Switzerland Travel Budget - Visit Switzerland on a Budget or Travel in Style

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Switzerland is a very popular country known for the Matterhorn in Zermatt, its many mountain views. In Interlaken, and the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to help you plan your adventure which includes average costs from fellow travelers, hotel rates, food prices, entertainment and sightseeing costs, and transportation, too. It's everything you need to budget wisely and still have an unforgettable time. This will help you plan the best trip to Switzerland and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're taking in the beauty of Murren or hiking in Grindelwald.

How much does it cost to travel to Switzerland?

You should plan to spend around $338 (Sfr296) per day on your vacation in Switzerland. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $107 (Sfr94) on meals
  • $40 (Sfr35) on local transportation
  • $348 (Sfr305) on hotels

A one week trip to Switzerland for two people costs, on average, $4,731 (Sfr4,144). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $338
    Sfr296
  • One Week Per person
    $2,366
    Sfr2,072
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $4,731
    Sfr4,144
  • One Month Per person
    $10,139
    Sfr8,880
  • One Week For a couple
    $4,731
    Sfr4,144
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $9,463
    Sfr8,288
  • One Month For a couple
    $20,277
    Sfr17,760
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Switzerland cost?

A one week trip to Switzerland usually costs around $2,366 (Sfr2,072) for one person and $4,731 (Sfr4,144) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Switzerland on average costs around $4,731 (Sfr4,144) for one person and $9,463 (Sfr8,288) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Switzerland will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Switzerland on average costs around $10,139 (Sfr8,880) for one person and $20,277 (Sfr17,760) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in Switzerland?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Switzerland is $361 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is Switzerland expensive to visit?

Switzerland is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Switzerland is somewhat more expensive compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Europe for its travel costs. While a few countries in the region are more expensive, Switzerland is more expensive than most.

With a wide selection of accommodation and activities, Switzerland makes it easy for any traveler to find something that fits their budget. You can find budget-friendly hostels in Interlaken, Zurich, and Lucerne, while luxury hotels cater to those seeking opulence, with mid-range hotels also available for families and couples.

Switzerland can cost as much as you want, but eating at less expensive restaurants, taking public transit, and enjoying free activities can save you money.

On average, budget travelers spend $142 (Sfr123) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $343 (Sfr296) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $804 (Sfr695) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Switzerland.

For more details, see Is Switzerland Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Switzerland?

The average Switzerland trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Switzerland travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Switzerland cost?

Switzerland on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$70
(Sfr62) 		$174
(Sfr153) 		$416
(Sfr364)
Local Transportation 1 $16
(Sfr14) 		$40
(Sfr35) 		$95
(Sfr84)
Food 2 $44
(Sfr39) 		$107
(Sfr94) 		$244
(Sfr214)
Entertainment 1 $23
(Sfr20) 		$58
(Sfr51) 		$146
(Sfr128)
Alcohol 2 $6-17
(Sfr5-15) 		$14-41
(Sfr12-36) 		$29-87
(Sfr25-76)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Basel, Switzerland Basel, Switzerland

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Switzerland on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.

What is a budget traveler, anyway?

Many people might hear that you can explore Switzerland for just $142 a day, but if you're not ready to sacrifice some comforts, be prepared to spend quite a bit more.

Backpackers often manage to stick to this tight budget, but it usually means sleeping in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest eateries or grabbing fast food, relying on public transport or walking everywhere, and limiting themselves to free attractions.

Fortunately, Switzerland has a large number of hostels. You'll find the greatest concentration in Interlaken, Zurich, and Lucerne. Some destinations offer excellent public transportation, allowing budget travelers to skip costly taxi or Uber fares. While everyone appreciates the delicious food in Switzerland, those on a budget often dine on street food or cook in their hostel. This could lead to missing out on some of the better culinary experiences.

So, are you average?

Mid-range hotels, well-known restaurants, and visits to museums and attractions with entry fees are common choices for families or couples traveling on vacation. Most visitors are not going to want to miss the beautiful mountain scenery in Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen Valley in Murren, or the Grossmünster in Zurich. Most of these activities cost money, after all, so it's wise to plan for a budget closer to $343 per person each day.

In Switzerland, you'll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to suit your needs. If you're traveling with a partner, friends, or your kids, then hotel costs will be divided, making it easier on your budget. Family-friendly destinations like Interlaken and Zermatt offer hotels and restaurants with options tailored for kids. Some good places to stay are Bed and Breakfast Wildrose in Berne or Valbella Resort in Vaz/Obervaz. Valbella Resort in Vaz/Obervaz is a terrific romantic hotel for couples to enjoy their stay. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for Switzerland here.

Looking to Travel in Luxury?

