Sightseeing on a Budget in Zurich

As one of the most expensive cities in the world, sightseeing in Zurich can be tricky when you’re on a budget—but not impossible. From hidden freebies to multiattraction passes, here are our top tips for saving on sightseeing in Switzerland’s largest city.

Book a Travel Pass

Packages such as the Swiss Travel Pass provide not only discounted access to mountain excursions and entry to numerous museums, but also unlimited use of buses, boats, and trains over a time period of your choice, making them a great money-saving option. Zurich attractions covered by the Swiss Pass include the National Museum Zurich (Landesmuseum Zürich), FIFA World Football Museum, and Lake Zurich boat trips.

Opt for a Combo Deal

Combo packages typically include a city tour along with one or two additional experiences, such as museum entry or a Lake Zurich cruise, usually at a discount. Time is money, and these tours help you capitalize on both with an inclusive, preplanned itinerary. Some options also include 24-hour access to the city’s buses and trams, helping you save on a full day’s transport costs.

Choose a Super Saver

Super Saver tours let you check off two best-selling experiences at a discounted price. In Zurich, these typically include both a city tour and trip to a natural landmark such as the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, allowing you to broaden your perspective of Switzerland’s urban and rural landscapes without breaking the bank.

Book a Tour That Includes Dinner or Samples

The cost of dining in Zurich can put a big dent in your budget. To save money on meals, combine city sightseeing with sampling Swiss specialities such as cheese or chocolate on a food-focused tour, or opt for a package that includes a full sit-down meal.

Find Free Experiences

From climbing historic Lindenhof hill to finding James Joyce’s grave in Fluntern Cemetery or borrowing a free bicycle from Züri rollt on Europaplatz, there are several ways to sightsee in this expensive city without spending a penny. The university’s Archaeological Collection, the Zurich Football Club Museum, and the National Museum’s Simply Zurich exhibition are always free to enter, while the Kunsthaus and Migros Museum offer free entry on specific days of the week.