This economic powerhouse nestled amongst the Alps provides a phenomenal experience for any visitor. The juxtaposition of power and tranquility is beautifully demonstrated in its cities, where the significance and global status of Zurich is met by its fairytale majesty and rolling hills. Kick back in alpine-style cabins and resorts or go full throttle with skiing and skydiving in the incredible mountains. You could even just simply binge on the creations of master chocolatiers. Either way, you can be sure that Switzerland definitely has something for you. As for other benefits, well, the flag is a big plus!
Switzerland Quick Information
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
Electricity Socket: 230V AC electricity. Power outlets are usually two-prong round but may be three-prong round also. To avoid the hassle of having to buy new adaptors for everywhere you go, we recommend picking up a Universal Travel Adaptor before you leave.
Visa: Switzerland is not a member of the EU but are signatories to the Schengen convention. They permit 90 days Visa-free travel to all EU citizens, including those not in the Schengen zone and 90 days Visa-free travel to those approved by the Schengen scheme including most of the Americas, Israel, and Australia. You must always carry your passport with you in Switzerland as it is a legal requirement to have photo ID; Swiss citizens carry national ID cards.
Safety: Widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world, Switzerland’s geopolitical position doesn’t put it at risk of terror and its high standard of living means crime is low and equality is high. Risks come from its winter sports but safety on the slopes will prevent injury and fatality which is why getting travel insurance is highly recommended. Our top pick for travel insurance is World Nomads. due to the large number of sports and activities that they cover.
Language: Switzerland is a fascinating mix of languages, predominantly French, German and Italian with some regional dialects such as Romansh. It is also one of few countries to still use Latin as a functional language in parts. English is spoken in parts and in most ski resorts but this is by no means a guarantee and the Swiss will be appreciative of any effort you can make in French or German.
Transportation: When traveling around Switzerland, the train system is pretty efficient along with other means of public transport. I also recommend downloading the Skyscanner Appwhich helps you find cheap deals to travel within Switzerland.
Best Time to Go
Like any other country, you can visit Switzerland at any time of the year and have a fantastic time. However, there’s always a ‘best’ time for what you want to do there so it is always worth checking the seasons.
Activity in Switzerland can be broken down into three tourist seasons:
- Low Season (Oct-Mar) – In the first half of this season, mountain resorts are closed with sights and restaurants open fewer days and shorter hours. Expect prices to be up to 50% lower than high season.
- Mid Seasons (Apr-Jun & Sep) – Warmer temperatures mean that resorts are opening for longer and you can still benefit from better prices.
- High Season (Jul, Aug & Dec-Apr) – Everything is open and busy, especially in July and August.
Rough Budget
Switzerland is an expensive country to travel around, which is why it is often missed off the typical Europe travel route. Saying that though, it is possible to travel here for approximately $70-100 per day if you stay in hostels, cook most of your meals and using local transport only when necessary. You’ll find that food is quite expensive as well as accommodation. Here is a rough cost of basic commodities:
Accommodation
Budget: $30-60 dorms / $80-120 budget hotels
Mid-Range: $150-200
Splurge: $250-350+
Mid-Range: $150-200
Splurge: $250-350+
Food (Typical Meal For One)
Self-catering/Lunch: $10-25
Restaurant: $20 lunch / $40 dinner
Very nice restaurant: $60+
Restaurant: $20 lunch / $40 dinner
Very nice restaurant: $60+
Transport
City Buses: $2.50-5
Intercity Trains: $25-50
Intercity Trains: $25-50
What to Pack for Traveling Switzerland
Despite having different seasons, traveling around Switzerland is generally a moderate temperature with the exception of spending time in the mountains. With that in mind, make sure you bring lots of thin pieces of clothing that you can layer if you’re cold but that would also be suitable to wear alone for the warmer days. For a complete guide on what to pack for Europe, check out our full article.
Explore and Admire Bern
Although a small city, Bern earns its right to be called the capital of Switzerland. With origins tracing back to the 12th-century, you can see the medieval architecture that has been preserved throughout the whole city. From ancient clock towers and churches, cobblestone streets, and important buildings such as the Neo-Renaissance Bundeshaus (Federal Palace) all in its historic town center, you can spend hours walking around in awe, admiring the city in all its glory. Built around a crook in the Aare River, there are heaps of things to do in Bern.
