Big Smile, Small Price! Affordable Fun in Switzerland
Prepare to be surprised because Switzerland, offers several wallet-friendly activities (yes you read correctly!) that will make your student experience unforgettable!
NATURE
Hiking
Whether you prefer leisurely walks or challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the stunning views during a gondola ride, or challenge yourself with a hike to the summit—it’s free, and nothing beats the sense of accomplishment when you reach the top.
My Favorite Hikes:
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The Oeschinensee hike is a spectacular journey through the Swiss Alps, leading you to the stunning Oeschinen Lake, renowned for its striking turquoise waters. The trail, which spans about 14 kilometers and takes roughly 4 to 5 hours to complete, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and lush alpine meadows, making it a popular choice for hikers of all levels. As you explore, you’ll encounter vibrant alpine flowers and, with a bit of luck, you might spot grazing cows along the path!
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The 5 Lakes hike, located in the stunning Zermatt region, takes you on a scenic route around five picturesque alpine lakes: Stellisee, Grindjisee, Moosjisee, and Riffelsee, all offering incredible reflections of the iconic Matterhorn. This approximately 9-kilometer loop typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, making it accessible for hikers of varying skill levels. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse landscapes, from lush meadows to rocky outcrops.
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The hike around Pilatus, beginning in the picturesque village of Bürgenstock, spans approximately 11 kilometers and typically takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete. As you make your way along the trail, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Five Cantons Lake, with the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps providing a dramatic backdrop.
To find hikes, I use the app Komoot Komoot | Find, plan and share your adventures
Swimming
Take advantage of Switzerland's beautiful lakes and rivers—it's my favorite summer activities! In Basel and Bern, you can float along the current while enjoying views of the city. Don’t forget to bring your Wickelfisch (a waterproof bag ideal for keeping your belongings safe and also handy for resting while you drift). Afterwards, you can enjoy a refreshing beer you packed with you!
Sledging
Sledging during the winter and summer tobogganing down mountain slopes offer fun and adrenaline.
Swiss Villages
Take a day trip to picturesque Swiss villages like Appenzell, Gruyères, or Saas-Fee. These villages maintain a traditional charm with beautiful chalets.
Waterfalls
Switzerland has some of the most spectacular cascades in Europe. The Rhine Fall, near Schaffhausen, is the largest waterfall in Europe . And don’t miss the Lauterbrunnen Fall, which inspired J.R.R. Tolkien's vision of Middle-earth!
CITIES
City Walking Tours
Many cities, including Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne, offer free walking tours. These are great ways to learn about the local history and culture while meeting other travelers.
Visit Switzerland with Free Walking Tours Switzerland
Chocolate Factories
Some chocolate factories, like Cailler’s Chocolate Factory, offer affordable tours and you can often sample free chocolate.
Experience the World of Chocolate | Maison Cailler Museum
Museums
Many Swiss museums offer designated days or times for free or discounted entry. I particularly recommend the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, where you can delve into the history of the Olympic Games through interactive exhibits. If you're interested in modern art, be sure to visit the Fondation Beyeler in Basel, with exceptional collection such as Les Nymphéas from Monet (free for students up to 25 years).
Le Musée Olympique – Lausanne Tourisme – Site officiel du tourisme à Lausanne
Fondation Beyeler | Moderne & zeitgenössische Kunst
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a fun and affordable winter activity. Typically costing around 10 CHF, it’s a great way to meet with friends after classes or work.
Christmas Markets
During the festive season, charming Christmas markets pop up across the country. Stroll through the stalls, soak up the joyful atmosphere, and try seasonal treats. I recommend visiting the Christmas market in Montreux, known for its stunning views and festive ambiance.
Luzern
EVENTS
Music Festivals
Switzerland hosts a variety of vibrant festivals. One highlight is the Street Parade in Zurich, an electronic dance music festival held in August. This event attracts thousands who dance to techno and house music from decorated trucks and stages. While some after-parties may require tickets, the main event is free.
Sport Events
It is possible to find affordable sport events. For example, the Basel Indoor Tennis Tournament is a prestigious ATP event that attracts top-ranked players each year (tickets starting at 40CHF).
You can find a list of different activities across Switzerland here: Events | Switzerland Tourism (myswitzerland.com)
With these ideas, you can explore the beauty of Switzerland without breaking the bank!
