The Ultimate Guide to Temporary Accommodation in Switzerland for Expats

Why Temporary Accommodation is essential for Expats

Before securing a long-term rental or buying a property, as a newcomer to Switzerland, you'll need a comfortable place to stay either because you're settling in your new job, or you're figuring our your daily commute, waiting for your stuff to arrive or having trouble finding a more permanent place to stay.

 

What to keep in mind when looking for Temporary Accommodation

Finding the right temporary accommodation in Switzerland requires careful planning and it's not your regular holiday apartment booking. If you've never done this before, here are the key factors you should keep in mind:

• Start early – Ideally, begin your search 4-5 weeks before arrival.

• Budget accordingly – Switzerland is expensive, and accommodation costs vary by city.

• Think about duration – Short stays (under 3 months) may limit your options.

• Check flexibility – Ensure you can extend your stay if needed.

• Consider location – Proximity to work, schools, or public transport is crucial.

• Understand lease terms – Some options require deposits, contracts, or cleaning fees.

Your options for Temporary Accommodation in Switzerland

1. Furnished Apartments (best for medium to long stays)

Furnished apartments provide privacy, flexibility, and a home-like environment. These are ideal if you need a place while searching for long-term accommodation.

 

Pros:

✅ Fully furnished, move-in ready

✅ More cost-effective than hotels for extended stays

✅ Comfortable and spacious, ideal for families

✅ Some allow pets

 

Cons:

⛔ High rental costs, especially in major cities

⛔ Limited availability in high-demand areas

⛔ Often require a deposit

 

👉 Looking for a furnished apartment in Zurich? Zurich Relocation offers over 300 fully furnished apartments in prime locations.

 

2. Serviced Apartments & Apart-Hotels (Best for convenience)

Serviced apartments blend hotel services with the comfort of an apartment. These work well for business travellers and short-term expats.

 

Pros:

✅ No long-term contracts or deposits

✅ Flexible rental periods

✅ Cleaning and concierge services included

 

Cons:

⛔ Higher costs compared to traditional rentals

⛔ Limited options in some Swiss cities

⛔ Best for: Expats on short-term assignments or business trips.

 

 

3. Hotels & Airbnb (Best for short stays)

Hotels and Airbnb rentals are easy and quick solutions, perfect for very short stays (1-4 weeks) or when immediate accommodation is needed.

 

Pros:

✅ Instant booking, no paperwork

✅ Various price options

✅ Some hotels offer discounts for extended stays

 

Cons:

⛔ Expensive for longer stays

⛔ Limited availability for families needing 3+ bedrooms

⛔ Some restrictions on pets

⛔ Best for: Expats needing 1-4 weeks of housing.

 

4. Subletting (Best for cost savings)

Many Swiss residents sublet their apartments when traveling or relocating. Listings are available on real estate websites, Facebook groups, and expat forums.

 

Pros:

✅ More affordable than hotels or serviced apartments

✅ Located in residential areas

 

Cons:

⛔ Requires a formal subletting contract

⛔ Deposit may be needed

⛔ Tenant responsible for cleaning and damages

⛔ Best for: Expats staying 3+ months looking for budget-friendly options.

 

Where to Find Temporary Accommodation in Switzerland

Each Swiss city has different options for temporary housing. Here’s what to expect in key expat hubs:

Zurich

🏠 High demand for temporary apartments
🏠 Many business travellers and corporate housing options

Geneva

🏠 Limited rental supply
🏠 High prices due to international institutions
🏠 Serviced apartments & hotels are popular choices

Basel

🏠 Ideal for pharma professionals
🏠 More affordable than Zurich or Geneva
🏠 Subletting is a common practice

Lausanne

🏠 Large student and expat community
🏠 High rental demand, especially near universities
🏠 Airbnb and sublets are widely available