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

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 Washington 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. See Washington travel costs.

Zurich and Washington: Pros and Cons

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 and attractions, 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?

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?

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?

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?

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 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 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?

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 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 More Beautiful?

Zurich and Washington are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality scenery.

The beauty of Zurich is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With Lake Zurich and the mountains as a backdrop, this is a truly beautiful city.

With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Is Zurich or Washington Better for Families?

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 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 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 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?

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?

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.

One day in Zurich or Washington?

With live music and food around the liberal 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Typical Weather for Washington and Zurich