Nomad on a Budget

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In this post I want to explore a European adventure that myself and a friend embarked on in early December 2024. Our goal was to visit as many countries as we could without exhausting ourselves. Sometimes you come to Europe to relax and recharge, but sometimes you want to make the most of your short time in a new place. And of course spend as little money as you can for the greatest experience as possible! If that’s you, then stick around. By the end of the week we had explored 5 different countries! Throughout this 3 part series, I will detailed every step of the way along with some of the costs!

Traveling through Europe in December is pure magic! Twinkling lights, charming Christmas markets, snow-capped peaks, and of course, plenty of adventure. We set out on a whirlwind journey through Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein with backpacks in tow and a mission to experience the best of each country without breaking the bank.

This three-part series chronicles our trip, filled with breathtaking landscapes, hidden gems, and unexpected encounters that made this adventure unforgettable. In part one we will explore everything from the serene valleys of Lauterbrunnen to the bustling streets of Milan. Each stop along the way of this leg brought something new. Whether it was an impromptu feast of free Italian pastries or a cozy underground bar in the Alps.

Join us as we navigate scenic train rides, explore charming towns, and discover the magic of Europe during the holiday season. This is the heart of Nomads on a Budget, a story of adventure, friendship, and making the most of every moment.

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The Pre-Game

There’s something magical about stepping off a plane in a new country, the crisp air, the foreign chatter, and the promise of adventure ahead. We landed in Zurich, Switzerland, after a long flight from Orlando, eager to begin our European journey. One of my top budget travel tips is to always search for flights from airports within a reasonable driving distance. Even though Orlando is about a 2 hour drive for us it is almost always worth saving a couple hundred dollars on a flight!

With only a short time in Switzerland before heading to Italy, we had a packed itinerary filled with breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences.

Arriving in Switzerland: Straight to Interlaken

Wasting no time, we hopped on a train straight from Zurich to Interlaken, which is about a 2 hour ride. There we checked into Happy Inn Hostel, a cozy and budget-friendly spot perfect for travelers looking to explore the Swiss Alps. This was my second time staying here and you really do get a good bang for your buck. When you walk in you find yourself in a pub. The bartender was very helpful with tips for things to do nearby. They have free luggage storage downstairs if you arrive early and the rooms are upstairs.

After a quick check-in, we set out for Lauterbrunnen, a fairytale-like valley known for its towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. By the time we arrived, the sun had begun to set, casting a golden glow over the valley lined with houses that had begun decorating for Christmas. We strolled through the picturesque landscape for about an hour, before heading to dinner to warm up and prepare for an adventure-packed day ahead.

Grindelwald: First Cliff Walk and a Snowy Hike

The next morning, we left early and caught a train to Grindelwald, where we took on the famous First Cliff Walk. Suspended high above the valley floor, the views from the cliff walk were nothing short of breathtaking, with rugged mountain peaks stretching in every direction. Feeling inspired, we decided to take the trail to Bachalpsee Lake. You’ll see the signs pointing you in the right direction. However, the trail quickly became steep and covered in snow, making the journey more challenging than expected. About halfway there, we decided to turn back, prioritizing our time to make it to our next destination, but not before getting some epic pictures. If you attempt this hike in the snow, walking sticks will be your best friend.

Zermatt: A True Ski Town and a Little Bar

Back in town, we caught a train to Zermatt, stopping in Tasch to check into the Matterhorn Inn, a great alternative to staying in the pricier Zermatt area. After settling in, we took a short 10-minute train ride into Zermatt, where we enjoyed amazing burgers and local beer at a restaurant called Brown Cow, before stumbling upon an incredible hidden underground bar called The Little Bar. True to its name, it was tiny but packed with character, with money from all over the world lining the walls and ceiling. The owner was incredibly welcoming, and we spent the night meeting locals and fellow travelers, making it one of the most memorable experiences of the trip.

The next morning, we checked out of the Matterhorn Inn and returned to Zermatt to explore by daylight. Unfortunately, the sky was cloudy, and once again, the Matterhorn remained hidden from view; the second time I’ve visited and struck out on seeing the iconic peak. Despite the weather, the town’s charm more than made up for it, and we captured plenty of beautiful moments before catching a train to Milan, Italy.

Welcome to Italy: Chaos and Culinary Delights

After dinner, we took a train to Monza, a town just outside Milan. As a budget-conscious traveler, I always recommend staying in nearby towns rather than the main tourist hubs. Not only is it cheaper, but you also get to explore places that many travelers overlook. We stayed at this Airbnb and it was just perfect!

Exploring Milan: From Pizza to the Duomo

The next day, we headed back into Milan to try a popular café called Loste Cafe, but the line stretched down the street. Instead, we found a tiny hole-in-the-wall pizza place called King Pizza, where the owner spoke little English but greeted us with warmth. The pizza was not only delicious but also incredibly affordable.

After finally making it to the café, we explored Navigli, a vibrant district with a picturesque canal, lined with cafés, shops, and bars. Later that evening, we visited the Duomo, Milan’s iconic cathedral. Since it was raining, exploring inside was the perfect plan, and we were lucky enough to hear someone playing the organ, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.

Italian Hospitality at its Finest

As we wandered the streets after dinner, we desperately needed a bathroom. Most places appeared closed, but we spotted a small café with its door open. Stepping inside, we used what little Italian we knew to ask if we could use the restroom. The owner, who spoke literally no English, kindly allowed us to, and as we were leaving, he started stuffing bags full of baked goods into our hands, insisting we take them. This simple act of generosity was such a heartwarming example of classic Italian hospitality.

A Farewell to Italy

Our final morning in Italy started with breakfast at Saint, an eclectic little eatery facing the Monza Duomo, a perfect last taste of Italy before we headed to the airport for our next stop: Munich, Germany.

Switzerland had given us stunning landscapes, while Italy had filled our hearts (and stomachs) with its warmth and charm. But the adventure was far from over! Stay tuned for Part 2, where we explore Germany and Austria, diving into the Christmas markets, castles, and culture that make this region a winter wonderland.