Switzerland Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Bern
- Currency
- CHF (Franc)
- Best time to visit
- December–March for skiing. June–September for hiking and lake swimming.
Visa requirements
EU/EEA citizens travel freely. Non-EU can stay up to 90 days in Schengen zone without a visa.
Getting around
Switzerland's superb, punctual rail network (SBB), scenic panoramic trains, PostBuses and lake ferries connect virtually everywhere, all integrated on the Swiss Travel System and rarely needing flights. Cities have trams, buses and trains on integrated tickets, and taxis are pricey while ride-hailing (Uber) operates in the largest cities.
Safety
Switzerland is one of the world's safest countries.
Tipping customs
Service is included by law, so tipping is optional and modest. Round up the bill or add a few francs for good restaurant service, round up taxi fares, and leave a couple of francs for hotel porters and housekeeping.
Travel tips
Switzerland is expensive — budget accordingly. Swiss Travel Pass is excellent value.