8 Cheapest Airports to Fly into Switzerland From the US (2025)

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Dreaming of Switzerland’s snowcapped Alps, medieval streets, and shimmering lakes? Picture yourself in places like Lucerne, with its iconic Chapel Bridge, or Zermatt, set against the jaw-dropping Matterhorn. Switzerland has all the charm and adventure you want—and getting there can be way more affordable than you’d think.

I analyzed over 200 flight routes from the US to find the eight cheapest airports to fly into in 2025. With these top picks and some insider budget tips, you can touch down in Switzerland without overspending. Let’s dive into where to land to kick off an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s most stunning countries!

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Switzerland

Looking for cheap flights to Switzerland? Before diving into all the top cities and airports to fly to Switzerland, I want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past 4 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $449 roundtrip fare from Boston to Zurich.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best Switzerland flights in 2025.

Cheapest Places to Fly to in Switzerland in 2025

Below are the cheapest flights to Switzerland from the US and around the world.

1. Zurich International Airport (ZRH)

• 🏠 Location: About 8 miles north of Zurich city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Major hub with high flight volume and consistent competition among international airlines
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Swiss International Air Lines, United, Delta
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Land in Zurich and get a Swiss Rail Pass. Many scenic routes depart right from the airport’s railway station.

Zurich International Airport is Switzerland’s largest and most connected airport, which naturally drives prices down. You’ll often spot roundtrip flights from U.S. cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago ranging from $480 to $650, especially during spring and fall shoulder seasons.

What makes Zurich ideal isn’t just price, it’s the convenience. The airport is directly linked to the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), so you can hop off your flight and onto a train without stepping outside. The city center is just 10 minutes away, and within an hour you can reach Lucerne, Winterthur, or alpine towns like Engelberg and Lungern.

This airport is a smart pick for travelers planning to explore multiple regions by train. Between world-class museums, lakeside promenades, and the historic Old Town, Zurich itself is worth staying a night or two before heading deeper into Switzerland.

Fun Fact: Zurich Airport has an open observation deck with binoculars and multilingual audio tours, perfect for aviation geeks or kids on layovers.

• Read next: Top Things to Do in Zürich
• You may also like: Best Lakes in Switzerland
• For more reading: Things to Do in Lucerne

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2. Geneva International Airport (GVA)

• 🏠 Location: About 3 miles northwest of Geneva city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: High airline competition and proximity to France allow for lower fares
• ✈️ Best Airlines: SWISS, Air France, United
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book flights arriving midweek and combine with a Geneva Transport Card for free citywide public transport.

Geneva International Airport (GVA) is one of the most convenient and cost-effective gateways into western Switzerland. Roundtrip fares from major U.S. cities like Washington D.C., Miami, and L.A. often hover between $520 and $680, especially during spring or late fall.

Its location on the French border adds an edge. Flights from France-based airlines can dip in price, and you can even exit into France from the terminal. Once you land, the city center is a quick 7-minute train ride away, no rental car needed at all.

Geneva itself is a mix of lakefront beauty, international history, and art-filled neighborhoods. From here, you’re also just a couple hours away from Lausanne, Montreux, and even Chamonix in France if you want to add a cross-border side trip.

Fun Fact: GVA offers free public transport passes to arriving passengers, just grab yours near baggage claim before heading out.

• Read next: Best Activities on Lake Geneva
• You may also like: Cheapest Airports to Fly into France

3. EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL)

• 🏠 Location: Roughly 3.5 miles from Basel, technically located in France
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Tri-national setup with French, Swiss, and German terminals leads to more flight options and price drops
• ✈️ Best Airlines: EasyJet, Lufthansa, British Airways
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book through the French terminal (MLH) for lower taxes and fares, but enter through the Swiss side for easier city access.

EuroAirport (BSL) is one of the most unique and cost-effective entry points to Switzerland, with roundtrip flights from major U.S. cities often ranging between $500 and $640. Because the airport serves Switzerland, France, and Germany, you’ll find competitive pricing across dozens of European carriers. Booking a flight into the French sector (listed as MLH) can sometimes shave $30–$80 off your total cost compared to the Swiss listing.

Getting into Basel is quick and cheap as public buses run every 7 minutes and reach the city center in just about 15 minutes for a few dollars. Plus, many hotels in Basel offer guests a Basel Card, which gives you free public transport and discounts on museums and attractions.

The airport also opens access to three countries, which means more flight deals and flexible travel plans. You can easily hop to Zurich, Strasbourg, or Lucerne, all within a 1.5-hour train ride.

Fun Fact: BSL is the only airport in the world with three IATA codes: BSL (Switzerland), MLH (France), and EAP (neutral zone). This unique setup gives you more booking flexibility and the chance to find cheaper fares.

• Read next: Cheapest Airports to Fly into Germany
• You may also like: Beautiful Places in Switzerland
• For more reading: Things to Do in Basel
• Keep reading: Unique Restaurants in Basel

4. Bern Airport (BRN)

• 🏠 Location: About 6 miles northeast of Bern city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Fewer international flights and lower demand keep prices competitive
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Helvetic Airways, SkyWork Airlines (charters and seasonal)
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for winter charter flights tied to ski resorts as these often come with big discounts and fewer hidden fees.

