Broke in Switzerland: How to Explore Switzerland on a Budget

This country of breathtaking mountains, delicious chocolate, and high prices might make any traveler think Switzerland an unlikely destination for broke backpackers. However, if you have some insider knowledge and clever planning, you can get the best out of Switzerland without breaking your wallet.
In this post, we’ll give you the top tips and tricks for backpacking in Switzerland on a budget. From affordable accommodations to budget transportation, free attractions, and even cheap eats, we will show you how to make the most of your Swiss adventure without sacrificing your savings.
Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or new to the fraternity, let this guide help you negotiate the challenges of traveling in Switzerland on a shoestring budget. Slap your backpack on, and let’s delve into the land of cheap Swiss travel!

When to go:

1. Shoulder Season (April-May & September-October)

• Mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices make it an ideal time for budget travelers.
• Enjoy hiking, outdoor activities, and festivals like Geneva’s Fête de la Musique.

2. Off-Season (November-March)

• Prices for accommodations and tourist attractions drop significantly.
• Experience Christmas markets, ski resorts, and cozy mountain villages.

3. Summer (June-August)

• Warm weather, long days, and outdoor events like the Montreux Jazz Festival.
• Be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds.

Avoid:

• Peak tourist season (July-August): High prices, crowded cities, and popular destinations.
• Holiday weekends: Prices surge, and popular spots get crowded.

Best Itineraries:

If your just passing thru and stopping for a while here are some great routes.

France to Italy (4 days)

• Day 1: Geneva (from France) – Explore Old Town, Lake Geneva (free)
• Day 2: Lausanne – Visit Cathedral of Notre-Dame (free), enjoy lake views
• Day 3: Interlaken – Hike to Schilthorn Mountain (€60), scenic boat tour (€30)
• Day 4: Lugano (to Italy) – Relax in this charming town, enjoy lake views (free)

Italy to Germany (4 days)

• Day 1: Lugano (from Italy) – Explore Old Town, lake views (free)
• Day 2: Lucerne – Visit Chapel Bridge (free), Old Town, try local beer (€10)
• Day 3: Bern – Visit Bundesplatz (free), explore Old Town, try fondue (€15)
• Day 4: Basel (to Germany) – Explore Old Town (free), visit Kunstmuseum (€16)

Germany to France (4 days)

• Day 1: Basel (from Germany) – Explore Old Town (free), visit Kunstmuseum (€16)
• Day 2: Neuchâtel – Visit Château de Neuchâtel (free), enjoy lake views
• Day 3: Montreux – Explore Old Town, visit Château de Chillon (€12)
• Day 4: Geneva (to France) – Relax in this international city, enjoy lake views (free)

For those looking to stay a while longer her are some great flexible itineraries.

1 Week Route:

• Day 1-2: Zurich
• Day 3-4: Interlaken
• Day 5-6: Bern
• Day 7: Geneva

2 Weeks Route:

• Week 1:
  • Day 1-2: Zurich
  • Day 3-4: Lucerne
  • Day 5-6: Interlaken
  • Day 7: Bern
• Week 2:
  • Day 8-9: Montreux
  • Day 10-11: Lausanne
  • Day 12-13: Geneva
  • Day 14: Departure

1 Month Route:

• Week 1-2: Follow the 2 weeks route
• Week 3:
  • Day 15-16: Grindelwald
  • Day 17-18: Lauterbrunnen
  • Day 19-20: Adelboden
• Week 4:
  • Day 21-22: Basel
  • Day 23-24: St. Gallen
  • Day 25-30: Explore other Swiss towns

3 Months Route:

• Month 1: Follow the 1 month route
• Month 2: Explore Eastern Switzerland
• Month 3: Explore Western Switzerland

Transportation:

1. Trains: Switzerland’s train network is extensive and reliable, but expensive. Consider purchasing a:
   • Swiss Travel Pass: Grants access to public transportation, including trains, buses, and boats.
   • Half-Fare Card: Reduces train fares by 50%.
2. Buses: An affordable alternative to trains, with routes covering most areas.
3. Boats: A scenic way to travel on Switzerland’s lakes and rivers.

Budget-Friendly Tips

1. Book in advance: Reserve train tickets or passes online to secure discounts.
2. Use regional trains: Slower, but cheaper, regional trains connect smaller towns.
3. Avoid peak hours: Fares increase during rush hour (7-9 am and 4-6 pm).

Hitchhiking in Switzerland

Hitchhiking is a viable option in Switzerland, especially for shorter distances. Keep in mind:

1. Road signs: Look for designated hitchhiking areas (marked with a thumb symbol).
2. Language: Learn basic German, French, or Italian phrases to communicate with drivers.
3. Safety: Trust your instincts and avoid hitchhiking at night.

