Solo Travel in Switzerland

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Food & Chocolate GatG, Lakes GatG, Nature GatG

Solo travel Switzerland for alpine peaks, waterfalls, mountain vistas and some of the best panoramic train travel in the world. If you are planning a solo trip to Switzerland, below is my guide on how to travel solo in Switzerland.

I've included what to do in Switzerland, our favourite Switzerland attractions, where to stay, which tour company to use and the best way to travel around Switzerland. Find out how to get from the airports and what to do in each place.

All companies and activities have been recommended by solo female travellers and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article for solo travel to Switzerland. 

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Switzerland 

N.b. By booking through this page for your Switzerland solo travel you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping. 

Solo Travel in Switzerland

Contents

Solo Travel in Switzerland

Gruyeres in bloom

Solo Travel in Switzerland

Is Switzerland safe to travel alone? Switzerland is so ridiculously safe; that's why we've given it 5 out of 5 stars. Crime in Switzerland is virtually non-existent and the only problem you’ll run into here is avoiding a random cow upon a morning stroll.

The mountains are well-marked and include the time it will take to walk to the next destination so there is no chance of getting lost. The locals speak English and will help if you do happen to take a wrong turn. Switzerland is popular with Asian countries so you'll find many tourists here who come to experience the Alps.  

The transport system is fantastic, and you can hike in the most remote areas with no problems at all. In fact, if you are in need of some solitude, Switzerland is perfect for those wanting some alone time. The country of Switzerland is wonderful to explore independently but you may prefer to visit on a group tour.

Solo Travel in Switzerland - Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen

Places To See in Switzerland

We love Switzerland with its alpine peaks, waterfalls and mountain vistas. If you're wondering is Switzerland expensive? It is one of the more expensive countries in Europe and can be a bit pricey but don't let the cost put you off. You can still find reasonable accommodations and get by on a modest budget. 

For such a small country there are four main languages with only 10,000 people speaking the traditional Swiss language. With more than half of the country in the alpine region, Switzerland is ideal for hiking with its stunning scenery.

Take your Switzerland vacation in the summer for the walking trails; there are 60,000 km to choose from. Visit in the winter for skiing and relaxing in thermal spas on the slopes. Below is our favourite Switzerland places to visit. 

* Click here to discover all activities and things to do in Switzerland

Solo Travel in Switzerland

Bern, the capital city

Bern

With many flights into Zurich, you may not get a chance to visit the country’s de facto capital – Bern (not Zurich as you may have thought). This historic city has so many museums.

Take your pick from the Art Museum, History Museum, and many more or take a peek inside Albert Einstein’s old residence at Einstein House. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and here you’ll find locals and tourists enjoying the bars and cafes.

If you're wondering ‘Is Switzerland safe at night?' Yes, it is and you can feel comfortable in the bars by yourself. In Bern, you could spend an evening (from Tuesday to Sunday) at Marians Jazzroom, which is perfect for solos.

If Bern Switzerland is on your itinerary, make sure you go to the Rose Garden where you can get the best view of the city from the cathedral's tower.  

Solo Travel in Switzerland - Zurich

Zurich on a rainy day

Shopping at Zurich

Zürich is one of the Switzerland major cities. If you do spend time in Zurich, this city is ideal for a shopping spree with plenty of coffee shops for a welcome break in-between window shopping. Head to Bahnhofstrasse for the famous shopping mile.

Known as a banking and finance hub, the city also offers river cruises which are a different way to see the city. You can even jump onboard an old steamship.

One of the things to do in Zurich is to explore the city by bike. Bikes are free and give you the freedom to cycle around the lake or the city for sightseeing and exercise rolled into one, or join the free walking tour to meet others.

Visit in the summer you'll find locals hanging out by the lake so take your towel and bikini to join them. If you prefer solitude, head to the east side of the lake to lose yourself in a picturesque garden of roses. 

Zurich is the ideal destination from where to explore Rhine Falls, Europe's most powerful waterfall and one of the tourist attractions in Switzerland. It takes up to an hour train ride to reach either Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall or Neuhausen Rheinfall, the nearby train stations.

Solo Travel in Switzerland

Oeschinen Lake

Switzerlands’ Lakes

Zurich is just one of best Switzerland cities with a lake. Another city is Lake Geneva which has the largest lake in western Europe. This Lavaux Switzerland landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is said to produce the finest wine in the region; perfect for wine tasting.

