Switzerland travel tips for first-timers: what to know

People travel to Switzerland for its mountains, lakes, and cities that feel very different depending on where you are. It’s a small country with four official languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh) so food, culture, and traditions shift from region to region.  You can ski in winter, hike through green valleys in summer, and ride scenic trains at any time of year. Here’s a round up of the most important Switzerland travel tips, so you know everything you need to know before your trip.
 

When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

The best time depends on what you want to do. Summer (June to August) is warm and good for hiking, with city temperatures around 68–77°F (20–25°C) and cooler weather higher up. Mountain passes are open and trails are busy, so it can feel crowded and more expensive.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are less crowded and still bring great scenery. Spring has wildflowers and autumn brings golden hillsides and crisp air. These months are easier on the budget and are good for both hiking and exploring cities.

Winter (December to March) is for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow activities. Resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz are in full swing, and evenings in mountain towns are often spent around long meals and cozy bars.

If you are looking to save money, late April to May and October to November can work well. Hotels are usually 20 to 30 percent cheaper. Some cable cars and mountain services close during these times, but the cities stay busy with museums, galleries, and events.

Is Switzerland expensive?

There’s no way around it: Switzerland is pricey compared to its neighbors. On average, daily costs run 20–30% higher than in France or Austria and can be nearly double what you’d pay in Italy for similar experiences. Here’s a rough idea of what to expect:

• Budget (CHF 150-200 / $165-220 per day): Staying in hostel dorms (CHF 40–60), cooking with groceries from Migros or Coop, and using regional transport passes. Hiking and city walks are your best free activities.
• Mid-range (CHF 300–450 / $330-495 per day): Covers a 3-star hotel or a private Airbnb (CHF 100–150), one sit-down restaurant meal a day, casual dining the rest of the time, and standard train travel with the occasional mountain excursion.
• Luxury (CHF 450+ / $495+ per day): Puts you in 5-star hotels, fine dining (including Michelin-starred spots), first-class train travel, and things like helicopter tours or private ski guides.
   

Is Switzerland safe for travelers?

Switzerland is generally very safe. Violent crime is rare, though petty theft does happen, mostly in busy places like Zurich and Geneva train stations. Pickpockets usually work in groups, with one person distracting you while another grabs your bag or wallet, so keep an eye on your belongings.

Most safety concerns have more to do with the outdoors. Avalanches happen every winter, especially to skiers heading off marked runs. In summer, hikers sometimes get caught out by sudden weather changes in the mountains. It’s important to check the forecast, bring the right gear, and consider a guide if you are planning a demanding route.

Understanding Switzerland's laws

Switzerland is known for strict rules, especially around noise and recycling. Quiet hours usually run from 10 PM to 6 AM. In some apartment buildings, even showering or flushing toilets late at night can lead to complaints. Recycling is taken seriously, and fines are possible if you do not follow the system.

Other laws worth knowing:

• Sundays: Most shops are closed. In residential areas, mowing lawns, washing cars, or doing noisy chores is not allowed.
• Public transport: You must validate your ticket before boarding. If you do not have a valid ticket, the fine is CHF 100, and it doubles if you delay paying.
• Driving: Exceeding the limit by just 15 mph (25 km/h) in town can bring criminal charges and fines of more than CHF 1,000.
• Photography: Taking photos of people without permission, especially children, can lead to legal problems.
• Face coverings: In Ticino and St. Gallen, covering your face in public is banned, with fines that can reach CHF 10,000.

Do you need a visa for Switzerland?

Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area. EU and EFTA citizens, along with travelers from the U.S., Canada, Australia and many other countries, can visit for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa. Your passport needs to be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date.

Americans don’t need a visa for short stays in Switzerland now, but starting in late 2026 they’ll need to apply online for an ETIAS travel authorization, which will become mandatory by 2027.

Staying longer

If you plan to stay more than 90 days, you will need a Type D national visa. This usually requires proof of accommodation, financial means of about CHF 100 per day, and a reason for your stay, such as a work contract or university enrollment. Applications are submitted at a Swiss consulate in your home country, and you should apply at least 15 days before traveling.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Switzerland?

