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While preparing your trip to Switzerland, consider a traveler’s opinion on what’s worth spending money on in an expensive country.
Walking path in Lauterbrunnen. Zoe Lodge.
Switzerland is one of the world’s most expensive travel destinations, and while the beauty and high quality of living can be worth the price tag, some of the most popular tourist attractions may not be. For a traveler with an average budget, Switzerland can become overwhelming quickly due to prices and crowds, so it is important to be mindful about your journey. Here is my opinion on whether or not some of the attractions are worth the time and money, and, if not, I offer some cheaper and less crowded alternatives based on my own time in the country this summer.
Mount Pilatus cogwheel train. Maria Feofilova. CC BY-SA 4.0.
1. Mount Pilatus Excursion, Lucerne - No
The cogwheel train and cable car ride to Mount Pilatus promise epic views, but tickets can easily exceed $90. This can be costly if the summit is clouded over, as it often is year-round, especially in the summer, when clouds and storms can roll in without warning. For a cheaper and equally scenic experience over Lucerne, consider Mount Rigi, which is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass and has fewer crowds.
Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe.” Markus Jung. CC BY-SA 3.0.
2. Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald - No
At over $150 per person for a round trip, Jungfraujoch, also known as the “Top of Europe,” is a serious investment. If the weather’s perfect, the glacier and mountain views are unforgettable, but if fog or a storm rolls in, it can be an expensive mistake. A more affordable and less-traveled option happens to be on the other side of the valley at Grindelwald First, taking tourists on a similar excursion for less cost. Another scenic option is a hike or train ride in Lauterbrunnen, providing equally stunning views for less than $10.
View from the trails to Furi. Zoe Lodge.
3. Gornergrat Railway, Zermatt - Go
This scenic, iconic train ride delivers panoramic Matterhorn views if the sky cooperates, but the weather can be hit-or-miss in the summer storm season, so it’s important to plan ahead. It’s pricey, but still less expensive than Mount Pilatus and Jungfraujoch at around $75 per person. The price tag can be worth it for one of the most iconic vistas in the Alps. For budget-conscious travelers, the Sunnegga funicular and the trails to Furi and above offer great alternatives that are easier on the wallet.
View of Altstadt, Bern. Zoe Lodge.
4. Altstadt, Bern - Go
Bern’s medieval core is charming and walkable, with beautiful fountains and arcaded shops. It’s not a destination in itself for most travelers, but it makes for a lovely day trip or stopover en route. Unlike many cities in Switzerland, Bern’s Old Town spans several blocks rather than a single street, providing seemingly endless shopping, food and culture. Bern is a frequently overlooked destination, but it is one that shouldn’t be missed, especially for some city sightseeing.
The Aare in Interlaken. Zoe Lodge.
5. Interlaken - No
This may be a controversial take, but the price tag combined with activity levels in Interlaken makes it a questionable stop for travelers. We stopped in for a few hours, which is what I would recommend, but staying in the city can push visitors over budget in no time, as it is packed with boutique spa hotels and small, pricey restaurants that only span a few blocks. The main stretch of Interlaken can be walked and seen within a few hours, so it’s not necessarily worth spending the night.
Switzerland is breathtaking, but it’s important to be selective. For travelers on a mid-range budget, not every tourist magnet is worth the time or price.
Zoe Lodge
Zoe is a student at the University of California, Berkeley, where she is studying English and Politics, Philosophy, & Law. She combines her passion for writing with her love for travel, interest in combating climate change, and concern for social justice issues.