Hostels in Switzerland

About Switzerland

Despite Switzerland's famous tradition of neutrality, it's impossible to stay neutral when thinking of the country. It's beautifully well-kept - it's like the only country in Europe with a live-in housekeeper - and is home to both lovely cities and stunning scenery. Switzerland has fully embraced its multiple cultural pesonalities in that there are three official languages in this tiny country and three relatively distinct regions in which they're spoken. In addition to German, French and Italian, there is also the fourth semi-official language of Romansh, which is perhaps the closest living language to Latin, and to top it all off most of the Swiss also speak excellent English. If you want to get an inferiority complex about your inability to learn a second language, Switzerland is the place to go.

From the lovely and cosmopolitan cities of Zurich, Bern, Lucerne and Geneva to the abundance of gorgeous lakes and Alpine peaks and villages, you'll be surprised at all this small country has to offer. Zurich isn't the capital, but it's the biggest city in Switzerland and has a reputation for its nightlife. Geneva is Switzerland's second largest city, and the country's arts and culture capital. Basel is the jumping-off point for visits to the Rhineland, and a visit to Lugano will give you a taste of Italy without leaving Switzerland. And even if you're not the resort type, it's worth a trip to Zermatt just to see the famous Matterhorn.

The Swiss are great travelers in their own right, and they make great hosts as well. Hotels can be expensive throughout the country, but there is a good network of hostels which are a cheap alternative. Hostels are no longer just for the young, however - nowadays they are popular with anyone who is looking for cheap accommodations and a chance to meet other travelers. Browse the Switzerland hostels listed on these pages by selecting a city, or let the computer sort for you by plugging your travel information into the search engine on this page. The computer will tell you only what hostels are available when you're going to visit. You may also want to see the Zurich hostels page for more information.

Still planning your Switzerland vacation? Check out our international airfare to Switzerland to get the best deal, and read all about what to see and do in our Switzerland Travel Guide.

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