Travel Fun and Adventure

Money Saving Tips for Switzerland and Europe

April 06, 2024 John Dornoff Episode 117
Travel Fun and Adventure
Money Saving Tips for Switzerland and Europe
Show Notes

In this episode of the Travel Fun and Adventure Podcast, we give you tips for saving money when traveling to Switzerland and the surrounding European Countries. 

Traveling to Switzerland and the surrounding countries can be expensive, but here are some ideas for saving money. 

Travel during the shoulder season- We say this in most of our recommendations: Travel during the shoulder season of fall and spring and save money. 

Use Public Transportation - Don't worry, you won't die on public transportation; millions of people use it every day. In fact, in Switzerland, I observed more females traveling. alone early in the morning or late at night more than any place ever has been. 

Purchase a Swiss Rail Pass or Eurorail Pass—The Swiss Pass is an excellent deal that includes not only rail and bus transportation through Switzerland but also transit travel in the cities and admission to over 500 museums throughout the country. If you are traveling through multiple European countries, then the Eurorail Pass might be the best option for you. 

Look for accommodations that are a good value for the money - If more than 2 of you are traveling, look to Airbnb and VRBO. 

Save money on meals - Look for hotels that have free breakfast (although most charge in Europe) and at places like the CO-OP and Migros stores, where they have warm food at good prices. 

Take advantage of free attractions - Explore the natural beauty of Switzerland and surrounding countries, as many parks and hiking trails are free. 

Visit museums on free days—If the Swiss Rail Pass doesn't work for you, many museums have free days. 

Drink tap water - Switzerland, the surrounding area has good water, so you don't need bottled water. 

Use No Foreign Transaction Fees  Credit Cards

Don't use the conversion—When you go to an ATM or at many restaurants and hotels, you are asked if you want the bill converted into your own currency. Do not do it, as you will end up paying substantially more than if you let your bank or credit card company do the conversion instead. The worst part of these fees is the merchant at the restaurant or hotel doesn't get any of the money. It all goes to the banks. 

Hopefully some of these tips will be helpful to you. 

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