NewsBite

Aussie tourists stunned by $150 bill for burgers at Switzerland hotel

An Aussie couple were “absolutely shocked” when they realised how much they had forked out for two burgers and chips at their hotel.

Wednesday, May 22 | Top stories | From the Newsroom

Two Australian travellers were left “absolutely shocked” when they realised they had forked out a whopping $150 for two burgers and chips, and one soft drink, at their hotel in Europe.

“We thought they made a mistake,” Maria Antoniou told news.com.au.

Maria and her partner Anthony were staying in Grindelwald, a village in Switzerland’s Bernese Alps.

Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world, but is popular among travellers for its incredible natural beauty.

The couple knew it was going to be a costly spot to visit from their research, but Maria says “actually experiencing the prices was next level.”

“We didn’t really shop in Switzerland so I can’t speak on that, but all the food was excessive in price,” she said.

“If I was in Australia and got told two burgers were $150 I would have walked out.”

These two burgers and chips, and a Sprite, cost Maria and Anthony $150. Picture: Maria Antoniou / Supplied
These two burgers and chips, and a Sprite, cost Maria and Anthony $150. Picture: Maria Antoniou / Supplied
Maria said the beauty of Switzerland made up for the expensive food. Picture: Instagram / @anthonymariatravel
Maria said the beauty of Switzerland made up for the expensive food. Picture: Instagram / @anthonymariatravel

Maria explained the crazy prices were not just isolated to their hotel.

“We found the street food to be a similar price, unless you were buying from the grocer — which many people were,” she said.

Maria and Anthony, who travelled for four months, said Grindelwald, Switzerland was definitely the most expensive destination they visited, followed by Santorini, Greece – another tourist hotspot.

Maria and Anthony have made travel guides to help other Aussies plan their own European adventure. Picture: Instagram / @anthonymariatravel
Maria and Anthony have made travel guides to help other Aussies plan their own European adventure. Picture: Instagram / @anthonymariatravel

The couple, who have created a series of travel guides for other Aussies, said despite the pricey food, Switzerland deserves a spot on people’s travel lists.

“One of the most beautiful countries we’ve ever visited,” Maria said. “No photo or video will ever do Switzerland justice. My partner and I can’t wait to go back. Just make sure you save, save, save.”

Aussie traveller highlights Switzerland's high costs from personal experience

When Maria shared her experience on her TikTok account – @mariaantoniouu21 – other Aussies agreed they too were stunned at how much food cost when visiting Switzerland.

“We got three large meals from Burger King and it was 210 Australian dollars,” said one woman who had visited Interlaken, a popular Swiss resort town.

“Big Mac meal cost me $35 AUD in Zurich,” said another who ate at McDonald’s in Switzerland’s largest city.

“I paid $15 AUD for a cup of noodles from my hostel gift shop,” shared a traveller on a budget.

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-ideas/food-drink/aussie-tourists-stunned-by-150-bill-for-burgers-at-switzerland-hotel/news-story/96c5d0515fe718b3c25ff53a709c53f0