What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

For budget-conscious travellers, Switzerland offers plenty! Hiking is free and Switzerland boasts an incredible network of trails. Many lakes are free to access, like Lake Thun or Lake Geneva, offering stunning views and opportunities for swimming or picnicking. Visiting smaller, less-known towns and villages instead of major cities like Zurich or Geneva will also save money. Exploring free walking tours in cities like Bern or Lucerne can be a great way to see the sights without spending a fortune. Look for free activities in towns and cities, such as attending a local market or exploring a park.

What are the best hostels in Switzerland?

Among the hostels in Switzerland, Young Backpackers Homestay , Chalet Hostel @ Backpackers Villa Interlaken and Backpackers Luzern are the most popular ones.

Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Switzerland?

Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA) are the two largest and busiest airports in Switzerland, handling the vast majority of international flights. Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport (BSL) is also significant, serving the north-western region, though smaller than Zurich and Geneva.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Switzerland?

Young Backpackers Homestay , Chalet Hostel @ Backpackers Villa Interlaken and Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald are the best hostels with a pool in Switzerland.

What currency do you need for Switzerland?

The Swiss franc (CHF) is the official currency of Switzerland.

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Switzerland?

The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Switzerland are Young Backpackers Homestay , Walters Hostel Interlaken and Catrina Hostel .

How easy is it to navigate the roads in Switzerland?

Switzerland has a well-maintained road network, generally easy to navigate. However, mountain passes can be narrow and winding, requiring careful driving, especially in winter conditions. Motorways are well-signposted, but tolls apply. Public transport is efficient and often a more convenient option, especially in mountainous areas.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Switzerland?

The best hostels for families and kids in Switzerland are Chalet Hostel @ Backpackers Villa Interlaken , Backpackers Luzern and Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald .

How can travellers best respect local customs while in Switzerland?

Being punctual is highly valued. Queuing is the norm. Learning a few basic German, French, or Italian phrases (depending on the region) is appreciated. Being mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, is important. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service, usually around 5-10%.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Switzerland?

The best pet friendly hostels in Switzerland are Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald , Montreux Youth Hostel and Walters Hostel Interlaken .

Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Switzerland?

Switzerland has many regional festivals, but some of the most well-known include the Unspunnenfest (a traditional Swiss festival with wrestling, yodelling, and other folk activities), held every 12 years in Interlaken, and the Fête des Vignerons (Winegrowers' Festival) in Vevey, a spectacular event celebrating winemaking tradition, held less frequently.

What are the best hostels with parking in Switzerland?

Young Backpackers Homestay , Chalet Hostel @ Backpackers Villa Interlaken and Backpackers Luzern are the best hostels with parking in Switzerland.

What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Switzerland?

For medical emergencies, dial 144. For police emergencies, dial 117. For fire emergencies, dial 118.

What are the best areas to spend a week in Switzerland?

A week allows for exploring diverse regions. Consider a trip combining the Jungfrau region (Interlaken, Grindelwald) for mountain scenery and outdoor activities with a visit to Lucerne for its charming old town and lake. Alternatively, explore the French-speaking part of Switzerland, focusing on the stunning Lake Geneva region and charming towns like Montreux and Lausanne.

What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Switzerland?

For a short break, Zurich offers a vibrant city experience with easy access to Lake Zurich. Lucerne provides a picturesque setting with a beautiful lake and historic Chapel Bridge. Alternatively, consider a weekend getaway to Interlaken, a gateway to the stunning Bernese Oberland mountains, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.

Are there specific regions in Switzerland known for great weather?

The southern Ticino region, bordering Italy, enjoys a generally warmer and drier climate than other parts of Switzerland, making it ideal for sun-seekers. However, Switzerland's weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is always advisable, regardless of the region.

Switzerland Hostels at the Best Price

No reviews

Auberge Du Parc

hostel, Delémont

Auberge Du Parc, a hostel in Delémont, offers convenient access to Basel's attractions, including Basel Cathedral and the Museum of Fine Arts, situated a short drive away, and is also close to EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg. This accommodation provides free Wi-Fi and a bar, serving as a good base for exploring the region.