Things to do in Geneva are lots of hiking. Head west for a plethora of hiking trails within the Jura Mountains. The whole region is great for historic castles, and lake shores and offers spectacular views over the French Alps. 

Then there’s Lake Lucerne; an alpine playground with a beautiful city, lake and mountains (our favourite place in Switzerland). It is a city of culture with museums, theatres and festivals, and you can easily spend a couple of days here meandering around the churches, small streets, and plazas (not to mention the lake and the bridges).

Things to do in Lucerne is to see the famous clock (known as Zytturm), which chimes before all the other city clocks. You can read about the history of the watchmaker inside the clock museum.

You also can't miss ‘The Dying Lion of Lucerne’ – one of the world’s most famous monuments which is situated near the oldest gift shop in town (according to the sign). Lucerne is also a great place to base yourself.

Everything Swiss is here from the best of Switzerland's chocolate to watches, and Swiss army knives but you have to try the Swiss fondue too – part of Switzerland's culture. Pick up a museum pass if you are intending to see a few museums during your stay to save you some money. 

Another must see in Switzerland is just nearby. Mount Pilatus is where you can take the Panorama Gondola up Mount Pilatus before riding the world's steepest cogwheel train en route to Alpnachstad.

It's one of the top things to do and if you have plenty of free time, you can also reach Mount Titlis from here. Take the Lucerne-Engelberg Express and then a bus to the Titlis Xpress cable cars.

Solo Travel in Switzerland - Lucern

Lucerne – our favourite place in Switzerland

Things To Do in Interlaken

If you're an adrenalin GatG head to Interlaken for every type of adventure you can imagine. From paragliding, rafting, tandem sky diving, bungy jumping, hand gliding, canyon jumping, whitewater rafting and ice climbing.

If this all sounds a bit exhausting then take a leisurely horse ride or stroll along the several walking trails instead. You can even view this resort town from above with a heli-sightseeing tour. This fun destination is the ideal town to base yourself for mountains, lakes, waterfalls and glaciers. 

Interlaken is located in the Bernese Oberland and sits between lakes; Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Lake Brienz is a gorgeous turquoise-coloured lake where you can take a boat trip to see the roaring Giessbach Falls and see the oldest funicular railway.

Visit Thun Castle, a 12th-century castle which is now a museum and see the Romanesque churches dotted around the lake. 

Solo travel in Switzerland

The stunning Schilthorn

Jungfrajoch Train

For the best views in Europe, take the Jungfrau Railway to the highest-altitude railway station in Europe (3454 metres). The Jungfraujoch is UNESCO listed and has Europe's largest glacier, making it a popular destination for Switzerland tourism.

Where else can you visit the ‘Top of Europe?' Travel here and you'll be transported to a world of snow and ice with breathtaking views. It's one of Switzerland's most beautiful places. 

Venture inside the Ice Palace to really experience the beauty of this area in the heart of the glacier. (It's open year-round). You can reach Jungfrajoch from Lucerne or Zurich on a full-day trip. You travel via Interlaken to Grindelwald, and onward to Kleine Scheidegg past majestic peaks.

Check prices and dates: Lucerne Full-Day Trip to Jungfraujoch 

Solo Travel in Switzerland - Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen and one of its 72 waterfalls

Lauterbrunnen Valley

Lauterbrunnen is a gorgeous place with mountain peaks and cliffs and waterfalls everywhere (there are 72!) Staubbach Falls is a free-falling waterfall which is visible in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Our favourite is Trummelbach Falls nestled in a canyon with a corkscrew waterfall – just one of the valley’s waterfalls. You can only see this waterfall in the summer but Lauterbrunnen can be visited at any time.

Travel here in the winter for hiking trails, shoe-skiing, cross-country skiing, and all other winter sports. With Lauterbrunnen being the starting point for most of the spectacular mountain railways, you can take a train trip to the Christmas markets during the festive season. 

Solo travel in Switzerland

Church of San Lorenzo in Lugano.

Lugano

Located in the canton of Ticino, Lugano is the closest Swiss city to Italy and is influenced by Italian culture with its cuisine and language. Classed as a bit of a Monte Carlo, you’ll find celebrities frequenting the area of Lake Lugano shopping in fancy boutiques.

