Just got back from a quick 5-day trip to Switzerland and honestly, my bank account is crying but my soul is very happy. It’s beautiful, but bloody expensive! 😅
Since I’m always about the food (and saving a bit of cash where I can), here is how I did it, what was actually worth the hype, and what I ate!
🏎️ First Mountain (Grindelwald) — Real-Life Mario Kart!
This was hands down my favourite part. Skip the super expensive Jungfraujoch and head here instead. I did the Mountain Cart ride down the gravel paths of the Alps. It’s about 6km of pure fun and the views are unreal.
· Quick tip: Wear trousers! I saw someone in a skirt and it looked like a disaster waiting to happen.
· Cost: I had the Half-Fare Card, so the adventure package (with 2 activities) cost me 81 CHF. Totally worth it.
🚢 Lucerne — Boats, Bridges & Swan Selfies
Lucerne is super pretty and a bit more chilled. I took the boat trip on Lake Lucerne, which was free with my Swiss Travel Pass. Grabbed a spot on the deck, felt the breeze, and just watched the mountains go by.
Also had a wander round the old town to see the Chapel Bridge and the famous sad lion statue. The swans by the lake are everywhere and very used to people, perfect for a quick photo!
🏔️ Zermatt — The Matterhorn (Toblerone Mountain!)
Took the train up to Zermatt, which is this lovely little car-free town. I took the cogwheel train up to Gornergrat (got 50% off with my pass) to see the Matterhorn. It’s absolutely stunning, but definitely pack layers. I was freezing my head off at the top but sweating in my t-shirt back down in the town.
🍞 The Food Situation (How I survived the prices)
Eating out in Switzerland is no joke—a basic burger can easily set you back £25+. So, my absolute lifesaver was the Coop supermarket. Honestly, their hot roast chicken, fresh bread, and local cheeses are amazing and cost a fraction of restaurant prices. We did picnics by the lake almost every day. That said, I did treat myself to some local pastries in Lucerne and a proper cheese fondue in Zermatt (which was heavy but amazing).
🎒 Quick Practical Bits:
· Get a pass! Don't even try to buy individual train tickets, you'll go broke. The Swiss Travel Pass or Half-Fare card is a must.
· Bring a Type J adapter. My standard European plug didn't fit their weird recessed sockets.
· Budget: Spent about £900 for 5 days (excluding flights) by mixing Coop meals with a few nice dinners.
Anyone else been? Did you manage to find any cheap eats or did you just live off supermarket snacks like me? 😂
Sunset_Chaser
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Lucerne: FAQ
What's the most popular attractions in Lucerne?
Here are the best places to visit in Lucerne, including: Lion Monument,Chapel Bridge and Water Tower,Mt. Rigi