How One Russian Traveler Found Switzerland More Affordable Than Expected in Interlaken

A Russian travel blogger recently shared a refreshing take on Switzerland after visiting the resort town of Interlaken, posting his observations on his personal blog under the title “Distant Stories.” He argues the country is far more accessible than its reputation suggests—provided you’re willing to plan ahead and make smart budget choices.

The blogger revealed he booked his flights two months in advance, cutting nearly half the cost of the trip. For accommodation, he chose a hostel just five minutes from the train station, paying only 35 Swiss francs (about 3,300 rubles) per night. He cooked his own breakfasts in the shared kitchen, noting that cheese and bread from the local farmer’s market were surprisingly cheap. “Switzerland is more affordable than people think,” he wrote. “You can’t travel here with no budget like in Asia, but with careful planning and budget-friendly options, the country becomes accessible. Interlaken works just as well for adrenaline junkies as for those seeking quiet by the lake.”

The traveler added that Interlaken doesn’t pretend to be simpler than it is, nor does it overwhelm with luxury. “It just sits between two lakes,” he said, emphasizing that the real value of travel isn’t in a checklist of sights or the money spent. “Sometimes the most valuable things are in the details—a random road, a conversation with locals, a cup of coffee with a mountain view.” His account offers a grounded, practical perspective for anyone wondering whether Switzerland fits a modest travel budget.