Health standards in Switzerland are very high, and you can safely drink tap water everywhere. Public fountains marked “Trinkwasser” are fine to use too. The main things to watch for are altitude sickness if you climb quickly above 8,200 feet (2,500 meters), and tick-borne illnesses in wooded areas during spring and summer.

Pharmacies and medical care

Pharmacies (Apotheke/Pharmacie) are easy to find, and pharmacists often speak English. They can help with smaller health issues, and you may find some medications available without a prescription that would require one elsewhere. Healthcare, though, is expensive. A visit to the emergency room can cost between CHF 1,500 and 3,000. Hospitals usually expect payment upfront or proof of insurance, and they may ask for a deposit before treatment.

The emergency number is 144. If you are in the mountains, an air ambulance rescue can cost CHF 3,000 to 10,000. Travel insurance that covers both healthcare and mountain rescue is very important, as EU health cards only provide partial coverage.

Are there any vaccinations needed for Switzerland?

There are no required vaccinations for entry into Switzerland, but it is a good idea to be current on your routine shots such as MMR, DPT, and the seasonal flu.

Recommended:

• Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE): For hikers and campers spending time in forests from April to October
• Hepatitis A: Advisable for all travelers
• Hepatitis B: Consider if you are staying longer or expect close personal contact with locals

Food and water safety

Food safety rules are strict in Switzerland, and restaurants and food vendors follow them closely. Tap water is excellent quality, and you will find free drinking water in public fountains.

Raw milk cheese and unpasteurized dairy are traditional foods and usually safe thanks to tight hygiene controls. Even in mountain huts (Berghütten), standards are high. The main thing to keep in mind is that packaged food in small mountain shops may not sell as quickly, so it helps to check expiration dates.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Switzerland

In Switzerland, being on time really matters. Even a few minutes late is considered impolite, whether you are meeting a friend or attending a business appointment. When you walk into a shop or restaurant, it is expected that you greet people. Say Grüezi in the German-speaking areas, Bonjour in the French-speaking parts, and Buongiorno in Ticino.

The Swiss prefer things quiet and orderly, so avoid raising your voice on trains or in restaurants. Sundays are treated as a day of rest, and you will notice that activities like vacuuming or mowing the lawn are discouraged.

When hiking, it is normal to greet other walkers with a quick Grüezi or a nod. People may seem formal at first, but this is more about respecting privacy than being unfriendly. Once you have been properly introduced, you will find people are warmer.

Is Switzerland a good destination for families?

Switzerland works well for families. It is safe, easy to navigate, and has a range of activities that children enjoy. Many trains have family carriages with play areas, and Zurich and Geneva airports have indoor playgrounds. In the mountains, resorts often run supervised children’s programs. Facilities such as high chairs, children’s menus, and changing tables are widely available.

The short travel distances are a bonus with young kids. You can go from city to countryside in a short time without long hours in transit.  If you use a Swiss Travel Pass, children under 16 travel for free with a parent, which makes a big difference to costs.

Switzerland travel advice: Some great things to do with kids in Switzerland are scenic boat rides, gentle hikes, adventure parks, and chocolate factory visits. In the cities, museums with interactive sections, like Zurich’s Swiss National Museum, are also great.

Where to stay and getting around

You’ll find plenty of family-friendly places to stay.You will find apartment-style hotels with kitchenettes, traditional chalets that work well for larger groups, and hotels with family rooms that have separate sleeping areas. Swiss Youth Hostels often have private family rooms and play areas.

Trains are the easiest way to get around. They are smooth, punctual, and watching the scenery roll by is entertainment on its own. Larger stations usually have ramps and elevators, though some smaller mountain stops may require carrying strollers.

Rental cars give more flexibility, but keep in mind that proper child seats are required until age 12 and snow chains are needed in winter. Cable cars and gondolas are everywhere in the mountains, and kids usually love them as much as the hikes at the top.

