A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zermatt vs. Delft for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Zermatt or Delft?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Zermatt and Delft can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a charming, stunning, and iconic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Zermatt is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food. See Zermatt travel costs.

Delft

Delft is a charming, historic, and quaint town. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Delft travel costs.

Zermatt and Delft: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Zermatt or Delft?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Delft are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Delft is known for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Delft and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Delft is popular for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Delft?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Delft Better for Skiing?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Delft is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Zermatt. 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.

Delft is not a skiing destination.


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

Zermatt
Delft

Delft is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Delft is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums that highlight the culture and history of the area. The Vermeer Center offers an immersive experience into the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in the city. The Royal Delft Factory teaches visitors about the city's iconic blue-and-white pottery. The Delft Museum of Technology and the Old Church also provide insight into the city's engineering, cultural, and religious history.

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 Zermatt or Delft? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zermatt. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Delft. There are several local dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or a frikandel (a Dutch snack). The town has countless casual eateries and cozy cafes where you can enjoy pastries, coffee, and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken). There's also a selection of international restaurants around town that serve Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options, such as fresh herring or delicious Dutch cheese.

Is Zermatt or Delft Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Delft is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Delft is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It has a low-key and relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of cozy pubs, bars, and cafes, many of which are located along the scenic canals.


Is Zermatt or Delft Better for Resorts?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Delft is not a resort destination.

In Zermatt, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Delft is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Delft Better for its Old Town?

Zermatt
Delft

Delft is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Delft. The city's old town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets. The heart of the old town is centered around the Market Square, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the City Hall.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Delft Better for Hiking?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Delft is not a hiking destination.

Around Zermatt visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Delft is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Delft?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Zermatt. 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.

Delft offers some nice shopping areas. The city center is home to many unique shops selling local crafts, Dutch design, and traditional Delftware pottery, making it a great place for souvenirs. You'll also find popular international brands and stores along the main shopping streets. For a more local shopping experience, visit the weekly market in the Market Square, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods.

Is Zermatt or Delft More Beautiful?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Zermatt is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Set against the backdrop of the Alps and the famed Matterhorn, this is a truly breathtaking town that's surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Zermatt or Delft Better for Families?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Delft. There are boat tours on the canals. There's also the Vermeer Center which has an interactive experience where you can learn about the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer, in a way that's engaging and educational. The Royal Delft Factory is another great stop, where children can see traditional blue-and-white pottery being made and even try painting their own ceramics. If your kids need to stretch their legs, there's the Delftse Hout park which has a large playground, nature trails, and even a petting zoo.


Is Zermatt or Delft Better for Couples?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Zermatt is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Delft makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities for couples like walking through the picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. There are also quaint cafes and romantic restaurants. You can also take a boat ride along the canals or enjoy a peaceful walk through Delftse Hout park.

Is Zermatt or Delft Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Zermatt is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Delft is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some affordable accommodation options, but many backpackers head to Delft as a day trip from the nearby city of The Hague.

Is Zermatt or Delft Better for Students?

Zermatt
Delft

Delft is a well-known place for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Delft is very popular with students. It is home to Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is a well respected technical university. The city has a vibrant student atmosphere, with plenty of student-friendly cafes, bars, and activities.

Zermatt is not popular with students.


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

Zermatt
Delft

Delft 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 Delft. There's a bus network that is reliable and convenient. The city's train station is centrally located and offers direct connections to major cities in the Netherlands, making it a great hub for exploring the region.

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 Zermatt or Delft a more walkable city?

Zermatt
Delft

Zermatt and Delft both are amazing when exploring on foot.

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.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Delft. The town's compact size and charming layout mean that most of the main attractions, such as the Old Church, New Church, and Market Square, are within walking distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Zermatt Worth Visiting? and Is Delft Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Delft or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Delft?

Zermatt and Delft both offer plenty of fun activities. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than Delft because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1 day is enough time in Delft.

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

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


  • How many days in Zermatt or Delft? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zermatt 2-5 
    Delft 1

One day in Zermatt or Delft?

In Zermatt, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this stunning destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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


A weekend in Zermatt or Delft?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint destination of Delft. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Five days in Zermatt or Delft?

Zermatt is a fun place to experience. In Zermatt, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Delft is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Zermatt or Delft?

You'll find nightlife and food around the stunning destination of Zermatt. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delft. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Delft. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Delft or Zermatt?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zermatt is $308, while the average daily cost in Delft is $172. 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 Zermatt and Delft in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zermatt $146
    Delft $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zermatt $292
    Delft $178
Compare Hotels in Zermatt and Delft

Looking for a hotel in Zermatt or Delft? 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 Zermatt


Hotels in Delft


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: Zermatt Hotel Prices and Delft Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zermatt $62
    Delft $8.38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

  • Breuil-Cervinia to Turin Caselle Airport TRN - Departure Transfer: $234

Is it cheaper to fly into Zermatt or Delft?

Prices for flights to both Delft and Zermatt 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
    Zermatt $115
    Delft $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zermatt $65
    Delft $13

Tours and Activities in Zermatt

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

  • Attraction Ticket: Zermatt to Mount Gornergrat Summit: $269
  • Basel Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $1,017
  • Bern Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $985
  • From Basel: Zermatt & Matterhorn in Private day Tour: $1,044
  • From Cogwheel Train Ticket to Mount Gornergrat: $210
  • From Testa Grigia Cable Car Ticket: $180
  • From Zurich: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise Private Tour: $1,017
  • Interlaken Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $970
  • Interlaken Private Tour: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise: $922
  • Majestic Hiking Private Tour in Zermatt with pick up: $3,152
  • Private Mystic Zermatt Tour: Peaks, History & Culture: $1,087
  • Sion Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.97

Tours and Activities in Delft

For Delft, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Entrance Ticket for the Old and New Churches: $11
  • Vermeer Centrum Delft Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • Hugo de Groot Walking Tour: $14
  • Canal House Museum 'Paul Tetar van Elven' Ticket: $14
  • Canal Cruise with Guided Commentary: $16
  • City Center Walking Tour: $22
  • Delft - Step/scootertour in and around the city: $29
  • City Tour with Dutch Food and Drink: $93
  • Open Boat Canal Cruise with Skipper: $112
  • Private Historical and Cultural Guided Walking Tour: $135
  • Private Tour of Delft + Beer Tasting: $159
  • Guided Walking Tour: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zermatt $33
    Delft $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Delft

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Delft:

  • Craft Beer Tasting in Medieval Brewery with Snacks: $19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zermatt and Delft, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Delft much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Delft would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Delft 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 Zermatt would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zermatt than you might in Delft.

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


Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Delft?

Delft has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Delft, 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 Zermatt or Delft?

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 Zermatt or Delft in the Summer?

Both Delft and Zermatt during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Delft in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Delft in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Delft fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Delft, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zermatt. In the summer, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Delft. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 202 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Delft. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Delft receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F) 
    Delft 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Delft in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Delft. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Delft for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Zermatt is a little warmer than Delft. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zermatt in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Delft averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Delft during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Delft. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Delft receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F) 
    Delft 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Delft in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Delft. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Delft because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Delft can be very cold. Zermatt can be very cold during winter. In January, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Delft. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Delft fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Delft. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 47 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Delft. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Delft receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F) 
    Delft 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Delft in the Spring?

Both Delft and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Zermatt is much warmer than Delft in the spring. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Delft fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Delft during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Delft. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Delft receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F) 
    Delft 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Delft and Zermatt

Zermatt Delft
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)