Looking for budget stays in Zurich? This section is designed to save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. We've got insider tips to help you find affordable hostels and the cheapest places to stay in Zurich.
Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and is located on Lake Zurich. Even though it's the largest Swiss city, it is quite compact and can easily be explored by foot. It does not really matter which of Zurich's several suburbs you choose for your stay since public transportation is abundant and efficient, and Zurich hostels are all conveniently located.
It is nice to stay in a Zurich hostel close to the Limmat river (in which you can swim during summer) or on Lake Zurich even though these will be the most expensive options. Be aware that Zurich is generally a very expensive place to stay, both in terms of accommodation and living cost.
Getting from any of Zurich's hostels to almost anywhere you'd like is easy, just walk or take a tram or a bus. Public transport is always on time (the Swiss get angry if a train is more than 30 seconds late) and very efficient. You can get to almost every Swiss city within 2 hours from Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station) if you are interested in traveling within Switzerland. If you are planning on traveling around a lot, get a “Halbtax Billet” which allows you to travel for half price on all Swiss trains.
We also highly recommend taking a boat cruise around Lake Zurich. You can visit the neighboring city of Kusnacht and enjoy the picturesque scenery on your trip. Do not forget to eat some of the legendary Swiss cheese while you are there.
Written by Travel Expert Zurich
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