But Lugano isn’t just for the classy. If you like hiking and lush vegetation in a quiet, lazy environment, this city has a charm that will rejuvenate you ready for the next part of your trip.

Stroll along the promenade, relax in a park, take the funicular for lake views or meander around neoclassical palazzos. Explore St. Lawrence Cathedral, built in the 15th century or St. Mary of the Angels Church, two of the most important churches in the city.

Similar to other places in Switzerland, in Lugano, you’ll find museums and historic buildings. This area is also popular with outdoor activities and there are enough mountain biking trails to keep you active.

Plus you’ll find plenty of Swiss Heritage Sites nearby too. It’s easy to spend a day and night here seeing the mountains and self-guiding yourself around the old town and lake shores.

Solo travel in Swizterland

Thun Castle on Lake Thun

Switzerlands’ Culture

Delve into the Swiss cultures at Ballenberg, a living open-air museum with buildings dating back one hundred years. Experience Switzerland as it was back then with craftsmen and women demonstrating old crafts and trades from wood carving, basket weaving, spinning, weaving, cheese and bread making. 

Bonigen is a village alive with tradition, or take a trip to the mountain-farming village of Habkern. Here sits a 17th-century church where time-honoured Habkern traditions are still cultivated.

Solo Travel in Switzerland

Other Places To Visit in Switzerland

Other best places to visit in Switzerland are; Biel which is great for shopping and has a really nice old town (different to others in Europe), Beatenberg which boasts one of the best ringside seats for views of the Eiger, Monch & Jungfrau mountains. 

If you have time hike in Gstaad, enjoy the lake and cool bars at Langstrasse, or hike and immerse yourself in nature in Gimmelwald – the heart of the Swiss Alps.

If you love music then head to Montreux to see the Freddy Mercury statue which is 10 feet tall! Nature lovers should head to the Swiss National Park, Switzerland's largest nature reserve in the Engadin/Munstertal area.

Shop in Zurich, paraglide in Interlaken or take a panoramic train to the top of Europe at Jungfrau. There is so much to offer for women travelling to Switzerland alone. 

Switzerland Tours. Solo travel in Switzerland

Switzerland Tours

G Adventures Switzerland 

Solo travel in Switzerland is really easy but if you feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your trip or the whole duration, G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers. Most small group tours have an average of 12 people and there is no upper age limit on their Switzerland tours. 

Once you book your Switzerland trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there. If you are planning on seeing more countries than just Switzerland, their adventures range from a 7-day London to Rome trip, to a 10-day Trekking Mont Blanc tour to Switzerland, Italy and France.

There’s even an epic 26-day European Trail travelling from London to see 12 countries. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female-friendly company. 

Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Intrepid Travel Switzerland

Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on their tours to Switzerland. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear a bit more costly than G Adventures. They offer a 10 day Best of Switzerland tour including the best Switzerland tourist attractions in Zurich, St Gallen, Lucerne, Bern and more. Read our Intrepid Travel Reviews

With both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender on their Swiss tours, or you can pay extra for your own room. * Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Local Tour Companies

  • Outdoor Interlaken – A Swiss company offering outdoor tours in Switzerland in the summer and winter months. If you love adventure, they will have a tour for you.
  • Echo Trails – Offering Switzerland guided tours including day and multi-day hikes. Choose from just hiking, hiking with a boat cruise, or hiking with cooking. If you’re heading to Switzerland to hike, this local company has a great reputation for Switzerland vacations. 

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and tours in worldwide destinations including Switzerland. Choose from a 4-hour city tour of Zurich, a boat cruise in Interlaken or a roundtrip to the top of Europe by train.

Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo and it’s really simple to use. To plan your solo travel in Switzerland, just check the reviews, price and availability then book online.

* Check all Get Your Guide day tours and prices here

Accommodation in Switzerland. Solo travel in Switzerland

Accommodation in Switzerland

Whether you want to stay in an apartment in the city, hotels in Lauterbrunnen, a cosy B&B or a traditional wooden Swiss chalet in a small village, there are many different options for Switzerland accommodation in Switzerland. Sleep on a farm or in a Benedictine Monastery or just pitch a tent and wake up with the sun rising over Alpine meadows. 

Youth hostels aren't that cheap so as an alternative, there is also Airbnb Switzerland where you can stay in a local's room. All of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement.

