I kept my costs low during my trip to Switzerland by skipping pricey adventure activities and visiting during hiking season. Even if I’d used ridesharing or Couchsurfing, I would have reallocated those savings into other activities. My approach to travel is all about being frugal, not cheap, and I found a budget that worked for me in Switzerland.
For those hoping to save while exploring this expensive country, here are 11 practical tips:
- Use Couchsurfing
Accommodation can be pricey, so Couchsurfing is a great way to stay with locals for free. Make your host requests early; I had to send out 25 before finding someone in Geneva. Though it’s not as popular as before, there are still active hosts. - Use BlaBlaCar
Forget expensive intercity trains! BlaBlaCar lets you share rides with locals for a small fee. It’s usually faster than the train and a great way to meet new people. I saved $50 on one ride and even practiced my French! - Cash in hotel points
Hotel rewards can save you big! Rack up points before your trip and redeem them for free nights, saving hundreds. You can also use airline points to reduce flight costs. - Don’t drink alcohol
Alcohol in Switzerland is expensive, with beers around 8 CHF and cocktails between 12-15 CHF. If you must drink, stick to hostel bars during happy hours. - Cook your own meals
Eating out can cost 25-40 CHF per meal. Instead, buy groceries and cook your own meals. A week of basic groceries costs about 80-125 CHF. Just make sure your accommodation has a kitchen! - Go veggie
Meat is pricey in Switzerland, so cut back on it to save money. Locals often limit their meat consumption, and your wallet will thank you. - Eat lunch specials
If you’re eating out, do it at lunch! Many places offer special deals, and ethnic restaurants (like Thai, Indian, or Middle Eastern) give you the best portions for your money. - Ask for discounts
Many museums and attractions offer student discounts or have free entry on certain days. Always ask, and check their websites for special deals. - Get a city pass
A city card, like the Zurich Pass, can get you free or discounted entry to museums and free public transportation. It’s perfect for sightseeing on a budget. - Bring a water bottle
Tap water in Switzerland is safe to drink, so bring a reusable bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste. I recommend LifeStraw bottles, which have built-in filters for safe water anywhere. - Get a Eurail Pass
Planning to travel by train around Switzerland or Europe? A Eurail Pass can save you money and offer flexibility, especially if you’re traveling a lot by train.
While Switzerland can be expensive, these tips will help you stretch your budget without sacrificing the experience. It’s not a bargain-basement trip, but you won’t break the bank either—just make the most of every Swiss franc!