For those seeking an all-inclusive experience with top-tier service, be prepared for a daily price around $804. Staying in luxury hotels, dining at fine restaurants, indulging in high-end excursions, and hiring private drivers will push you into the "luxury" bracket. You'll find yourself vacationing among the elite in destinations like Zurich and Murren. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Spectacular Switzerland - offered by Globus.

Accommodation Budget in Switzerland

The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Switzerland can be very surprising. Some destinations have much higher price tags than others, and even within the same areas you can find a big difference between the budget-friendly and higher-end hotels. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Switzerland for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $348 (Sfr305). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $174 (Sfr153) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $174
    Sfr153
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $348
    Sfr305

Hotels in Switzerland

Looking for a hotel in Switzerland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Switzerland

The average hotel room price in Switzerland based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $170 in the low season and $317 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Zurich
In Zurich, which is a city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $100 in the low season to $522 during the peak season. EMA House Hotel Suites ($281) is one of the best hotel options here, and Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich is also good, and starts at $237. You can expect to pay around $60 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. Since many travelers spend up to five days, it's important to find a cozy spot in a prime location if you're planning to explore for an extended time.

Geneva
Geneva is a big city that is one of the less touristy places in Switzerland. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Geneva, the average hotel price is $173 in the low season and $323 in the busy season. Four star hotels cost on average $171 to $318. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $48 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Hotel d'Alleves for $279 and B&B Wonderlandscape starting at $131.

Basel
There's a wide range of hotel prices in Basel. You can expect to spend anywhere from $86 to $310 depending on your budget and needs. Also, a great hotel option is GAIA Hotel Basel that runs about $148 per night. You can expect to pay around $53 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in Switzerland

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $40 (Sfr35) per person, per day, on local transportation in Switzerland. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Switzerland is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $40
    Sfr35
Local Transportation Tips

With an excellent train system, Switzerland provides access to nearly every part of the country. Train fares are quite reasonable, and the rides are both fast and comfortable. When the train lines don't reach your destination, long-distance and regional buses are a great alternative.

For those looking to save money, utilizing public transit is an excellent option. Many areas offer dependable public transportation systems, with some of the best found in Geneva and Interlaken. Additionally, many travelers prefer to explore on foot, allowing for a more personal experience wandering through the neighborhoods and seeing the local culture. If walking is your preference, you'll love your time in Zermatt and Murren.

In bigger cities such as Geneva and Interlaken, it's wise to purchase a multi-day pass if you intend to use public transit regularly. Depending on your travel frequency, you might save a considerable amount instead of buying individual tickets.

If you're considering a visit to the countryside, you'll want to rent a car. Note that in Europe, most cars feature a manual transmission, and if you prefer an automatic, you might have to pay a premium. It's important to book ahead of time, as the lower-priced rentals tend to go quickly.

If you have a car in one of the bigger cities, check with your hotel beforehand about the parking situation. You may have to pay to park either at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. Either way, it might be cheaper to find somewhere further out of town to park your car.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

The numbers below highlight common transportation expenses in Switzerland, gathered from actual travelers. These prices give a good estimate of what you're likely to spend while getting around the city. However, your personal costs will depend on your travel style, since taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than public transportation.


  • City Pass (2)
    Sfr26
  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    Sfr60


Food Budget in Switzerland

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Switzerland can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Switzerland is $107 (Sfr94) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $107
    Sfr94

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Switzerland is about $109 (Sfr94) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $45 to $247 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Switzerland are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $20 to $33
  • Lunch: $16 to $54
  • Dinner: $38 to $87
  • Coffee: $10
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $17

Zurcher Geschnetzeltes: This is a dish that includes thin strips of veal served with mushrooms and a cream sauce along side a potato side dish. It's most popular in and around the city of Zurich, and in some variations includes a bit of veal kidney.

Cervelat: The national sausage of Switzerland, cervelat is made from beef, bacon, and pork rind. It is usually prepared by either smoking it or boiling it.

Fondue: A Swiss cooking style where cheese is melted in a pot on the table and served with bread or potatoes. Some variations use a broth or oil to cook small pieces of meat. There is usually a flavored dipping sauce and vegetables on the side.

Popular Culinary Destinations

Switzerland is well-known for its vibrant food scene, with numerous excellent dining options. Travelers frequently take the opportunity to savor the regional flavors. Among the best cities for eating out are Zermatt, Interlaken, and Zurich.

Zermatt
Zermatt is well known for its food scene. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

Interlaken
Many visitors enjoy sampling the different restaurants in Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Zurich
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Zurich. 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.

Geneva
Geneva is one of the best culinary destinations in Switzerland. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Lausanne
One of the best culinary spots in Switzerland is Lausanne. The city is filled with delicious chocolate, cheese, and wine. Fondue is a favorite, but you'll also find cured meats on most menus. While food can be expensive, it's also high quality and usually locally produced.