For all other accommodations and hotels in Switzerland, click on the link below for Booking.com Switzerland or read our article: Best Places To Stay in Switzerland For Solos

Solo travel in Switzerland

Bern – Backpackers Hotel Glocke

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in the centre of the city, this backpackers hotel is in a great location. The staff are really friendly and they have female-only dorms. There is a nightclub downstairs so be prepared to party if you stay here.

Solo travel in Switzerland

Bern – Max Aviation Apartments

If you need somewhere quiet these apartments are perfect. They are near the tram and there is a large garden to chill out in. The beds are comfy and the rooms are super clean, plus you can enjoy a view of either the garden or mountains. You may even get a cuddly bear in your room!

  • Prices from £75 per day for a queen room with a shared bathroom
  • To book, check prices or availability for Max Aviation Apartments

Solo travel in Switzerland

Geneva – City Hostel Geneva

The City Hostel Geneva was the first private hostel in the city. Close to the main station this hostel is really sociable and shows movies daily. They offer discounts on train passes and a free transport travel card. Dorm rooms are small with only 3-4 people in a room. They even have a laundry service and hair dryers for you to use. Perfect!

  • Prices start from £35 per day for a basic 5-bed mixed dorm
  • To book, check prices or availability for City Hostel Geneva

Solo travel in Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen – Valley Hostel

This hostel in Lauterbrunnen is really popular with people backpacking in Switzerland. It’s in a great location close to the train station and there’s a supermarket nearby so you can save money on meals.

You can buy breakfast if you don’t fancy making your own. Relax in the garden or book a tour through their tour desk. Choose a dorm room or a double room.

  • Prices start from £27 per day for a single bed in a dorm.
  • To book, check prices or availability for Valley Hostel

Solo travel in Switzerland

Lucerne – Backpackers Luzern

We love this hostel. Located in a quiet area you can walk from here to the shores of the lake and instantly be in nature. The hostel is clean with a lounge area to meet the other guests and invite them to a game of tabletop football.

Dorm rooms are small with female-only dorms having only 2 or 4 beds. There is also the choice of private rooms with shared bathrooms.

  • Prices from £29 per day for a 4-bed dormitory
  • To book, check prices or availability for Backpackers Luzern

Solo travel in Switzerland

Lucerne – Aparthotel Adler Luzern

Recently renovated, this hotel doubles up as a hostel. Close to Chapel Bridge, it is a few minutes walk to the lake. Comfortable and modern with good showers, the staff are helpful and some speak English. Choose from female-only dorms with private bathrooms or a standard double room (if you need some privacy).

  • Prices start from £50 per day for a bed in a 4-bed female dorm room
  • To book, check prices or availability for Aparthotel Adler Luzern

Solo travel in Switzerland

Zurich – The Flag Zurich

With an arty concept in each room, you’ll also find art exhibitions in the reception area. If you are planning to shop in Zurich this is close to luxury brand shopping so you can shop til you drop. Perfect for arty, shopaholic solos.

  • Prices from £89 per day for a classic room
  • To book, check prices or availability for The Flag Zurich

Travelling around Switzerland. Solo travel in Switzerland

Getting Around Switzerland

Switzerland has fantastic public transportation. There are train stations in many destinations with the main hubs being Zurich, Geneva, Bern, Basel, Lucerne, and Lausanne. But train travel can be quite costly so if you are travelling in Switzerland for a while, consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass.

The travel passes include unlimited travel by train, bus and boat for the whole of Switzerland (within a time span). Passes can be brought for just regions such as the Oberland region (you need to take your passport with you to buy a pass). The cheapest way to travel in Switzerland if you are not planning on visiting many destinations is to buy each journey separately.

Switzerland’s transport system is very organised making it easy to get around. The Swiss panorama rail routes are amongst the best in the world with stunning views through the panoramic roofs. For example, the train journey from Interlaken to Bern is stunning.

Even if you decide to base yourself in the cities, there are regular Switzerland trains to mountain villages Swiss Travel System is a Switzerland travel guide to help plan your trip.

For the towns which don't have train stations consider buses instead. The country has a good bus system making it easy to get to and from the smaller towns. The busiest bus routes run between the cities of Zurich, Basel, and Bern. Buy your tickets from the machines at the bus stops before you get on the bus. Click here for the bus timetables.  

If you are touring Switzerland on your own, renting a car in Switzerland is easy to do. Ensure that the company has included a sticker that allows you to use the motorways (which should be included). Switzerland has speed cameras so be careful not to speed.

