HOW TO ENJOY AN EPIC SOLO TRIP TO SWITZERLAND – ACTIVITIES & MORE
If you’ve been searching for an epic solo travel destination, then look no further than Switzerland – an amazing country to travel solo. This is also why it is my favorite country! Switzerland as a solo traveler is just amazing, especially as a solo female traveler.
I have traveled Switzerland extensively – while I sometimes took my little dog with me (once even my family), I love to visit Switzerland as a solo female traveler.
So, I have done a lot of solo travel in Switzerland. Today, I am sharing with you my tips on my experiences as a solo female traveler in Switzerland, and give general tips for your (first) solo trip to Switzerland – how to get around, where to stay, the best activities, and more!
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FAQs: TIPS FOR SWITZERLAND SOLO TRIP
Switzerland is the ideal place for an independent trip. It offers the perfect combination of safety, convenience, and breathtaking landscapes.
You don’t need a travel companion to make your Swiss adventure one to remember; all you need is your curiosity and adventurous spirit. So, let´s start with your questions and my answers.
IS SWITZERLAND SAFE FOR SOLO TRAVELERS?
Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world. With its very low crime rate and excellent infrastructure, it’s perfect for solo female travelers. However, as always follow common sense and keep the following things in mind.
Make sure to take care of your belongings at all times. Pickpockets operate occasionally in crowded areas, so be extra vigilant when exploring the streets of Switzerland.
When exploring on foot after dark, stick to well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings.
Overall: Yes, Switzerland is very safe! And a Switzerland solo trip is a great idea! And yes, this also applies to solo female travelers in Switzerland.
IS SWITZERLAND A GOOD COUNTRY FOR THE FIRST SOLO TRIP?
Yes, Switzerland makes an amazing destination for your first solo trip – whether you are a female or male traveler. This is for many reasons: Safety, international visitors from all around the world to meet and connect with, an abundance of activities perfect for solo travelers, and much more.
If you are not yet convinced, keep reading to find out, why you should add Switzerland to your “Solo travel bucket list“.
WHERE TO STAY
There are a couple of places I recommend: The first perfect place to stay for solo travelers in Switzerland is: Interlaken.
INTERLAKEN
If you’re looking for a solo adventure in Switzerland, Interlaken is the place to be! With many hostels and international visitors, there’s plenty to explore (more on things to do there later).
Also, thanks to its central location, many attractions are quite accessible from the train station Interlaken Ost or Interlaken West.
Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof
Are you looking for an affordable and fun place to stay in Interlaken? Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof – Hostel Interlaken is a perfect choice! Located right at the heart of this stunning Swiss city, Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof provides a range of services, including modern rooms with comfortable bedding, free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen and lounge area, and much more.
Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof also offers many additional facilities like laundry services, bike rental, breakfast options, and more.
I stayed here once and it was one of the top hostels in the country. ➡️ Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof is definitely the spot to check out!
Hotel du Nord
I also stayed at Hotel du Nord. I actually was very positively surprised (the reviews were not great, but since all rooms were renovated lately, it is a great place to stay). The breakfast was good, too! If your budget allows it and you want to stay in Interlaken. ➡️ Click here to get the best deals.
ZURICH
Zurich is a great base for a solo trip to Switzerland. As the country’s largest city, it has many attractions, from museums and galleries to parks and shops. The old town district is full of charming cobblestone streets lined with cafes, bars, and boutiques.
Zurich also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with clubs and restaurants that stay open late into the night. Plus, it’s conveniently located near many of the country’s most iconic attractions allowing many day trips from Zurich.
The Glärnischhof by TRINITY is one of the best-rated mid-range hotels in Zurich. TRINITY’s Glärnischhof is positioned in the heart of Zurich, adjacent to the renowned Bahnhofstrasse and Lake Zurich.
The rooms are air-conditioned and furnished with a TV featuring international channels, a Beanarella coffee machine, and a bathroom. Additionally, the beds are fitted with specialized air cushioning for ergonomic support. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast served every morning.
➡️ Book your stay at The Glärnischhof by TRINITY here.
