How Much Does a Switzerland Trip Cost? (2026 Guide)
- Stefan
- Jan 28, 2024
- 12 min read
Updated: 14 hours ago
As locals, we know travel in Switzerland can be costly, but there are ways to make it more affordable. Switzerland offers stunning scenery, history, and culture. This guide outlines key expenses for a Swiss trip in 2026, includes new premium options, and provides a cost comparison for a comprehensive overview.
However, don't just rely on our opinion: At the bottom of the article, you'll see a summary of estimates from other websites for a trip to Switzerland.Be sure to visit our tools pages to assist you in planning your upcoming trip to Switzerland.
Table of content
Trip to Switzerland Cost Overview (Per Person, Per Day – 2026
Exchange rate used: 1 CHF ≈ 1.25 USD
Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
Flights (round-trip, not daily) | CHF 520–880 (USD 650–1,100) from US • CHF 70–240 (USD 90–300) from Europe | Same range | CHF 2,400–6,400 (USD 3,000–8,000) |
Accommodation (per night) | CHF 40–95 (USD 50–120) | CHF 120–200 (USD 150–250) | CHF 400+ (USD 500+) |
Food & Dining (per day) | CHF 12–20 (USD 15–25) | CHF 32–56 (USD 40–70) | CHF 95–240+ (USD 120–300+) |
Transport (per trip/day avg.) | CHF 8–20 (USD 10–25) | CHF 439 / USD 550 (Swiss Travel Pass, 8 days) | CHF 200+ / USD 250+ |
Activities & Sightseeing | CHF 10–25 (USD 12–30) | CHF 40–120 (USD 50–150) | CHF 900–3,500 (USD 1,125–4,400) |
Souvenirs & Shopping (per day) | CHF 10–20 (USD 12–25) | CHF 50–100 (USD 60–125) | CHF 500+ (USD 625+) |
Insurance & Fees (per trip) | CHF 40–160 (USD 50–200) | Same | Same |
Estimated Daily Total | CHF 120–200 (USD 150–250) | CHF 250–350 (USD 310–440) | CHF 650+ (USD 810+) |
Estimated 7-Day Trip (excl. flights) | CHF 1,240–2,200 (USD 1,550–2,750) | CHF 1,800–3,160 (USD 2,250–3,950) | CHF 4,000+ (USD 5,000+) |
Flights to Switzerland
Flight costs to Switzerland in 2026 vary by season and departure point. From the US, round-trip tickets range from CHF 520 to CHF 880 (USD 650 to USD 1,100). From Europe, they typically range from CHF 70 to CHF 240 (USD 90 to USD 300). Other cities like London, Sydney, or Tokyo offer economy fares starting at CHF 360–480 (USD 450–600) for one-way and CHF 640–800 (USD 800–1,000) for round-trip. We recommend using flight search engines like Google Flight Search, Skyscanner, or Momondo to find affordable flights.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Switzerland spans from budget-friendly hostels at CHF 40–95 per night (USD 50–120) to luxurious hotels at CHF 400+ (USD 500+). Mid-range hotels in major cities like Zurich and Geneva average CHF 120–200 per night (USD 150–250). Smaller towns offer more affordable options, with luxury rooms ranging from CHF 200–320 (USD 250–400). In addition to using traditional platforms like hotel booking sites or Airbnb, you can explore local tourist websites (search for [name of the region you plan to visit + tourist office, then look for accommodation options]) and Facebook groups as budget-friendly alternatives for finding quality lodging.
Good to know:
Hotels and other accommodations are not required to offer the best price on third-party platforms such as Booking.com or Expedia. That’s why the best way to find the lowest price is often directly on a hotel’s website. By booking directly, the hotel saves the commission paid to these platforms and often passes some of these savings on to you. I usually research on Booking.com or TripAdvisor and then book directly on the hotel’s website. Another place to find good deals is DeinDeal.ch, the Swiss version of Groupon.
Tourist cards
Many areas offer tourist cards in the summer, providing discounted or free access to public transportation, cable cars, and local attractions. Our favorite regions with these cards are listed here. When cable cars are included, savings can be significant. For example, my family saved over 500 CHF in the Engadine using a tourist card in summer 2025.
Transportation
Switzerland's efficient public transport includes subways and trains, costing CHF 2–12 per ride (USD 2–15). Taxis, though pricier, offer high-quality service. Car rentals range from CHF 40–120 per day (USD 50–150), providing flexibility for scenic drives across the well-maintained road network.
If you don’t have a Swiss Travel Pass, which allows unlimited travel on (most) public transport for the duration of your booking, definitely check out the excursions portal of the SBB. They offer many combo tickets with attractive pricing when you book both your travel and entrance through them.