Companies such as Avis have car hire in Switzerland. Click here for car rental. 

Switzerland Itinerary

Switzerland has so many areas to visit that you could spend two weeks here seeing its highlights. If you only have 3 days in Switzerland, consider spending time in one of the cities. If you have 5 days in Switzerland you could combine two cities.

One week is a good amount of time to see the capital: Bern, Lucerne, and Lauterbrunnen. If you like shopping add an extra two days for shopping in Zurich afterwards. If you prefer to have one base during your stay, an alternative would be to stay in one city and visit different places on a train pass.

Below are examples of a Switzerland travel itinerary that are ideal for a first-time visit to Switzerland.

Switzerland itinerary 5 days:

Lucerne (3 nights), Interlaken (2 nights)

You could also choose to stay in one city such as Zurich and take day trips to see other areas.

7 day Switzerland itinerary:

Zurich (2 nights), Lucerne (3 nights), Interlaken (2 nights). The train from Zurich to Lucerne takes 1 hour and from Lucerne to Interlaken is 2 hours. 

Another Switzerland travel itinerary for one week in Switzerland is Basel (2 nights), Montreux (1 night), Lucerne (2 nights), and Interlaken (2 nights).

Switzerland itinerary 10 days:

Zurich (2 nights), Lucerne (3 nights), Interlaken (3 nights), Bern (2 nights)

For train lovers, this is the best Switzerland itinerary for Swiss scenery: Chur (1 night), take the Glacier Express train to Zermatt (2 nights), Montreal (2 nights), Interlaken (3 nights), Grindelwald (2 nights), day trip by mountain train to Jungfraujoch. 

Switzerland itinerary 14 days:

Geneva (2 nights), Lausanne (2 nights), Bern (2 nights), Interlaken (3 nights), Lucerne (3 nights), and Zurich (2 nights).

Switzerland Guide Book

If you need a guidebook for your travels, our Girl about the Globe Guide to Switzerland is written by solo females for solo females. We have chosen the best destinations in Switzerland for women travelling solo, included all of our favourite must-sees, restaurants, bars, and recommended accommodations for you to stay in, and added a few solo and local tips too.

We know that not every woman travels the same so we’ve split this guide into different types of solos. Find out how to escape the crowds, the best places to interact with the locals, where to go for the best view and what to do in the evenings. 

Follow our 7-14 day itinerary for a recommended route and discover the best of Switzerland, one solo footprint at a time.  * Find out more about our Switzerland guidebook

Best Time To Go To Switzerland

Switzerland is a year-round destination especially if you want to experience Switzerland by train. Most panoramic train journeys operate all year so you can experience a Switzerland solo trip during any season.

Switzerland's climate changes with each season so plan your visit depending on what you want to do. Ski resorts generally close in April so if you love skiing, visit the Swiss Alps in the winter months to make the most of the winter activities as a solo. Switzerland holds Christmas markets over the festive period making it a magical time to visit.

Visiting Switzerland in the summer is the best time for those who like to walk. Things to do in Switzerland in May include hiking, paragliding and summer activities. 

To avoid the tourists head to Switzerland in the autumn months when the weather is slightly cooler and hiking is easier. Below is a weather chart showing the annual weather in Bern (from January to December).

Switzerland weather

Travel insurance for Switzerland

Travel Insurance For Switzerland

Switzerland is a really safe country to explore but travel insurance is always recommended for solo female travel Switzerland to cover you for any travel delays, medical assistance and activities.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Switzerland. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

From the Airport

Airports in Switzerland

There are several international airports in Switzerland. The busiest are Zurich, Bern and Geneva. Below are the main airports and how to get to and from each one. For all other airports check Rome2Rio for how to get from the airport.

From Zurich Airport – Taxis cost approx £50 for the 15-minute drive from the airport to Zurich city centre. Line 10 tram leaves every 15 minutes and costs £5 for the 30-minute journey. Click here for the timetable. 

From Bern Airport – It’s a 15-minute ride from the airport to Bern city centre and costs approximately £50 for a taxi which you can find opposite the airport terminal. Buses also run from the airport every 20 minutes. The bus costs £3 and takes 10 minutes. Click here for the timetable. 