9.4 203 reviews

Sonnenhof - Wengens Original Kurhaus

hostel, Lauterbrunnen

Hostel Sonnenhof Wengen is located in the village of Wengen, 10km from the iconic Mount Eiger and 19km from both Grindelwald Terminal and First Grindelwald. The hostel has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and overall user experience, with a good rating for its location.
The hostel offers a shared lounge and terrace for socialising and enjoying the mountain views. It also provides a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, free Wi-Fi, and a shared bathroom with a shower and hairdryer. The hostel is family-friendly and offers family rooms, as well as easy access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities.

10 2 reviews

Petit Vélan - Coworking & Coliving

hostel, Bourg-Saint-Pierre

Petit Vélan - Coworking & Coliving is conveniently located in Bourg-Saint-Pierre, offering easy access to local hiking trails and village amenities.
This budget-friendly guesthouse features a shared kitchen, lounge, and coworking space, accommodating one bedroom and one bathroom.

8.1 16093 reviews

Geneva Hostel

hostel, Geneva

City Hostel Geneva is conveniently located near the train station, a short walk from Lake Geneva and the Park du Château Banquet. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of room types, including single and double rooms with washbasins, as well as dormitory rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, a lounge with computers, free WiFi, laundry facilities, and a terrace or balcony.

8.7 137 reviews

Le Wafo

hostel, Gryon

Le Wafo is a hotel located in Gryon, a charming village in the Swiss Alps, just 22 miles from Montreux Train Station and 20 miles from Chillon Castle. The hotel has excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
Le Wafo offers a range of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy. The hotel features a garden, a terrace, a restaurant, a bar, a tennis court, a sauna, and a fitness centre, as well as free parking and Wi-Fi.

8.7 2761 reviews

Adventure Hostel Interlaken

hostel, Unterseen

Adventure Hostel Interlaken is conveniently located in Interlaken, just a short distance from the Interlaken Ost Train Station and within easy reach of stunning natural attractions like the Giessbachfälle and Staubbach Falls. The hostel has received consistently high ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel offers a range of room options, including private bathrooms and kitchenettes, catering to different needs and budgets. Guests can enjoy a communal garden and terrace, a bar, a fitness centre, a tennis court, and a restaurant, making it a great place to relax and socialise.

8.5 173 reviews

Beinwil Am See Youth Hostel

hostel, Beinwil am See

Beinwil am See Youth Hostel is located in Beinwil am See, approximately 32 kilometres from Lucerne's Lion Monument, the KKL Culture and Convention Centre, and Chapel Bridge.
This family-friendly hostel offers a swimming pool, private beach access, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi; it also features a shared kitchen, fitness centre, and parking for guests.

8.6 113 reviews

Schwendihaus

hostel, Amden

Schwendihaus is a hostel located in Amden, a village above Lake Walensee, just 300 metres from the Mattstock Chair Elevator, offering easy access to hiking and skiing trails in the surrounding mountains. It has very good user ratings and excellent ratings for location and cleanliness.
The hostel has spacious rooms with private bathrooms and a shared lounge, games room, and tour desk. Guests can enjoy the garden, barbecue facilities, terrace, swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis court, and restaurant, as well as free parking and Wi-Fi.

8.7 1480 reviews

Alaïa Lodge

hostel, Crans-Montana

Alaia Lodge is a 3-star hotel conveniently located in Crans-Montana, within walking distance of the city centre and close to popular ski lifts like the Zermatt-Furi, Matterhorn Express, and Matternhorn-gracier paradise. The hotel is perfect for those seeking a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.
The lodge offers a range of amenities, including a spa, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi access. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast for an additional fee, and the hotel also provides parking and a lift for easy access.

8.3 893 reviews

Hôtel Terminus

hostel, Orsières

The Hôtel Terminus is located in the historic district of Orsières, close to the road to the Great St. Bernard Pass and within easy reach of the villages of Champex, La Fouly, Verbier, and Martigny. This 3-star hotel receives very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hotel is housed in a renovated 1910 building, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities including a restaurant, bar, terrace, fitness centre, and free parking. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi, room service, and is pet-friendly, making it a great choice for families and travellers looking for a comfortable and convenient stay.

