A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Zurich or Washington?

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 Washington. 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.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Zurich and Washington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Zurich or Washington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington than Zurich. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Washington is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Zurich attracts visitors for its music, historical sights, and shopping. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Washington is famous for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Zurich different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich
Washington

Washington is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.


Is Zurich or Washington Better for Theater?

Zurich
Washington

Washington is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Zurich is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Zurich is not a theatre destination.

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

Zurich
Washington

Washington 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 Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington Better for Nightlife?

Zurich
Washington

Both Zurich and Washington are high quality 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.

Washington has a large number of nightlife venues. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.


Is Zurich or Washington Better for Music?

Zurich
Washington

Zurich is great for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

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.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Zurich or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Zurich
Washington

Zurich is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Zurich is revered around the world. 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Washington Better for Hiking?

Zurich
Washington

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Washington?

Zurich
Washington

Zurich is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Zurich or Washington Better for Christmas?

Zurich
Washington

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Zurich does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination during the Christmas season. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Zurich does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Zurich or Washington Better for Families?

Zurich
Washington

Both Zurich and Washington are high quality 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 Washington. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.


Is Zurich or Washington Better for Couples?

Zurich
Washington

Zurich and Washington 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.

Washington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Zurich or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich
Washington

Zurich is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Zurich is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Zurich or Washington Better for Students?

Zurich
Washington

Zurich and Washington are both first-rate destinations for students and younger travelers.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Many students frequent Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.


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

Zurich
Washington

Washington 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.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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

Is Zurich or Washington a more walkable city?

Zurich
Washington

Washington 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 Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Washington?

Both Zurich and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Zurich. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Washington 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 Washington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zurich 2-5 
    Washington 3-7

One day in Zurich or Washington?

With live music and food around the historic 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.

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Zurich or Washington?

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.

Washington 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 Washington?

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 Washington. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Washington?

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.

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Washington 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 Washington is $198. 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 Washington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zurich $173
    Washington $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zurich $346
    Washington $226
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Washington

Looking for a hotel in Zurich or Washington? 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 Washington


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 Washington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Washington $47
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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Private Departure Transfer to Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $43
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $43
  • Private Departure Transfer to Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $56
  • Washington Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Washington City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $64
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Transfer in Washington DC: $70
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington Dulles Airport to Washington City: $88
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington City to Dulles Airport: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Zurich or Washington?

Prices for flights to both Washington 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
    Washington $38
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

Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Capitol Hill Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington DC Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC:Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $140
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $152
  • Washington DC Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $161

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Washington $24

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 Washington

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

  • DC's Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Scandals & Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Kennedy Homes of Georgetown: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington, DC: Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Washington, D.C: National Air & Space Museum Audio Tour (EN): $9.00
  • The National Mall: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • D.C: White House Museum & President's Park Audio Tour (EN): $9.00
  • DC: National Museum of the American Indian Audio Tour (ENG): $10
  • DC: Smithsonian American History Museum Audio Tour (EN): $10
  • Washington, DC: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Washington DC Monuments Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zurich $30
    Washington $19

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 Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Washington, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Washington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Zurich is in Europe and Washington is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Washington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Washington 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 Washington.

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


Which is Bigger, Zurich or Washington?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Washington, 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 Washington?

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 Washington in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Washington. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally cooler than Washington. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Washington. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Washington. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zurich 21°C (70°F) 
    Washington 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Zurich or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington 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 Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zurich is cooler than Washington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Washington during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Washington. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Zurich or Washington in the Winter?

Both Washington 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. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Washington can be very cold. Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zurich is much warmer than Washington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Washington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Washington. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Washington. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zurich 3°C (37°F) 
    Washington 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Zurich or Washington in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Washington. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

In April, Zurich is generally cooler than Washington. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Washington during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Washington. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zurich 12°C (53°F) 
    Washington 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Washington and Zurich

Zurich Washington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)