How much does it cost to visit Switzerland?

A direct round-trip flight from the USA (e.g., JFK) to Switzerland (ZRH or GVA) typically starts around $650–$1,050 in economy class, including one checked bag up to 50 lb (23 kg) and one carry-on. Prices peak during the summer months of July and August, as well as the winter ski season in February and the December holiday period. You’ll often save by flying in the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall), being flexible with dates, or choosing connecting flights via major European hubs like London, Paris, or Frankfurt—especially if you’re continuing beyond Zurich or Geneva to regions like Zermatt, St. Moritz, or the Bernese Oberland.

Prices for a 4* hotel in Switzerland start at about $240 per night. You can also stay in 2–3* accommodation from around $110 per night. In the low season, particularly in November or early spring, rates are typically up to 20% lower.

For luxurious 5* hotels, historic grand properties overlooking Lake Geneva, or exclusive alpine chalets in St. Moritz and Zermatt, there’s virtually no upper limit, as premium suites and private residences can easily exceed $2,000 per night during the peak winter ski season. Whenever possible, we recommend choosing a locally owned boutique hotel or a traditional mountain lodge over a large international chain.

Small, often family-run Gasthäuser (inns) and Chambres d'hôtes in the French-speaking regions are hallmarks of an authentic Swiss vacation. Rooms are usually simple but incredibly welcoming, featuring high-quality craftsmanship, a cozy atmosphere, and the genuinely personal service that defines Swiss hospitality.

Prices for popular guided tours in Switzerland typically range from $40 to $120 per person. With this budget, you might join a chocolate tasting tour in Zurich, take a guided city walk through Lucerne’s medieval Old Town, explore the Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva, or take a guided tour of a traditional watchmaker’s workshop.

Tickets to major sights and local mountain excursions generally cost $20–$65 per visitor—think the Lindt Home of Chocolate, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, or regional funicular rides. By contrast, premium mountain experiences like the Jungfraujoch "Top of Europe," private mountain guides for exclusive alpine summits, or private boat charters on Lake Zurich can run several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the level of exclusivity and the season.

Switzerland also offers plenty of free experiences: hike through the spectacular marked trails of the Bernese Oberland, stroll the scenic lakeside promenades of Lugano or Montreux, wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Bern, explore the vibrant weekly markets, and relax in pristine city parks or swim in the crystal-clear waters of the public "Badis" along the lakes and rivers.

Car rental prices in Switzerland vary by season and location, starting around $80–$125 per day for a small car in peak months (Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne). In the low season, rates can drop by 20–40%. Fuel adds a significant cost (expect roughly $1.90–$2.15 per liter). Inventory tightens during the summer hiking season and the peak winter ski months, so it’s wise to book early to avoid price spikes.

Switzerland’s public transportation is an excellent alternative and arguably the best in Europe. High-speed SBB and regional trains connect major cities and even remote mountain villages, while urban networks (tram, bus, S-Bahn) are highly efficient (Zurich single rides for short distances are about $4.50). Between major hubs like Zurich and Geneva or Interlaken, train tickets are frequent and reliable, typically ranging from $45–$95 depending on the distance and how far in advance you book. Taxis and rideshares are convenient but significantly pricier; airport–city transfers in Zurich run about $60–$85, and short inner-city rides typically $30–$50, depending on traffic and time of day.

Prices for a meal in a Swiss restaurant typically range from $25 to $55 for a main course, while a 3-course fixed-price menu (tagesmenü) often costs $60 to $110. Snacks and local treats are an essential part of the experience, usually $6 to $12 for a piece of Swiss chocolate, a slice of nusstorte, or a bürli (bread roll) with local cheese. Many traditional restaurants offer high-quality service and attention to detail; while tap water (hahnenwasser) is safe and excellent, it is common for restaurants to charge a small service fee for it or encourage the purchase of bottled mineral water.To explore Swiss cuisine, try regional favorites like cheese fondue, raclette, zürcher geschnetzeltes (veal in cream sauce), and crispy rösti. For the most authentic experience, seek out an auberge in the countryside or a historic guild house in the city, where seasonal ingredients like mountain-sourced mushrooms and alpine cheeses take center stage. In major cities, dining hours are relatively stable with lunch typically served from 12 pm to 2 pm and dinner from 6:30 pm to 10 pm, though many urban cafés offer "all-day" dining options.