Switzerland

Travel tips for Switzerland: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. Recent travelers report that while cards and Apple Pay are accepted almost everywhere, you should still carry some Swiss Francs for rural alpine huts, small dairy farms, and occasional traditional restaurants that remain cash-only.

Try the food

  • Cheese Fondue (Käsefondue): A communal pot of melted cheese blended with white wine and garlic, eaten by dipping pieces of crusty bread.
  • Rösti: A crispy, golden-brown pan-fried potato fritter often served as a hearty side dish.
  • Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: Thinly sliced veal cooked in a rich, creamy white wine and mushroom sauce.

Say it in German

  • Hello: Grüezi
  • Thank you: Danke
  • Please: Bitte
  • Excuse me: Entschuldigung
  • How much is this?: Wie viel kostet das?
  • The bill please: Die Rechnung, bitte
  • Yes / No: Ja / Nein
  • Goodbye: Auf Wiedersehen

Essentials

Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Pick up a prepaid Swisscom or Sunrise SIM card at the airport or train station, or install an eSIM like Airalo prior to arrival for instant connectivity.

Etiquette

Service charges are legally included in all restaurant and cafe bills, but it is common practice to round up to the nearest franc for good service.

Airports in Switzerland