Essentials for parents

Mountain weather can change quickly, so bring layers even in summer. Sunscreen is a must year-round since the sun feels stronger at higher elevations. Baby food and formula are easy to find in supermarkets, but they can be pricey, so pack some if you want to save money.

Most restaurants are welcoming to kids, but expect them to sit quietly: Swiss children usually do. Bringing a small game or activity helps since meals can be leisurely. For hikes, child-carrier backpacks are much easier than strollers.

The SBB Mobile app is useful for checking train times and finding family carriages. If you’re staying a while, look into the Junior Travelcard (about CHF 30), which covers unlimited travel for kids ages 6–15 when they’re with a parent.
 

What are the best places to visit in Switzerland?

Switzerland is divided into 26 cantons, each with its own traditions, dialects, and in some cases even official language. Despite being a small country, there are a lot of places worth visiting. Here are some of the best things to do in Switzerland.

Cities

Switzerland’s cities are compact, well connected by train, and shaped by the country’s mix of languages and cultures. Many combine historic old towns with modern business districts and lake or river settings that make them easy to explore on foot.

• Zurich (Zürich): Switzerland’s largest city brings together medieval streets and a strong arts scene, all shaped around Lake Zurich and the Limmat River. In the car-free Niederdorf old town you’ll find historic guild houses and quiet courtyards. Climb the Grossmünster tower for city views, or head up to Lindenhof hill to watch the sun go down. On warm days locals swim in the Limmat at Oberer Letten, a riverside pool built into the concrete banks.
• Geneva (Genève): Known for its international character, Geneva mixes French influence with Swiss precision. Beyond the Jet d’Eau fountain, the Old Town has winding alleys and staircases worth exploring. The Carouge district feels like a small Italian town, with cafés and squares that draw locals in the evenings. Free concerts at Victoria Hall are another good find.
• Lucerne (Luzern): Lucerne is known for the Chapel Bridge and its medieval walls, where you can still climb several towers. Away from the busy waterfront, Wirtshaus Galliker serves traditional Swiss food in a family-run setting. If you want a mountain excursion, the Golden Round Trip to Mount Pilatus combines boat, cogwheel train, and cable car in one ticket.

Beaches

Switzerland has no sea coast, but its lakes provide public bathing areas, lidos, and long promenades. Many beaches are managed by municipalities, often with changing cabins and cafes, and can be reached directly by train or boat.

• Lake Geneva (Lac Léman): The lake stretches between the French Alps and vineyard-covered hillsides. You can swim at smaller beaches like Plage de la Savonnière near Lausanne, or walk the palm-lined promenades in Montreux. Pully beach is quieter if you go early in the morning.
• Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee): With its long arms and mountain backdrop, Lake Lucerne has plenty of swimming areas in villages like Weggis and Vitznau. Historic paddle steamers still run between towns, which makes a relaxing way to get around. The Bürgenstock cliff path is another highlight with clear views over the water. Summer weekends are busy with locals, so weekdays are usually calmer.
• Lake Lugano: In Italian-speaking Ticino, Lake Lugano feels more Mediterranean. The Lido beaches in Lugano are a local favorite, while the coves around Gandria are quieter. The Brissago Islands can be reached by boat and are covered with botanical gardens.

Nature and adventure

Alpine geography defines much of Switzerland, with high peaks, deep valleys, and well-maintained hiking trails. Public transport, including trains, funiculars, and cable cars, makes it possible to reach most starting points without a car.

