prefer

When we say that we prefer one activity to another, two -ing forms can be used. The second can be introduced by to or rather than (more formal).

• I prefer riding to walking. (not I prefer riding to walk.)
• She prefers making toys for her children rather than buying them.

Prefer can also be followed by an infinitive (this is normal after would prefer). We can use an infinitive (without to) or an -ing form after rather than in this case.

• She prefers to make toys for her children rather than buy/buying them.
• I would prefer to stay at home rather than drive/driving to your mother’s.

note

For more about to with -ing forms, (see here).