Free things to do
Many of Zurich's best experiences cost nothing. Wandering the old town, climbing to the Lindenhof for the view, strolling the lakeside promenades and visiting the city's churches are all free. The Grossmünster charges a small fee to climb its tower, but the main church interior is usually open to visitors at no charge.
In summer, some of the river and lake swimming spots are free, and even the paid bathing houses are reasonably priced compared with other activities. Bringing a towel and spending an afternoon by the water is one of the most local things you can do.
Eating for less
Restaurant meals in Zurich are expensive, so think about lunch as your main meal. Many restaurants offer a set lunch menu on weekdays that is noticeably cheaper than dinner. Large supermarkets and department store food halls sell salads, sandwiches and hot dishes to take away, and the city's many parks and lakeside benches make perfect picnic spots.
Street food stalls, kebab shops and sausage stands, including the much-loved grilled veal sausage, are good for a quick, filling bite. Bakeries also offer reasonably priced savoury pastries.
Drink the water
Zurich has well over a thousand public fountains, and almost all of them provide clean, drinkable water. Carry a refillable bottle and you will never need to buy water during the day. Look for signs indicating if a particular fountain is not drinking water, which is rare.
Transport and passes
Public transport is excellent but not cheap if you buy single tickets. A day pass or a city card covering trams, buses, trains and some lake boats usually works out better value, and the card may also include discounts at museums. The city is compact, so walking is often just as quick for short distances.
Coming from the airport, the train to the main station is fast and frequent, and often cheaper than a taxi by a wide margin.
Saving on the trip
If you can travel light, AeroVista's Lite fare covers a personal item, which suits a short city break. Hotels in districts slightly outside the centre, or in towns a short train ride away, can be more affordable, and comparing a Flight + Hotel package against separate bookings sometimes reveals savings. Visiting outside peak summer and the festive season usually helps too.
Good to know
- Carry a refillable bottle and use the public fountains.
- Make lunch your main restaurant meal.
- Prices are in Swiss francs; check card fees before you travel.