Zürich on a Budget: Culture, Nature & Fun

Experience the beauty of Zürich without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A budget trip to Zürich, Switzerland can be a challenge, but it is possible. Start by staying in budget hostels or Airbnbs. Explore the city on foot or with a budget-friendly ZurichCARD that offers discounts on attractions. Finally, sample Swiss cuisine like raclette, fondue or bread, or visit the farmers' market for local produce to keep costs low.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Zipping through Zurich

  • Check into the budget-friendly Alexander Hotel in the heart of the city
  • Rent a bike or e-scooter and explore the city’s picturesque waterfronts and hidden alleys
  • Stop by Café Sprüngli for their famous macarons and hot chocolate
  • Visit the Fraumünster Church to see the stunning stained-glass windows by Chagall and Giacometti
  • Grab dinner at Zeughauskeller for traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and rosti
Day 2

Culture Crawl

  • Start the day with a visit to the Kunsthaus Zurich, home to an impressive collection of modern art
  • Take a stroll through the Old Town and visit the Grossmünster Church for panoramic views of the city
  • Stop by the Swiss National Museum to learn about local history and culture
  • Catch a show at the Tonhalle concert hall, known for its exceptional acoustics
  • Grab dinner at Hiltl, the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant, offering a delicious buffet of international cuisine
Day 3

Nature Escape

  • Take a train to Rapperswil, a charming town on the shores of Lake Zurich
  • Visit the Rapperswil Castle and enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains
  • Hike the nearby Felsenweg Trail, a scenic path dotted with lookout points and picturesque scenery
  • Have a picnic by the lake or paddleboat rental
  • Head back to Zurich for a farewell dinner at Frau Gerolds Garten, a hip outdoor venue serving up tasty street food and craft beers.
  • Your 3-day trip to Zurich will be full of scenic views, cultural experiences, and delicious food all while staying within your budget. Don't forget to pack comfortable shoes and an open mind to fully enjoy all this beautiful city has to offer.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Zürich, Switzerland by plane is to fly into Zurich Airport (ZRH) from major airports around the world.

Car

If you prefer driving to Zürich, Switzerland, you can rent a car from any major city in Europe and take the A1 and A4 highways to reach the city. However, it's important to keep in mind that driving in Switzerland is expensive due to tolls and parking fees.

Train

Traveling to Zürich, Switzerland by train is also an option. You can take EuroCity or TGV trains to Zurich Hauptbahnhof, which is the city's main train station.

Boat

Although not a direct option, it is possible to travel to Zürich, Switzerland by boat. You can take a river cruise from multiple European cities such as Basel and Amsterdam to reach the city. These cruises usually dock at Zurich's Burkliplatz, which is located near the city center.

Bus

Buses are available to travel to Zürich from major European cities such as Munich, Milan, and Paris. You can take Eurolines or Flixbus to reach the Sihlquai Bus Terminal, which is located in the city center.

Destination

Zürich

Welcome to a city that's so clean it puts your conscience to shame, and a language that's so difficult it'll make you want to scream. Willkommen in Zürich!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Zurich: A 5-Day Romantic Escape

Zürich is a picture-perfect city to celebrate love amidst the stunning beauty of the Alps. The breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Lake Zurich and the majestic architecture of the city's old town make it the ideal place to stroll hand in hand with your loved one. With its delectable Swiss chocolates and cheese fondue, Zürich offers a culinary experience that promises to ignite your taste buds and create unforgettable romantic moments.

Zürich's Delights: A Fun-Filled Family Day Trip

Zürich, Switzerland offers a perfect family-friendly destination with a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Explore the beautiful old town and visit iconic attractions like the Zürich Zoo or the Swiss National Museum, which are both perfect for children. Enjoy the picturesque Lake Zürich, where you can take boat rides or relax by the waterfront parks, offering a plethora of activities for kids and adults alike.

Zürich on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun!

Zürich may be known for its luxury, but it is still possible to have a great trip on a limited budget. Take advantage of free activities such as visiting Lake Zurich or walking around the old town. There are also affordable options for food and accommodations if you do some research beforehand.

The Ultimate 2-Day Family Adventure in Zürich

A family friendly trip to Zürich, Switzerland offers a delightful blend of picturesque scenery, enriching cultural experiences, and exciting activities for all ages. Explore the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, visit world-class museums like the Swiss National Museum, and take a peaceful boat ride on Lake Zürich. Children will enjoy the Zurich Zoo, where they can encounter fascinating animal species, and the Swiss Science Center Technorama, offering interactive exhibits that make learning fun for everyone.