Food & Dining Tips

Are you planning to stay for a week or more somewhere like Zermatt, Interlaken, or Zurich? It's a good idea for families or groups to stay in an apartment or vacation rental that has a kitchen. Then, you can cook your meals with cheaper groceries instead of eating out at restaurants all the time.

Traveling with kids? Check for restaurants that offer a childrens menu. It's a smart way to save money, as these meals are often more reasonably priced. And remember, some eateries don't advertise their kids' options, so asking the waiter is a good idea.

Most hotels include breakfast in their rates, though some add it as an additional cost. The price and quality can differ widely depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you determine if the hotel buffet is worth it or if a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or café is more suitable.

Carry a water bottle with you instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also good for the environment.

Before going on a tour, confirm which meals are included in the package. If not all meals are covered, you may find yourself paying for some out of your own pocket, affecting your budget.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Switzerland, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

  • Basel: Private Italian Cooking Class and Dining Experience for $138 details
  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland for $147 details
  • Private Italian Lasagna Cooking and Dining Class Experience for $161 details
  • Geneva Food Tour with Full Meal - Do Eat Better Experience for $203 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Listed below are typical food prices in Switzerland, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.


  • Breakfast for 2
    Sfr12
  • Tea at Interlaken
    Sfr30


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Switzerland

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Switzerland typically cost an average of $58 (Sfr51) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $58
    Sfr51
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

Switzerland attracts a large number of travelers and offers plenty of chances to see world-famous locations. Some of the most visited sites in Switzerland are Zermatt, Interlaken, and Lucerne.

Zermatt
Zermatt is the home of Europe's highest ski resort. It's also the place to go for stunning views of Matterhorn. The area is world renowned for its skiing and hiking, and any outdoor enthusiast should not miss a visit to this world class destination.

Interlaken
Interlaken is a mountain resort town that serves as a nice base for exploring the Alps. It sits in a valley between the beautiful Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. The town has many timber houses and a nice foot path. It also offers easy access to nearby mountain towns and stunning hiking trails.

Lucerne
Scenic Lucerne is famous for its beautiful Chapel Bridge and its tranquil lake. There are many restaurants along the water that offer great views and traditional food. A popular day trip out of town is to the stunning Mt. Titlis. Visitors can enjoy soaking up the Swiss beauty and delicious cuisine.

Grindelwald
Grindelwald is a town and ski resort in the Bernese Alps. In the summer months there's amazing hiking and rock climbing with breathtaking views. During the winter months there's great skiing. The town makes a good base for exploring the area and enjoying long hikes through the countryside.

Murren
Murren is a quintessential Swiss alpine town that is surrounded by stunning mountain peaks such as Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch. The small town is mostly car-free and is accessible by cable car and on foot. There are hiking trails throughout the region and breathtaking views of Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Sightseeing Tips

Some of the most picturesque locations in Switzerland include Zermatt, Interlaken, and Murren. These incredibly beautiful destinations will create lasting memories, so don't forget to include them on your itinerary.

The mountains are perfect for winter sports, with Zermatt, Murren, and Grindelwald being top picks for skiing and snowboarding. Just a heads up: prices in these areas can soar during the winter, so it's wise to plan ahead.

Hiking trails around the country draw plenty of visitors for their gorgeous views, natural beauty, and healthy activities. Some of the best places for hiking include Zermatt, Interlaken, and Grindelwald.

A nice way to explore destinations in Switzerland is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Whitewater Action Rafting Experience in Engadin for $171 details
  • Fondue and wine private Tuk Tuk tour in Geneva for $161 details
  • Bike Tour of the Interlaken Valley: Rivers, Lakes & Forests for $114 details
  • Snowshoe Tour Isenfluh for $114 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Switzerland. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    Sfr31
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    Sfr32


Nightlife Budget in Switzerland

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $27 (Sfr24) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Switzerland per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $27
    Sfr24
Popular Nightlife Destinations

With an abundance of music, dance, and bars, Switzerland stands out as a favorite nightlife destination. Many travelers take advantage of the lively evening activities and party culture. Some of the best places for a night out include Zermatt, Interlaken, and Lucerne.

Zermatt
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Zermatt. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

Interlaken
Nightlife in Interlaken is not to be missed. There are tons of pubs and bars around town. This is the best way to meet locals and makes for a fun night out on the town. The atmosphere is generally laid back and relaxed, which matches the mellow vibe of the town.

Lucerne
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Lucerne. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Zurich
Zurich is one of the best nightlife destinations in Switzerland. 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.