If you're not sure whether to travel by train or car, here's a straight-up opinion from a local who's been exploring Switzerland for the past 10 years.
Dining
If you're looking for places to eat in Switzerland, there are plenty of choices no matter how much you want to spend. You can grab a budget-friendly meal at local spots for about CHF 12–20 per person (USD 15–25). If you're in the mood for something a bit fancier, mid-range restaurants will cost you around CHF 32–56 per person (USD 40–70). These places usually have a bigger menu with both Swiss and international dishes.
Sightseeing and Activities
Switzerland's natural attractions, like the breathtaking Alps, serene lakes, and picturesque villages, offer numerous free or low-cost sightseeing opportunities. Hiking, picnicking, and exploring quaint towns like Interlaken, Zermatt and Grindelwald can be enjoyed without spending much.
For more structured activities, there are paid attractions worth the expense. For example, a trip to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe," costs around CHF 80–95 per person (USD 100–120) and includes a scenic train ride and access to an observation deck with panoramic views.
Switzerland also boasts a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Major cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Bern offer a variety of museums, many with discounted or free entry days. Checking museum websites in advance can help plan your visit accordingly. Additionally, Switzerland hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, many of which are free to attend. From music festivals to traditional events like the Fête de l'Escalade in Geneva or the Basel Fasnacht, there is always something happening.
For adventure seekers, Switzerland offers activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding. Booking in advance or taking advantage of package deals can help save money on these experiences.
Souvenirs
No trip to Switzerland is complete without bringing back some unique souvenirs. The cost of souvenirs can vary widely depending on what you purchase. Here are some popular Swiss souvenirs and their typical price ranges:
Swiss Chocolate: You can buy a box of chocolates for CHF 8–40 (USD 10–50), depending on the brand and type. A small box of Lindt or local artisan chocolates costs CHF 8–16 (USD 10–20), while luxury selections are CHF 24–40 (USD 30–50). For the freshest options, visit local candy shops or the Lindt Home of Chocolate museum shop in Zurich, where entry is CHF 15 and includes unlimited tastings. Lindt often gets booked, so consider other alternatives.
Swiss Watches: If you love watches, Switzerland is ideal, home to brands like Swatch, Tissot, Omega, and Rolex. While luxury mechanical watches can cost thousands, quality Swiss-made watches are available for a few hundred. A Swatch starts at CHF 60–80 (USD 75–100), and Tissot or Hamilton watches range from CHF 240–400 (USD 300–500), offering stylish, lasting keepsakes.
Swiss Army Knives: CHF 20–80 (USD 25–100). Simpler models are around CHF 20–32 (USD 25–40), while larger ones cost more. They are widely sold, including at Victorinox stores and souvenir shops. (Remember to pack them in checked luggage, not carry-on, when flying home!)
Cuckoo Clocks: USD 100 and up (CHF 80+). Small basic cuckoo clocks might be USD 100–200 (CHF 80–160), whereas elaborate hand-carved ones can be several hundred dollars. They are a bit bulky to carry, but certainly a charming keepsake.
Cheese: CHF 10–20 for vacuum-sealed portions (USD 12–25). A nicely vacuum-sealed piece of Alpine cheese (~300–500g) often falls into this range, depending on type and age. Here are our top picks for cheese factory tours. Although bringing cheese to another EU country is usually not an issue, if you're coming from outside the EU, please verify your local regulations regarding bringing food/cheese back home.
Apparel and Accessories: CHF 16–40 for typical tourist items (USD 20–50). A small cowbell keychain might be CHF 4 (USD 5), whereas a larger decorative cowbell for wall-hanging can be CHF 24–40 (USD 30–50). Handmade items also make nice souvenirs – prices vary by size and craftsmanship.
Visit local markets, specialty stores, and supermarkets for a variety of options at competitive prices. Duty-free shops at airports also offer convenient last-minute shopping.
Wi-Fi and Communication
Rental Wi-Fi routers and SIM cards are offered, with costs differing according to data plans. Numerous accommodations offer complimentary Wi-Fi, and free hotspots are accessible via apps such as "Swisscom WiFi."
Additionally, rather than purchasing a SIM card for your phone in Switzerland, you can obtain one of the many eSIM cards before your journey, helping you save on roaming and other fees. I typically use Airalo but there are many other providers available.
Visa Costs
Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, so visa requirements depend on your nationality. Travelers from the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and most of Europe generally do not need a visa for short tourist or business visits (up to 90 days in a 180-day period). If you are from a country that does require a Schengen visa (for example, India, China, South Africa, etc.), the standard Schengen short-stay visa fee is EUR 90 (with reduced fees for children) as set across the Schengen area. Always check with the Swiss embassy/consulate or official government websites for the latest fees and requirements, as these can change.
