A Travel Price Comparison for Switzerland Zurich vs. Zermatt for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zurich or Zermatt?

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 Zermatt. 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.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a breathtaking, charming, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Zurich and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Zermatt?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zurich and Zermatt are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Zurich attracts visitors for its museums, music, historical sights, and shopping. Zermatt is more touristy than Zurich and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

The Matterhorn

How is Zurich different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zermatt and Zurich. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for snow skiing. However, Zurich is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Zurich is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zurich or Zermatt?

Zurich is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town 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.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

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

Both Zurich and Zermatt offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Zermatt has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Zermatt 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.

Zermatt has a large number of nightlife venues. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Music?

Zurich is a well-known place for live music. However, Zermatt 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.

Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Zurich is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Zermatt to choose from. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is very popular for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Zurich has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Zermatt is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Zermatt?

Zurich is very popular for shopping. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Zermatt is well-known for its shopping. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Zermatt 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 Zermatt. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Zermatt is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zermatt is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

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

Is Zurich or Zermatt Better for Students?

Zurich is very popular for students. However, Zermatt 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.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Zurich or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Zermatt 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 Zermatt on foot. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

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 Zermatt Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Zermatt?

In either Zurich or Zermatt, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zermatt than Zurich 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 Zermatt.

One day in Zurich or Zermatt?

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Zermatt. 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 Zermatt?

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Zermatt 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 Zermatt?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the iconic destination of Zermatt. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Luxury Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Zermatt?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Zermatt, 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 Zermatt?

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 Zermatt in the Summer?

Both Zermatt 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 Zermatt in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Zermatt. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zermatt during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. In July, Zurich usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Zermatt in the Autumn?

Both Zermatt 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 Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zurich is cooler than Zermatt in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Zermatt fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 152 hours of full sun.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Zermatt. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Zermatt in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Zermatt. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Zermatt can be very cold. Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zurich is much colder than Zermatt. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Zermatt averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zermatt. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Zermatt in the Spring?

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

In April, Zurich is generally cooler than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. Zurich usually gets less rain in April than Zermatt. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Zurich