If you’re planning a solo trip to Zurich, the Oldtown Hostel Otter could be an excellent option. The hostel and its well-established Wüste Bar offer a chic setting for those young at heart in Zurich’s Old Town, just 300 meters away from the Zurich-Stadelhofen train station and the lake.
The hostel provides dormitory beds, as well as privately furnished rooms with access to a shared lounge equipped with a kitchenette and luggage storage. Plus, its location amidst a variety of restaurants, bars, and more makes Otter Hostel a very convenient choice.
➡️ Book your stay at Oldtown Hostel Otter here.
LUCERNE
Of course, I have to mention beautiful Lucerne here as well. Located on the banks of Lake Lucerne, this vibrant city offers many activities to solo travelers.
Stroll through cobblestone streets and admire stunning views of the Alps, or explore nearby villages like Weggis and Stans.
If you want to book a luxury hotel in Lucerne, I recommend Schweizerhof Lucerne.
Located in the heart of Lucerne’s Old Town and adjacent to the lake, Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is a 5-star, family-owned hotel that features a spa area and upscale rooms with contemporary furnishings.
Each of the rooms at Schweizerhof has been individually decorated to reflect the style of a particular guest who has stayed at the hotel, such as a writer, musician, or actor.
➡️ Book your stay at Schweizerhof Lucerne here.
On my last Lucerne overnight trip, I stayed at Hotel des Alpes and highly recommend it whether you travel solo or not.
Located in the heart of Lucerne, at the iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) where the Reuss River meets Lake Lucerne, sits the charming Hotel Des Alpes.
Enjoy stunning views of the river from the terrace while indulging in handpicked Swiss delicacies and international cuisine. The entirely refurbished and stylishly decorated rooms provide a tranquil and restful space to spend the night.
➡️ Book your stay at Hotel des Alpes here.
Backpackers Luzern is a popular choice among solo travelers who seek a serene location by Lake Lucerne. This hostel provides accommodations in a peaceful area and boasts a shared kitchen and a common lounge area with a foosball table for guests to enjoy.
Chapel Bridge, a notable landmark in Lucerne, is located 1.3 km away.
➡️ Book your stay at Backpackers Luzern here.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The best way to get around depends on several factors. I am the most experienced train traveler in the history of Switzerland (take my word for it) and I am also a very experienced driver in Switzerland – and I love both ways of getting around.
CAN I USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN SWITZERLAND WHEN I TRAVEL SOLO?
Public transport is an excellent way to get around. Switzerland has one of the most extensive public transportation networks in Europe, with reliable buses, trains, trams, boats, and cable cars connecting towns and cities.
The Swiss Travel Pass is an all-in-one ticket that offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats throughout the country. With this pass, you can explore different cities and regions without worrying about purchasing separate tickets for each journey.
Plus, it also gives you free entry to over 500 museums and discounts on selected cable cars, ski lifts, and local transportation services. You also have three mountain excursions included (this also includes Mount Rigi) in 2024 and you get 50% off on most other cable car/gondola/funicular excursions.
The Swiss Travel Passes can make your journey cheaper if you plan on taking multiple journeys over a longer period!
What if you prefer driving yourself? Then don’t worry – the roads in Switzerland are well-maintained and of high quality. Driving here is generally a pleasant experience, with spectacular views around every corner! Just make sure you’re aware of any speed limits, parking restrictions, or tolls before setting off. Check out my road trip in Switzerland post for more info.
If you travel alone, using public transportation might be the cheaper option since you cannot split the high costs of renting a car and petrol by several people.
So, whatever your style of travel, traveling in Switzerland might not be cheap but it is super easy getting from A to B (or even k,y, or z).
BUDGETING FOR YOUR SWISS SOLO TRIP
Here are some tips for budgeting for a solo trip to Switzerland.
First, research on the cost of traveling in Switzerland. One thing is for sure: Switzerland is, overall, just expensive as heck! Even budget destinations are expensive compared to most other countries in the world!
Second, create a budget for your trip and stick to it. Consider all of the major expenses like flights, lodging, food, transportation, and activities. Set a daily budget for yourself, so you know how much money you have to spend each day without blowing your budget.
