How to save money in Basel?

Buying food in supermarkets is always a good way to save money when travelling on a budget and Basel is no different. Aldi is a relatively well-known supermarket in England and is considered one of the cheapest options, it is no different in Switzerland, except as with everything Swiss, it is of a much higher quality.

How to save money as a tourist in Switzerland?

Is Basel expensive for tourists?

Basel will be the same price as Geneva (maybe a little bit less) for similar standards. And the Swiss Franc may be weaker than your last visit. So you will find restaurants expensive. Some are more reasonable than others - but you won't find UK restaurant prices in Switzerland.

What to do for free in Basel?

Do you need cash in Basel?

Cash is a frequently used payment method in Switzerland, but debit cards are slightly more popular. Although you'll be able to exclusively use cards in most big cities, having cash on hand may be necessary in certain situations.

Switzerland: How to Visit Switzerland on a Budget

Can I use my UK debit card in Switzerland?

You can take your debit card abroad, but some account types have non-sterling transaction fees.

Do you tip in Basel?

In Switzerland, the guest is not obliged to tip. In many restaurants, however, it is customary to pay a tip. This amounts to approximately 10 percent or it is rounded up to a round amount.

How to do Basel on a budget?

Are trams free in Basel?

In order to ride the tram, you need a valid ticket. While you are supposed to have a ticket for every ride you take, it's an honor system, with random spot checks on trams and buses. If you are caught without a ticket, you'll be fined a substantial amount.

Can I drink the water in Basel?

In Switzerland, tap water is safe to drink. The same applies to public drinking fountains, unless a «No drinking water» sign («Kein Trinkwasser») is clearly displayed.

What is the best month to visit Basel, Switzerland?

The best time to visit Switzerland is between April and October, though winter sports enthusiasts may prefer December to March. The country has four distinct seasons, each with its own attractions. The spring months of March to May bring Alpine blooms, flowering trees and cows heading out to pasture.

Is Zurich or Basel cheaper?

While taxes and health insurance are higher in Basel, everything else is cheaper. Nightlife and food options are more varied in Zurich but in Basel I can quickly cross the border to France and have a incredible dinner for a quarter of the price in Zurich.

How much cash do I need for 3 days in Switzerland?

How much spending money should I take to Switzerland. You should budget for around £100 per person per day or £700 per person per week for a trip to Switzerland – this should cover all food and excursions.

How to be cheap in Switzerland?

Stay at hostels - They are often a lot cheaper than hotels, but you will meet other travelers and will likely get a communal kitchen. Consider camping and alpine huts - For those who are fond of nature, camping sites and alpine huts provide a cheaper way of enjoying what Switzerland has to offer.

Is it better to take cash to Switzerland?

In smaller villages or establishments, cards may not be accepted, and at some train stations there is a small fee (usually CHF 1) to use the public toilets*, so having some cash as a standby is also a good idea.

What are the don'ts of Switzerland?

Can you drink tap water in Switzerland?

The establishment of groundwater protection zones makes it possible to distribute half of this water without having to treat it. It can be drunk from every tap without posing a health hazard. Tap water in Switzerland also has a much better ecological balance than bottled mineral water.

Is it rude not to tip in Switzerland?

Tipping in Switzerland is a polite gesture, but not a requirement. Since 1974, service charges have been legally included in listed prices.

How cashless is Switzerland?

Our online purchases, too, are made without cash. Surveys carried out by the SNB show a trend to cashless payments. Nevertheless, the SNB's current survey indicates that a large majority (95%) in Switzerland wish to continue to be able to pay with cash. On average, Swiss residents carry CHF 130 in their wallets.

Which bank doesn't charge foreign transaction fees?

Discover® Bank

Discover doesn't charge foreign ATM network or foreign transaction fees. But Discover card acceptance can be limited outside of the U.S., Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean nations. With an HSBC Premier Checking account, customers pay no foreign transaction fees. HSBC also has a worldwide network of ATMs.

Is Basel expensive to eat out?

Eating out in Basel is, of course, pricey. Make like the locals and have a BBQ in Kannenfeldpark, the biggest (and bestest) in Basel. They've got special BBQ grills, picnic tables AND a hidden troll...

How much is a coffee in Switzerland?

Average price of a coffee in Switzerland hits CHF4. 58.