Additional Tips

1. Free transportation: Some cities offer free public transportation with hotel bookings or city passes.
2. Walking and cycling: Explore Switzerland’s scenic routes on foot or by bike.
3. Carpooling: Websites like BlaBlaCar connect drivers and passengers.

Travel passes:

Types of Travel Passes

1. Swiss Travel Pass: The ultimate pass for unlimited travel on public transportation, including trains, buses, and boats. Choose from 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days.
2. Swiss Travel Pass Flex: Similar to the Swiss Travel Pass, but with flexible travel days within a month.
3. Half-Fare Card: A budget-friendly option for 50% discounts on train fares and select mountain excursions.
4. Swiss Family Card: Free travel for children under 16 when accompanied by a parent or grandparent.
5. Swiss Youth Pass: Discounted passes for travelers under 26.

Benefits of Travel Passes

1. Unlimited Travel: Explore Switzerland without worrying about individual ticket costs.
2. Free Entry: Enjoy complimentary access to over 500 museums and attractions.
3. Scenic Routes: Discounts on breathtaking mountain excursions and scenic routes.
4. Convenience: Simplify your travel plans with a single pass.

Choosing the Right Pass

1. Duration: Select a pass that matches your travel plans.
2. Budget: Consider the cost and potential savings.
3. Travel Style: Choose a pass that suits your travel preferences (e.g., flexibility or convenience).

Tips and Tricks

1. Book in Advance: Reserve passes online for discounts.
2. Validate Your Pass: Ensure your pass is validated before travel.
3. Plan Ahead: Research attractions and scenic routes to maximize your pass benefits.

Top things to do:

Northern Switzerland

1. Rhine Falls (Neuhausen am Rheinfall): Free admission, stunning views
2. Old Town Zurich: Explore narrow streets, visit Fraumünster Church (free)
3. Lake Zurich: Take a scenic boat tour (approx. CHF 10)
4. Winterthur: Visit the Swiss Science Center Technorama (approx. CHF 20)
5. St. Gallen: Explore the Abbey of St. Gall (free), visit the Textile Museum (approx. CHF 10)
6. Schaffhausen: Visit the Munot Fortress (free), explore Old Town
7. Stein am Rhein: Admire the colorful half-timbered houses (free)
8. Kreuzlingen: Explore the charming town center (free), visit the Kreuzlingen Castle (approx. CHF 5)
9. Rorschach: Visit the Rorschach Castle (approx. CHF 5), enjoy lake views
10. Arbon: Explore the historic town center (free), visit the Arbon Castle (approx. CHF 5)

Eastern Switzerland

1. Appenzell: Discover traditional Swiss culture, hike to Ebenalp (free)
2. St. Gallen: Visit the Abbey of St. Gall (free), explore Old Town
3. Constance Lake: Enjoy scenic views, take a ferry ride (approx. CHF 10)
4. Heiden: Explore the picturesque village, visit the Heidi Museum (approx. CHF 5)
5. Schaan: Visit the Liechtenstein National Museum (approx. CHF 10)
6. Toggenburg: Hike in the picturesque valley (free), visit the Toggenburg Museum (approx. CHF 10)
7. Wil: Explore the charming Old Town (free), visit the Wil Castle (approx. CHF 5)
8. Flawil: Visit the Flawil Castle (approx. CHF 5), explore the village
9. Uzwil: Explore the historic town center (free), visit the Uzwil Castle (approx. CHF 5)
10. Gossau: Visit the Gossau Abbey (free), explore the village

Central Switzerland

1. Lucerne: Explore Old Town, visit Chapel Bridge (free)
2. Mount Pilatus: Hike to the summit (free), or take a discounted cable car ride
3. Lake Lucerne: Take a scenic boat tour (approx. CHF 20)
4. Emmental: Visit the Emmental Cheese Factory (approx. CHF 10), explore the countryside
5. Brienz: Visit the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (approx. CHF 20), enjoy scenic views
6. Interlaken: Hike to Schilthorn (free), take a scenic boat tour (approx. CHF 30)
7. Hergiswil: Visit the Hergiswil Glassworks (approx. CHF 10), explore the village
8. Stans: Explore the charming Old Town (free), visit the Stans Castle (approx. CHF 5)
9. Engelberg: Visit the Engelberg Abbey (free), enjoy scenic mountain views
10. Sarnen: Explore the historic town center (free), visit the Sarnen Castle (approx. CHF 5)

Southern Switzerland

1. Bellinzona: Visit Castelgrande (free), explore Old Town
2. Lugano: Enjoy scenic lake views, hike to Monte Brè (free)
3. Ticino: Explore the picturesque towns of Ascona and Locarno
4. Mendrisio: Visit the Fox Town Factory Outlet (free), shop and dine
5. Chiasso: Explore the historic town center, visit the Chiasso Museum (approx. CHF 5)
6. Airolo: Visit the Airolo Museum (approx. CHF 5), explore the village
7. Biasca: Explore the charming Old Town (free), visit the Biasca Castle (approx. CHF 5)

