Must Know: Switzerland

1. PRIORITIZE & PLAN

In Switzerland, everything’s easy to get to, but that doesn’t mean you should wander aimlessly. Aim to explore the city center in the morning, take a relaxing lake cruise at lunch, and then head into the mountains in the afternoon. This balance of urban charm and nature is a great way to experience the country. Pick one area and really dive into it—Switzerland’s beauty is in the details, so don’t rush. 

P.S. Transportation in Switzerland can be expensive, so plan wisely.

2. DOWNLOAD SBB CFF FFS APP

The national railway app covers all trains, buses, trams, and even boats, allowing you to plan your journey from one city to the next with ease. It provides real-time schedules, platform changes, and ticket purchasing, making it incredibly convenient for travelers. This app is your key to mastering the Swiss travel scene.

3. EVER-CHANGING WEATHER

Swiss weather is notoriously unpredictable. Sunglasses, a rain jacket, and an umbrella are your best friends. While the seasons are predictable — hot summers and cold winters, so expect rapid weather changes in between. Always check the forecast and use webcams to check visibility conditions in the mountains before you go. 

Better safe than soggy!

4. DRINK UP!

In Switzerland, water is basically free and available everywhere. Keep a reusable bottle with you and take advantage of the countless public fountains all over the country. Whether you're strolling through a city, wandering a village, or hiking the Alps, you’ll find fresh, clean, and totally drinkable water. Forget buying bottled water—Switzerland’s got you covered.

5. HANDLE THE CURRENCY - CHF

Switzerland uses Swiss Francs (CHF). While some places accept Euros, you’ll likely get change in Francs. When paying by card, always choose to pay in CHF for the best exchange rate. Your bank account will thank you. 

And by the way, Swiss money is beautiful—it’s as vibrant and colorful as everything else in this country. You might not want to spend it... but you will!

6. LOST IN TRANSLATION?

Switzerland has four official languages: French, Swiss German, Italian, and Romansh. Don’t assume everyone speaks each other’s language. You’ll find that people are often more likely to speak English than a second Swiss national language. 

P.S. A friendly smile and a “please” in the local language will go a long way.

7. SWISS CHARM

In Switzerland, manners go a long way. Whether you’re passing a fellow hiker, entering a café, or meeting someone on a narrow trail, always greet them. It’s just the Swiss way—and it makes the day feel a little brighter for everyone. 

Greet everyone, everywhere, always.

8. SWISS NEUTRALITY - RESPECT IT, DON'T TEST IT

Switzerland is fiercely independent and proud of its neutrality. When you're here, remember you're in a country with a strong national identity and its own distinct path in the world. Avoid suggesting that Switzerland is part of any other country (yes, even the EU). Respect the Swiss identity, and you’ll be just fine. 

And remember: if you even think of suggesting they’re “basically Germany,” expect a response as calm as the Alps... but with a hint of icy precision.

9. EARLY BIRDS GET THE BEST OF THE DAY

Switzerland starts the day early. Shops open bright and early but shut by 5 or 6 PM—so make sure to squeeze in your shopping and sightseeing before the Swiss call it a day!

10. FONDUE HAPPINESS FORMULA

Fondue is a Swiss classic, and it’s even better when paired with wine. The Swiss believe it helps with digestion. Apparently, water or soda will make that glorious cheese solidify in your stomach like cement—or a brick of cheese—and no one wants that. Or perhaps it's just that the Swiss love drinking wine and use any excuse to do so!

11. SWISS FOOD BUCKET LIST

Fondue: Dip bread into melted cheese. Repeat. 

Raclette: Melted cheese scraped over potatoes and veggies. Pure comfort food. 

Rösti: A crispy, golden potato pancake that’s perfect any time of day. 

Chocolate: Smooth and rich—this might ruin all other chocolate for you. 

12. CH – THE STORY BEHIND THE LETTERS

If you've been wondering about the "CH" you see everywhere, here’s the answer: it stands for Confoederatio Helvetica, the Latin name for Switzerland, referencing the ancient Helvetian tribe that once lived here. Mystery solved!