---
title: "Switzerland: Trip Preparation & Destination Information"
description: Traveling to Switzerland? Read on for tips to help you prepare for your trip!
image: https://trovatrip.com/hubfs/Lucerne-Switzerland%20copy.jpg
---

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# Switzerland: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

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![](https://trovatrip.com/hubfs/Lucerne-Switzerland%20copy.jpg)

### About Switzerland

- [Overview](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#overview)
- [Packing List](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#packing)
- [Language ](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#language)
- [Weather](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#weather)
- [Fun Facts](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#funfacts)
- [Tipping](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#tipping)
- [FAQ](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#faq)
- [Luggage Restrictions](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#luggage-restrictions)
- [Other](https://trovatrip.com/traveler/trip-prep/europe/switzerland#other-if-needed)

#### Overview

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Switzerland, a country nestled in the heart of Europe. Immerse yourself in a land of majestic snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and enchanting alpine villages. Experience the thrill of traversing the world-renowned Swiss Alps, where adventure awaits at every turn. Delight in the precision craftsmanship of Swiss watches and indulge your taste buds with exquisite chocolates and cheeses. From the vibrant cities to the tranquil countryside, Switzerland offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural diversity, and unparalleled serenity.

 

Disclaimer: Space is a precious commodity in Europe, especially in its most dense cities, be prepared for smaller hotel rooms. The same goes for bathrooms and elevators, don’t be surprised if they feel cozier than those in the US.

 

**Capital City:** Bern

**Population:** 8.6 Million (Sept 2021)

**Currency:** Swiss Franc (CHF)

**Time Zone:** Central European Time (GMT+2)

**Emergency Number:** 112

**Outlet: **Type C/J

![andrea-caramello-oOZhEzwAmZc-unsplash copy](https://trovatrip.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Bens%20Folder/andrea-caramello-oOZhEzwAmZc-unsplash%20copy.jpeg?height=2000&name=andrea-caramello-oOZhEzwAmZc-unsplash%20copy.jpeg)

![angela-pham-vo7GGTh6sXM-unsplash copy](https://trovatrip.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Bens%20Folder/angela-pham-vo7GGTh6sXM-unsplash%20copy.jpeg?height=2000&name=angela-pham-vo7GGTh6sXM-unsplash%20copy.jpeg)

#### Packing List

**Active Shoes** - Great for exploring off-the-beaten paths, hiking trails and waterfalls. We love sturdy hiking sandals, such as Chacos or Keens, for warmer climates.

**Fleece Sweater** - Even in summer temps can drop, a fleece or sweater can help keep you warm.

**Warm Hat/Coat** - Winters in Europe can be chilly. Best be prepared.

**Protect Your Tummy** - Pack some Pepto Bismol and Imodium. Dramamine can be really helpful if you're prone to motion sickness.

**Sunblock with SPF** - Nothing ruins a vacation like a bad sunburn. Remember to pack sunblock with SPF to protect your skin while outside.

**Bug Spray ** - Use bug spray with DEET or Picaridin to avoid bug bites and stay healthy during your trip.

**Reusable Water Bottle ** - Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! (and save the planet by not buying plastic water bottles)! You will have access to clean water for refilling at all the hotels.

**Packing Cubes** - We'll be moving in and out of hotels frequently and these will keep you organized.

**Hand Sanitizer** - Need I say more?

**Umbrella** - Or rain jacket in case of rain.

**Portable Chargers** - Stay juiced my people.

**Travel Adapter** - A universal plug is your best option.

**Ear Plugs** - Light sleeper? Nice to have in case of a snoring roommate.

**Laundry Soap ** - Single packets are perfect for sink washes when you're running low on clean clothes.

**Swimsuit** - Never know when it's time for a swim or a spa day.

**Local Currency** - Make sure to get some local currency. On average, you'll lose around 15% at the airport if you use the currency exchange. While many places do accept cards, small local restaurants tend to be cash only.

**Call Your Bank** - Your bank may suspend your card if they suspect unusual activity. Give them a call to let them know when and where you'll be traveling.

**Always pack extra underwear!**

**Optional Binoculars** - For enhanced views of the Swiss Alps or wildlife.

#### Speak the Language

Switzerland is a multilingual country with four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Here's a brief overview of the languages and a few common phrases.

 

German: German is the most widely spoken language in Switzerland. The Swiss German dialects differ from standard German, but standard German is also understood and used in formal settings. Approximately 63% of the population speaks German.

 

- **Hello** - Hallo
- **Good morning** - Guten Morgen
- **Good evening** - Guten Abend
- **Goodbye** - Auf Wiedersehen
- **Thank you** - Danke

 

French: Around 23% of the population speaks French, mainly in the western part of Switzerland, including Geneva. It is understood in many other parts.