Western Switzerland

1. Geneva: Visit the Jet d’Eau (free), explore Old Town
2. Lausanne: Explore the Olympic Museum (approx. CHF 15), visit Cathedral of Notre-Dame
3. Montreux: Visit Chillon Castle (approx. CHF 12), enjoy scenic lake views
4. Vevey: Explore the charming town, visit the Charlie Chaplin Museum (approx. CHF 15)
5. Gruyères: Visit the Gruyères Castle (approx. CHF 12), enjoy scenic views
6. Fribourg: Explore the medieval Old Town (free), visit the Fribourg Cathedral (free)
7. Neuchâtel: Visit the Neuchâtel Castle (approx. CHF 10), explore the lake promenade

The Alps

1. Interlaken: Hike to Schilthorn (free), take a scenic boat tour (approx. CHF 30)
2. Jungfraujoch: Take a discounted train ride (approx. CHF 60), enjoy breathtaking views
3. Grindelwald: Hike to First Cliff Walk (free), enjoy scenic valley views
4. Zermatt: Explore the car-free village, hike to the Matterhorn (free)
5. Adelboden: Visit the Adelboden Ski Museum (approx. CHF 10), enjoy scenic views
6. Kandersteg: Hike in the picturesque valley (free), visit the Kandersteg Museum (approx. CHF 10)

Food:

Street Food and Markets

1. Fondue: Savor this iconic Swiss dish at a fraction of the cost at street food stalls or markets (approx. CHF 10-15).
2. Raclette: Enjoy this melted cheese delight at a market or food stand (approx. CHF 10-12).
3. Bratwurst: Grill up a tasty sausage at a street food stall or market (approx. CHF 5-7).

Budget-Friendly Restaurants

1. Coop Restaurant: This supermarket chain offers affordable meals at their in-store restaurants (approx. CHF 10-15).
2. Migros Restaurant: Another supermarket chain with budget-friendly dining options (approx. CHF 10-15).
3. Gasthof: Traditional Swiss taverns offering hearty meals at reasonable prices (approx. CHF 15-20).

Grocery Shopping

1. Discount Stores: Shop for affordable ingredients at stores like Lidl or Aldi.
2. Local Markets: Stock up on fresh produce and artisanal goods at weekly markets.
3. Bread and Pastries: Indulge in freshly baked goods at a fraction of the cost at local bakeries.

Tips and Tricks

1. Eat at Lunch: Take advantage of lower prices at restaurants during lunch hours.
2. Share a Meal: Split a dish with a friend to save money.
3. Cook Your Own: Prepare your own meals with affordable ingredients from local markets

Accommodations:

Top Hostel Picks

1. Zurich:
   • Youth Hostel Zurich: Starting from CHF 30 per night
   • Hostel Otter: Starting from CHF 35 per night
   • Zurich Hostel: Starting from CHF 30 per night
2. Geneva:
   • Geneva Hostel: Starting from CHF 30 per night
   • City Hostel Geneva: Starting from CHF 35 per night
   • Geneva Backpackers: Starting from CHF 30 per night
3. Interlaken:
   • Interlaken Hostel: Starting from CHF 30 per night
   • Balmer’s Hostel: Starting from CHF 35 per night
   • Interlaken Backpackers: Starting from CHF 30 per night
4. Lucerne:
   • Lucerne Hostel: Starting from CHF 30 per night
   • Backpackers Lucerne: Starting from CHF 35 per night
   • Lucerne Youth Hostel: Starting from CHF 30 per night
5. Bern:
   • Bern Hostel: Starting from CHF 30 per night
   • Youth Hostel Bern: Starting from CHF 30 per night
   • Bern Backpackers: Starting from CHF 35 per night

Best Party Hostels

1. Zurich:
   • Hostel Otter: Known for its lively atmosphere and social events
   • Zurich Hostel: Offers a bar and regular parties
2. Interlaken:
   • Balmer’s Hostel: Famous for its party atmosphere and social events
   • Interlaken Backpackers: Hosts regular parties and activities
3. Lucerne:
   • Backpackers Lucerne: Offers a bar and social events
   • Lucerne Youth Hostel: Hosts regular parties and activities

Nightlife:

1. Zurich:
   • Niederdorf: A lively neighborhood with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
   • Kreis 5: A trendy area with bars, clubs, and lounges.
   • Langstrasse: A vibrant street with bars, clubs, and live music.
2. Geneva:
   • Rue de l’Hotel-de-Ville: A street lined with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
   • Quai du Mont-Blanc: A waterfront area with bars and clubs.
   • Les Pâquis: A lively neighborhood with bars, clubs, and live music.
3. Bern:
   • Reitschule: A former stable turned nightlife hub with bars, clubs, and live music.
   • Dampfzentrale: A vibrant area with bars, clubs, and cultural events.
   • Nydegg: A lively neighborhood with bars, clubs, and live music.
4. Lucerne:
   • Old Town: A charming area with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
   • Lion Monument: A popular spot with bars and clubs.
   • Würzburgerplatz: A lively square with bars and live music.
5. Basel:
   • Kleinbasel: A trendy neighborhood with bars, clubs, and live music.
   • Grossbasel: A lively area with bars, clubs, and cultural events.
6. Lausanne:
   • Flon: A vibrant neighborhood with bars, clubs, and live music.
   • Rue de Bourg: A lively street with bars and clubs.

Bars:

1. Zurich:
   • Oliver Twist: A cozy pub with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
   • Bar 360: A trendy bar with cocktails (CHF 15-20 drinks)
   • Café des Amis: A charming bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
2. Geneva:
   • Moloko: A laid-back bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
   • La Clémence: A cozy bar with cocktails (CHF 15-20 drinks)
   • Le Verre à Pied: A trendy bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
3. Bern:
   • Turnhalle: A lively bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
   • Café Kairo: A cozy bar with cocktails (CHF 15-20 drinks)
   • Du Théâtre: A charming bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
4. Lucerne:
   • Jazzkantine: A jazz bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
   • Bar 59: A trendy bar with cocktails (CHF 15-20 drinks)
   • Schüür: A lively bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
5. Basel:
   • Kleinbasel: A trendy bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
   • Café des Arts: A charming bar with cocktails (CHF 15-20 drinks)
6. Lausanne:
   • Flon: A vibrant bar with live music (CHF 10-15 drinks)
   • Le Cercle: A trendy bar with cocktails (CHF 15-20 drinks)

Clubs:

Zurich

1. Kaufleuten: A popular club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
2. X-Tra: A lively club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)
3. Mascotte: A trendy club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
4. Helvetia: A club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
5. Plaza: A popular club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)

Geneva

1. Weetamix: A popular club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
2. Java Club: A lively club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)
3. Le Zoo: A trendy club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
4. Chat Noir: A club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
5. Alhamabra: A popular club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)

Bern

1. Reitschule: A former stable turned club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
2. Dampfzentrale: A vibrant club with DJs and cultural events (CHF 20-30 entry)
3. Wasserwerk: A lively club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)
4. Mahogany Hall: A club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
5. Gaskessel: A popular club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)

Lucerne

1. Schüür: A popular club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
2. Roadhouse: A lively club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)
3. Die Sternen: A club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
4. Casineum: A popular club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)
5. Lido: A lively club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)

Basel

1. Kaserne: A popular club with live music and DJs (CHF 20-30 entry)
2. Hinterhof: A lively club with DJs and themed parties (CHF 20-30 entry)

Backpacking Switzerland costs:

Accommodation:

• Hostel dorms: CHF 20-30 (~ $22-33 USD) per night
• Camping: CHF 10-20 (~ $11-22 USD) per night
• Couchsurfing: Free!

Food:

• Supermarket shopping: CHF 30-50 (~ $33-55 USD) per week
• Street food/stalls: CHF 5-10 (~ $5.50-11 USD) per meal
• Cooking own meals: CHF 20-30 (~ $22-33 USD) per week

Transportation:

• Public transportation: CHF 20-40 (~ $22-44 USD) per month (with a Swiss Travel Pass)
• Hitchhiking: Free!
• Walking/cycling: Free!

Attractions:

• Free walking tours: Free!
• Museums: CHF 10-20 (~ $11-22 USD) per person
• Hiking/outdoor activities: Free!

Other expenses:

• Miscellaneous souvenirs/snacks: CHF 20-50 (~ $22-55 USD) per week
• Laundry/toiletries: CHF 10-20 (~ $11-22 USD) per week

Daily budget:

• CHF 50-80 (~ $55-88 USD) per day

Weekly budget:

• CHF 350-560 (~ $385-616 USD) per week

Monthly budget:

• CHF 1400-2240 (~ $1540-2460 USD) per month

Switzerland is a country of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and high prices—all of which don’t make it very broke-backpacker-friendly. However, with a little inside information and some careful planning, exploration of this great country does not have to cost the earth.
Stay in affordable hostels, cook your own food, use public transport, and enjoy some of the free attractions and activities to spend quality time with memories in Switzerland at an extremely low budget.
Remember, it is not about the amount of money you spend; it’s about experiences you have and memories you gain. So, pack your stuff, put on your hiking boots or sandals, and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world – without emptying your wallet!