It’s important to note an upcoming change: ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) will be required for visa-exempt visitors before travelling to the Schengen Area. It is currently planned to cost EUR 7 and be valid for three years. ETIAS is expected to start in the last quarter of 2026, and the EU will confirm a specific start date closer to launch.
Insurance
Travel insurance ranges from CHF 40 to CHF 160 (USD 50 to USD 200) for single trips, with annual policies available for frequent travellers. Comprehensive policies include coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.
Budget Considerations
What you’ll spend per day in Switzerland can vary widely based on your travel style. Here’s a rough guideline for 2026 daily budgets per person:
Budget Travelers: Approximately CHF 120–200 per day (USD 150–250). This assumes staying in hostels or low-cost accommodations, eating cheap or self-catered meals, using public transport and regional passes economically, and mostly free activities (with an occasional paid attraction). It’s tight but doable.
Mid-Range Travelers: Around CHF 250–350 per day (USD 310–440). This might include a nice 3-star hotel or rental apartment, two restaurant meals a day plus snacks, transport using a Swiss Travel Pass or half-fare card, and one paid activity or museum per day. In this range, you’re comfortable but not overly indulgent.
Luxury Travelers: CHF 650+ per day per person (USD 810+). For example, a 5-star hotel at CHF 400+/night (per couple) is CHF 200+ per person; add fine dining at CHF 95–240+ per person per day, premium transport options, and shopping or spa treatments, and you could reach CHF 650+ per person per day without much difficulty.
The above figures are estimates for planning purposes. They include your major categories: accommodation, food, transport, and sightseeing. They do not include your international airfare to reach Switzerland (we covered flights separately). Remember that if you are two or more people, you may share some costs (like lodging or car rentals), which can make certain luxury options more economical on a per-person basis.
Money-Saving Tips
Travel during shoulder seasons, use public transportation, and choose budget accommodations. Cooking meals and exploring free attractions also help cut costs. The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel and discounts on select attractions.
Traveling Smart
Pack for varying weather, explore beyond major cities, and immerse yourself in Swiss culture. Learn basic phrases to engage with locals and enhance your experience. Respect punctuality and opt for public transport for its reliability.
Cost for 7-Day Trip to Switzerland
A 7-day trip to Switzerland involves various costs, including accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. Here's a breakdown:
Flights: Round-trip tickets from major cities range from CHF 520 to CHF 880 (USD 650 to USD 1,100) from the US, or CHF 70 to CHF 240 (USD 90 to USD 300) from Europe.
Accommodation: Budget stays average CHF 40–95 per night (USD 50–120). For 7 nights, that’s roughly CHF 280–665 (USD 350–840). Mid-range hotels average CHF 120–200 per night (USD 150–250), totaling CHF 840–1,400 (USD 1,050–1,750).
Transportation: Public transport rides typically fall within CHF 2–12 (USD 2–15). A Swiss Travel Pass (8 days) costs CHF 439 (USD 550) and can be a cost-effective choice for extensive travel.
Food: Budget food costs average CHF 12–20 per day (USD 15–25). For 7 days, expect roughly CHF 84–140 (USD 105–175). Mid-range dining costs average CHF 32–56 per day (USD 40–70), or CHF 224–392 (USD 280–490) for 7 days.
Sightseeing: Budget activities often fall within CHF 10–25 per day (USD 12–30), or CHF 70–175 (USD 85–210) for a week. Paid attractions vary, with premium activities ranging higher.
Summary: Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend approximately CHF 1,240–2,200 (USD 1,550–2,750) for a 7-day trip excluding flights, while a mid-range traveler may spend around CHF 1,800–3,160 (USD 2,250–3,950).
Cost for 10-Day Trip to Switzerland
For a longer 10-day trip, costs increase proportionally:
Flights: Same as for a 7-day trip.
Accommodation: For budget stays, expect around CHF 400–950 for 10 nights (USD 500–1,200). Mid-range options may total CHF 1,200–2,000 (USD 1,500–2,500).
Transportation: Consider a longer-duration Swiss Travel Pass or individual tickets.
Food: Budget food costs average CHF 12–20 per day (USD 15–25), or CHF 120–200 for 10 days (USD 150–250). Mid-range dining averages CHF 32–56 per day (USD 40–70), or CHF 320–560 for 10 days (USD 400–700).
Sightseeing: Budget activities often fall within CHF 10–25 per day (USD 12–30), or CHF 100–250 for 10 days (USD 125–310). Premium activities cost more.