From Geneva Airport – Buses run to the city centre frequently (every 15 minutes) and cost £3 for the 13-minute journey. To take the bus buy your ticket at the ticket machine (near customs). The ticket lasts for 1 hour and 20 minutes and can be used on all of Geneva’s public transport. You may be asked for your boarding pass.

The Line 150 train takes less time and you can reach the city in just 7 minutes. Trains depart every 15 minutes and cost up to £14 depending on your destination. They also run into the night. Check here for the timetables. A taxi will cost approximately £25 for the 10-minute ride.

Basel Airport – From Basel Airport the cheapest way to get into Basel is by bus. Buses cost £3 and take 10 minutes. There is also a train which departs every hour. It costs £12 and takes just 6 minutes. Check here for the timetable. Taxis are approximately £15.

* Feel more confident on your trips to Switzerland with someone waiting for you at the airport when you pre-book a transfer with Hoppa, a reliable and safe service for solo females.

Border crossing

Travel Onwards (check visas before you travel)

To Austria -Trains operate daily and you can check timetables on Trainline Europe. Buses also run from Switzerland to neighbouring countries. Check Flixbus or Eurolines for routes and dates. 

Switzerland to France – Trains and buses operate daily (see the company links above).

Switzerland to Germany – Trains and buses operate daily (see the company links above).

Switzerland to Italy – Trains and buses operate daily (see the company links above), or you can take the Bernina Express which begins in Chur and ends in Tirano, Italy. 

To Liechtenstein – Take the train to Sargans. From there take either the express bus (number 12) or bus number 11 across the Switzerland border to Vaduz.

Where can I go from here?

  • Paris – 1.5 hrs
  • Berlin – 1.5 hrs
  • Vienna – 1 hr 15 mins

All flying from Zurich.

How To Be a Conscious Traveller in Switzerland

Switzerland has so many stunning destinations to explore. Consider lesser-visited places on your itinerary to ensure that your tourist dollar has an impact throughout the country and not just at the most popular attractions in the country such as The Matterhorn.

Consider visiting all year round too. There are plenty of winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter events that are also good for solos. Switzerland is a beautiful country to hike and is also safe too but ensure that you stick to any hiking trails so as not to damage the environment.

Take any rubbish with you too. Instead of flying internally which isn’t necessary for Switzerland. Reduce your carbon footprint by taking amazing panoramic trains around the country.

Social Impact Projects

Taste the Waste Cooking CourseFood waste is a big issue in the hospitality industry, as well as home, especially when most food waste can be safely consumed. This cooking course aims to prevent further food waste and introduce amateur and professional cooks alike on how to use up leftover food and food waste and make it into something delicious! 

Stay Eco in Switzerland

Basecamp Andermatt 

For the adventurous traveller, Lodge and Hostel Basecamp Andermatt, which is located 1508 m above ground level, offers stunning views and year-round fun activities such as skiing, mountain biking, or any other mountain sport you can think of. And you do not have to worry too much about your environmental footprint either!

Renewable and local materials were used to build this safe haven for adventurers. Geothermal energy is used to keep you nice and warm and optimal insulation ensures that you are kept toasty. 

Schloss Wartegg 

If you prefer strolling by a lake and getting in touch with your inner princess, Schloss Wartegg (a literal castle) is the way to go! This extraordinarily beautiful hotel is not only rich in history but also in sustainability practices.

The hotel is powered by 100% green electricity. They use their own wood for their furniture and have effective food waste policies in place. The full list of their practices can be found here: https://wartegg.ch/en/hotel/sustainabilit/ 

Issues affecting vulnerable girls in Switzerland

  • Many children protection laws are installed in Switzerland; however, children still fall victim to abuse, discrimination and poverty. According to a report around 45% of those who rely on social assistance are children.
  • Switzerland has strict and complex asylum procedures. A study by Terre des Hommes in 2010 revealed that due to the process, a shocking number of unaccompanied minors disappear every year. They become vulnerable to getting involved in drug trafficking or becoming victims of sexual exploitation. Read more….
  • A study carried out by the Bern Institute for Amnesty revealed that nearly 60% of the woman they had surveyed had been sexually harassed, 22% had fallen victim to non-consensual sexual acts and 12% had been raped. The women surveyed were over 16 years old. Read more…

FAQ's

FAQs About Switzerland

  • Can I drink the water? Yes, tap water is good in Switzerland or you may prefer to take your own water filter with you.
  • Is tipping expected? Tips are generally included in the bill in restaurants. It’s not expected to tip taxi drivers but you can tip your tour guide 10-15%
  • Fixed price or barter? Fixed Price.
  • Any ATMs? Yes.
  • Which side of the road do they drive? The right-hand side.
  • Good for vegetarians? Zurich has a plethora of vegetarian restaurants and you’ll find vegetarian restaurants in the rest of the country.
  • Any seven wonders of the world? No, but you can go to Jungfrau, the top of Europe.

