Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, but it also has a reputation as one of Europe’s most expensive travel destinations. But fear not! With proper planning, you can make your Swiss adventure unforgettable without blowing your budget. My name is Stella, and after traveling through Switzerland myself, here are my top tips:
Transportation: Trains & Passes
Switzerland’s train system is incredibly convenient, taking you from stunning lakes to breathtaking mountains. If you’ve never been to Switzerland before, here is some quick info to get you started.
You can plan trips and book reservations through SBB, the Swiss Federal Railways. I loved the reservation system so much that I even used it to book train reservations for other nearby countries. If you’re traveling within Switzerland, you’ll likely encounter various train pass options. Since all the choices can be overwhelming, here’s a quick comparison:
| Swiss Travel Pass （2nd Class） | Swiss Travel Pass Flex （2nd Class） | Swiss Half Fare Card | |
| Cost | CHF 244 (3 days) to CHF 459 (15 days) Under 25 yo: CHF 172 (3 days) to CHF 328 (15 days) | CHF 279 (3 days) to CHF 479 (15 days) Under 25 yo: CHF 197 (3 days) to CHF 342 (15 days) | CHF 120 (good to use for 1 month) |
| Transportation (Train, Bus, Boat) Discounts | Unlimited travel | Unlimited travel on chosen pass activation days | 50% off |
| Museum Access | Free entry to 500+ museums | Free entry to 500+ museums | No museum discounts |
| Best For | If you’re taking trains, boats, or buses very frequently | Travelers who need flexibility and if you’re spending multiple days in cities | Long-term travelers |
Note: Prices for passes and activities are subject to change from year to year, so please check the official website for the most up-to-date information for your trip.
Tip: There is also a Swiss Travel Pass Youth, which offers those under 25 a 30% discount on the Swiss Travel Pass!
My choice was the Swiss Travel Pass, and it was a game-changer for my longer trip. It allowed me to travel stress-free without worrying about individual ticket costs. If you’re staying for only a handful of days, the pass might not be worth it, but for longer trips, it’s a cost-effective solution. Before purchasing, I recommend listing your planned destinations, calculating the cost of individual tickets, and comparing it to the pass price
Tip: If you stay in certain hostels or hotels, many will provide a free local transportation card for city travel! Though if you want to be sure, I would contact the establishment to confirm. I realized this halfway through my trip to Switzerland, and if I had known, it would have influenced my decision to consider the Swiss Travel Pass.
If you’re considering the Swiss Flex Pass, it’s a great option, especially when paired with city transportation cards. A solid strategy is to save your Swiss Travel Pass days for longer train rides between cities and use local transport cards for getting around within each city. However, to find the best deal, it’s crucial to have a general idea of which cities you’ll visit and which trains you’ll take and to calculate costs upfront. This way, you can make the wisest choice for your trip!
Affordable Accommodation: Stay in Hostels
Hostels are a great way to save money in Switzerland. Many have communal kitchens, so you can cook meals instead of dining out daily. Some hostels even offer complimentary breakfast, which can help cut costs further. Don’t hesitate to chat with other travelers—you’ll find some of the best recommendations for hidden gems and budget-friendly activities this way! One of my favorite hostels in Switzerland was the Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof in Interlaken, which had not only one of the most superb kitchen setups for a hostel but also had a great complimentary breakfast.
Saving Money on Food
Eating out in Switzerland can be expensive, so buying groceries is one of the best ways to stay on a budget. Here’s what helped me:
- Shop at Coop, Aldi, or Migros for affordable groceries.
- These were my go-to grocery stores whenever I needed a quick sandwich or snack. Super convenient and budget-friendly!
- Use hostel kitchens to prepare simple meals.
- One of my favorite hostels in Switzerland was the Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof in Interlaken, which had not only one of the most superb kitchen setups for a hostel but also had a great complimentary breakfast.
- Pack snacks for hikes and day trips instead of relying on expensive restaurants.
If you’re on a budget like I was, cooking your own meals can save you a significant amount—especially on an extended trip. Plus, it frees up money for those splurge-worthy meals you want to try. Cheese fondue, for example, is one of those must-try Swiss dishes everyone raves about, but it can be pricey. By saving on some meals, you can still enjoy those bucket-list foods without blowing your budget.
Tour the Cities
Some of the best experiences won’t cost you much! Many major cities offer what are called “Free Tours”, but they’re actually tip-based tours. These are a great way to see major attractions and learn about the city’s history without a hefty price tag. From my experience, the tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable, hardworking, and passionate about the city they live in. If you take one of these tours, be sure to leave a good tip!
If you’re looking for a completely free option, simply taking a stroll around the city or going on a hike can be just as rewarding. A quick search of nearby attractions can lead you to beautiful sights—just lace up your shoes and start walking!
Switzerland may not be the cheapest place to travel, but with careful planning, you can experience its beauty without overspending. By following these budget-friendly tips, you can have an unforgettable trip without sacrificing experiences!
Note: This post is not sponsored. All opinions and recommendations are my own!
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