Bern Airport is one of the most relaxed airports in Switzerland, making it perfect for travelers who prefer a quieter entry point. Although it has fewer international connections, that lower traffic works in your favor if you’re trying to avoid high fares and long lines.

Prices from the US can hover around $520–$660 roundtrip during ski season. If you’re headed to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, or Grindelwald, this airport puts you within a 1–2 hour radius of all three, making it a practical choice for winter escapes or scenic mountain hikes.

Bern itself is worth staying for a day or two. Its medieval Old Town, Aare River views, and the iconic Zytglogge clock tower offer a cozy intro to Switzerland without the crowds of bigger cities.

Fun Fact: BRN was once used as the base airport for government flights, giving it a unique mix of commercial and official history.

5. Lugano Airport (LUG)

• 🏠 Location: About 4 miles west of Lugano in southern Switzerland
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Limited connections mean lower operating costs and fewer booking surcharges
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Silver Air, Swiss (seasonal and charter flights)
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use LUG as a budget-friendly hub when traveling between northern Italy and southern Switzerland, especially during summer promo fares.

Lugano Airport may be small, but it’s a budget-savvy choice for travelers exploring the Italian-speaking Ticino region. Roundtrip fares from the US can drop as low as $490–$620 when connecting through Milan or Zurich, particularly in shoulder seasons.

The airport offers quick access to lakeside villages, scenic boat rides, and mountain cable cars. You’re also just 30 minutes from the Italian border, which opens up even more affordable travel options in places like Como and Varese.

While the airport doesn’t handle many international long-hauls directly, its location near Milan Malpensa makes it an excellent second-leg destination. Arriving here means skipping the rush and heading straight into Switzerland’s laid-back, Mediterranean-style region.

Fun Fact: Lugano Airport has one of the shortest runways in Switzerland, giving passengers a unique landing experience with stunning alpine views.

• Read next: Epic Places to Visit in Ticino
• You may also like: Things to Do in Ticino
• For more reading: Prettiest Places in the Mediterranean
• Keep reading: Beautiful Places in Europe

6. Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

• 🏠 Location: About 55 miles south of Lugano, Switzerland
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Major international hub with tons of U.S. and European low-cost carriers
• ✈️ Best Airlines: ITA Airways, American, Emirates
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book a U.S. flight to MXP and take a shuttle or train to southern Switzerland to save hundreds over flying direct into smaller Swiss airports.

While not located in Switzerland, Milan Malpensa is one of the smartest workarounds for travelers flying in from the U.S. You’ll often find roundtrip fares between $430 and $600, especially in early spring and late fall when demand dips.

From the airport, direct trains and buses can get you to Lugano, Locarno, or even Bellinzona in under 90 minutes. This makes it an ideal budget entry for exploring Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region, with fewer crowds and often better weather than the north.

With more daily long-haul flights than most Swiss airports, Milan offers flexibility, competitive pricing, and better options if you’re flying last minute. You’ll also save on airport taxes and enjoy cheaper local transport when starting from Italy.

Fun Fact: MXP has one of Europe’s largest outlet malls just 10 minutes away, so it’s a favorite arrival point for travelers planning to shop before heading into Switzerland.

7. Altenrhein Airport (ACH)

• 🏠 Location: On Lake Constance, near the Austrian and German borders
• 💰 Why It Can Be Cheap: Small regional airport with fewer landing fees and private airline routes
• ✈️ Best Airlines: People’s Airline (only commercial carrier)
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into Altenrhein when booking through Vienna or other Austrian hubs as it often bundles with cheap rail and hotel deals.

Altenrhein is a quiet and scenic gateway to Switzerland’s northeast, offering a relaxing arrival experience far from the bustle of Zurich. Roundtrip flights from U.S. cities are usually via Vienna and can cost $520 to $670, with especially good deals during late spring and early fall.

Although it only has one commercial airline, People’s Airline connects well with other European cities, especially Austria. The region around Lake Constance offers lakeside cycling, vineyards, and cross-border views of Germany and Austria, all within an hour.

You’ll also enjoy quick customs processing, low baggage fees, and short walking distances between terminals. This airport is best for travelers wanting a peaceful start to their trip or planning a multi-country itinerary.

Fun Fact: Altenrhein Airport’s passenger terminal was designed by the same company that makes luxury business jets, which explains its sleek interiors and VIP-like feel even for regular travelers. Though it’s not “cheap” to fly into all the time, I have occasionally spotted good deals.

• Read next: Things to Do in St. Gallen
• You may also like: Beautiful Places in Liechtenstein

8. Sion Airport (SIR)

• 🏠 Location: In the heart of the Valais Alps, about 45 miles from Zermatt
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Limited commercial flights keep operating costs low and deals easy to find
• ✈️ Best Airlines: SWISS (seasonal), charter services
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book seasonal flights into Sion for ski trips. Packages often include lift tickets and transfers at a steep discount.

Sion Airport is a hidden gem for anyone heading to the Swiss Alps. Though flights are seasonal, especially in winter, fares from the U.S. via Geneva or London can land around $650, often bundled with ski resort offers.

