+/- 0 h

Bern

Official languages

German, French, Italian, Romansh when communicating with Romansh-speaking people

Other languages commonly understood

Swiss German
English

230 volts / type J sockets. Two-pin type C Europlugs generally fit; an adapter is usually required for type E and F Schuko plugs

Banks

8.30 - 12.00 h and 13.30 - 17.00 h (Mon - Fri)

Opening hours may vary. Some banks remain open throughout the day and may also have limited opening hours on Saturdays.

Shops

8.30/9.00 - 18.30/19.00 h (Mon - Fri)
8.30 - 17.00/18.00 h (Sat)

Opening hours vary by region.

• 1 January: New Year’s Day

• Good Friday: Good Friday (not a public holiday in Ticino or Valais)

• Easter Monday: Easter Monday (not a public holiday in Valais and, in some places, only a day of rest)

• 1 May: Labour Day (only in the canton of Zurich, the two Basel cantons and the cantons of Ticino, Neuchâtel, Thurgau, Schaffhausen and Jura)

• Ascension Day: Ascension Day

• Whit Monday: Whit Monday (not a public holiday in Valais and, in some places, only a day of rest)

• Corpus Christi: Not a public holiday in Zurich, Bern, Glarus, Basel, Schaffhausen, Appenzell, St. Gallen, Thurgau, Vaud or Geneva

• 1 August: Swiss National Day

• 1 November: All Saints’ Day (not a public holiday in Zurich, Bern, Basel, Basel-Landschaft, Schaffhausen, Appenzell, Aargau, Neuchâtel, Vaud or Geneva)

• 25 December: Christmas Day

• 26 December: St Stephen’s Day (not a public holiday in Ticino, Vaud, Geneva or Jura)

The country is part of the Schengen Area. The following information is intended for Swiss citizens resident in Switzerland:

• Travel documents: Swiss citizens have the right to enter the country, but must prove or credibly demonstrate their nationality when crossing the border. Travellers are advised to carry a Swiss identity card or Swiss passport.

• Minors: Contact the local authorities for information about entry formalities for minors. Further information: travel authorisation for trips with children.

Swiss Plateau (north of the Alps)

• Summer (June to August): Average temperatures on the Swiss Plateau range from 18 to 28°C. The region experiences warm summers with occasional heatwaves. Rainfall is moderate and thunderstorms are frequent, especially towards the end of the day.

• Winter (December to February): In winter, temperatures drop to between -2 and 6°C. Fog is common, especially at lower elevations. Snow is less frequent than in the Alps, but snowfall can still occur, particularly in January and February.

• Spring/autumn (March to May/September to November): Temperatures during the transitional seasons range from 8 to 16°C. The weather is often unsettled, with frequent rain showers. Autumn is often foggy at lower elevations, while spring is generally quite mild.

Alpine region

• Summer (June to August): Temperatures in the Alps range from 12 to 24°C depending on the altitude. Summers are often cooler than in the lowlands, but sunshine is frequent. Afternoon thunderstorms are typical. At higher elevations, occasional snowfall is possible even in summer.

• Winter (December to February): Temperatures range from -10 to 5°C depending on the altitude. Lower Alpine valleys may experience mild weather, while snow is frequent at higher elevations and temperatures can fall well below freezing. The region is known for winter sports such as skiing.

• Spring/autumn (March to May/September to November): Temperatures range from 5 to 15°C, with considerable differences depending on the altitude. Spring brings melting snow, which causes rivers to swell. Autumn temperatures are mild, but snowfall can begin early.

Ticino (southern Switzerland, Mediterranean-influenced climate)

• Summer (June to August): Summer temperatures in Ticino range from 20 to 30°C. The region has a Mediterranean-influenced climate with warm, sunny summers. Thunderstorms nevertheless occur regularly during the summer and can bring intense rainfall.

• Winter (December to February): Winters are mild, with temperatures between 2 and 12°C. Snow is rare at lower elevations, but it can fall in higher areas. Temperatures generally remain above freezing.

• Spring/autumn (March to May/September to November): Temperatures range from 10 to 20°C. Spring arrives early and is mild, while autumn is often sunny and warm. Rain is more frequent, especially in spring.