Third, use comparison sites to search for the best deals on flights and hotels. Booking in advance can often save you money, but if you’re feeling flexible with your dates and destinations, then you can also try to find last-minute deals.
Fourth, look into various transportation options. If you plan on exploring multiple cities throughout Switzerland, consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass or a car rental (if driving is allowed). With this pass, you can reduce other costs to a minimum, as boat cruises, some mountain excursions, and more than 500 museums are included and there are no extra fees.
Finally, factor in extra costs like souvenirs and any unexpected expenses that might arise throughout your trip.
Here is a detailed post on how expensive a trip to Switzerland might be.
TIP: Here are some budget tips for your trip to Switzerland.
HOW TO MEET LOCALS AND MAKE FRIENDS AS A SOLO TRAVELER
Swiss people have a reputation for being very reserved and not wanting to be friends with foreigners. I actually cannot agree with this. I have met Swiss locals in hostels and I am still friends with them, meeting them whenever I am in the country.
And then there are also all the international visitors. However, overall I really enjoy spending time alone. So for me, meeting new people is nice, but not a must! But everyone is different and it might be more important to you.
Making connections: Meeting other solo travelers is a great way to get tips and experiences that you may not get if you were traveling with a group. Joining online forums or local social media groups dedicated to solo travelers is an easy way to meet others who are also traveling alone.
Getting involved in local events is another great way to make connections while solo traveling in Switzerland. From music festivals and street fairs to art shows and food markets, there are plenty of fun cultural experiences to be had.
And if you can’t find anything while in the area, make sure to check online for upcoming travel events that might interest you.
If you want a truly unique experience, consider exploring Switzerland with a professional guide. Not only will they be able to show you the best of what the country has to offer, but they can also give you insights into the culture and provide an element of safety for solo travelers.
WHAT TO DO ALONE IN SWITZERLAND
There are tons of activities to do as a (female) solo traveler – I have done and would do anything a couple, family, etc. would add to their Switzerland itinerary. However, there are a few activities even better suited for solo travelers than others.
Jungfraujoch – Where You´ll Meet the World
The incredible Jungfrau Mountain is in the Bernese Alps – you can reach the saddle, known as the Jungfraujoch or The Top Of Europe, by a stunningly scenic railway ride. From the top of Jungfraujoch, you can look out over miles and miles of snow-capped mountains and magical glaciers.
Jungfraujoch is one of the most visited destinations in Switzerland, and rightly so, as it offers a breathtaking view of the Alps. Located at an elevation of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level, it is the highest point in Europe accessible by railway.
There are plenty of attractions at the top, including Ice Palace, Alpine Sensation Exhibition Hall, Sphinx Observatory, and Snow Fun Park, which allows you to do winter sports activities all year round. And then there are the views of the mighty Aletsch Glacier – the longest glacier in Europe.
Several hiking trails wind through meadows along with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing or simply relaxing surrounded by nature’s beauty.
The only downside is the rather high price for the ticket (there is no way to hike up all the way) and it can be quite busy at the top!
BOOK JUNGFRAUJOCH TOURS HERE
Experience the breathtaking majesty of the Swiss Alps on a full-day excursion from Interlaken, Zurich, and Lucerne to the Top of Europe at Jungfraujoch.
Your knowledgeable guide will provide commentary throughout the journey, pointing out notable sights and sharing fascinating information about the region.
- Book your Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip from Interlaken
- Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich
- Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip from Lucerne
- Jungfraujoch (Private Tour)
INTERLAKEN – A MELTING POT IN SWITZERLAND
Interlaken is a stunning natural beauty offering exciting activities, making it the perfect destination for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers alike. But even if you are not the most adventurous person (I am not, yet I adore Interlaken), I highly recommend Interlaken as a solo female traveler.
Explore majestic mountains, tranquil lakes like Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, and rivers, or engage in a wide range of thrilling outdoor pursuits – from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to paragliding and whitewater rafting in warmer months.
Interlaken is also an ideal place to meet other like-minded people, as the vibrant atmosphere in town means you’ll always be surrounded by other adventurous people of all ages.
Here are more tips on what to do in Interlaken.