 

- **Hello** - Bonjour
- **Good morning** - Bonjour
- **Good evening** - Bonsoir
- **Goodbye** - Au revoir
- **Thank you** - Merci

 

Italian: Italian is spoken in the southern part of Switzerland, particularly in the canton of Ticino. Approximately 8% of the population speaks Italian.

 

- **Hello** - Ciao/Buongiorno
- **Good morning** - Buongiorno
- **Good evening** - Buonasera
- **Goodbye** - Arrivederci
- **Thank you** - Grazie

 

Romansh: Romansh is spoken by less than 1% of the population in southeastern Switzerland.

 

- - **Hello** - Allegra
    - **Good morning** - Buna damaun
    - **Good evening** - Buna sera
    - **Goodbye** - Adia
    - **Thank you** - Grazia fichun

 

 Google Translate: Download the Google Translate app or click [**here**](https://translate.google.com/)

![Lucerne-Lake-Switzerland copy](https://trovatrip.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Bens%20Folder/Lucerne-Lake-Switzerland%20copy.jpg?width=2000&name=Lucerne-Lake-Switzerland%20copy.jpg)

#### Weather

[LUCERNE WEATHER](https://forecast7.com/en/47d058d31/lucerne/?unit=us)

 

[ZÜRICH WEATHER](https://forecast7.com/en/47d388d54/zurich/?unit=us)

 

[MONTREUX WEATHER](https://forecast7.com/en/46d436d91/montreux/?unit=us)

 

#### Fun Facts

- Switzerland is famous for its extensive railway network, with punctual and efficient train services that offer breathtaking scenic routes through the Alps.
- The country is renowned for its high-quality watches and precision engineering, with Swiss watchmakers being globally recognized for their craftsmanship.
- Switzerland is home to several international organizations, including the Red Cross and numerous United Nations agencies.
- The Swiss Alps attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountaineering.
- Switzerland is known for its political neutrality and has not participated in any armed conflict since 1815.
- Swiss chocolate and cheese are highly regarded and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

#### Tipping

Tipping Suggestions: Tips for Guides, drivers and restaurants are not included. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

| **Guides** |  | CHR 10 per person/per day |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Drivers** |  | CHR 5 per person/per day |
| **Restaurants (full service)**  |  | CHR 10% of total bill |

 

#### FAQ

**Where can I find information on travel safety? **Check out the US Department of State's [website](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Switzerland.html) for the most up-to-date information on safety while traveling. To minimize the risk of pickpocketing it is recommended to be discreet: don’t flash anything of value, keep a firm hand on your camera, and carry shoulder bags slung across your body. Overall it’s a good idea to avoid badly lit areas completely at night and deserted inner-city areas by day.

 

**Is the water safe to drink? **Tap water in Switzerland is safe to drink.

 

**Do I need a Visa?** For Visa information, click [here. ](https://ch.usembassy.gov/visas/)Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you return home and has two or more blank pages. Otherwise, some countries may not let you enter.

 

**What about vaccines?** For vaccination information, click [here.](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/switzerland?s_cid=ncezid-dgmq-travel-single-001)

 

**Do you recommend travel insurance? **While not required, we highly recommend all travelers get travel insurance for their trip to protect themselves from the unknown! Check out travel insurance options from our partner,[ worldnomads.com](https://www.worldnomads.com/usa/travel-insurance?affiliate=trvtrip&subld=banner&affiliateTrackingld=db44277c07544303b92d043564508276&utm_source=trvtrip&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=Affiliate&utm_content=banner) or from a provider of your choice.

 

**What does public transportation look like? **Public transportation in Switzerland is highly efficient, reliable, and extensive. The country has an excellent network of trains, buses, and boats that connect various cities, towns, and scenic areas. The Swiss Travel System provides various passes that offer unlimited travel on public transportation.

 

**How much should I pack?** As we will be using shared transfers and spaces throughout our tour we recommend all travelers pack as lightly as possible. Please review our luggage restrictions below.

 

**What about Wifi? **Switzerland has good connectivity and access to WiFi. You can find WiFi hotspots in many public places such as hotels, cafes, restaurants, airports, and train stations.

#### Luggage Restrictions

![Luggage Restrictions purple](https://trovatrip.com/hubfs/Luggage%20Restrictions%20purple%20(2).jpg)

![Luggage restrictions purple – mobile – 1](https://trovatrip.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Luggage%20restrictions%20purple%20%E2%80%93%20mobile%20%E2%80%93%201.png?width=390&height=929&name=Luggage%20restrictions%20purple%20%E2%80%93%20mobile%20%E2%80%93%201.png)

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