If you’re looking for things to know before visiting Switzerland, this post is for you!
Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with its stunning snow-capped mountains, glistening lakes, picturesque villages, and tasty chocolate.
With so much to see and do in this alpine country, it can be tough to know where to start.
To help make your planning a little bit easier, here are 27 things to know before visiting Switzerland.
From understanding the Swiss currency to knowing where the best places are to visit, I’ve got you covered!
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27 Important Things to Know Before Visiting Switzerland
I went to Switzerland a few years ago and fell in love with it.
But, there were a few things I wish I had known before going.
That’s why I created this guide about the most important things to know before going to Switzerland.
By the end of this post, you’ll be an expert on all things Switzerland and be ready to plan your dream trip!
1. The Matterhorn Is a Must-See
The Matterhorn is one of the most iconic mountains in the world, and it’s definitely a must-see when you’re in Switzerland.
If you’ve ever eaten a Toblerone bar, then you’ve seen the Matterhorn since it’s featured on the wrapper.
It sits on the border between Switzerland and Italy, and it’s the twelfth-highest peak in Europe.
Famed for its pyramid shape, there are a few ways you can experience the mighty Matterhorn.
Zermatt is the closest town to the Matterhorn, and you should be able to see the towering mountain on a clear day.
If not, you can take a cable car, go paragliding, or tackle a hike to see it.
No matter how you choose to see it, the Matterhorn is definitely something you don’t want to miss.
2. Get A Swiss Travel Pass
If you plan on traveling extensively within Switzerland, I highly recommend getting a Swiss Travel Pass.
The pass includes unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats and discounts on many attractions.
Different passes are available depending on how long you’ll be staying in Switzerland and what kind of activities you’re interested in.
For example, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex gives you the flexibility to choose how many days you want to use it within a month.
If you know you’ll be doing a lot of traveling, then this pass is definitely worth the investment.
I paid my Swiss Travel Pass off within two days of being there, and it more than paid for itself.
3. Swiss Is Not a Language
A common misconception people have before visiting Switzerland is that Swiss is the language spoken there.
But, there’s no such thing as the Swiss language.
The official languages of Switzerland are German, French, Italian, and Romansh.
So, depending on what part of the country you’re in, you’ll likely hear one of those languages being spoken.
For example, German is the predominant language in Zermatt, whereas French is the main language spoken in Geneva.
If you don’t speak any of these languages, don’t worry!
You’ll still be able to get by since many people in Switzerland speak English.
Just remember that it’s always appreciated if you try to learn a few words in the local language before your trip.
4. Bern Is the Capital of Switzerland
Another common misconception people have is that they think Zurich is the capital of Switzerland.
But it’s actually Bern, which is located in the central-western part of the country.
It’s a small, beautiful city with a population of over 130,000 people.
Despite its small size, there’s plenty to see and do in Bern.
Known as the “City of Fountains,” Bern is home to dozens of fountains in the Old Town.
Some of the top things to see include the Cathedral of Bern, the Old Town, and the Gurten (a local mountain).
For a more personalized experience, consider a customized private tour of Bern, where you can explore the city’s unique spots and its history at your own pace.
5. The Roads Are Excellent
Even though the trains and buses are incredible in Switzerland, you might consider renting a car.
The roads in Switzerland are well-maintained and clearly marked, making driving a breeze.
The Swiss government is continually investing in road infrastructure, and it shows.
Whether you’re driving on a major highway or a small country road, you can expect a smooth ride.
And, with a rental car, you’ll have the freedom to explore Switzerland at your own pace.
If you’re interested in renting a car, I recommend booking with DiscoverCars. They have no hidden fees, and their customer service is excellent. They also compare prices from several companies to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
👉 Check out your rental car options for Switzerland by clicking here. 👈
6. Switzerland Is a Diverse Country With Many Natural Landscapes
One of the things I love most about Switzerland is its diversity.
Within such a small country, you can find everything from snow-capped mountains to Mediterranean-like lakes.
Switzerland has four distinct seasons, so there’s really something for everyone, no matter when you visit.
In the winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding in the Swiss Alps.
Or, if you’re more of a summer person, you can enjoy hiking, biking, or even swimming in one of the many lakes.
In the spring, Switzerland’s valleys and meadows are blanketed in colorful wildflowers.
