Want to travel the world? But not having enough budget. We can surely understand your concern. For you and your travel dreams, here is an amazing destination: Switzerland. Relax—we know traveling to this destination is expensive, but there are some affordable ways, too.

Here are some places for you to visit and experience to get on an affordable budget. Read out the blog; you’ll understand better.

Best Places to Travel on a Budget

Basel 

The city of Basel is charming and offers a rich blending of culture, art, and history. Though Switzerland is famously expensive, there are plenty of things to do here on a small budget—or for free. Wander around the Old Town, visit one of the many art galleries and museums on discount days, or relax on the banks of the Rhine River. 

The tram system is super useful for getting around this efficient little city without splurging. While you are here, make sure you take in the grand Basel Minster and explore the lively Market Square.

Bern

With all this said, Bern can also be a promising destination for someone with a low budget. Its old town with medieval architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Just walking around can give you plenty of enjoyment. For a better view, go up to the Rose Garden (Rosengarten); there you will find the most stunning panorama of the city. 

The Federal Palace is open for free guided tours and there are parks for spending a relaxed afternoon. In addition, during the months of summer, the Aare River offers a refreshing swim.

Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is considered expensive but can be experienced on a budget. Many attractions here are free, like a long walk along the lake or visiting churches such as Grossmunster and Fraumunster, then zigzagging through neighborhoods. 

Zurich has very organized and cheap public transportation. Bike rentals are also there; you can explore the city and save costs as well. Look for special offers to have cheap cultural experiences or free museum days.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a beautiful Swiss town near a lake, with mountains around it. The place offers many things for free or at minimum cost, like walking in the Old Town, passing over the famous Chapel Bridge, or viewing the scenery from the city walls.

For those who love outdoor activities, there are hiking trails near the lake. Best of all, they’re free. Lucerne also offers cheap accommodations.

Engelberg

Known for year-round outdoor activities, Engelberg is a pretty village that is far more than a ski resort. It also has a lot to offer budget travelers. In the summer months, hiking trails and opportunities for nature walks are free, and many offer beautiful views of the Alps. 

Other free things include visiting Engelberg Abbey, which is a beautiful monastery. The town is very pleasant and enjoyable on a small budget.

Montreux

With its jazz festival and outstanding beauty on the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux does justice to its reputation. If you’re not visiting during the festival season, Montreux is an affordable way to experience the natural beauty of Switzerland. 

Walks along the river and visits to Chateau de Chillon will not be expensive (especially as tickets are often sold at a discount). If you like hiking, the local vineyards and hills provide budget-conscious outdoor activity with some of the best views.

Mt Pilatus

Mount Pilatus, one of the most accessible mountains in Switzerland, provides various inexpensive ways to experience the Swiss Alps. Due to the popularity of hiking in this area, some of the trails are free. 

Alternatively, you may enjoy the reduced rates of cable cars and cogwheel railways during their off-peak periods. Whether on foot or using any previous means of transport, the panoramic views from this mountain will be memorable.

Mt Rigi

Next on the list is The Queen of the Mountains. Mt. Rigi is one of the most easily reachable peaks in Switzerland. You can hike free or take cogwheel trains and cable cars with fares that are discounted.

The views from its top are beautiful—the Alps to one side and lakes to the other. Besides, Rigi is attributed to a number of comparatively cheaper hot springs than other areas—a fine budget destination.

Affordable Experiences to Enjoy

Culinary

Swiss cuisine is expensive but there are inexpensive ways to enjoy it. In many cities, local markets are held and one can get fruits, vegetables, and authentic foods at very reasonable prices. 

Street foods, for example, bratwurst or raclette, are another good way of trying dishes without going to an expensive restaurant. A picnic near the lakes or in public parks is an inexpensive way to have a meal and enjoy the landscapes.  

Transportation

The public transport system in Switzerland is very efficient and well-connected, plus there are many opportunities for travel savings. For example, the Swiss Travel Pass provides unlimited train, bus, and boat rides at one fixed price. Such deals can be very cost-efficient for longer visits.

Many cities offer day passes or discount cards as well. That allows you to see many attractions without spending too much. If you’re into active traveling, biking is another inexpensive way of getting around. Most cities have rental bikes available for little money.

Nature

The beautiful landscapes are one of the most important reasons to travel to Switzerland. The mountains, rivers and all this can be enjoyed without any expenses.

Activities such as hiking in the Alps, swimming in lakes, and exploring national parks, including the Swiss National Park, offer recreation with not much expense. Furthermore, walking paths are accessible without entrance fees, and the views they reveal make the effort worthwhile.

Animals

Switzerland is home to wildlife parks and farms that offer visitors the chance to observe animals for free. In many areas, hikers may also get to witness the free-ranging of cows, goats, and sheep.

In addition, some sites present economical options for animal interactions, such as the Tierpark Goldau Wildlife Park located near Lucerne, which stands out as an exemplary destination for viewing local wildlife at a low expense.

Beauty on Budget!

Traveling on a budget is a little challenging, but it will surely give some unexpectedly beautiful memories. So just travel more, explore more, and worry less.