LAUTERBRUNNEN – MUERREN – SCHILTHORN – DATE JAMES BOND & MORE
Visiting the stunning Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, and Schilthorn as a (solo) traveler is an incredible experience. Located in the heart of Switzerland’s Jungfrau region, this trio of destinations offers many opportunities to explore and take in breathtaking views.
Starting with Lauterbrunnen, you can hike up to the magnificent Staubbach Falls for a stunning view of the valley beneath. From here, take in the incredible views from Trümmelbach Falls and hike further up (or take the gondola) to Mürren and Schilthorn for even more astonishing vistas.
A popular activity is taking the cable car ride to the peak of Schilthorn for a 360-degree panoramic view of the Alps and to meet James Bond (yes, you heard right) and have lunch/dinner at the famous revolving restaurant, which you can find out more about here.
With its incredible views and wide range of activities, it’s easy to see why Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, and Schilthorn are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland.
TOURS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND INTERLAKEN
- 6-Hour Guided e-bike tour to Lauterbrunnen 72 Waterfalls Valley and Swiss Picnic
- Best of Bernese Oberland Tour from Interlaken
- Tandem Paragliding Experience from Interlaken
LAVAUX HIKE – A HIKE SO STUNNING, YOU DO NOT NEED A COMPANION
One of the best solo hikes in Switzerland is the Lavaux hike at Lake Geneva. This incredible experience takes you through a stunning landscape filled with vineyards, breathtaking views, and charming villages.
The route itself is about 7 miles long and can take anywhere from 3-5 hours depending on how many stops you make along the way.
The Lavaux hike starts near the picturesque village of Montreux and takes you through some of Switzerland’s most beautiful vineyards. As you make your way along the route, you can enjoy sweeping views of Lake Geneva and its surrounding mountains. You’ll also pass by historic villages like La Conversion, Chardonne, Epesses, and Grandvaux.
Along the way, you’ll have plenty of chances to stop for a bite to eat or take a break in one of the many charming villages. You might even want to sample some of the region’s famous wines or pick up some local produce from one of the roadside stands.
You will be able to enjoy spectacular views of the Swiss landscape and have plenty of time to relax and explore on your own terms.
BERNINA EXPRESS – THE TRAIN RIDE OF YOUR LIFE
Traveling and exploring can be exhausting. Thus, I am very happy to let you know that you can discover the beauty of Switzerland by just sitting on a train and enjoying a relaxing and fun train ride.
The Bernina Express is a breathtaking, world-famous journey through the Swiss Alps. It takes passengers on a scenic ride from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, crossing over the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Albula and Bernina Railway Lines.
Along the way, experience some of the most spectacular views in all of Europe, including snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and glittering glacial lakes.
The train slowly ascends to a height of almost 2,200 meters at the famous Ospizio Bernina before descending again.
The highlight of the journey is the many curves and spirals of the Albula and Bernina Line, which were built with pioneering engineering techniques over a century ago and remain one of Switzerland’s greatest feats of engineering.
The Bernina Express is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that you should not miss – even if it is not the first solo activity that might come to your mind.
TIP: There is the panoramic train with great window views – it is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, but you need to make a seat reservation (often weeks in advance), which costs up to 30 CHF.
Instead, take the local trains that have the same route, but with more stops (so, it takes a bit longer). You can get on and off at any train stop and do not need any reservations. And you’ll save tons of money as it is also included in your Swiss Travel Pass.
LUCERNE WALKING TOURS – A SWISS SOLO ADVENTURE ON FOOT
From breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains and tranquil lakes to the rich culture and unique local festivals, Lucerne will surprise you.
With iconic sites like Chapel Bridge and historical landmarks like The Lion Monument, the city offers an amazing variety of experiences—whether you want action-packed activities or laid-back relaxation on scenic public squares!
A Lucerne walking tour is a great way to get to know Lucerne and meet other people. It’s an ideal way to explore the city, soak up its vibrant atmosphere, learn new facts about its history, and mingle with locals and tourists alike.
Plus, you can enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Pilatus and Lake Lucerne while you explore the city’s fascinating attractions. On top of that, Lucerne walking tours are a great way to experience local culture, as well as the opportunity for conversation with other participants.