• Jungfrau Region: The Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks form the backdrop here, with trails that suit both casual walkers and serious climbers. You can wander the Lauterbrunnen Valley past 72 waterfalls, try a via ferrata, or take shorter routes like the Männlichen Royal Walk. Harder Kulm is a good place for a sunset view.
• Zermatt and the Matterhorn: Zermatt is car-free and works well as a base for exploring the Matterhorn. The Five Lakes Walk is an easier option, while the trail up to Hörnlihütte is more demanding. The Gornergrat railway climbs high for glacier views, and the small lake at Sunnegga reflects the Matterhorn on clear days.
• Swiss National Park (Engadin): Switzerland’s only national park is a protected wilderness of pine forest, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks. Trails are clearly marked, and Margunet and Alp Grimmels are especially good if you’re hoping to see ibex, marmots, or golden eagles.
• Grindelwald: Known for outdoor adventure, Grindelwald has the First Cliff Walk suspension bridge, the Bachalpsee hike with reflections of the Wetterhorn, and in winter, a long toboggan run from Faulhorn. The Männlichen cable car is usually less crowded than the First gondola and gives wider views across the valley.
   

Historic and religious sites

Switzerland’s position at the crossroads of Europe left it with Roman sites, medieval castles, and baroque abbeys. Many buildings reflect both Catholic and Protestant influences depending on the region.

• Château de Chillon (Montreux): This 13th-century castle sits right on the edge of Lake Geneva. Inside you’ll find dungeons, halls, and ramparts, all with the water as a backdrop. It’s quieter in the late afternoon, once tour groups have gone.
• St. Gallen Abbey: The abbey’s rococo library holds around 170,000 old books and manuscripts, many dating back centuries. The adjoining cathedral is one of the few major baroque churches in a largely Protestant region.
• Augusta Raurica (Basel): The country’s largest Roman site includes a restored amphitheater, villa foundations, and a museum with artifacts from daily Roman life. In summer, events bring the site to life with historical reenactments.
• Gruyères Castle: The medieval castle sits above the old village of Gruyères, known for its cheese and cream. The castle interiors are well preserved, and just outside the gates you’ll find the HR Giger Museum, a modern counterpoint to the historic setting.
   

How long to spend in Switzerland?

If it is your first trip, plan on a 7 to 10 days Switzerland itinerary. That gives you enough time to explore two or three regions without rushing. You could spend a few days in Zurich or Geneva, add 3 to 4 nights in the Jungfrau region for mountain scenery, and finish with Lucerne or Zermatt for variety.

People in Switzerland value taking things slowly, and that attitude shapes how you travel. Some of the best experiences come from unhurried moments, like sitting beside a lake, sharing a long meal, or watching the Alps turn pink at sunset.

With a 5 days Switzerland itinerary, it makes sense to focus on one region. The Bernese Oberland is a good choice, using Interlaken as a base and taking day trips to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and either Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn.

Trips shorter than 5 days are possible, but you will spend more time and money on logistics than on enjoying the country. A long weekend in Zurich or Geneva with one mountain excursion is still worthwhile.

What’s the best way to plan a Switzerland itinerary?

If you’re planning you’re Switzerland itinerary, you’ll want to start by listing what you most want to see and check how far those places are from each other. Once you know the key stops, it becomes easier to fill in the rest of the trip.

Choose your travel style

The type of trip you want will effect how you plan a trip to Switzerland. If city life appeals to you, places like Zurich, Basel, or Bellinzona are good bases. For mountains, Interlaken or Zermatt are strong choices. If you want comfort and luxury, look at St. Moritz or Gstaad. Staying 3 to 4 nights in each place works better than changing towns every day.

Factor in travel time

Trains are the simplest way to get around, and most journeys take less than 3 hours. Zurich to Lucerne is 50 minutes, and Interlaken to Zermatt takes about 2.5 hours with a change.

Mountain trips take longer. For example, reaching Jungfraujoch from Interlaken takes about 2 hours each way. Scenic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express are worth considering because the journey is part of the experience.

Switzerland travel tip: Download the SBB Mobile app for real-time schedules and platform details.

Can I drive in Switzerland?

You can drive, but you usually do not need to. A car makes sense if you are visiting remote valleys or want the convenience of carrying luggage without train transfers. Parking costs CHF 20 to 40 per day, you need a highway vignette (CHF 40), and mountain roads often have sharp turns that can be stressful. Most city centers restrict cars, and trains reach nearly everywhere visitors want to go. The views from the train are often just as good, if not better, than from the road.
 