Jura (north-western Switzerland)

• Summer (June to August): Temperatures in the Jura range from 15 to 25°C. Summers are moderately warm, but it may be slightly cooler in the region’s many wooded and mountainous areas. Thunderstorms are also common, especially in the afternoon.

• Winter (December to February): In winter, temperatures drop to between -5 and 5°C. The Jura is known for severe winters and regular snowfall. It can become very cold, particularly at higher elevations.

• Spring/autumn (March to May/September to November): Temperatures range from 5 to 15°C. Spring often arrives late and autumn can be quite cool. Fog and rain are frequent during these seasons.

The ideal time for your trip to Switzerland:

• Beach holidays: June to August. The summer months are ideal for swimming holidays at Switzerland’s many lakes, such as Lake Geneva or Lake Lucerne. The weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C.

• City breaks: April to June and September to October. Spring and early autumn are perfect for city breaks. The weather is mild, visitor numbers are lower and there is less rain. In midsummer, cities can be hot and crowded.

• Winter holidays: December to March. The winter months are particularly suitable for skiing and other winter sports in the Alps. High-altitude destinations such as Zermatt, Davos and St. Moritz are considered relatively snow-sure, although good piste conditions can never be guaranteed.

• Mobile phone use: Switzerland is not part of the EU/EEA roaming area. Depending on the mobile phone tariff, additional roaming charges may therefore apply. Travellers are advised to check roaming charges before their trip and, if necessary, purchase a special roaming package to reduce costs.

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public areas.

• Prepaid SIM cards: Travellers can purchase a prepaid SIM card locally to make domestic calls and use mobile data. Mobile network providers in Switzerland include Swisscom, Sunrise, Salt, Yallo and Lebara.

• Matterhorn, Zermatt: The Matterhorn is one of the world’s most famous mountains and a symbol of Switzerland. It is particularly popular with hikers and skiers.

• Chapel Bridge, Lucerne: This historic 14th-century wooden bridge crosses the River Reuss and is known for the paintings under its roof and the Water Tower.

• Chillon Castle, Montreux: This medieval castle on the shores of Lake Geneva is one of Switzerland’s most visited historic sites.

• Jungfraujoch, Bernese Oberland: Also known as the “Top of Europe”, the Jungfraujoch offers breathtaking views of the Alps and the Aletsch Glacier.

• Rhine Falls, Schaffhausen: One of Europe’s largest waterfalls and the continent’s most powerful by water flow, the Rhine Falls are particularly impressive when the snow melts in spring.

• Bern’s Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with charming cobbled streets, medieval buildings and the famous Zytglogge clock tower.

• Lake Geneva, Geneva/Lausanne: The largest Alpine lake is known for its picturesque surroundings, vineyards and impressive Jet d’Eau fountain.

• Lauterbrunnen Valley: A picturesque valley with impressive waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls, and a popular starting point for hikes.

• Mount Pilatus, Lucerne: Accessible by cable car or cogwheel railway, this impressive mountain offers fantastic views across Central Switzerland.

• Mount Rigi, Central Switzerland: Known as the “Queen of the Mountains”, Mount Rigi offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and is a popular hiking destination.

• Verzasca Valley, Ticino: An idyllic valley with a turquoise river and picturesque villages, ideal for hiking and experiencing nature.

• Basel Minster: A Gothic masterpiece overlooking the Rhine and an important religious and historic site in Basel.

• Aletsch Glacier, Valais: The longest glacier in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ideal for glacier hikes and spectacular views.

• Creux du Van, Neuchâtel: A vast natural rock amphitheatre often described as the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland”, ideal for hiking and wildlife watching.

• Castles of Bellinzona, Bellinzona: Three well-preserved medieval castles that form a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer an insight into Ticino’s history.