There are also several charming towns and villages to explore, each with its own unique character.
7. Switzerland Carries a Hefty Price Tag
One of the most important things to know before visiting Switzerland is that it’s not a cheap country.
Besides being known for its breathtaking scenery and delicious chocolate, it’s also known for being one of the most expensive countries in the world.
Once you start to explore the country, you quickly realize that everything comes at a price.
From accommodation and transportation to food and activities, almost everything is significantly more expensive than in other countries.
When I was in St. Moritz, the cheapest restaurant was a little hole-in-the-wall Italian joint, and the cheapest bowl of pasta was $32 USD.
However, if you’re careful with your budget and plan ahead, it’s possible to enjoy all that the country has to offer without completely breaking the bank.
Before you go, check out my post about essential tips to travel to Switzerland on a budget. I talk about ways to save money on transportation, food, activities, and more.
8. Stay In a Neighboring Country to Save Money
If you want to visit Switzerland but are worried about the cost, consider staying in a neighboring country instead.
You can easily take a day trip or two into Switzerland and still see all the amazing sights without spending a fortune.
I did this a few times and saved so much money! Sure, I didn’t get the experience of staying in a hotel in Switzerland, but I was able to visit all the places I wanted to see without breaking the bank.
Some of the best places to stay near Switzerland are in France, Italy, Austria, and Germany.
All of these countries are within close proximity and offer much cheaper accommodation and food options than Switzerland.
9. Don’t Buy Bottled Water
There’s something special about Swiss water.
It’s not just that it’s some of the cleanest water in the world, but it also has a certain purity and freshness that you can taste.
That’s because Switzerland has some of the most stringent water quality standards in the world and they can get water from superior resources.
There are public fountains everywhere to refill your bottles, which is also more environmentally friendly.
So, save your money and skip the bottled water while you’re in Switzerland.
10. Switzerland Is Not a Member of the European Union
People are usually shocked when they learn that Switzerland isn’t a part of the European Union.
As someone who has traveled to Switzerland, I can attest that Switzerland is a European country in every sense of the word.
It shares a border with France, Italy, Austria, and Germany, and its culture has been deeply influenced by its neighbors.
An interesting fact about Switzerland is that it has a long history of neutrality and has not been involved in a war since 1815.
11. Switzerland Is Comprised of 26 Cantons
Switzerland is made up of 26 cantons, which are essentially like states or provinces.
Each canton has its own government, laws, and constitution.
The cantons are also responsible for things like education and healthcare.
Bern is the capital of Switzerland and the seat of the federal government.
Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and the country’s financial capital.
Despite its small size, Switzerland is a truly diverse and fascinating country.
12. Switzerland Is Home to Over 1500 Lakes
Lakes are an integral part of Switzerland’s landscape, and there are more than 1500 of them scattered across the country!
Lake Geneva is the largest and most popular lake, which straddles the French and Swiss border.
Lake Geneva is a popular vacation spot with sandy beaches, clear waters, and magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
Other notable lakes include Lake Zurich, Lake Constance, Lake Lugano, and Lake Lucerne.
Even though each lake has its own unique character, they’re all similar in the fact that they’re incredibly scenic.
Whether you’re taking in the view from a lakeside cafe or enjoying a leisurely boat ride, you’re guaranteed to be impressed by the natural beauty of Switzerland’s lakes.
13. Switzerland Has Hundreds of Varieties of Cheese
If you’re a fan of cheese, then you’ll be in heaven in Switzerland.
There’s something about Swiss cheese that just makes it taste extra delicious.
There are over 450 types of cheese made in Switzerland, and each one has its own unique flavor.
The OG Swiss cheese is Emmental, which is known as Swiss cheese and for its distinctive holes.
Gruyere is another popular cheese with a nutty and brothy flavor.
You really can’t go wrong with any of the cheese in Switzerland.
One of my favorite easy and cheap lunches, when I was there, was cheese, crackers, and nuts.
14. Switzerland Is an Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream
Switzerland is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
With its stunning mountain scenery, pristine forests, and countless hiking and skiing trails, it’s no wonder that Switzerland is a popular destination for both tourists and nature lovers alike.
While the Swiss Alps may be the most well-known feature of the country, Switzerland is also home to numerous lakes, forests, and valleys, all of which offer their own unique beauty.
