Best Ways to Explore Zurich, Switzerland, on a Budget

Zurich, Switzerland
Photo by Rico Reutimann on Unsplash

You probably already know by now that Zurich, Switzerland isn’t a cheap destination to visit as a tourist. Luckily, there are ways to explore the city without draining your bank account completely. Check out some of them below.

Visit During Shoulder Season

If you can time your visit to Zurich, you can save a lot of money. Pick the shoulder season—late spring or early fall—and you will be able to get the cheapest flights and best accommodation deals.

Sleep in a Hostel

Accommodation in Zurich is notoriously expensive. However, you can avoid paying too much by opting for hostels instead of hotels and Airbnb. If you don’t mind sharing a living space with strangers during your time there, dormitory options are usually the cheapest.

Get a Zurich Card

Those planning to stay in Zurich for a week or longer should consider getting a Zurich Card. While it comes with a higher out-of-the-pocket cost, the benefits are significant. You will be able to use the city’s expansive public transportation network for free while also getting discounts or free access to some of the biggest tourist attractions.

Eat at Grocery Stores and Grills

Restaurants in Zurich are among the best in Europe, but also the most expensive ones, so you will want to avoid them. Instead, opt for grocery stores, which offer a variety of cheap pre-made meals, or try out budget grills.