Switzerland Is Expensive — Plan Accordingly

Tips for Saving Money in Switzerland

Switzerland doesn’t have to break the bank — a few smart choices can make a big difference. Let me break it down for you in a few steps, tricks and tips:

Use public transport wisely
Travel passes like the Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card can save you a lot if you’re moving around frequently. Regional passes are often cheaper if you’re staying in one area.

Stay flexible with accommodation
Mountain huts, guesthouses, and simple hotels often offer the best value. SAC huts in particular give you an unbeatable experience for the price, often including dinner and breakfast.

Shop at supermarkets, not convenience stores
Buy snacks, picnic food, and drinks at Coop, Migros, Aldi, or Lidl instead of kiosks or train stations. Picnicking with a view instead of going to a restaurant is both cheaper and very Swiss.

Drink tap water
Swiss tap water is safe, high quality, and available almost everywhere — including public fountains in towns and villages. Bring a reusable bottle and refill for free. Should a fountain not have drinkable water, it has written "Kein Trinkwasser" on it.

Limit mountain lifts
Cable cars and funiculars add up quickly. Choose hikes where you walk up or down at least one section, or use lifts strategically instead of round-trip rides.

Eat your main meal at lunch
Lunch menus are often much cheaper than dinner. If breakfast is included at your accommodation, you may only need to pay for one meal out per day. Also try not to eat at the touristy places. Meals in restaurants are additionally a lot cheaper down in the valley than up at the mountain.

Book early when possible
Train passes, popular scenic routes, and mountain huts are usually cheaper — and easier to get — when booked ahead.

Take advantage of free experiences
Hiking, swimming in lakes, exploring old towns, and visiting viewpoints cost nothing and are some of the best things Switzerland has to offer.

What makes a difference: Spend the coin on the experiences that matter most to you — and save on the rest without missing out!