A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Tromso for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Zurich or Tromso?

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 Tromso. 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.

Tromso

Tromso is a remote, one-of-a-kind, and spectacular town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Zurich and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Tromso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich than Tromso, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zurich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Tromso is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Tromso is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

How is Zurich different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

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

Both Zurich and Tromso offer a number of very good 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.

Tromso has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Zurich or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

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 Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Zurich or Tromso Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for its music scene. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso does not have a historic 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.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Tromso is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Tromso is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Tromso?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Zurich or Tromso Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Tromso 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 Tromso. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Is Zurich or Tromso Better for Couples?

Zurich and Tromso 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.

Tromso makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Zurich or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Tromso are good 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 Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Zurich or Tromso Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Tromso is a good city to visit for students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Zurich or Tromso a more walkable city?

Zurich and Tromso 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.

Tromso is a very walkable destination. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Tromso?

Both Zurich and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Zurich. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

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.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Tromso?

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 Tromso. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic 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.

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Tromso?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Tromso. Most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Tromso because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zurich is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Tromso averages at about 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tromso. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Tromso. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Tromso in the Autumn?

Both Tromso 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 hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the autumn. In October, Zurich is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tromso. In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Tromso. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Tromso in the Winter?

Both Tromso 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. Also, many travelers come to Tromso for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. Zurich is much warmer than Tromso in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Tromso. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Tromso in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Tromso. Many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Tromso in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Tromso can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Zurich is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Tromso averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Tromso. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Zurich