Get Your Fill of Adventure in Interlaken
Interlaken is the adventure capital of Switzerland! Offering so many choices of adrenaline-filled activities it’s easy to become overwhelmed when you get here, so make sure to plan plenty of time and watch your budget. Whether you like skydiving over the Swiss Alps, skiing, hiking or neither, Interlaken offers everything and more for all adrenaline-seekers and anyone who loves the outdoors. A unique and quirky resort town, the Bernese Highlands are not to be missed!
Apart from Interlaken, you can get your dose of adventure almost anywhere in Switzerland! Check out the button below to see all the adventure activities.
Visit the Rhine Falls
We love exploring waterfalls wherever we go, so Switzerland is no exception. Located on the High Rhine on the border between Schaffhausen and Zürich, you will find Europe’s largest waterfall, Rhine Falls. It may be the most majestic too, but that’s for you to decide! Grab a picnic and hike to the falls to enjoy the views. In the village of Schaffhausen, you’ll also get to feast your eyes on a medieval castle, so it’s worth the trip here for a couple of sights.
Explore Zürich
Set on a beautiful lake with a stunning mountain backdrop, Zürich is worth visiting for its picturesque views alone. However, if you do make it here, you will be rewarded with what else it offers. A historic city center, lakes and parks, vibrant bars and restaurants, a big expat population and a bustling nightlife, Zürich has it all. Explore the street art and have a beer on the waterfront and you’ll soon see why this city is so appealing.
Make the Most of the Mountains
The Swiss Alps offer a plethora of activity from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and trekking, so make the most of the mountains while in Switzerland! The Matterhorn offers some of the best skiing in the world (and some of the best views!), so bust out your skis or snowboard and challenge yourself. If you like to hike, head to the city of Lucerne and take on Mount Pilatus. The trails up to the top may be tough but the breathtaking views of the alps when you reach the peak are more than rewarding.
Go Lake Hopping
Think of chasing waterfalls but with lakes instead. Switzerland is full of some of the most beautiful, glistening lakes in the whole of Europe, so take some time to visit some of the best and see those crystal clear waters for yourself. To name a few, Lake Constance that borders Germany, Austria and Switzerland is worth a visit, as is Lake Maggiore, a great place for windsurfing, and Lake Geneva, a picturesque place surrounded by relaxing spa towns.
With a cuisine that combines influences from the German, French and North Italian culture, Switzerland has an incredible foodie culture that differs from region to region. With the most popular dishes crossing the local borders and spreading across the whole country (see below!), you can take part in some seriously indulgent feasting anywhere. Make sure to try our favorites before you leave Switzerland:
Rösti
Who doesn’t love fried potatoes that are crisp and golden and delicious? One of Switzerland’s iconic national dishes, you can enjoy these beauties any time of day anywhere, alone or commonly eaten with salty bacon, fried egg, and melted raclette cheese. I believe the word you’re looking for is YUM!
Swiss Fondue
You can’t get more Swiss than dipping some bread in a ceramic fondue pot filled with melted cheese after a day in the mountains. Pair yours with white wine and end with a schnapps or warm tea for the ultimate winter meal.
Raclette
Yes, it’s melted cheese again, but this time served with gschwellti (jacket potatoes), gherkins, onions, and pickled fruit! Do as the locals do and gather around wood-burning fires waiting for this delicious cheese to melt.
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
A recipe local to the German-speaking region of Zürich, this popular dish makes a hearty and belly-warming lunch. Made of Zurich-style diced veal, calves’ kidneys and sweetbreads sautéed in a gravy of onions, butter, white wine, cream, and mushrooms, this needs to be on your list of must-tries while in Switzerland.
Whilst accommodation is expensive in Switzerland, you do have a couple of options to choose from. From dorms or private rooms in hostels to budget hotels, luxury hotels or lodges, or Airbnb, there is definitely no shortage of places to stay. If you’re traveling during peak season or holidays, it is best to book your accommodations in advance. We recommend checking sites like Booking.com, Agoda, or Hostel World.
To help you figure out the best places to stay in Switzerland for you, here are our personal suggestions on where to stay:
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