9.7 390 reviews

Wild Valley Hostel - Villa Edera

hostel, Onsernone

Wild Valley Hostel - Villa Edera is located in Auressio, a tranquil village in the Onsernone Valley, a 20-minute drive from Locarno and 19 miles from Lugano. This hostel has excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The hostel offers a range of facilities, including a kitchen with a fridge, freezer, microwave, and dishwasher, as well as a terrace, garden, and parking. Guests can enjoy a barbecue, free Wi-Fi, and bike rental, making it ideal for exploring the beautiful surroundings.

9.1 345 reviews

Martigny Youth Hostel

hostel, Martigny

Martigny Youth Hostel is located in Martigny's old town, within walking distance of the Fondation Gianadda and close to Barryland, the St Bernard dog centre.
This historic building, dating back to 1645, offers 24-hour reception, free internet, parking, and easy access to hiking trails and the resorts of Verbier and Chamonix.

Best Switzerland hostels with breakfast

Among the 1154 hostels in Switzerland, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

9.1 171 reviews

B&b Gassa 95

hostel, Vals

B&B Gassa 95 is located in Vals, just 29 kilometres from the Freestyle Academy - Indoor Base and 32 kilometres from Lake Cauma, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area. The B&B has received very good user ratings and excellent ratings for location and cleanliness.
The guesthouse has one bedroom and one bathroom, and comes equipped with bed linen and towels. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant, which offers both à la carte and continental breakfast options, as well as packed lunches upon request. The B&B also offers mini-golf facilities, ski storage, and free Wi-Fi, plus private parking is available for an additional charge.

9.3 104 reviews

Auberge Restaurant Du Lac Retaud

hostel, Ormont-Dessus

The Auberge Restaurant Du Lac Retaud is located in Les Diablerets, a charming village in the Swiss Alps, approximately 40 kilometres from both Chillon Castle and the Musée National Suisse de l'audiovisuel. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the tranquil Lac Retaud.
This hotel has one bedroom and one bathroom, covering 5 square metres and accommodating up to three guests. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, terrace, garden, parking, internet access, and continental breakfast, as well as being pet-friendly.

8.5 135 reviews

Jugendherberge Trin

hostel, Trin

The Jugendherberge Trin is located in the village of Trin, just 6 miles from Lake Cauma and 6.3 miles from Freestyle Academy - Indoor Base. The hostel enjoys a very good user rating, location rating, and an excellent cleanliness rating.
The Jugendherberge Trin offers a range of facilities including a restaurant, terrace, kitchen, and parking. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi, ski storage, and a social lounge.

8.5 9950 reviews

Zermatt Youth Hostel

hostel, Zermatt

Zermatt Youth Hostel is located just a 10-minute walk from both the ski lifts and the town centre, making it easy to explore all that Zermatt has to offer. It has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a variety of accommodation options, including private rooms with en-suite facilities, shared bathrooms, and dormitory beds. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and terrace, as well as free Wi-Fi and stunning mountain views.

Top cities

Best Switzerland hostels with a locker

8.2 6760 reviews

St. Moritz Youth Hostel

hostel, St. Moritz

The St. Moritz Youth Hostel is situated on the edge of the forest, a short distance from the centre of St. Moritz, making it ideal for exploring both the town and the surrounding natural beauty. It enjoys very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of modern rooms and communal areas, perfect for socialising and relaxing after a day exploring the area. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, tennis court, and fitness centre, as well as access to free Wi-Fi and discounted ski passes.

8.4 6430 reviews

Interlaken Youth Hostel

hostel, Interlaken

The Interlaken Youth Hostel is located right next to Interlaken Ost Train Station, making it easy to explore the surrounding area and the stunning natural beauty of the Swiss Alps. It boasts a very good user rating and an excellent location rating, with a very good cleanliness rating.
The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, from shared rooms to private rooms, all with hardwood floors and large windows. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and a terrace with views of the surrounding park.

9.6 56 reviews

Mariastein-rotberg Youth Hostel

hostel, Metzerlen-Mariastein

The Mariastein-rotberg Youth Hostel is located in Metzerlen-Mariastein, just 1.8 kilometres from the Mariastein Abbey, a historic landmark. The hostel has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The hostel offers single rooms with a shared bathroom, each measuring 4 square metres and accommodating one guest. It features amenities such as a kitchen, a terrace, a garden, a restaurant, and free parking, as well as table tennis and free Wi-Fi.

