Switzerland is one of the most organised and efficient countries in the world to travel in. The trains run on time (really), the infrastructure is exceptional, and the country is very safe. The main challenge is the cost — Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Here are the essential tips to help you plan a Swiss trip that delivers maximum value.
Currency and Money
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) — not the Euro, despite being surrounded by Eurozone countries. Some tourist areas and border towns accept Euros, but you will get a poor exchange rate. Use Swiss Francs.\n\nCard payments are widely accepted. ATMs are available everywhere. The best exchange rates are at ATMs on arrival or through your bank before travelling.\n\nBudget carefully: Switzerland is expensive. A coffee costs CHF 4–6 (£3.50–£5.50). A beer in a bar costs CHF 6–9 (£5.50–£8). A main course in a mid-range restaurant costs CHF 25–45 (£22–£40). A budget hotel room costs CHF 100–160 (£90–£145) per night.
Getting Around Switzerland
Swiss Travel Pass — If you plan to use Swiss trains extensively, the Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, plus free entry to over 500 museums and free or discounted mountain railways. Available for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days. Expensive but good value for active travellers.\n\nBy train (SBB) — Switzerland has the world's most punctual and comprehensive rail network. Trains connect all major cities and most towns. Book at sbb.ch. The Supersaver tickets (booked in advance) offer significant discounts.\n\nMountain transport — Cable cars, gondolas, funiculars, and cogwheel railways connect valley towns to mountain resorts. Many are included in the Swiss Travel Pass. Book popular routes (Jungfraujoch, Gornergrat) in advance.\n\nBy car — A car is useful for exploring rural areas and smaller villages. Roads are excellent. A motorway vignette (annual sticker, CHF 40) is required for motorway driving — available at border crossings, petrol stations, and post offices.
Saving Money in Switzerland
Switzerland is expensive, but there are ways to reduce costs:\n\nEat at lunch — Many Swiss restaurants offer a Tagesmenü (daily menu) at lunchtime — a two-course meal for CHF 18–25 (£16–£22). This is significantly cheaper than ordering à la carte in the evening.\n\nSelf-catering — Swiss supermarkets (Migros and Coop) are excellent and well-priced by Swiss standards. Buying breakfast and picnic lunches from a supermarket can save CHF 30–50 per day.\n\nSwiss Travel Pass — For travellers covering multiple regions, the pass can save significant amounts on transport costs.\n\nShoulder season — April–May and October–November offer lower accommodation prices than peak summer and ski season.
Language and Culture
Languages: Switzerland has four official languages — German (65% of the population), French (23%), Italian (8%), and Romansh (1%). The language changes by region: German in Zurich, Bern, and central Switzerland; French in Geneva, Lausanne, and the west; Italian in Ticino (Lugano, Locarno).\n\nEnglish is widely spoken throughout Switzerland in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.\n\nTipping: Tipping in Switzerland is not obligatory — service is included in restaurant prices by law. However, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated.\n\nPunctuality: The Swiss take punctuality very seriously. Be on time for reservations, tours, and transport connections.\n\nElectricity: European two-pin plug (Type J — unique to Switzerland). UK and EU visitors need an adaptor. Most Swiss hotels provide adaptors on request.
