Visit one of the most expensive countries in Europe for less

With its stunning landscape, refreshing fresh air, unique nature and hearty cuisine, it’s no surprise that Switzerland is one of the most popular destinations in all of Europe. It also regularly tops the charts of the most expensive destinations not only in Europe, but also around the world.

However, there is a way to visit this mountainous Central European country without breaking the bank.

Euronews Travel did some research and spoke to experts who know Switzerland inside out to find the best ways to get the most out of your trip while staying within your budget.

It is smart to plan your trip to Switzerland in advance

As the founder of the travel website Michael L. Moore says, “Countdown to Magic”at Euronews Travel, “timing is everything.”

A travel expert explains that the time of year you visit Switzerland is almost always the biggest difference in prices.

“Avoid the summer months when prices skyrocket. Instead, prioritize spring and fall.”explains Michael L. Moore.

“You’ll meet fewer people, accommodation prices will be lower, and you might be able to save money on plane tickets. The spring flowers and fall’s spectacular foliage make these seasons magical.”he adds.

Much of Switzerland’s appeal lies in what it offers for free. Majestic landscapes and hiking trails are within everyone’s reach, and a little planning for essentials like accommodation or travel can save you a significant amount of money.

It’s also a good idea to go off the beaten path if you can bear to miss the more popular spots on your itinerary.

“Interlaken and Zermatt have become iconic Swiss destinations, but their popularity comes at a price”Michael L. Moore confides.

Instead, he recommends settling in smaller towns like Thun, where accommodation can be significantly cheaper, but the alpine views around your accommodation will be just as wonderful.

Travel Expert Fiona Spinks, Founder “Following Fiona”is of the same opinion.

“The key is to seek out Switzerland’s hidden gems, those off-the-beaten-track places that allow you to experience the country’s stunning natural beauty and rich culture away from overpriced tourist traps”explains Euronews Travel.

Although everyone dreams of staying in luxury hotel in the mountains, that’s not realistic for most of us.

“Stay in hostels or Airbnb. While Swiss hotels can be expensive, hostels and Airbnb rentals offer much more affordable accommodation options, especially if you’re willing to stay a little outside the big cities. cities.”advises Fiona Spinks.

Make the most of your trip and save money at the same time

Transport in Switzerland is often luxurious and offers amazing views. So it is quite possible for the trip itself to become an important part – or even the highlight – of your stay.

“In Switzerland you can do everything by train”Michael L. Moore explains to Euronews Travel.

“The iconic Glacier Express offers unforgettable alpine views from its panoramic windows. Best of all, your transport becomes an activity rather than an additional burden. Simply take a snack and drink to enjoy on board in the form of a picnic.”recommends.

To make your journey cheaper, we recommend the government-backed Swiss Half Fare travel card, which offers a 50% discount on most train, bus and boat journeys across the country. It costs around 132 euros and is valid for a whole month with no usage restrictions.

Fiona Spinks shares this view.

“Use your Swiss Travel Pass! Efficient and comfortable trains connect every corner of the country, allowing you to go from city to village without paying for a rental car.”confides.

If you are in Switzerland for culture and natural wonders, you’ll probably want to visit the country’s many museums and galleries. While many are free or chargeable, consider booking in advance as these rates are often only available at certain times.

On the other hand, less traditional entertainment is always free.

“Open-air concerts, historic sites and bustling markets offer enriching entertainment without costing a penny”says Michael L. Moore.

Fiona Spinks also defends free entertainment.

“Whether it’s swimming in crystal clear lakes, visiting museums on free days or strolling through picturesque villages, there’s no shortage of free experiences,” he says.

If you prefer to relax, you can head to the National Fitness Park at Lake Lucerne.

Regular guest artist Dallas Athent explains to Euronews Travel: “Often when people hear about Switzerland they imagine themselves in a luxury spa in the middle of the snow, but what people don’t know is that some of the best saunas are actually in the sauna sport!”

The property has an indoor and outdoor pool, jacuzzi and several sauna rooms with cold plunge pools and a bucket. Best of all, a day pass costs around 40 euros, which isn’t bad for such an expensive country.

Dallas Athens believes in going to the gym “Fitness park” is a great way to immerse yourself in the very essence of the country.

“Not only is it much more affordable than the tourist options, but I feel like I really understand the Swiss culture because I see how relaxation and well-being are part of their everyday life”confides.

Where is Switzerland making tourism accessible?

Zurich and Geneva will probably be on your must-see list, but expanding your horizons a bit can save you a lot of money.

Lausanne, on the shores of Lake Geneva, offers tourists advantages that can reduce costs.

“When you book a hotel in Lausanne, you automatically receive a Lausanne Transport card at reception, which allows you to travel for free on public transport in the city and to vineyard on the Lavaux terraces, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List”explains Olivia Bosshart from the tourist office in Lausanne to Euronews Travel.

The card also allows you to get discounts on some attractions and the purchase of the Lausanne City Pass is also interesting. You can buy a 1, 2 or 3 day ticket and get free entry to some places or at least a 20% discount on others.

The Swiss are famous for their naturally delicious water, but it doesn’t cost a penny in Lausanne.

“These fountains promote sustainability and show that it is possible to get free drinking water all over the city.”

All museums are free on the first Saturday of the month in Lausanne, including the Olympic Museum. The city is inextricably linked to the Games as it is also home to the International Olympic Committee headquarters and the Olympic Park by the lake.

With your transport card, you can also travel to terraced vineyards registered on the UNESCO list. They are a short train ride from the city and can be combined with a trip to see the panoramic views of Grandvaux – a world heritage site – and the beautiful village of Lutry.

Near the borders of France and Germany you will find the melting pot that is Basel. Perhaps best known for glitzy Art Basel, the notoriously exclusive – and expensive – art fair, it’s still possible to get good deals.

As in Lausanne, the city offers a free BaselCard for any hotel, hostel, guest house or apartment reservation in Basel.

In addition to free public transport, it gives visitors half-price entry to many of the city’s museums, as well as the zoo and theatre.

Basel is known for being a walkable city and the authorities have made the most of this for visitors.

“The best way to explore its old town is on foot, as many interesting places are close to each other. Five different circuits allow you to discover its hidden corners and its history.”explains the Basel tourist office Euronews.

Tourists often recommend visiting the 1000-year-old cathedral, the impressive fountain designed by Jean Tinguely and the botanical garden of the University of Basel.

In the summer, swimming in the Rhine is a free and very popular activity. No trip to Basel is complete without a visit to the Lange Erlen.

This is an animal park with free entry where you can observe deer, lynx, wild cats and wild pigs. Children will delight in the paddocks, which feature donkeys, ponies, goats, sheep, rabbits, guinea pigs and peacocks, while storks and herons roam free.

If you are rather cyclistBasel currently offers e-bike rentals at a relatively affordable price of around 20 euros per day.

By cutting down on transport costs, planning for hotel costs, buying essentials from cheap supermarkets and avoiding eating out for every meal, Switzerland can be a truly affordable option.