Grindelwald
Visitors love the nightlife in Grindelwald. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Nightlife Tips

While nightlife can be a highlight of your trip, cutting back on drinking can make a big difference to your travel budget.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Switzerland. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Zürich eTukTuk Hot Stone BBQ and Wine Tour for $126 details
  • Pub Crawl Zurich for $29 details
  • Geneva Countryside By E-Bike With Wine Tasting for $171 details
  • Cheese and Swiss Wine Tasting for $29 details

Recommended


Travel Costs Last Updated: Sep 20, 2024
Lucerne, Switzerland Lucerne, Switzerland

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • Tourism in Switzerland really takes off during the summer months, and with that surge in visitors comes a spike in prices. Hotels fill up fast, and you'll notice accommodation and activity costs climb as demand goes up. If you're hoping to keep your travel expenses in check, it's smarter to visit in the shoulder or low seasons when there's less hustle, and prices are much more reasonable.
  • Locations like Zermatt, Interlaken, and Lucerne are particularly popular with tourists, which means you should anticipate larger crowds and higher costs during peak times. Expect to encounter busy attractions with lengthy lines, sold-out tickets, and increased prices. In all areas, especially these popular destinations, try to make your reservations well in advance, ideally several months ahead.
  • In popular vacation spots like Zermatt, Interlaken, and Zurich, it's not uncommon for travelers to hang out for a week or longer. Families with kids, in particular, often opt for vacation rentals or apartments. These options offer more room to unwind, plus extras like a kitchen, which not only adds convenience but can also help you cut back on food costs.
  • Lots of couples find Switzerland to be the perfect spot for a fun or relaxing honeymoon. Whether you're after a romantic escape or an adventurous weekend getaway, this country has a ton of amazing places to explore with your special someone. Some of the most enchanting spots to check out are Zermatt, Interlaken, and Murren.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Many travelers visit Zermatt, Murren, and Grindelwald for their world-class skiing and snowboarding, but these activities can be quite costly. Lift tickets, equipment rentals, and peak-season accommodation can take a big bite out of your budget. Make reservations well in advance for the best deals. Be sure to check that your travel insurance covers everything you need, too.
  • Traveling with little ones? You might want to skip public transportation and go for a private vehicle or taxi. It's a more convenient option, but be prepared to pay extra.

The Matterhorn, Zermatt, Switzerland The Matterhorn, Zermatt, Switzerland
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Switzerland.

How can you save money during your time in Switzerland?

Honestly, the food in all of Switzerland is insanely expensive, so we try to avoid eating out as much as possible when we're visiting.

aiden_s_24
-
Apr 18 2024

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Traveling in Switzerland
Switzerland Geneva, Switzerland

Most people who visit Switzerland go there to see the very impressive and breathtaking Alps. They're dramatic, they're beautiful, and they're unlike anywhere else on earth. The highest peak in the country is Dufourspitze, which stands 4,634 meters high. If you head to this area in the winter, it has some of the best skiing and winter sports in the world. If you're not a winter sport enthusiast, you can head here in the summer months and enjoy some wonderful hiking or simply hop from charming village to village on the train or bus.

While the Alps are easily the biggest draw to the area, there are definitely some less famous attractions that are still worth visiting. Switzerland has some absolutely beautiful lakes, as well as rolling hills and flat plains. If time allows, definitely make sure you venture out to some of the less visited parts of the country, as they can be quite charming and enjoyable as well.

Whenever you visit, it's important to realize that this can be an expensive destination. Come prepared, and accept that it will cost you more than you'd like. If you know what to expect, you can enjoy it none the less. There are a few handy tips to help keep costs down. In particular, skip activities like the cable cars. They are a fun way to see parts of the country, but they're also one of the most expensive ways. If you're planning to travel by train, book your tickets well in advance as this will save you a good amount of money. Also consider cooking your own meals as restaurants in Switzerland can be shockingly expensive and can really make a dent in your budget. Definitely give yourself a day or two to enjoy the skiing and snowboarding in the area, but realize that if you make this a daily occurrence it will quickly eat through most of your budget. Also consider couchsurfing if at all possible. Accommodation can be expensive and finding a free place to crash will save you a fortune. Many people speak English and are eager to show you their country. It's a fun way to meet and experience a new country and culture.

Related:

Are you a student or backpacker headed to Switzerland or Austria?

Need a hostel in Zurich or Vienna?

Find a Contiki tour to Europe.

Top Tourist Attractions

Chateau de Chillon: A wonderfully preserved medieval castle dating back to the 11th century. This castle is beautifully situated on the shore of Lake Geneva. It is made from over one hundred free standing buildings that have gradually be connected into the structure that is there today.

The Gruyere Region: A beautiful region with rolling green hills. Its the best place to sample some fondue, made with the Gruyere cheese that originated in this area.

Rhine Falls: The largest waterfall in Europe, it's in northern Switzerland on the Upper Rhine. You can catch a boat to the middle of the river to get perfect views of the falls.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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