Book essentials first

International flights are usually cheapest 2 to 3 months in advance. Zurich Airport has the most routes, while Geneva works better if you focus on the western part of the country. Flying into one and out of the other can save travel time.

EasyJet connects Switzerland with European cities, while Swiss International covers long-haul flights. Smaller airports like Basel-Mulhouse and Bern are also options.

When it comes to Switzerland accommodation, mountain towns book up quickly, especially in summer and during ski season. Reserve 2 to 3 months ahead for July and August, and 4 to 6 months ahead for peak winter. Cities usually have more flexibility, but book early if your trip falls during events like Basel’s Fasnacht or the Montreux Jazz Festival.

How to slow travel in Switzerland?

Switzerland is small, but that doesn’t mean you should try to cover it all at once. It works better to slow down and spend time in one area before moving on. If you base yourself in Interlaken you can explore the Bernese Oberland without packing and unpacking every day. Chur is a good choice if you want to see Graubünden. From either, you can take day trips at a relaxed pace.

The culture here naturally supports this kind of travel. Long lunches in mountain huts are part of the rhythm of the day, and the idea of Gemütlichkeit is about enjoying comfort and ease. Staying in an apartment with a kitchen gives you a reason to shop at local markets.

The Swiss Travel Pass makes it simple to change plans if the weather shifts. In many villages, staying three nights or more comes with a “guest card” that covers local buses and trains and sometimes reduces the cost of activities. It’s a quiet reward for taking your time.

Local experiences

Many traditions in Switzerland invite you to take part rather than just watch. In Appenzell you can join cheesemakers in summer huts and see how Alpkäse is prepared. You will often get to taste it while it is still fresh.

Each February, the Lötschental Valley comes alive with the Tschäggättä carnival, where locals parade in carved wooden masks. Visitors can sometimes join mask-making workshops if they arrange it in advance, usually by December.

In Graubünden, Romansh culture is often shared through food. Cooking classes in Scuol introduce dishes like Capuns and Maluns while also giving some background on Switzerland’s fourth national language. These are run year-round through cultural groups in town.

Further south, Ticino’s grape harvest in September and October brings visitors into the vineyards around Mendrisio. You can lend a hand with the picking, then sit down to risotto and local wine at the end of the day. Wineries typically handle their own sign-ups, so it’s worth contacting them directly by late summer.
 

How to handle money and payments in Switzerland?

The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Euros are sometimes accepted near the borders, but the exchange rate is usually poor. Credit cards are widely used in cities and tourist areas, but cash is still common in mountain huts, small restaurants, and village shops. ATMs, called Bancomats, are easy to find and give out CHF at fair rates. Many locals still pay large sums in cash, so it helps to carry some with you.

Contactless payment works smoothly in cities with both cards and phones. Tipping is not required since service is included, but rounding up a little is a kind gesture.

Switzerland travel tip: Avoid airport exchange counters since they usually charge more. Bank ATMs are a better choice.

What are the most common scams?

Switzerland is very safe, but a few scams target visitors in larger cities. In French-speaking Switzerland, there is a known scam involves people pretending to be police officers who want to check your wallet for counterfeit bills. Real Swiss police do not approach people like this.

At train stations, watch out for “helpers” who stand near ticket machines. They may say the machine is broken while trying to take your cash or card.

Online scams exist as well, especially fake apartment rentals asking for deposits in advance. To avoid this, book only through trusted websites and never wire money for keys someone promises to send by mail.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Switzerland

The landscapes in Switzerland are fragile and protected, so it is important to stay on marked trails when hiking. This prevents erosion and helps protect Alpine plants. Supporting local communities is also straightforward. Choose village shops, family-run hotels, and restaurants that focus on regional food. If you want to bring something home, buy directly from craftspeople instead of picking up mass-produced souvenirs.

Recycling is part of everyday life. Bins are color-coded and easy to find, and fines for littering can reach CHF 300. You will also notice that quiet hours and Sunday restrictions are widely respected, so it is best to plan errands around that.

