It comes as no surprise that student travelers flock to Switzerland. For starters, the country features landscapes that can only be described as jaw-dropping. But Switzerland has more than that. It also offers world-class cities, a vibrant cultural mix, and unmatched adventure opportunities. A student traveler’s Switzerland bucket list will undoubtedly include backpacking through the Alps, discovering historic towns, and finding the best chocolate on a budget. It’s safe to say there’s something for everyone in Switzerland.
One of the greatest draws for student travelers is that the magic of Switzerland can be explored on a budget, and staying connected is easy, too. Activate an eSIM Europe plan, and you can keep your social feeds well-stocked while easily looking up places to go, things to do, and more.
Where to Go and What to Do in Switzerland
Free outdoor adventures and affordable cultural experiences await, but where will you go, and what will you do? These five recommended Swiss destinations for students offer a mix of excitement, history, and breathtaking scenery.
1. Interlaken – The Ultimate Adventure Playground
Interlaken is the unofficial capital of Switzerland for adrenaline junkies. You’ll find it carefully nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz; some students consider it an affordable paradise.
Things to do and see in Interlaken:
- Hiking Heaven – The trails in and around Interlaken are free and offer great scenic views. The Harder Kulm hike is an excellent choice if you’re after panoramic scenery. The Lauterbrunnen Valley looks like it came straight from a fairytale.
- Budget Thrills – While skydiving and paragliding can be pricey, student-friendly adventure options like kayaking, paddleboarding, and even budget-friendly canyoning tours are also possible.
- Cheap Eats – The Barracuda Café & Bar is a great place to mingle with locals and enjoy coffee and sandwiches.
If your student loan allows for one big splurge, consider trying the Jungfraujoch railway. It is the “Top of Europe” experience. It’s pricey, but the views of the Aletsch Glacier are unforgettable.
2. Lucerne – History, Lakes, and a Postcard-Perfect Old Town
Lucerne is the kind of place where every street looks like it belongs on a Swiss travel brochure. Lucerne is a charming lakeside city surrounded by mountains. It’s also packed with culture, history, and budget-friendly things to do.
Top sights and things to do for students in Lucerne:
- Chapel Bridge & Old Town – Take a free self-guided walking tour of Lucerne’s medieval Old Town. Be charmed by cobblestone streets and colorful, frescoed buildings. The Chapel Bridge is one of the most photographed spots in Switzerland. Best of all, it’s free to cross.
- Mount Pilatus (The Cheap Way) – Instead of paying the potentially high fee to travel by cable car, hike up Mount Pilatus for free (all you need is strong legs and good weather). If you want to save cash, take the gondola up and hike down.
- Lake Lucerne Cruise – Many Swiss travel passes include a scenic boat ride across the lake. If you time it right, you can hop on one for free or at a discounted price.
Manor’s rooftop food court is good for light meals. It’s also where you can get Swiss classics at student-friendly prices while enjoying city views.
3. Zermatt – The Student-Friendly Way to See the Matterhorn
Switzerland’s most famous mountain is called the Matterhorn, and it’s found in Zermatt. Although it is considered a luxury destination, there are still opportunities for students to spend some time there without maxing out their credit cards.
Top adventures and activities for students in Zermatt:
- Gornergrat Alternative – While travelers who aren’t on a budget usually use the Gornergrat railway to get to a great view of the Matterhorn, you can hike up to Riffelalp, and it won’t cost you a cent.
- Skiing on a Budget – If you visit in spring or summer, skiing at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is surprisingly affordable, with student discounts on equipment rentals and lift passes.
- Free Matterhorn Views – Walk through Zermatt’s car-free streets and find the perfect Instagram shot of the Matterhorn without spending a dime. The bridge at Kirchbrücke is a great free photo spot for your socials.
When visiting Zermatt, for budget accommodation options, try the Zermatt Youth Hostel. Here, you can get a front-row view of the Matterhorn without the hefty hotel price tag attached.
4. Bern – The Underrated Capital with Old-World Charm
Most people don’t realize that Switzerland’s capital isn’t Zurich or Geneva; it’s Bern. And unlike most capitals, Bern has a laid-back, student-friendly vibe, making it one of the best places to visit.
Activities and adventures for students in Bern:
- Aare River Swimming – In summer, floating down the Aare River is a free local tradition. Join the fun and enjoy a lazy, scenic drift past Bern’s old town.
- Rosengarten (Rose Garden) – One of the best panoramic views of Bern is completely free. Pack a picnic and watch the sunset over the city.
- Einstein Museum – If you’re a student, you get discounts at the Einstein Museum, where you can learn about the famous physicist’s time in Bern. Take your student card along as proof.
If you’re hungry, grab a Rösti, Switzerland’s version of crispy potato heaven, at Altes Tramdepot, a local brewery with views of the Aare River.
5. Geneva – A Cultural Hub with Student Perks
Geneva might be known for banks and diplomats, but it’s also one of the best cities for students who love history, culture, and stunning lake views.
Top things to do in Geneva:
- Free Museums – Many of Geneva’s museums, including the Museum of Natural History and the Art and History Museum, are completely free. The four new dinosaur skeletons at the UZH Natural History Museum may be of particular interest.
- United Nations Tour – Students get discounted rates on tours of the Palais des Nations, where you can see international diplomacy in action.
- Bains des Pâquis – For just a few Swiss francs, you can enjoy Geneva’s best public lakeside baths, complete with saunas and affordable fondue.
For cheap eats, hit up Chez Ma Cousine, a local favorite for budget-friendly roasted chicken and potatoes.
Final Thoughts
Switzerland might have a reputation for being expensive, but for student travelers, it’s absolutely possible to experience its beauty without breaking the bank.
You can experience a mix of free outdoor activities, student discounts, and smart budget travel hacks. It’s possible to explore Switzerland without sacrificing experiences. Whether you’re hiking in Interlaken, snapping photos of the Matterhorn, or floating down the Aare River, Switzerland is full of unforgettable moments waiting to happen.
