IS SWITZERLAND TRAVEL EXPENSIVE?
Saving Money on a Swiss Vacation
Is
traveling in Switzerland more expensive than other countries in Europe?
I see this question a lot in travel forums. And in the short answer,
in some ways, yes, but in all the considerations, the experience you
get pound of pound, or maybe dollar for franc, can be a saving over other
destinations. The Swiss Franc stays relatively steady against
other currencies, and is not tied to the Euro. Restaurant meal menus,
and some hotel accommodation rates can be more pricey than other areas.
In Switzerland, being a waiter or hotel worker is considered a real job
and the pay rate is higher, so the cost is in the prices. But on the
other hand, you don’t need to tip, as gratuity and taxes are included.
Hotels in Switzerland are all kept to strict standards and for what you’d
get for the same price in France or Italy, you’ll come out pleased
and happy. And don’t
forget the fantastic nature and beauty, the great public transportation
and Swiss hospitality. Tourism is a major focus of the government so
they work very hard to make it easy, provide value and save you money.
Affordable Accommodation
Overnight
stays in Switzerland don't need to be expensive. Luxury level hotels
can be of good value, but check out attractive alternatives, like
vacation apartments. Stay on a farm or
take in the magnificent Alpine scenery in a mountain hut. Or even stay
in a monastery.
Switzerland has one of the lowest VAT taxes in Europe. Breakfast is included
in most
of the hotels when booking a night, so that’s a meal you’ll
save on. Or for a clean and simple money saving stay Switzerland's 58
youth hostels are more than just a bed for the night - uncomplicated,
inexpensive and multicultural. Despite the name, Swiss Youth Hostels
are not only for the young but open to everyone. They are geared towards
guests who are uncomplicated, seek variety and enjoy meeting travelers
from all over the world. Family rooms, delicious catering and a variety
of fun activities in and around the youth hostels make for a terrific
atmosphere.
Public Transportation System
You don’t need a car to get around to all the Switzerland sights,
so save big on rental car charges and all that gas! The Swiss have built
the best public transportation system in the world. With the Swiss Pass
you can travel as you please on the extensive network of trains, boats
and buses in Switzerland (see Swiss
Pass Value). This can save literally hundreds
of dollars. As an added benefit you get free access to more than 400
museums all over the country. And traveling with kids – with the
free Family Card, children under 16 years of age travel for free.
Discount Cards
Most
all of the regions of Switzerland offer local discount cards sponsored
by the Canton governments with one amazingly low price for free travel
on the local trasportation systems, visits to local attractions and ddiscounts
and other benefits. In Zurich, from May to October you can rent a bicycle
for free, electro-bikes, skateboards, scooters and kickboards can be
rented for free from 6 locations in the city. Other cities have similar
bike rental programs. Take a bike on the train to enjoy the countyside
and burn some calories.
Free Water
Okay, so why is free water a big deal. Thirst can be very expensive when
traveling. Getting dehydrated in the sun or hiking around to see the
sights. Some say it’s an urban legend, but it is true that you
can drink the water from all the fountains in Switzerland. Try buying
a soda or spring water from a street vendor in Rome, that’s 5 or
even 7 smackers you’ll never see again. Nothing dis into your wallet
like those stops at the snack kiosk. But take a water bottle around Switzerland
and fill it at any of the historic
fountains
right
in city
squares (non-potable
water is clearly marked) - pure Swiss mountain spring water - right in
the heart of the city! And don't forget all that incredible that comes
with it. © Bargain
Travel Europe
Best hotel and travel deals for Lake Geneva on TripAdvisor
Web Info
Swiss Tourism
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articles are copyrighted and the sole property of Bargain Travel
Europe and WLPV, LLC. and
may not be copied or reprinted without permission.
SEE
ALSO:
SWISS FAMILY RAIL PASS DISCOUNT PACKAGE
MALBUN – LIECHTENSTEIN‘S HOLIDAY RESORT
