After an incredible time in Munich, our journey continued as we set off for Zurich, Switzerland, for two nights. Traveling on a budget, we made sure to find affordable transport, accommodation, and dining options while making the most of our time in this beautiful city.
Day 1: Traveling from Munich to Zurich & Exploring the City
We took a FlixBus from Munich to Zurich for approximately €23.20, a cost-effective option that allowed us to enjoy the scenic ride through the Alps. The journey took around 4 hours, and upon arrival in Zurich, we checked into our budget-friendly accommodation, Green Marmot Capsule Hotel Zürich, where we stayed for CHF 116 (€118.32) each for two nights.
Since Zurich is known for its high cost of living, we opted for affordable meals by grabbing food from supermarkets and bakeries. We then spent the afternoon exploring Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, and took a peaceful walk along Lake Zurich, enjoying the stunning views of the city.
For transportation within Zurich, we relied on the efficient public transport system, which includes trams, buses, and boats. The Zurich Day Pass provided unlimited rides, making it easy and cost-effective to explore different parts of the city.
Day 2: Discovering Zurich on a Budget
To save on transport, we purchased a Zurich Day Pass, which gave us unlimited rides on trams, buses, and boats. Our first stop was the Old Town (Altstadt), where we admired the medieval architecture and visited landmarks like Grossmünster Church and Fraumünster Church with its famous stained-glass windows.
Next, we explored Lindenhof Hill, a historic park offering panoramic views of Zurich, before heading to Uetliberg Mountain, which provided breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. Instead of dining at expensive restaurants, we enjoyed another budget-friendly picnic by the lake, just like in Salzburg.
Getting around Zurich was incredibly easy with the extensive tram network. We found that trams were the most convenient way to travel between key attractions, and they ran frequently throughout the day. Buses complemented the tram system, ensuring we could reach even the more remote spots.
Expenses Breakdown
Budget Travel Tips for Munich & Zurich
✅ Book FlixBus or trains in advance to get the best deals.
✅ Stay in budget-friendly hotels or hostels to save money.
✅ Buy groceries or eat at bakeries instead of dining out.
✅ Use public transport day passes for unlimited rides.
✅ Explore free attractions like lakes, parks, and historic streets.
✅ Utilize Zurich’s tram and bus system to get around quickly and affordably.
Our trip from Munich to Zurich was an unforgettable experience, proving that budget travel in Europe is possible without missing out on the best sights.
Would you take a similar trip? Let me know in the comments! 😊