9.0 645 reviews

Alpine Base Hostel - Adults Only

hostel, Lauterbrunnen

Alpine Base Hostel - Adults Only is located in Lauterbrunnen, just a short walk from the Staubbach Falls and a scenic drive from the Grindelwald Terminal, offering easy access to the stunning Jungfrau region. The hostel enjoys very good user ratings for cleanliness and location, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel has one bedroom and one bathroom, accommodating up to two guests. Enjoy a range of amenities including a shared kitchen, a bar, a garden, a terrace, and a tennis court, as well as free Wi-Fi and entertainment options like karaoke and table tennis.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Switzerland

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget-conscious travellers, Switzerland offers plenty! Hiking is free and Switzerland boasts an incredible network of trails. Many lakes are free to access, like Lake Thun or Lake Geneva, offering stunning views and opportunities for swimming or picnicking. Visiting smaller, less-known towns and villages instead of major cities like Zurich or Geneva will also save money. Exploring free walking tours in cities like Bern or Lucerne can be a great way to see the sights without spending a fortune. Look for free activities in towns and cities, such as attending a local market or exploring a park.
What are the best hostels in Switzerland?
Among the hostels in Switzerland, Young Backpackers Homestay, Chalet Hostel @ Backpackers Villa Interlaken and Backpackers Luzern are the most popular ones.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Switzerland?
Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA) are the two largest and busiest airports in Switzerland, handling the vast majority of international flights. Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport (BSL) is also significant, serving the north-western region, though smaller than Zurich and Geneva.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Switzerland?
Young Backpackers Homestay, Chalet Hostel @ Backpackers Villa Interlaken and Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald are the best hostels with a pool in Switzerland.
What currency do you need for Switzerland?
The Swiss franc (CHF) is the official currency of Switzerland.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Switzerland?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Switzerland are Young Backpackers Homestay, Walters Hostel Interlaken and Catrina Hostel.
How easy is it to navigate the roads in Switzerland?
Switzerland has a well-maintained road network, generally easy to navigate. However, mountain passes can be narrow and winding, requiring careful driving, especially in winter conditions. Motorways are well-signposted, but tolls apply. Public transport is efficient and often a more convenient option, especially in mountainous areas.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Switzerland?
The best hostels for families and kids in Switzerland are Chalet Hostel @ Backpackers Villa Interlaken, Backpackers Luzern and Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald.
How can travellers best respect local customs while in Switzerland?
Being punctual is highly valued. Queuing is the norm. Learning a few basic German, French, or Italian phrases (depending on the region) is appreciated. Being mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, is important. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service, usually around 5-10%.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Switzerland?
The best pet friendly hostels in Switzerland are Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald, Montreux Youth Hostel and Walters Hostel Interlaken.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Switzerland?
Switzerland has many regional festivals, but some of the most well-known include the Unspunnenfest (a traditional Swiss festival with wrestling, yodelling, and other folk activities), held every 12 years in Interlaken, and the Fête des Vignerons (Winegrowers' Festival) in Vevey, a spectacular event celebrating winemaking tradition, held less frequently.
What are the best hostels with parking in Switzerland?
Young Backpackers Homestay, Chalet Hostel @ Backpackers Villa Interlaken and Backpackers Luzern are the best hostels with parking in Switzerland.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Switzerland?
For medical emergencies, dial 144. For police emergencies, dial 117. For fire emergencies, dial 118.
What are the best areas to spend a week in Switzerland?
A week allows for exploring diverse regions. Consider a trip combining the Jungfrau region (Interlaken, Grindelwald) for mountain scenery and outdoor activities with a visit to Lucerne for its charming old town and lake. Alternatively, explore the French-speaking part of Switzerland, focusing on the stunning Lake Geneva region and charming towns like Montreux and Lausanne.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Switzerland?
For a short break, Zurich offers a vibrant city experience with easy access to Lake Zurich. Lucerne provides a picturesque setting with a beautiful lake and historic Chapel Bridge. Alternatively, consider a weekend getaway to Interlaken, a gateway to the stunning Bernese Oberland mountains, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
Are there specific regions in Switzerland known for great weather?
The southern Ticino region, bordering Italy, enjoys a generally warmer and drier climate than other parts of Switzerland, making it ideal for sun-seekers. However, Switzerland's weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is always advisable, regardless of the region.

