10 ways to see Zürich on a budget

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. But there are ways to make your money go further and 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 summer or winter charms – but the additional cost factors, particularly in terms of 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. 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, so a long day’s visit is entirely feasible without incurring the cost of a hotel or hostel bed.

3. Pitch your tent beside Lake Zürich

Camping in Zürich? Yes, it’s possible – and 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. Tent pitches are small, and the nearby road and railway don’t make it the most tranquil spot. That said, there are options to upgrade to a safari-style tent, Airstream caravan or actual cottage. There’s a corner-style shop on site stocked with all the necessities, plus a restaurant.

4. Bunk up in a hostel

Zürich’s next cheapest level of accommodation are its hostels. Most hostels have kitchens so you can save money by self-catering instead of eating out. Also, the hostel managers and other guests are sure to have their own tips on making your budget go further. A reliable option is Oldtown Hostel Otter, which has a super convenient location for sightseeing. Also worth considering is