On trails, uphill hikers always have the right of way. Do not pick wildflowers, as many are protected species. Public transport is the easiest way to travel, and since most of the rail network runs on hydroelectric power, it is also low impact. 
 

What food should I try in Switzerland?

Swiss food reflects its mix of German, French, and Italian influences, along with traditions from mountain life where dairy and preservation play a big role. Dishes are usually simple and focus on good ingredients.

• Fondue (Alps): A blend of cheeses such as Gruyère and Vacherin melted with white wine and kirsch. Bread cubes are dipped into the communal pot. Once a winter tradition, it is now served year-round, especially in mountain chalets.
• Rösti (German-speaking regions): A potato pancake fried until crisp, often topped with cheese, bacon, or a fried egg. It began as a farmer’s breakfast in Bern and is now found across the country.
• Raclette (Valais): Cheese is heated and scraped onto boiled potatoes with pickles and onions. The traditional version used a half-wheel of cheese melted by the fire, while modern versions use tabletop grills.
• Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (Zurich): Thin slices of veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, usually served with rösti. It is a popular business lunch that highlights Zurich’s straightforward approach to food.
• Malakoff (Lake Geneva region): Deep-fried balls of Gruyère with a crisp crust and molten center. Originally from the village of Vinzel, they are usually enjoyed with a glass of local white wine.
• Capuns (Graubünden): Swiss chard leaves wrapped around a filling of spätzle dough mixed with dried meat, cheese, and herbs, then baked in cream. This dish is strongly tied to the Romansh culture of the region.
   

Do I need a SIM card in Switzerland? How do I stay connected?

Staying connected in Switzerland is easy. Coverage is strong throughout the country, even in mountain areas. If you want mobile data, prepaid SIM cards from Swisscom, Sunrise, or Salt usually cost around CHF 20–30 and include some starting credit. You can pick one up at airports, train stations, or convenience shops, but you will need your passport for registration. If you prefer to avoid the hassle of a physical card, eSIMs through apps like Airalo or Holafly activate right away.

Free WiFi is common. Hotels, restaurants, and cafés almost always have it, and you will even find it in some mountain cable cars. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has WiFi on many trains, and larger cities often run free public networks.

Forwarding your luggage

If you want to move around without dragging a heavy suitcase, SBB’s luggage forwarding service can make travel days much easier. For CHF 12 per bag, you can drop your luggage at the station counter before 9 a.m. and pick it up at your destination by 9 p.m. the same evening.

It’s especially handy if you’re planning a long hike, exploring cities in between train rides, or staying overnight in a different town. Some hotels even allow direct delivery so your bag is waiting in your room when you arrive. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to carry essentials like a daypack, since you won’t have access to your main bag until the evening.

Avoiding tourist crowds

Big-name trips like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, or an excursion to Jungfraujoch are memorable, but they also draw crowds. Traveling outside peak times not only makes the journey quieter but can also save you money.

Trains before 8 a.m. or after 2 p.m. are often around 25 percent cheaper thanks to dynamic pricing. Mountain railways sometimes run special “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon” tickets, which are cheaper and less busy.

For panoramic trains, booking a weekday rather than a weekend also helps. If your schedule allows, consider visiting popular sights in shoulder seasons.

How to save money in Switzerland

Switzerland has a reputation for being pricey, but there are some tricks that help. Travelers under 26 can use the “26 Summits” ticket for CHF 26, which covers unlimited rides on selected mountain railways for one day: a huge saving if you plan carefully.

Many cable cars also let you ride free on your birthday, as long as you bring your passport. Hotels in alpine towns often give out guest cards that cover buses, local trains, or discounts on entry to swimming pools, spas, and attractions, but you sometimes need to ask at reception to get them.

If you’re traveling longer, rail passes like the Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card can quickly pay off. For meals, look out for lunch deals at supermarkets like Coop or Migros, where fresh sandwiches and salads are much cheaper than sit-down restaurants.