DanckTravel

Author: KDanck

Switzerland is a beautiful country, filled with breathtaking nature, amazing skiing, and beautiful hiking trails. In this article, we cover the basics of what you need to know before going to Switzerland, including logistics, budgeting, and culture. 

Money Tips: Currency & Budgeting

1. Be Smart About Budgeting

Switzerland is one of the most expensive travel destinations, so before embarking on a trip, be sure to consider the costs. Even if you rent an Airbnb and decide to do some cooking, you may still be shocked at the final overall price. Even though it’s possible to do Switzerland on a budget, be sure to have some cushion for unexpected costs.

2. Get Swiss Francs

In case of emergency, it’s always good to have the local currency on hand. Switzerland uses Swiss francs (and not the Euro), so be sure to get some before you travel here. Be sure to also have coins available, so it’s easy to pay for local transportation should you need to.

3. Have a Pin for Your Credit Card

As an American, I never bothered setting up a pin for my credit card. However, almost all machines asked me for a pin form my card, even if it wasn’t a debit. Before going, be sure to contact your credit card company to get this set up.

Transportation Tips

4. Take the Train

It’s super easy to get places via public transportation in Switzerland, so we strongly suggest avoiding the car rental if possible. Switzerland is also very scenic and you can enjoy the ride through the countryside while reaching your destinations.

5. Save on Train Fare

There are several passes available which can allow you to save on train travel.

Swiss Travel Pass: 

The Swiss Travel Pass allows you to have unlimited travel on public transportation in Switzerland for one fixed cost. If you plan on traveling around the country, this could be a cost-effective option. Additional benefits include entry into 500 museums and mountain excursion discounts. This is available for adults who are 25 or older.

Regional Pass

Instead of covering all of Switzerland, a regional pass covers a specific area’s public transportation. More information can be found here.

Swiss Half Fare

The Swiss Half Fare gives you a 50% discount every time you travel with the Swiss Train. Even if you go international with the train, you can save money on the Swiss portion of your travels. This ticket makes the most sense if you plan on staying in Switzerland for a while or if you plan on taking the train a lot while you’re there.

Eurail

If you’re doing multiple countries in one trip, the Eurail pass may be the best fit. You can explore 33 countries for the price of one ticket.

Supersaver Tickets

Download the Swiss mobile app and you can book Supersaver tickets, which can save you up to 70% off of train fare. To do this, you just need to check on your route in advance and these tickets will automatically display if they are available. 

6. Get an International Driver’s Permit

According to Enterprise, you need an international driver’s permit when going to Switzerland alongside your current license. If you’re a AAA member, this is pretty easy to obtain. Simply bring a passport-syle picture, your license, and money.  

7. Get Familiar with the Local Laws

Swiss fines can get expensive, so be sure to understand what the local laws are. For example: If you dodge a fare for the trains or local buses, the tickets can cost 200 CHF, which is much more expensive than in other countries. They don’t always check, but when they do, it can get pricey.

When to Go Tips

8. Choose the Right Season

Switzerland boasts all four seasons, so it’s important to consider the timing of where you’ll be going. If you go in the late spring, you can generally avoid the summertime crowds, while still enjoying nice weather. However, December has beautiful Christmas markets and skiing.

Logistics Tips: Outlets, the EU & Necessities

9. An Overview of the Airports

There are several airports you can consider flying into. We’ve listed them below:

• Basel
• Zurich
• Geneva

10. Bring Necessities or Shop Across the Border

If you’re in a border city (this includes Geneva), it might be cheaper to shop for essential items or even to book a hotel across the border. Switzerland is well known for being expensive, so save money on necessities if you can!

However, since Switzerland is technically not part of the EU, it’s important to carry your Passport with you as you ccross.

11. Keep in Mind that Switzerland is Not Part of the EU

As noted above, Switzerland is not part of the EU. Be sure to consider the following:

• Bring your passport if shopping across the border
• If your phone plan covers EU countries, it may not cover Switzerland. 
• As noted above, Switzerland does not use the Euro

12. Get the Correct Kind of Outlet

Switzerland uses Type J outlets. While some F Type (most commonly found in Europe) outlets may fit into these, not all will. Be sure to have an adapter that will fit properly so you can charge your phone or use your laptop.

13. Stores are Closed on Sundays

As with most of Europe, stores in Switzerland are closed on Sundays. The result is Switzerland feels much more relaxed on the weekend. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Even though groceries are a necessity, these stores are not open on Sundays. Do your shopping beforehand. Bakeries and restaurants will likely be open, so if you don’t get the chance to go, you’ll still be able to eat!
• Many pharmacies will also be closed. Check online before going for which will be open. These will likely be ones at the train store. If you do go to the pharmacy and it’s closed, there should be a sign that lists which are open.

14. Tipping Culture

Since waiters earn a fair salary, tipping isn’t expected. However, if the service was good, you can round up or leave 10%.

Logistics Tips: Languages & Manners

15. 4 National Languages & Use Google Translate 

Switzerland has four national languages. Many people will speak English, but there may be some instances where a local you encounter does not, especially if you go further from the big cities. Google Translate has been a helpful tool for me in my travels, especially in app form – It can even translate menus! 

16. Remember You’re in Switzerland

It’s fine to refer to a part of Switzerland as “French-speaking” or “German-speaking”. However, try to avoid saying the “German” or “French” part of Switzerland. Switzerland is its own country and many locals don’t like being grouped in with their neighboring countries.

17. Say Hello

In parts of the United States, many people mind their own business. However, in Switzerland and many other European countries, it’s polite to say hello when passing other people on a hike or when entering a small store. 

Mountain Tips: Hiking & Skiing

Hiking in Zurich

18. Bring a Map

The trails may not always be well-marked in Switzerland, so be sure to bring a map when venturing on your hike. You can also use this to plan your route. 

19. Consider Membership with The Swiss Alpine Club

The Swiss Alpine Club has numerous huts across the Alps. With a membership, you can save up to 50% for a stay overnight. They also have courses available.

Pro Tip: Even if you have a membership, you will need to book a hut in advance. These are very popular and may sell out during the popular months.

20. Bring a Sleeping Bag

The bedding in mountain huts is not washed regularly, so most of them require you to bring a sleeping bag or sheets for your stay. 

21. Webcams

Before heading to the top of one of the mountains, you can view some of the local webcams to determine the weather and if it’s a good day for a hike. Find more information here.

22. Bring Your Skis or Snowboard

If you’re planning on skiing or snowboarding, it may be more cost-effective to bring your skis or snowboard as a carry-on than to rent on the mountain. Even though, it can feel like a pain to lug these internationally, your wallet will thank you.

Food Tips

23. Try Raclette

Swiss cheese is so delicious. Raclette is essentially taking this cheese, melting it, and dipping food into it. 

24. Try Swiss Chocolate

Swiss Chocolate is so good. One of my favorite places in in Basel, known as Confiserei Schiesser. This shop was founded in 1870 and is the oldest coffee shop in Switzerland. If you’re trying to save money and still want to try the Swiss chocolate, visit the grocery store! It’s a great place to try some chocolate at a fraction of the price.

25. Try the the Tap Water

The tap water in Switzerland can often be found in beautiful fountains. We recommend testing these out. 

Final Thoughts

Switzerland is a beautiful country that has a lot to offer. Do you have any other tips? Leave them in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Switzerland?

US citizens are subject to the 90/180 rules, which means that they can stay in the country for 90 days over the course of 180 days, without a visa.

Is Switzerland Cheap or Expensive?

Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world to travel to. There are ways to save money, but be sure to budget correctly before embarking on your journey here.