In addition to its natural attractions, Switzerland is also home to many quaint villages and towns, each with its own history and culture.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure or a relaxing nature escape, Switzerland is the perfect place to find it.
15. Swiss Franc Is the Currency
Since Switzerland isn’t in the European Union, Euros aren’t used there.
Rather, the Swiss franc (CHF) is the official currency of Switzerland.
One Swiss Franc is divided into 100 centimes (French) and Rappen (German).
ATM machines are widely available in Switzerland, and most accept major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard.
16. Switzerland Is One of the Safest Countries in the World
Switzerland is considered to be a very safe country. The crime rate is low, and the quality of life is high.
In addition, the Swiss government takes a proactive approach to safety, investing heavily in public infrastructure and security.
As a result, Switzerland is ranked as one of the safest countries in the world.
Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, you can rest assured that you’ll be safe in Switzerland.
Of course, no country is completely immune to crime, so it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
However, you can rest assured that Switzerland is a safe place to travel.
17. Swiss People Are Reserved
Swiss people are often described as being reserved or even cold.
While it’s true that they are not as outgoing as some other nationalities, this doesn’t mean they are rude.
In fact, Swiss people are very polite and considerate.
They just tend to be more private and they don’t like to make a lot of small talk.
But, they go out of their way to help you if you need it. So many locals showed me their favorite spots and gave me amazing advice.
Don’t be put off by the stereotype of the reserved Swiss person, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the warmth and hospitality of the people you meet.
18. The Swiss Love Their Cows
The Swiss Alps are home to some of the most iconic cows in the world.
With their large, curved horns and shaggy coats, these cows are a fixture of the Alpine landscape.
Although they may look tough, Swiss cows are actually quite gentle and docile.
They spend their days grazing on grass and flowers in the meadows, and in the winter, they enjoy a diet of hay.
Swiss cows are also known for their rich milk, which is used to make delicious cheeses like Gruyere and Emmental.
In addition to being a key part of the Swiss economy, these cows are also an important part of Swiss culture.
Each year, cow parades are held in cities across the country, and cows are decorated with flower wreaths.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Switzerland during the cow-parading season, be sure to check out one of these unique events.
With their gentle nature and sweet dispositions, it’s no wonder that these cows are such an important part of Swiss life.
19. You Can’t Leave Without Doing a Scenic Train Ride
One of the best ways to see the Swiss Alps is by taking a scenic train ride.
Two of the most popular routes are the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express.
The Bernina Express passes through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges. The route begins in Chur, which is the oldest town in Switzerland and ends in Tirano, Italy.
It winds its way through evergreen forests, Alpine meadows, and glaciated peaks.
The Glacier Express weaves through three cantons over an eight-hour journey and you’ll see St. Moritz, Zermatt (where the Matterhorn is), and more.
The Glacier Express offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers, and pristine valleys.
My favorite memories from Switzerland are from these scenic train rides and I highly recommend that you take one (or both!) while you’re in the country.
20. Switzerland Is Known For Its Chocolate
In Switzerland, chocolate is more than just a sweet treat — it’s a national obsession.
The country has a long history of chocolate production, and Swiss chocolate makers are known for their meticulous attention to detail, using only the finest ingredients to create rich, smooth chocolates with complex flavor profiles.
It’s estimated that the Swiss consume just under 20 pounds of chocolate per person each year!
There are many reasons why Swiss chocolate is so beloved. First, the cocoa beans are of high quality and are roasted to perfection.
Second, the chocolate is made with fresh milk, which gives it a creamy texture.
Finally, the chocolate goes through quality control tests to ensure that it meets the high standards of Swiss chocolate makers.
My favorite way to sample several chocolates at Swiss chocolate shops is by ordering a box of truffles.
These bite-sized treats come in an array of flavors and are the perfect way to sample a variety of Swiss chocolates.
21. There’s No Such Thing As Too Much Fondue
My motto is “fondue all day, every day” when you’re in Switzerland.
Fondue is a communal dish made of melted cheese, wine, and seasoning that is served in a shared pot.
The cheese is usually a blend of Gruyere and Emmental but it can be made with any kind of cheese, and the wine is traditionally a dry white.
Fondue is eaten with long forks and you’ll dip your bread or vegetables into the cheese.
