VISIT SWITZERLAND
Alpine perfection, precision, and postcard-worthy landscapes: Switzerland is where snowy peaks, turquoise lakes, and tidy cities meet.
Currency
CHF - Swiss franc (1CHF ≃ 1,1€ ≃ 1,2$ ≃ 0,9£)
POPULATION
9 millions
MAIN LANGUAGES
German, French, Italian, Romansh
AREA
41,285 km²
TIME ZONE
UTC+1 / UTC+2
FLAG
🇨🇭
WALK THROUGH LAUTERBRUNNEN VALLEY
Framed by cliffs and 72 waterfalls, this alpine valley inspired Tolkien and is one of the country’s most photogenic spots.
HIKE IN THE APPENZELLERLAND
With trails to spots like Seealpsee and the Äscher cliff hut, this region combines dramatic views with authentic alpine culture.
TAKE IN THE MATTERHORN IN ZERMATT
Switzerland’s most legendary peak is best admired from Zermatt, with options for skiing, hiking, or cable car views.
EXPLORE LUCERNE & LAKE LUCERNE
Cross the Chapel Bridge, visit the Lion Monument, or hop on a paddle steamer across the lake.
RIDE THE GLACIER EXPRESS
This iconic train crosses the Swiss Alps in style, offering panoramic views of mountains, viaducts, and alpine villages.
Pick a Swiss destination
Lauterbrunnen
Swiss alpine valley with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and access to mountain adventures.
Prepare your trip to Switzerland
💡 Why visit Switzerland?
Switzerland is famous for its stunning alpine landscapes, charming villages, and impeccable public transport. From the majestic Matterhorn and serene lakes to world-class skiing and vibrant cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva, Switzerland combines natural beauty with refined culture. Whether you’re hiking in the Alps or riding scenic trains like the Glacier Express, this is a country that guarantees unforgettable views and experiences.
🪪 Do I need a visa to visit Switzerland?
Switzerland is part of the Schengen area. Citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, some nationalities do require a visa. It’s best to check with the nearest Swiss embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information specific to your situation.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The information below is provided merely as an indication and applies for short-term tourism visa purposes only. Before your trip to Switzerland , or if you are planning to come to Switzerland for another purpose (work, studies, …), check the official information on the European Commission website’s page about Schengen visa application: https://www.home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/
⏳ Visa-free but limited to maximum 90 days for a period of 180 days if you are a citizen of one of the following countries: Albania; Andorra; Antigua and Barbuda; Argentina; Australia; Austria; Bahamas; Barbados; Belgium; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Brazil; Brunei; Bulgaria; Canada; Chile; Colombia; Costa Rica; Croatia; Czechia; Denmark; Dominica; El Salvador; Estonia; Finland; France; Georgia; Germany; Greece; Grenada; Guatemala; Honduras; Hong Kong; Hungary; Iceland; Israel; Italy; Japan; Kiribati; Kosovo; Latvia; Liechtenstein; Lithuania; Luxembourg; Macau; Malaysia; Malta; Marshall Islands; Mauritius; Mexico; Micronesia; Moldova; Monaco; Montenegro; Netherlands; New-Zealand; Nicaragua; North Macedonia; Norway; Palau; Panama; Paraguay; Peru; Poland; Portugal; Romania; Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint Lucia; Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Samoa; San Marino; Serbia; Seychelles; Singapore; Slovakia; Slovenia; Solomon islands; South Korea; Spain; Sweden; Switzerland; Taiwan; Timor-Leste; Tonga; Trinidad and Tobago; Tuvalu; Ukraine; United Arab Emirates; United Kingdom; United States of America; Uruguay; Vatican; Venezuela
🛂 Visa required if you are a citizen of one of the following countries: Afghanistan; Algeria; Angola; Armenia; Azerbaijan; Bahrain; Bangladesh; Belarus; Belize; Benin; Bhutan; Bolivia; Botswana; Burkina Faso; Burundi; Cambodia; Cameroon; Cape Verde; Central African Republic; Chad; China; Comoros; Congo; Congo (Dem. Rep); Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast); Cuba; Djibouti; Dominican Republic; Ecuador; Egypt; Equatorial Guinea; Eritrea; Eswatini; Ethiopia; Fiji; Gabon; Gambia; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Guyana; Haiti; India; Indonesia; Iran; Iraq; Jamaica; Jordan; Kazakhstan; Kenya; Kuwait; Kyrgyzstan; Laos; Lebanon; Lesotho; Liberia; Libya; Madagascar; Malawi; Maldives; Mali; Mauritania; Mongolia; Morocco; Mozambique; Myanmar; Namibia; Nauru; Nepal; Niger; Nigeria; North Korea; Oman; Pakistan; Palestine; Papua New Guinea; Philippines; Qatar; Russia; Rwanda; Sao Tome and Principe; Saudi Arabia; Senegal; Sierra Leone; Somalia; South Africa; South Sudan; Sri Lanka; Sudan; Suriname; Syria; Tajikistan; Tanzania; Thailand; Togo; Tunisia; Turkey; Turkmenistan; Uganda; Uzbekistan; Vanuatu; Vietnam; Yemen; Zambia; Zimbabwe
⛅ When is the best time to visit Switzerland?
