Budget Travel Tips for Zürich
Offering a gorgeous lakeside location, over recent years Zürich has cemented its reputation as one of Europe’s hippest destinations, with an artsy, post-industrial edge.
Ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, Zürich and budget travel are not natural bedfellows. However, there are ways to make your money go further with many free activities to be enjoyed year-round. Whatever your budget, the following tips will help stretch your travel funds even further.
1. Visit Zürich in the Cheaper Months
Vacations in Zürich between June and August or around Christmas and New Year each have their own charm; however, the additional cost factors, particularly accommodation rates, can be prohibitive. If your funds are limited, early August should be avoided as this is when people crowd into Zürich for its famous Street Parade. Instead, visit in February to April or in November for the best-value times of year.
2. Travel to Zürich by Night Bus
Travel to Zürich by overnight bus services, such as those offered by Flixbus, and you will save on at least one night’s accommodation. Given the city’s compact layout, it’s easy to cover the central sights on foot, making a long day’s visit entirely feasible without incurring the cost of a hotel or hostel bed.
3. Pitch Your Tent beside Lake Zürich
Camping in Zürich is a viable option at a lovely lakeside location that’s less than a 10-minute bus ride from the city center. The camping season at Fischer’s Fritz runs from the start of April to the end of October. While the pitches are small and the nearby road and railway may not provide the most tranquil atmosphere, there are options to upgrade to a safari-style tent or an Airstream caravan. There’s also a corner-style shop on-site stocked with necessities, plus a restaurant.
4. Bunk Up in a Hostel
Zürich’s next cheapest level of accommodation is its hostels. Most hostels come with kitchens, allowing you to save money by self-catering. Moreover, the hostel managers and other guests are sure to have their own tips on making your budget go further. Reliable options include hostels conveniently located for sightseeing.
5. Invest in a Zürich Card
If you’ve arrived in Zürich and sorted out where to stay, the next step is to cover all your transport costs by purchasing a Zürich Card. Valid for either 24 or 72 hours, the card provides free second-class public transportation across the city, short cruises on the lake and the Limmat River, as well as free admission to some museums and discounts at others.
6. Stay in Outer Suburbs or Nearby Towns
There’s no shortage of self-catering apartments in and around Zürich. The city’s excellent public transport system makes it easy to stay in more distant and affordable suburbs. Additionally, consider making your base in neighboring towns, which are worth visiting for their own attractions.
7. Pedal Around Zürich on Rental Bikes
Included in some versions of the Zürich Card is the use of rental bikes, including e-bikes. Visitors can borrow or rent bikes from several locations, making it easy to explore the city at your own pace.
8. Shop at Supermarkets and Markets and Use Free Water Fountains
Keep costs in check by preparing your meals at Zürich’s supermarkets and markets. Discount supermarkets like Lidl and Aldi have city center branches and offer affordable food options perfect for a picnic. Additionally, the city’s 1200+ water fountains allow you to fill your reusable bottle free of charge.
9. Browse Zürich’s Flea Markets and Secondhand Shops
Unique souvenirs at bargain prices can be found at Zürich’s flea markets. Each Saturday, visitors can explore the Kanzlei flea market in Helvetiaplatz, which features around 300 stands. Furthermore, don’t miss the Züri Brockenhaus, a labyrinthine thrift store offering various secondhand goods.
10. Dig into the Buffet and Grab a Bargain from a No-Waste Bakery
When dining out, one of the most budget-friendly spots is the top floor of a local department store, where visitors can enjoy a breakfast buffet or affordable lunch options. Additionally, vegetarian restaurants and a no-waste bakery chain provide delicious meals that won’t break the bank.
Daily Costs in Zürich
- Hostel room: Sfr 40–50
- Basic room for two: from Sfr 100
- Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from Sfr 100
- Coffee: Sfr 3.50
- Sandwich: Sfr 10–15
- Dinner for two: around Sfr 50
- Beer/pint at the bar: Sfr 6.5
- Average daily costs: around Sfr 150
