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

Should you visit Zurich or Delft?

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 Delft. 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. Zurich is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food. See Zurich travel costs.

Delft

Delft is a historic, quaint, and charming town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Delft travel costs.

Zurich and Delft: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Delft?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Delft. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is more touristy than Delft and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Delft is famous for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery.

How is Zurich different from Delft?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Delft offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

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

Zurich 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 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.

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 Zurich or Delft Better for Nightlife?

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

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 Zurich or Delft Better for Music?

Zurich is a very popular place for live music. However, Delft is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Delft is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Delft Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Delft?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

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 Zurich or Delft More Beautiful?

Zurich is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Zurich is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With Lake Zurich and the mountains as a backdrop, this is a truly beautiful city.

Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Zurich or Delft Better for Families?

Zurich 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.

Zurich is a very family-friendly destination. 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 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 Zurich or Delft Better for Couples?

Zurich is a very popular place for romance. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

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 Zurich or Delft Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

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 Zurich or Delft Better for Students?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Many students visit Delft. 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.

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

Both Zurich and Delft offer very good public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

The public transit in Delft can get you to most places easily. 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.

Is Zurich or Delft a more walkable city?

Delft 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 Delft on foot. 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.

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 Delft Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Delft or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Delft?

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

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Delft. 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 Delft. 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 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 Zurich.

One day in Zurich or Delft?

In Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Delft. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Delft?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Delft is a great place to explore. A weekend may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Delft?

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delft. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Delft?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Delft. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Delft, we can see that Zurich 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 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 Delft.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Delft?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Delft. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Delft in the Summer?

Both Delft and Zurich during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Delft because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Delft. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Delft fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Delft, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zurich. In the summer, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Delft. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 202 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Delft. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Delft receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Delft in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Delft. The autumn months attract visitors to Zurich because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Delft this time of year.

Zurich is a little warmer than Delft in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Delft fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Delft during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Delft. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Delft receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Delft in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Delft. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Delft for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Delft. It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. In the winter, Zurich is a little warmer than Delft. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Delft averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Delft. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 47 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Delft. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Delft receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Delft in the Spring?

Both Delft and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty.

In April, Zurich is generally much warmer than Delft. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Delft fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Delft during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Delft. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Delft receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Delft and Zurich