❄️ December – February: Winter is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying snowy landscapes. Resorts like Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier attract winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.
🌱 March – May: Spring brings melting snow, blooming meadows, and quieter cities. It’s a good time for sightseeing and moderate hiking before the summer rush.
☀️ June – August: Summer offers perfect weather for hiking, biking, swimming in alpine lakes, and riding scenic trains. Popular destinations can get busy, so book in advance.
🍂 September – November: Autumn is peaceful, with colorful foliage and grape harvests in wine regions. It’s a wonderful time for photography and mountain trips.
🚉 How to get around Switzerland?
Switzerland has one of the most efficient and scenic transportation systems in the world:
🚆 Trains: The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates punctual and comfortable trains across the country. Scenic routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express are experiences in themselves.
🚌 Buses: Postbuses and local services complement the rail system, reaching remote villages and hiking trails.
🚗 Car Rental: A car is not necessary in most areas, thanks to excellent public transport. However, it can be useful for remote spots or flexibility. Traffic drives on the right-hand side, and a motorway vignette (toll sticker) is required.
💳 Can I use bank cards or cash for payments in Slovakia?
Cards are widely accepted across the country. Switzerland uses the Swiss franc (CHF), not the euro (€). Carry some cash for smaller purchases or mountain huts.
🔌 What type of plugs and voltage does Switzerland use?
Switzerland uses two plug types: C and J. They have two grounding holes. Most European plugs work, but check compatibility before you go. Switzerland operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency.
If needed, you can order an universal travel plug adapter here.
🪙 Is tipping customary in Switzerland?
Tipping is not expected in Switzerland, as service is included, but rounding up or leaving small change in cafés and restaurants is appreciated.
🥛 Is it safe to drink tap water in Switzerland?
Tap water is safe to drink throughout Switzerland.
📅 When are public holidays and store closing days in Switzerland?
Sunday is a closing day for many stores in Switzerland. National holidays in Switzerland include:
- New Year’s Day (January 01)
- Good Friday and Easter Monday (date varies)
- Labour Day (May 01)
- Swiss National Day (August 01)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
On these days, most businesses and offices will be closed, and many attractions may be shut or have limited opening hours.
🚦 What are the speed limits in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road. The main speed limits are as follows:
- 50 kph / 30mph in urban areas
- 80 kph / 56 mph on rural roads
- 100 kph / 62 mph on expressways
- 120 kph / 75 mph on motorways
During adverse weather (rain, fog, etc.), the speed limits are lowered.
💬 What are some basic Swiss words I should know?
Switzerland has four national languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh). The most commonly spoken is Swiss German. Here are a few general basics (in Standard German):
- Hello (informal) = Hallo
- Good day = Guten Tag
- Goodbye = Auf Wiedersehen
- Yes = Ja
- No = Nein
- Thank you = Danke
- Please = Bitte
- You’re welcome = Gern geschehen
- Excuse me = Entschuldigung
- Day = Tag
- Night = Nacht
- Good evening = Guten Abend
- Goodnight = Gute Nacht
- Mister = Herr
- Ma’am = Frau
- Street = Straße
- Road = Weg
💡 Tip: With the GoogleTranslate app, you can download the German language to use it even offline!
🛡️ Is it safe to travel in Switzerland?
Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are very low, and public infrastructure is reliable. Still, it’s wise to take basic precautions:
Secure Your Belongings: Especially in train stations or crowded cities.
Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for emergency services across the country.
Temperatures in Switzerland
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Rainfall in Switzerland
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