Fondue is the perfect winter dish, and it’s the perfect way to warm up after a day of skiing or hiking. But, it can be enjoyed any time of year.
One thing is certain — the Swiss know their way around a pot of fondue!
22. Enjoy the Yodeling
Yodeling is a form of singing that originated in the Swiss Alps.
It involves rapidly changing between a high and low pitch, which creates a distinctive and warbling sound.
Yodeling was originally used as a way to communicate between mountain villages, but it has since become a popular form of entertainment.
Now, there are several yodeling competitions and festivals held in Switzerland.
When you’re in Switzerland, be sure to listen out for some yodeling!
23. Switzerland Is Amazing Any Time of the Year
With its breathtaking scenery and endless activities, Switzerland is truly a country that can be enjoyed any time of year.
Springtime in Switzerland is a sight to behold.
The mountains are blanketed in snow, and the valleys are filled with wildflowers. The air is crisp and clean, and the sun shines bright against the blue sky.
Summer is also an ideal time to visit Switzerland. Nature is in full bloom, and the days are long and warm.
There are countless hiking and biking trails to explore, along with crystal-clear lakes perfect for swimming and boating.
In autumn, the leaves change color, creating a beautiful backdrop for hikes and drives through the countryside.
And even in winter, when the snow falls and temperatures drop, Switzerland is still a magical place to be.
24. Public Transporation Is Amazing
Getting around Switzerland is a breeze, thanks to the country’s excellent public transportation system.
The trains are clean and modern, the schedule is reliable, and the fares are reasonable.
In addition, the system is well-integrated, making it easy to transfer between different modes of transport.
Whether you’re taking the train from Zurich to Geneva or the bus from Interlaken to Lucerne, you can be confident that you’ll arrive on time and safely at your destination.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get around, be sure to take advantage of Switzerland’s excellent public transportation system.
25. Switzerland Actually Produces Wine
Switzerland may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of wine, but this Alpine nation has a long tradition of viticulture.
Swiss wine dates back to the Roman Empire and Switzerland has over 15,000 hectares of vineyards today.
Nestled between France, Italy, and Germany, Switzerland benefits from a diverse range of climates, soils, and grape varieties.
In the cooler regions near the country’s borders, grapes like Chasselas and Pinot Noir thrive.
In the warmer valleys of the Swiss Alps, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon flourish.
As a result, Swiss winemakers are able to produce a wide variety of wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds.
Switzerland’s wines are truly something to rave about, and a bottle of Swiss wine is sure to impress any wine lover.
26. Get Out of the Cities
When most people think of Switzerland, they picture the towering Alps and bustling metropolises like Zurich and Geneva.
But, there’s more to Switzerland than just the big cities. In fact, some of the best parts of the country are the small villages that are tucked away in the mountains.
These villages offer a chance to experience true Swiss culture and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The small villages dotting the landscape are where you’ll find traditional Swiss architecture, quaint cafes serving up delicious local cuisine, and friendly locals who are more than happy to share their culture with visitors.
I promise you won’t regret visiting these small villages!
27. Visit Lichtenstein
Visiting Lichtenstein from Switzerland is a great way to experience two countries easily.
This tiny country is nestled between Austria and Switzerland and is overshadowed by its neighbors.
From its dramatic castles to its scenic hiking trails, this is so much to explore in this little-known country.
The capital city of Vaduz is home to the magnificent Vaduz Castle, which overlooks the town.
Lichtenstein may be small, but there’s plenty to see and do in this delightful country.
It’s worth visiting even if just for a day trip.
Things to Know Before Visiting Switzerland Final Thoughts
Switzerland is a country that is definitely worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.
With its stunning scenery, charming vibes, and amazing chocolate, you’re sure to have an amazing time.
This guide about things to know before visiting Switzerland will make your planning process easier and help you have an amazing time when you visit.
Have you been to Switzerland? Let me know in the comments below!
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Disha Smith is the founder of Disha Discovers. She quit her job in 2017 to travel the world to explore new cultures and experience new adventures. She has since been to 95+ countries and counting and has lived in South Africa, Thailand, Croatia, and Australia. She has done all kinds of travel ranging from luxury to budget backpacking, and her mission is to inspire others to discover their own sense of adventure and to help them plan a life full of meaningful experiences through travel.