Top regions Switzerland

Best Switzerland hostels with air conditioning

8.5 2705 reviews

Villa Sassa

hotel, Lugano

Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa - Ticino Hotels Group is a 4-star hotel located on the slopes above Lugano, offering panoramic views of the city, lake, and mountains, and is a 15-minute walk from the city centre. User reviews consistently praise the hotel for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hotel is set in a peaceful park setting, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, restaurant, and bar, as well as a tennis court and valet parking.

10 2 reviews

Hotel Lindenhof

hostel, Entlebuch

Hotel Lindenhof in Ebnet, a district of Entlebuch, is located 25.7 kilometres from Emmen Air Base and offers mountain views from a quiet street setting.
This hostel provides family rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and free WiFi, alongside a restaurant serving diverse dietary options, a bar, picnic area, barbecue facilities, and convenient bicycle parking for guests exploring nearby skiing, walking, bike, and hiking trails.

8.8 281 reviews

Valbella-lenzerheide Youth Hostel

hostel, Vaz/Obervaz

The Valbella-Lenzerheide Youth Hostel is located in the Valbella district, just a short distance from Lake Heid and directly on the ski slope. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel has a spacious lounge and games room, a garden with BBQ facilities, and a sun terrace with panoramic views of the lake and mountains. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi, as well as activities such as skiing, hiking, and cycling.

8.6 5164 reviews

Hotel City Zürich Design & Lifestyle

hotel, Zurich

The Hotel City Zürich Design & Lifestyle is located in the heart of Zurich's financial district, just a short walk from the main train station and the famous Bahnhofstrasse. It is a 3-star hotel with a very good user rating. This hotel is a popular choice for travellers who want to be in the heart of the action.
The rooms are individually designed and offer a cosy and personalised experience. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and garden, and offers amenities like air conditioning, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy boat rides on the nearby Limmat River or Lake Zurich, offering stunning views of the city.

Best Switzerland hostels with laundry available

8.9 13 reviews

Restaurant Fleschboden

hostel, Termen

Restaurant Fleschboden hostel in Rosswald, conveniently located 19 kilometres from the Simplon Pass and 26 kilometres from the Aletsch Arena, offers ski-to-door access and stunning mountain views.
This family-friendly guesthouse features a shared kitchen, terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, free Wi-Fi, and a playground, providing continental and Italian breakfast options alongside access to hiking and skiing in the Rosswald area.

9.4 29 reviews

Ostello Scudellate Monte Generoso

hostel, Breggia

Ostello Scudellate By Stay Generous is located in the Scudellate district, about 11 miles from both Mendrisio and Chiasso stations, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall user experience.
The hostel offers a range of shared spaces, including a lounge, terrace, restaurant, and bar, providing opportunities for socialising and meeting fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a kitchen, a playground, and parking, as well as stunning mountain views from their private balconies.

9.1 8105 reviews

Backpackers Luzern

hostel, Lucerne

Backpackers Luzern is located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, just a short walk from the KKL Culture and Convention Center and the Chapel Bridge, offering a peaceful setting with easy access to the city's main attractions. The hostel has consistently received excellent ratings for its cleanliness and location, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers.
The hostel provides a shared kitchen and lounge area, perfect for socialising and preparing meals. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a terrace, fitness centre, and free parking.

8.2 804 reviews

Hirschen Backpacker-hotel & Pub

hostel, Schwyz

Hirschen Backpacker-hotel & Pub in Schwyz enjoys a convenient location, 24km from Einsiedeln Abbey and 35km from Lucerne's KKL Culture and Convention Centre, offering easy access to hiking, skiing, and windsurfing.
This backpacker hotel boasts a swimming pool, tennis court, and on-site restaurant and bar, alongside a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and parking, all within a single-bedroom, single-bathroom property.

All Hostels in Switzerland

1154 Hostels in Switzerland