Landing in Sion puts you close to iconic destinations like Zermatt, Crans-Montana, and Saas-Fee. It’s one of the most convenient airports for skiers and snowboarders who don’t want to trek across the country with gear in tow.

The airport itself is compact, friendly, and fast. You’ll spend less time navigating terminals and more time soaking in alpine views or getting to your lodge. Winter charters also run special rates that include gear handling and resort shuttles.

Fun Fact: Sion Airport was once a Swiss military base, which means its runways are strong enough to handle fighter jets, and your ski holiday bags without a hitch.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest Switzerland Airports to Fly Into

This section addresses some of the most pressing questions about finding the cheapest airports to fly into Switzerland and planning your idyllic Swiss journey.

Which airport is cheapest to fly into Switzerland?

When considering the cheapest airport to fly into Switzerland, various factors come into play, such as the time of year, airline, and potential deals. Often, larger airports like Geneva International Airport (GVA) and Zurich International Airport (ZRH) might offer more competitive pricing due to the higher volume of flights and the presence of budget airlines to Switzerland. However, smaller airports like Sion Airport (SIR) or Altenrhein Airport (ACH) might provide seasonal or regional deals. These could be more budget-friendly, especially for travelers with flexible plans.

Which month is the cheapest to travel to Switzerland?

Typically, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) tend to be the most affordable times. During these periods, you might find lower airfares and accommodation prices compared to the peak summer and winter months. It’s also a splendid time to explore the country, with milder weather in spring and the vibrant colors of fall.

What is the best month to visit Switzerland?

September is often hailed as one of the best months to visit Switzerland. The weather is pleasantly mild, and the summer crowds have started to dwindle. This provides a more peaceful environment to explore the cities and countryside. Additionally, the fall foliage begins to appear, especially in the latter part of the month. This offers spectacular scenic views across the country.

How can I find deals on flights to Switzerland?

To secure the best deals on flights to Switzerland, consider being flexible with your travel dates and booking well in advance. Utilize flight comparison websites and set up alerts for price drops to your preferred Swiss destination. Additionally, consider flying into one of the cheapest airports to fly into Switzerland. They might offer more budget-friendly options or seasonal deals.

Is it possible to explore multiple countries when flying into Switzerland?

Absolutely! Switzerland’s central location in Europe and its proximity to several countries, such as France, Italy, and Germany. This makes it possible to explore multiple countries in a single trip. Airports like EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (EAP) and Geneva International Airport (GVA) are particularly well-positioned for multi-country adventures due to their location near national borders.

What is the most convenient airport in Switzerland for ski enthusiasts?

For ski enthusiasts, Sion Airport (SIR) can be a convenient option. This is especially true for those looking to explore the ski resorts in the Valais region. Its proximity to prominent ski destinations and the availability of seasonal ski charters make it a practical choice for those looking to hit the slopes.

How early should I book my flight to Switzerland to get the best deals?

It’s generally recommended to book your flight to Switzerland at least three months in advance to secure the best deals. However, if you’re traveling during the peak seasons of summer or winter, consider booking even earlier to ensure availability and competitive pricing.

Where is the cheapest place to fly to in Switzerland?

Switzerland, known for its stunning landscapes and high living costs, might seem like an expensive destination. But when it comes to flying in, there are some strategies to save a few bucks:

1. Zurich: As the largest international airport in Switzerland and a major European hub, Zurich often has the most frequent and competitive flight deals. It’s a good starting point for exploring the country and has excellent rail connections to other parts of Switzerland.
2. Geneva: Another major gateway, especially for those looking to explore the western part of Switzerland or heading to the French Alps. Being a hub for many low-cost carriers, you can often find good deals, especially from other European cities.
3. Basel: Basel-Mulhouse Airport serves the tri-border region of France, Germany, and Switzerland. With several budget airlines operating here, it’s a potential money-saver, especially if you’re flying from within Europe.
4. Nearby Airports: Sometimes, flying into neighboring countries like Germany (e.g., Frankfurt or Munich) or France (e.g., Lyon) and then taking a train or budget flight into Switzerland can be cost-effective.

Can I use Swiss public transport to travel from the airport to other parts of the country?

Yes, Swiss public transport is renowned for its efficiency and extensive network. Major airports like Zurich International Airport (ZRH) and Geneva International Airport (GVA) offer seamless connections to the Swiss Travel System, allowing you to easily travel to various parts of the country by train, bus, or boat.

Final Thoughts on Switzerland’s Cheapest Airports

Choosing the right airport can set the tone for your entire journey. With Switzerland offering a range of options from bustling international hubs to quaint regional gateways, every traveler can find their ideal starting point. Whether you’re drawn to the cosmopolitan charm of cities like Zurich and Geneva or the tranquil charm of smaller locales like Sion, understanding the cheapest airports to fly into Switzerland enables you to embark on your Swiss adventure with both excitement and financial savvy.

As you explore the picturesque landscapes, immerse in the rich culture, and navigate through the serene and vibrant regions of Switzerland, may your travels be as enriching as they are economical!