One of the cheapest accommodation types is the (youth) hostel. Swiss hostels in general are of good quality, but rooms are basic. Staying in a dormitory (e.g. 6 or 12 beds per room) is the cheapest way to spend the night. Second best from a price point of view are private rooms with shared bathrooms in the corridor. Most hostels also offer rooms with a private bathroom.
Youth hostels are not the only option. There are affordable basic hotels as well, even on top locations. The best ones can be found here.
You'll find a lot of Swiss hostels here:
Ideal for budget travelers: affordable accommodation only a few minutes on foot from the Lauterbrunnen train station. The hostel offers a self service kitchen, a launderette, lounges and a luggage room. There are private rooms and dorms, and most rooms have a balcony.
This villa built in 1860 is situated in a quiet green area next to the rail station of Lugano and at walking distance from the city center and the lake. There's a garden with a pool. This is a good option for backpackers and anyone looking for affordable accommodation.
Popular basic accommodation near the rail station Basel SBB.
Youth hostel situated near the river Rhine and a few minutes from the town center.
This hostel is located at the base of a hill, right next to one the castles of Bellinzona, the Castello di Montebello. The historical town center is only minutes away. The train station is at walking distance as well.
Cheap basic accommodation at an absolute top location in the old town of Bern.
Popular budget accommodation in the outskirts of Davos, on a hill overlooking the entire town. You'll also have a good view of the Alps from there.
Fine low budget accommodation at walking distance from the main rail station.
Basic but good quality lodging at a convenient location near the rail station.
We found this wonderful option for budget travelers: an affordable hostel near the lake and at walking distance from the train station and the center of town. The hostel does not serve breakfast but there are kitchen facilities and shops. All rooms have a balcony!
About the tourist tax one must pay in Switzerland.