Cheap flights from Zurich, Geneva and Basel: 8 tips
By Simon Abplanalp ·
Which airport is cheapest, when to book and what travellers from Switzerland should watch out for: 8 practical tips.
1. Compare all Swiss airports
Zurich is the SWISS hub with the most long-haul routes. Geneva and EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg are major easyJet bases and often cheaper for European flights. EuroAirport is on French soil but has a Swiss sector with direct access from Basel.
2. Keep Milan Malpensa in mind
Especially from Ticino, Milan Malpensa is a real alternative with many direct flights and often lower prices.
3. Be flexible with dates
Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays are often cheaper than on Fridays or Sundays.
4. Mind the school holidays
School holidays in Switzerland are set by each canton. Travelling outside the holidays of the large cantons is often much cheaper.
5. Book at the right time
For European flights, booking 6–10 weeks ahead usually pays off; for long-haul, 2–5 months.
6. Compare the total price
A cheap base fare can become expensive with luggage and seat reservation. Always compare the final price.
7. Take the train to the airport
Zurich, Geneva and Basel airports are very well connected by public transport – saving parking fees.
8. Compare several providers
No single site always has the best price. The search below compares hundreds of airlines at once.
