We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Zurich, Switzerland

Tips to make your trip affordable

There are many reasons to visit Zurich, Switzerland, including its historic buildings, shopping, and natural beauty. There is always something to do, with the many museums, restaurants, rivers, Lake Zurich, and a vibrant nightlife. If you’re interested in rest and relaxation, you can be in the Swiss mountains in less than an hour.

On a recent trip to Zurich, we had 3 days to explore this wonderful city before hopping onto a river cruise. We chose a hotel outside of the city center, knowing that tram tickets are inexpensive and can get us into the center of old town, also known as Altstadt, in just a few minutes. The trams come by the designated tram stops every few minutes, so if you miss one, another arrives within 5-7 minutes.

We purchased a 24-hour ticket for just 7.60 CHF (Swiss Franc) per person, at a kiosk right at the tram stop . Zone 110 is the one you want. Make sure you click on the ‘ENGLISH’ tab and it will walk you through how to purchase one. A credit card is required. Once we figured out the tram schedule it was pretty easy to use. Much like the ‘Tube’ in London, but above ground.

Once we reached old town, I was excited to explore the famous Grossmunster Cathedral Church with its tall twin steeple, which serves a the most recognized landmark in Zurich. This 12th-century cathedral has both historical and architectural significance and the stain glass windows were amazing. If you choose, you can climb the 186 steps to one of the towers for 5 CHF.

Many of the buildings in old town were built between 1292 – 1717 and maintained very well. Most are occupied by small, cozy businesses. You can see everything they sell from the sidewalk. The Swiss love their flag as it was flying from almost every building in old town.

Yes, Zurich is considered expensive. Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world, tied with Singapore. But we found a few ways to make our Swiss Francs go further:

1. Buy a tram ticket, as mentioned above, for traveling to and from Zurich’s old town (stop at either Helmhaus or Rathaus), and to get around to other parts of Zurich.
2. Stay in the outskirts of the touristy old town, for better hotel prices. Take the tram to get around from your hotel.
3. Walk everywhere!
4. Duck into a local café, where food prices are affordable.
5. Buy snacks at a local grocery market and take it back to your hotel.
6. Taxi’s are expensive and overpriced. UBER, if needed, are usually ½ the price and is widely used by the locals.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Zurich, Switzerland. We know you will too.

By Joyce Bates, owner of Sun Connections Travel & Cruises, the ‘go to’ travel agency for all occasions. For more info on this subject or to book your next trip, email joyce@sunconnections.com, visit www.sunconnections.com, or call 503-655-4850.

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