable Car and Ferry Ride : $73
  • Best of Zurich and Surroundings - Extended City Sightseeing Tour with a local: $88
  • Cairo Tour To Pyramids of Giza, Old Cairo, Khan Bazaar: $95

Tours and Activities in Toulouse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Toulouse.

  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.16
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.46
  • Toulouse Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.06
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Toulouse : Self-Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $9.67
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Minibus: $16
  • Aeroscopia Admission Ticket: $17
  • Toulouse Sightseeing Bus Tour: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zurich $30
    Toulouse $8.16

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Zurich: $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulouse

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Toulouse:

  • Pub Crawl Toulouse: $20
  • From Toulouse Cite de carcassonne et wine tasting: $539


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

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


Which is Bigger, Zurich or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Toulouse. Most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zurich is around the same temperature as Toulouse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Toulouse averages at about 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulouse. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Toulouse. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zurich 21°C (70°F) 
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Toulouse in the Autumn?

Both Toulouse and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

In October, Zurich is generally cooler than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zurich 13°C (56°F) 
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Toulouse in the Winter?

Both Toulouse and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. Zurich is much colder than Toulouse in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Toulouse. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zurich 3°C (37°F) 
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Toulouse in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Toulouse. Many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Toulouse in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zurich is around the same temperature as Toulouse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Toulouse averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zurich 12°C (53°F) 
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Zurich

Zurich Toulouse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)