CHOCOLATE WORKSHOP – MEET OTHER (SOLO) TRAVELERS
Attending a chocolate workshop in Switzerland is a fun experience for chocolate lovers! With chocolate-making classes, chocolate tastings, and even chocolate-themed activities, it’s easy to understand why these workshops are so popular.
In the chocolate workshop, you get an opportunity to learn how chocolate is made from start to finish under the guidance of experienced chocolatiers. From learning about cocoa cultivation and harvesting processes to understanding chocolate tempering and flavoring techniques, it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true.
Some chocolate workshops also include creative activities such as chocolate sculpting!
When I did my chocolate workshop in Interlaken, I met so many other travelers from around the world. Nothing seems to unite people as much as chocolate does, am I right?
BOOK CHOCOLATE TOURS IN SWITZERLAND
Learning About the Rich History of Switzerland
Though Switzerland is mostly about breathtaking scenery, you have the unique opportunity to learn about its rich history. From visiting ancient castles and ruins to seeing centuries-old works of art in local galleries and museums, there are numerous ways to discover the country’s storied past.
You can also take guided tours of historic sites, such as Zurich’s Grossmuenster Church and the Jungfrau Region’s medieval villages. No matter where you go, learning about Switzerland’s past can be an incredibly rewarding experience.
Additionally, exploring on your own, means that you can take your time soaking up all of the incredible cultural heritage this country has to offer.
ZURICH FOR SOLO TRAVEL TRIPS
Solo Travel in Switzerland is not only about the outdoors and food.
Zurich is a city full of cultural activities, ranging from museums and galleries to music festivals and comedy shows. The Zurich Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zürich) houses an impressive collection of over 4,000 works spanning the Middle Ages to modern times.
The annual Street Parade in August is one of Europe’s largest techno music festivals with over one million people attending each year.
For a more traditional night out, Zurich also has a large selection of pubs and restaurants offering regional Swiss cuisine as well as international dishes.
It is an incredible city full of cultural activities – no matter what time of year you visit, there is always something to do in Zurich!
BERN – DISCOVER SWITZERLAND´S CAPITAL ON YOUR OWN
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a vibrant and lively city with numerous cultural activities. The city offers an array of museums and galleries as well as plenty of opportunities to get involved in local music, theater, and dance performances.
The most popular museum in Bern is the Zentrum Paul Klee, which houses an extensive collection of artwork from Swiss artist Paul Klee as well as other international artists.
Music and theater are also important parts of Bern’s culture. From the opera house at Konzert Theater Berne to the Stadttheater – there are plenty of options if you want to experience live music or theater performances.
If you are looking for a more laidback evening, explore one of the many pubs and bars in Bern, where you will be able to enjoy some local beer and conversation with locals.
Whatever your interest, Bern has something for everyone to enjoy.
BASEL – EXPLORE SAFE AND ARTISTIC ART CAPITAL IN SWITZERLAND ALONE
Basel is Switzerland´s culture and art capital. The city boasts numerous museums, galleries, and theaters that showcase international and local works of art.
Basel is also the home of many cultural events throughout the year, such as exhibitions, concerts, operas, plays, dance performances, and a variety of music and art festivals, such as the Basel Theater Festival, Museumsnacht, Art Basel, and the International Jazz Festival.
The city also holds many annual events, such as the Carnival on Fasnacht Monday and the Christmas market in December.
Basel has various bookstores, cinemas, comedy clubs, and bars. Additionally, several open-air cinema events are hosted in the summer months. It also has one of the largest and most active open-air swimming pools in Europe, making it a great spot for some summertime fun.
The vibrant culture and creativity in Basel make it a wonderful destination for anyone looking for a unique cultural experience.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON VISITING SWITZERLAND SOLO
There are many reasons to visit Switzerland, I mean many, many, many reasons. It is an ideal destination for anyone – and if you are an adventurous person and want to explore Switzerland on your own, you can do that easily.
Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or just starting your journey, experiencing Switzerland through solo traveling can be an incredibly fulfilling experience.
You’ll be able to explore the country at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems and taking in all the beauty it has to offer.
Cheers to your Solo Travel in Switzerland!
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