Discover Zurich on a budget: central hostels, street food and the best free Alpine views.
Yes, you can do Zurich on a budget
Switzerland has a reputation as expensive, but Zurich is surprisingly backpacker-friendly if you know where to look. The Youth Hostel Zurich sits right on the lake, public swimming spots (Seebäder) are free, and Üetliberg mountain offers the best panoramic views of the Alps — also free.
The trick is combining the Swiss Travel Pass (unlimited trains, buses and boats) with supermarket meals from Migros and Coop. The Rigi mountain excursion is included in the pass, and on the first Saturday of each month the Swiss National Museum opens its doors for free. Add in the street art scene in Zürich West and sunset beers at Frau Gerolds Garten, and you have a budget trip that doesnt feel like one.
Itinerary
Arrival & Center
- Check-in at Youth Hostel Zurich
- Free walking tour of Altstadt (old town)
- Budget dinner at Zeughauskeller
Lakes & Viewpoints
- Free swim at Seebad Enge
- Climb Üetliberg (free panoramic view)
- Picnic at the top
Mountain Day
- Rigi excursion with Swiss Travel Pass
- Free hiking trails
- Budget fondue in Lucerne
Free Culture
- Swiss National Museum (free first Saturday)
- Street art tour in Zürich West
- Beers at Frau Gerolds Garten
Final Views
- Bürkliplatz market
- Final lake stroll
- Departure to airport
Practical Tips
Groceries
Shop at Migros and Coop supermarkets to save money
Transport Pass
Swiss Travel Pass Youth has discount for under 25s
Free Swimming
Public lake baths are free in summer
Approximate Budget
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to travel cheap in Switzerland?
Yes, with hostels, supermarkets and Swiss Travel Pass. Avoid tourist restaurants.
Where to get budget food?
Migros and Coop have hot buffets. Kebabs and falafel are cheap options.
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