Map of Switzerland

Plan a Trip To Switzerland

If you are ready to plan a trip to Switzerland here are some useful links to help you plan your trip including airlines which fly there, where you can volunteer and eco accommodation.

Budget – £70+ a day

Current Time in Bern

Facts

How much does a solo trip to Switzerland cost? Budget at least £70+ a day based on staying in the cheapest accommodation.

Switzerland Capital – Bern

Switzerland Population – 7.7 million

Switzerland Languages – German, French, English, Italian

Local Currency – Swiss Franc

Do I need a Switzerland visa? 

Vaccinations Required 

Flying time to Switzerland from UK – 1.5 hrs

Useful Info

Airlines To Switzerland

The Best Time to Go – July.

What Plugs Do I Need? 

UNESCO Sites in Switzerland

Events and Festivals in Switzerland

Local Cost Guide 

Local Customs & Etiquette

Switzerland's Sacred Sites

Did you know? That Jungfraujoch is known as Top of Europe

Useful French and German phrases

Eco Hotels

Synergy Village – Synergy Village offers a magical oasis at Lake Zurich in traditional Swiss houses amongst a waterfall, ponds and streams. Experience an intercultural exchange, learn new skills and be part of a vibrant international community. Prices from £21 for a mixed dorm (studio, single, and double rooms also available).

Whitepodoffers eco alpine in 18 luxurious pods in the heart of the Alps. Located at the foot of the Dents du Midi mountain range, Whitepod is ideal for the hiking GatG with various signposted hiking trails, or you can just treat yourself to a massage instead.

The onsite restaurant offers healthy and local cuisine, and there are plenty of activities too. It's one of the best places in Switzerland for eco lovers.

Volunteering

Serve the City partners with organisations which help the homeless, refugees, disabled and victims of abuse.

Join a communication, journalism, IT or conference placements with ICVolunteers. Choose from short-term to long-term placements. 

Local Projects

The Hunger Project are a global organisation recognised by the EU. Last year they contributed to the microfinance programme in Burkina Faso, a programme in Rajasthan which helps to overcome hunger and poverty, and the Epicentre Chokwe in Mozambique. Find out more… 

Cultural Experiences

Basel Discovery Tour – Learn about the invisible side of the city and real life in Switzerland by visiting charitable organisations and institutions which provide vital services to the homeless, those dealing with addiction and alcoholism, asylum seekers, and refugees.

Visit a local restaurant that provides meals for free to those experiencing homelessness, whilst knowing that your tour proceeds are helping the homeless in Basel Switzerland. 

Visit Candlelight Hotel Obersteinberg for some Switzerland culture. Here you'll find locals in traditional dress, and mules still transporting food supplies. There is no electricity or running water just lots of candles. It's one of those places to be visited in Switzerland for a truly authentic experience. 

Switzerland has lots of cultural festivals as well as Winter and Spring customs. 

Mind Body & Soul

Oshadi Yoga holds yoga, meditation, and Qigong retreats from weekends to week-long. You can take part in a stress, burnout retreat or a sweat lodge too. 

Dhamma Sumeru holds meditation courses in the Swiss mountains. Take part in a 10-Day Vipassana meditation retreat where the technique is taught step-by-step each day.

Treat yourself to spa treatments at Mineralbad & Spa Rigi-Kaltbad with an amazing view of the Alps as you are being pampered. 

23 thoughts on “Solo Travel in Switzerland

  1. Kate

    Hi there

    I’d be a solo traveller heading to Zurich airport. Is it easy to get from the airport to Grindelwald (or higher up the mountains) via train from Zurich airport? Also would this be safe as a female solo traveller? And where are suitable places to stay?

