Switzerlandtravel guide
⌖ 46.8° N · 8.2° E · CAPITAL: BERN
First impressions
Know before you go.
Welcome to Switzerland, a country that truly captivates the imagination with its breathtaking landscapes, charming cities, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is renowned for its majestic Alps, pristine lakes, and picturesque villages that seem straight out of a postcard.
Whether you are an adventure enthusiast seeking thrilling outdoor activities or a culture aficionado looking to explore historical landmarks and museums, Switzerland offers something for everyone. The country's well-preserved medieval towns like Lucerne and Bern transport you back in time with their cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved architecture.
One of the most iconic symbols of Switzerland is certainly the Matterhorn, located in the famous resort town of Zermatt. This magnificent peak attracts mountaineers from all over the world who aspire to conquer its challenging slopes.
What sets Switzerland apart is its exceptional transportation system. Trains not only connect major cities like Zurich and Geneva but also traverse through scenic routes such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, allowing travelers to admire stunning panoramas along their journey.
Entry card · CH
- Currency
- Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Exchange rate
- US$1 = CHF0.81
- Languages
- German, French, Italian, Romansh
- English
- High
- Capital
- Bern
- Population
- 8 million
- Drives on
- right
- Plugs
- C, J
- Time zone
- Central European Time (UTC+01:00)
01 · The seasons
When to go.
- April - JuneSpring
- July - SeptemberSummer
- October - DecemberAutumn
- January - MarchWinter
02 · Daily fares
What it costs.
Est. daily fares
SWITZERLAND · US$1 = CHF0.81
- Hostel DormUS$45
- Takeaway MealUS$15
- Public transportUS$7
- Long-distance busUS$40
- Entrance FeeUS$30
- BeerUS$6
Daily totalUS$108 (CHF 87)
Money field notes
Cards
Cards are accepted at most places
ATM Fees
Most ATMs charge no fees
ATMs to avoid (high fees)
Euronet
THIS TRAVEL GUIDE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS
03 · The shortlist
Best experiences.
04 · At the table
Eat like you live here.
Menu
TASTE OF SWITZERLAND
- FondueMUST TRY
- RöstiMUST TRY
- Zürcher GeschnetzeltesMUST TRY
- RacletteMUST TRY
Before you go
At the border.
Customs declaration · Travel etiquette
Declare
- arrive on time for meetings or social events.
- remove your shoes when entering someone's home.
Do not bring
- expect Switzerland to be budget-friendly - even on a low budget, some expenses such as cable cars are hardly avoidable.
- drive your car into Zermatt, as it is a car-free village, accessible only by train.
What is the official language of Switzerland?
What is the currency of Switzerland?
What is the driving side in Switzerland?
What are some popular tourist destinations in Switzerland?
Is Switzerland a safe country to visit?
05 · The flight plan
Itineraries.
Switzerland 1 Week Nature Itinerary (1 week)
by @wanderein
- 1GrindelwaldGrindelwald is a picturesque village with stunning views of the Swiss Alps. It offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
- 2FirstFirst is a mountain peak located in the Bernese Alps. It is a popular destination for hiking and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- 3InterlakenInterlaken is a charming town located between two stunning lakes, Thun and Brienz. It is a popular base for outdoor activities such as paragliding, skydiving, and river rafting.
- 4JungfraujochJungfraujoch is a famous tourist destination in the Swiss Alps, often referred to as the "Top of Europe." It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
06 · The community