A 10-day trip for a budget traveller may cost around CHF 1,770–3,150 (USD 2,210–3,940), while mid-range travellers could spend approximately CHF 2,300–4,100 (USD 2,880–5,130). These totals exclude flights.
Comparing Switzerland Travel Costs Across Reliable Sources
Planning a trip to Switzerland? The costs can vary depending on your preferences and travel style. We've put together a detailed cost breakdown from trusted travel sites, covering everything from flights and places to stay, to getting around, eating out, and checking out the sights.
Champion Traveler (source) | Budget Your Trip (source) | The Travelling Tedaldi (source) | Budget Bucket List (source) | Budget Your Trip (source) | |
Flights | $1,423 - $3,487 | N/A | 38 - 163 CHF for flights to/from UK | 50 - 150 EUR for budget flights | $308 per day (Avg) |
Accommodation | $101 - $278 per night | $112 - $547 per night | 100+ CHF per night for budget stays | 50 - 100 CHF for hostels | $112 - $547 per night |
Transportation | N/A | $300 for 4-day Swiss Travel Pass | 245 - 755 CHF for Swiss Travel Pass | 100 - 200 CHF for a Swiss Travel Pass | $41 per day (local transport) |
Dining | $29 - $58 per person | $28 - $100 per day | 5 - 50 CHF per meal | 5 - 20 CHF for a meal | $68 per day for food |
Sightseeing | $0 - $75 per activity | $0 - $75 per activity | 0 - 95+ CHF for major attractions | Free - 50 CHF for activities | $61 per day for sightseeing |
How expensive is Switzerland (my opinion)?
It really varies. When I moved from Sydney, Australia to Switzerland years ago, I didn’t notice a huge price difference like I thought I would (though that's changed now because of the exchange rate). But for my family visiting from Germany, Switzerland seems pricey. It basically depends on where you're coming from.
Once you're in Switzerland, there are tons of free things to do: Like going on hikes instead of taking cable cars and using the free water fountains in cities and towns. Of course, some activities can be pretty expensive, especially if you're visiting from another country.
Another thing to think about is how prices change depending on the area. Big cities like Zurich and Geneva are generally more expensive, especially for housing and eating out. On the flip side, smaller towns or rural areas might have cheaper places to stay and lower everyday costs. No matter where you go, planning your budget ahead and focusing on free or cheap activities can help you enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.
Additional reads
Budget travelers can explore Switzerland affordably by choosing smart accommodations, dining, and activities, as suggested by resources like Trip.com and Never Ending Footsteps. Lonely Planet also highlights that some of the best experiences, such as scenic hikes and charming villages, are free. Explore our budget calculator tools and other resources, along with our cost overview for a mountain trip and our switzerland travel tips.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cost of a Trip to Switzerland
What is the average daily cost of a trip to Switzerland in 2026?
Based on local experience and current prices, expect:
Budget travelers: CHF 120–200 per day
Mid-range travelers: CHF 250–350 per day
Luxury travelers: CHF 650+ per day
These estimates include accommodation, food, transport, and activities, but not international flights.
How much does a 7-day trip to Switzerland cost?
For a one-week trip (excluding flights):
Budget: CHF 1,240–2,200
Mid-range: CHF 1,800–3,160
Luxury: CHF 4,000+
If you travel as a couple or family, shared accommodation can lower the per-person cost.
How expensive is food in Switzerland?
Food costs vary a lot depending on where you eat:
Supermarkets and bakeries: CHF 12–20 per day
Casual restaurants: CHF 32–56 per day
Fine dining: CHF 95–240+ per day
As locals, we often mix supermarket lunches with the occasional restaurant — it keeps costs reasonable.
Is accommodation really that expensive?
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses:
Budget stays: CHF 40–95 per night
Mid-range hotels: CHF 120–200 per night
Luxury hotels: CHF 400+ per night
Prices are higher in Zurich, Geneva, ski resorts, and during summer and winter peak seasons.
Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth the money?If you plan to move around a lot, yes. The Swiss Travel Pass (8 days, CHF 439) can quickly pay off if you take several long train journeys and visit museums.
Do I need a visa to visit Switzerland?
Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area. Many travelers (including US, UK, Canadian, Australian, and EU citizens) do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Travelers who do need a visa must apply in advance.
What is ETIAS and will it apply to Switzerland?
ETIAS is a new travel authorization for visa-exempt visitors. It is expected to start in late 2026, cost EUR 7, and be valid for three years. It is not a visa, but an online pre-travel registration.
What are the biggest hidden costs in Switzerland?
Mountain railways, cable cars, and frequent restaurant meals add up quickly. Planning hikes instead of cable cars and booking transport in advance can save a lot of money.
