1. Eat Like a Local (But in a Supermarket)

Eating out in Switzerland can eat into your travel budget fast, with restaurant meals often costing upwards of 20–30 CHF per person. One of the easiest ways to save money without sacrificing quality is to shop at Migros or Coop, Switzerland’s biggest supermarket chains. Both offer great value, but Migros Food Halls are especially useful for travellers, offering freshly made sandwiches, hot meals, salads, pastries, and snacks that are perfect for eating on the go.

Many larger branches of Migros even have seating areas, so you can sit down and enjoy your food in comfort, without the price tag of a restaurant. It’s a local favourite too; you’ll see plenty of Swiss commuters and students doing the same.

2. Drink Smart – Skip the Bars

Switzerland’s bar culture is stylish and sociable, but the prices can be shocking. Expect to pay around 8 to 10 CHF for a pint in most bars or pubs. If you’re travelling on a shoestring, skip the pub and head to the nearest Coop or Migros supermarket, where you can buy cold beers for a fraction of the cost.

A can of Feldschlösschen, a popular local lager, will set you back about 2 CHF. Grab a few, find a scenic spot, a park bench, lakeside promenade, or mountain overlook, and enjoy the same Swiss atmosphere without burning through your budget.

3. Stay Across the Border

If your travels take you to cities like Geneva, Basel, or Zurich, it’s worth knowing that accommodation costs in Swiss cities can be eye-wateringly high, especially during peak travel seasons. One of the smartest hacks is to look just across the border.

In Geneva, consider staying in France, towns like Annemasse offer well-connected, budget-friendly options just a short train or tram ride from the city. Similarly, if you're visiting Basel or Zurich, you’ll find cheaper stays in Germany just over the border. These cross-border options often cost significantly less, and with Switzerland’s excellent transport links, getting into the city each day is fast and easy.

4. Prioritise Free (and Epic) Experiences

Switzerland's most valuable experiences don’t cost a thing. The country is blessed with some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world, and hiking trails, lakefronts, and alpine villages are all free to enjoy. Towns like Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Zermatt are postcard-perfect and surrounded by spectacular trails that are open to the public.

In the cities, take advantage of self-guided walking routes or join one of the free (tip-based) walking tours offered in places like Zurich, Lucerne, or Bern. Whether you’re exploring historic old towns, swimming in a mountain lake, or just soaking up the views, you’ll never be short of unforgettable, and totally free, things to do.

5. Use Saver Day Passes and Regional Travel Cards

Switzerland’s rail network is one of the best in the world, but also one of the most expensive. If you plan to travel by train, do yourself a favour and check out the Saver Day Pass options offered by SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). When booked in advance, these passes can get you unlimited travel across the country for as little as 29 CHF, which is amazing value considering how far and fast you can go.

If you’re staying in one region, local transport passes can also be a great deal. Many include local buses, trams, and sometimes even discounted access to cable cars or lake ferries. It’s worth doing a bit of research based on where you’re staying, as these can unlock a lot of value.

6. Sleep Strategically

Accommodation in Switzerland is rarely cheap, but you can still find good value with a bit of planning. Hostels, budget hotels, and Airbnbs tend to offer the best deals, especially if you book early and avoid high-demand periods. Look for properties that include kitchen access, being able to cook just a couple of meals during your stay can lead to big savings over time.

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, consider camping or staying in Swiss Alpine Club huts, especially if you’re planning to hike. These options are often beautifully located, offer basic but comfortable facilities, and cost far less than traditional hotels.

Final Thoughts

Switzerland might never be a bargain destination, but it doesn’t have to be out of reach for budget travellers. With the right approach, buying meals at Migros, avoiding overpriced bars, staying just across the border, and taking advantage of transport deals, you can experience everything that makes this country magical without emptying your wallet.

Switzerland done on a shoestring? Absolutely. You’ll just need to travel smart, and enjoy every step of the way.

Got your own budget tips for Switzerland? Send them to us, we’d love to share them in a future post.

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