Student Life in Lucerne, Geneva, and Zurich: Best Swiss City for International Students

22 August 2025

Switzerland has been proved to be one of the most desirable international study destinations with its highly ranked world-class universities. All the universities there are always among the top globally, but what sets the country apart is student life outside the classroom. For some, the choice doesn’t end with what program is correct for them — it also includes which city to make their home. Lucerne, Geneva, and Zurich offer a distinctly different lifestyle, culture, and environment for each, so the choice is one that is very personal.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we understand that a city has the power to create your entire study abroad experience. Whether it’s affordability, career prospects, or the type of community you will create, it counts. Let’s examine more closely what student life is like in Lucerne, Geneva, and Zurich so you can choose which city best suits your ambitions.

Lucerne: A Serene Lakeside Student Paradise

Lucerne feels like something out of a postcard, with its beautiful lakeside setting and panoramic views of the Alps. It’s a smaller city, offering international students a peaceful and community-oriented lifestyle. The University of Lucerne is well-regarded for programs in law, business, and social sciences, attracting a diverse mix of learners without overwhelming crowds.

Living costs in Lucerne are generally lower compared to Zurich and Geneva, which is a big relief for students looking to manage their budgets carefully. Daily life here balances academics with outdoor activities — students often spend weekends hiking, sailing on Lake Lucerne, or attending cultural highlights like the world-famous Lucerne Festival, which celebrates music and art. If you’re someone who values a slower pace of life with close-knit connections, Lucerne feels like home.

Geneva: The International Capital of Diplomacy and Culture

Geneva stands apart from all other cities in Switzerland. With the United Nations headquarters, World Health Organization headquarters, and Red Cross headquarters, it is the pulsating heart of international diplomacy. This makes it particularly attractive to students interested in politics, international law, business, and development studies. The University of Geneva is one of the nation’s leading institutions, providing robust academic programs with international standing.

Living in Geneva is cosmopolitan — various languages are spoken around you every day, people from every corner of the globe come to study here, and international viewpoints surround you. Here, students enjoy unmatched networking through events, conferences, and internships with top organizations. On the cultural front, Geneva treats you to world-class museums, art galleries, film festivals, and international food.

That notwithstanding, Geneva is also the most costly city in Switzerland, with very high living and accommodation expenses. Yet for students who have career aspirations in international organizations or those who excel in multi-cultural settings, Geneva is every franc worth.

Zurich: The Economic Capital for Aspiring Students

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest and most vibrant city, a real hotspot for ambitious students who wish to marry academic achievement with tangible opportunity. With institutes such as ETH Zurich (a leading university globally) and the University of Zurich, the city is home to research and innovation, specifically in technology, engineering, finance, and business.

Life in Zurich entails being in a city that is never short of energy. Students live a lively life, with music festivals, cultural events, contemporary art exhibitions, and active nightlife. The city is equally well-connected in Europe, and weekend trips to nearby countries are a breeze.

The living expenses are expensive, particularly when it comes to housing, but Zurich pays it off with great career prospects. Internships and graduate placements in international companies, start-ups, and banks abound, providing students with a career boost. For a career-oriented, competitive lifestyle, Zurich tends to be the number one destination.

Which City Should You Choose as an International Student?

There cannot be a one-size-fits-all option because every city has something different to offer for different types of students. If you need peace, affordability, and proximity to nature, Lucerne offers you that ideal student life. If you are interested in diplomacy, culture, and careers in international organizations, Geneva offers a platform second to none. And if you are career-driven, ambitious, and love the fast-paced lifestyle, Zurich has opportunities galore.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we assist you to exceed mere course selection — we make you find a city where you can excel academically as well as personally. For custom guidance on studying in Switzerland and other international destinations, reach out to BCES Admissions Abroad at +91 8800096600. We’ll guide you to the correct city, the correct university, and the correct pathway to make your future happen.