In short
- Switzerland for towering peaks and mountain railways, and it is the pricier of the two.
- Austria generally costs less, and Zell am See is one of the most relaxed destinations for Gulf families.
- One Schengen visa covers both, and they combine easily in a single trip.
Flights from Riyadh
Direct flights reach Geneva and Zurich in about 7 hours, and Vienna in about 6 hours 20 minutes. Both countries are one hour behind Riyadh in summer and two in winter.
Visas
Both countries are in the Schengen area, and you apply to the country where you'll spend the most time. A Swiss visa usually takes 10 to 15 working days, Austria asks you to apply at least 15 days before travel, and the fee is €90 per adult for either. Many Saudis receive a five-year visa from their first application if their passport is valid for five years.
Nature and sights
Switzerland has Interlaken between its two lakes, the Jungfrau summit, Mount Titlis near Lucerne and the Matterhorn above Zermatt. Austria has Lake Zell, the Kitzsteinhorn glacier at Kaprun, Hallstatt village, the Krimml Waterfalls and the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.
Costs
Switzerland is one of Europe's most expensive countries for hotels, restaurants and trains. Apartments with a kitchen save families money, and the Swiss travel pass pays off if you move around a lot. Austria generally costs less, and Zell am See and Kaprun have a summer card that gets you into many sights for free.
Halal food and hotels
Zell am See is one of the best-loved Austrian destinations for Gulf visitors, with Arabic and halal restaurants and halal grocers, and Vienna has plenty of halal restaurants. In Switzerland there are halal and Arabic restaurants in central Interlaken, Lucerne and Geneva. Bidet showers are uncommon in hotels in both countries, so tell us and we'll check with the hotel before booking.
Can you combine them?
Yes, one Schengen visa is enough, and you can travel between the two by train or car. Many spend a few days between Interlaken and Lucerne, then a few days in Zell am See, and fly home from Vienna. We'll find you the lowest available rates for your hotels at every stop.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for families: Switzerland or Austria?
Austria costs less and Zell am See is very comfortable for Gulf families, while Switzerland is richer in peaks and mountain railways, and one visa lets you combine both.
Does a Schengen visa from Austria cover Switzerland?
Yes, a Schengen visa covers both, provided you apply to the country where you'll spend the most time.
When is the best time for Switzerland and Austria?
June to September for nature in both, Austria from May too, and winter for snow and skiing.
Where should I stay in Switzerland and Austria?
Interlaken or Lucerne as your Swiss base, and central Zell am See or Kaprun in Austria.
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Published 7 October 2026, last updated 7 October 2026. The information is for guidance only; entry requirements and seasons can change, and the binding price is the one in your booking confirmation.