    Reply
    1. Girl about the Globe Post author

      Hi Kate, it looks as though you can get a train from the Airport to Grindelwald which goes through Bern, then Interlaken. I recommend stopping at these places especially Interlaken. Switzerland is so safe so you’ll have no problems solo. Look at getting a Swiss Pass to save money on trains and museums. I recommend Youth Hostel Zurich, Pension fuerDich or Synergy Village. We’re bringing out a Switzerland ebook this month so feel free to subscribe if you want to be notified of it. This site may also help with transport https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Zurich-Airport-ZRH/Grindelwald

      Reply
  2. Karen

    Hey there!

    I am a female solo traveler planning on traveling to Switzerland in late December or ealry January and just checked you site. I am also on a low budget, so I was wondering what are the number one towns or cities to visit during this time, especially during the holidays.

    Also any advice on clothing needed during this time.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    1. Girl about the Globe Post author

      Hi Karen, I would definitely say Lucern. That’s my favourite place in Switzerland. There are hostels there too. I’m just working on the Girl about the Globe’s Guide to Switzerland which may help x

      Reply
  3. lisa

    hi am going to switzerland in july/august. i am traveling as a solo female. i am not sure which train pass to purchase so i was hoping for some insight. for the swiss passes, can you use the trains as many times as you want within a given day or can you only use the train once per day? also, how long does it take to do the jungfrau train to wengen and then back to grindelwald? did you find it hard to find people to go hiking with because thats one thing i want to do but i am worried i wont be able to find anyone to go with?

    Reply
      1. Wilma Turetzky

        I am interested in solo train travel in Switzerland and will be glad to review your book should you care to send me a free copy. My best wishes to you for a successful book debut.
        Thank you.
        Wilma Turetzky@ indstate.edu

        Reply
  4. Kyoohee

    Hey! I’m thinking of going to Switzerland for a week in august. I’m interested in doing all the things you’ve mentioned above. I want to visit the city and also do active things at interlaken. Would I have to stay at multiple locations or can I book one hostel and travel to all those places as day trips? Please let me know! I’ve never had to plan a solo trip before and am getting kind of nervous. Thanks 🙂

    Reply
    1. Girl about the Globe Post author

      Hi Kyoohee, that’s great that you are going to Switzerland in August. It’s easy to get around by train so it depends on what you want to see. I definitely recommend staying in Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen. From there you can do day trips. The Girl about the Globe’s Guide to Switzerland will be published this week so I recommend joining our Facebook community to ask more. The group will also stop you feeling nervous 🙂 Here is the link – https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

      Reply
  5. Loisa

    Hi, I’ m planning my first solo travel to Europe on Mid September. Switzerland is on my list and planning to stay for 7 days. I am looking for recommendation. I love hiking and site seeing.

    Reply
    1. Olivia Saha

      I’m embarking on my first solo trip in mid September as well! Planning on staying for about 3-6 days

      Reply
    1. Girl about the Globe Post author

      Hi Maria, have you joined our Facebook group? It’s called Girls about the Globe and it is a great community to post your question. I would definitely recommend Lauterbrunnen and Lucerne x

      Reply
  6. Abhijeet Rath

    I want to travel Switzerland and Italy for a trip about 7 to 8days alone with my family,but I have less idea on what rail pass would be good and cheap and would be preferred for my journey ,including the cost .

    Can any one aslo suggest where can I find cheap hotels in Switzerland and Italy

    Thank you.

    Reply
  7. kanwal

    hello i am a solo traveller and i would be visiting switzerland mid october. please note that i will be staying at a relatives place in Lausanne . but i want to visit all the places like interlaken, bern , Lauterbrunnen , lucern and jungfrau and zurich . so the thing is can i do day trips to these places via trains? can u please give me details? Thanks in advance

    Reply
  8. Jo Carter

    I just realized that I have only one item on my bucket list – sit on a farm in Switzerland until the “cows come home” ; ) You have covered all my trepidations and given me hope that I can go it alone. Thank you for thinking of everything.

    Reply
  9. Matthew

    A lot of great information about various spots around Switzerland. Unfortunately, there’s little to nothing in regards to being a solo traveler (as opposed to a couple or group), which I thought was the point of the post.

    Reply
    1. Girl about the Globe Post author

      Hi Matthew, thanks for taking the time to read the article. It covers solo travel in Switzerland at the beginning and recommended accommodation and tour companies for solos. Because Switzerland is so safe, it does read as though it could be for anyone because every destination is fine for solos. If you’re planning to go, have an amazing time x

      Reply

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