Travel inspiration

Browse our blog posts for inspiration and discover Switzerland’s most fascinating destinations:

Cities:

• Basel: 3-day city break: the best activities and insider tips

• Bern: 3-day city break: Old Town, culture and excursions

• Geneva: 3-day city break: top sights and insider tips

• Lausanne: 3-day city break: the most beautiful sights and excursions

• Lucerne: 3-day city break: the most beautiful sights and excursions

• Zurich: 3-day city break: the best leisure activities and insider tips

• Lugano: Sights, special places and peaceful corners

• Thun: Small-town charm between the River Aare, the castle and Alpine panoramas

• Montreux: City break with a lakeside promenade, culture and Riviera flair

• Schaffhausen: Weekend break: Old Town, Rhine Falls and Michelin-starred cuisine

Excursions and leisure activities:

• The best ski areas in Switzerland

• The 10 best ski resorts in Switzerland

• Snowshoeing at its best: Switzerland’s longest snowshoe trails

• Winter magic in the mountains: the most beautiful chalets in the Swiss Alps

• Spectacular short breaks: top destinations for short holidays from Switzerland

• A journey through the heart of the Alps: Switzerland’s most beautiful train journeys

• Swiss mountain hotels with fantastic views

• Switzerland’s most beautiful luxury hotels

• Hidden gems away from Switzerland’s famous ski slopes

• The most beautiful yoga retreats in Switzerland

• Arosa Lenzerheide ski area: 225 km of pistes, sunshine and winter experiences in Graubünden

• Saas-Fee ski area: ski slopes, snow conditions and tips for your winter holiday

• Engelberg ski area: pistes, prices and glacial magic on Mount Titlis

• Lake Geneva: highlights, places and tips for your trip

• Ticino: the most beautiful places, excursions and culinary tips

• Bernese Oberland: highlights, routes and travel tips for your Alpine holiday

• Holidays in Graubünden: the best tips, regions and highlights

• Fondue: A traditional dish of melted cheese served in a pot. Pieces of bread are dipped into the cheese mixture, which is usually made with Gruyère and Vacherin.

• Raclette: Melted cheese poured over potatoes, gherkins and onions. Particularly popular in Alpine regions and often served at social gatherings.

• Rösti: A crispy fried potato cake that originated in German-speaking Switzerland and is often served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

• Zurich-style sliced veal: A Zurich classic consisting of thinly sliced veal in a creamy white wine sauce, often served with rösti.

• Ticino cuisine: Strongly influenced by Italian cuisine, with dishes such as polenta, risotto and ossobuco. Mediterranean influences are especially evident in southern Switzerland.

• Swiss chocolate: World-famous for its quality and refinement, with well-known brands such as Lindt, Toblerone and Cailler. Switzerland is one of the world’s leading chocolate producers.

• Älplermagronen: A traditional Alpine pasta dish made with pasta, potatoes, cheese, cream and sometimes bacon, often served with apple sauce.

• Birchermüesli: Originally developed by Swiss doctor Maximilian Bircher-Benner, it consists of oats, yoghurt, fruit and nuts and is a popular breakfast dish.

• Saucisson Vaudois: A smoked sausage from the canton of Vaud, often served with potatoes, sauerkraut or lentils. It is typical of French-speaking Swiss cuisine.

• Greetings: Punctuality and politeness are valued in Switzerland. Common greetings vary by region. In German-speaking Switzerland, people say “Grüezi” or “Grüezi mitenand” when addressing several people; in French-speaking Switzerland, “Bonjour”; and in Ticino, “Buongiorno”. Shaking hands is the most common greeting, particularly in formal settings.

• Please and thank you: Politeness plays an important role in Switzerland. In German-speaking Switzerland, people say “Bitte” and “Danke”; in French-speaking Switzerland, “S’il vous plaît” and “Merci”; and in Ticino, “Per favore” and “Grazie”. It is customary to say thank you when leaving a shop or restaurant.

• Clothing: People in Switzerland value neat, well-presented clothing. In urban areas, dress tends to be elegant and understated. Practical clothing is common in rural areas and for outdoor activities. More formal attire is recommended for upscale restaurants and cultural events.

• Dining culture: Swiss dining culture is shaped by local and regional traditions. It is customary to wait for a formal invitation before starting to eat. When invited to a meal, guests should bring a small thank-you gift such as flowers or chocolate. A calm and respectful atmosphere is valued in restaurants.

• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces in Switzerland, including restaurants, bars and public transport. However, many bars and clubs have designated smoking areas or rooms. In public places, be considerate and ask whether smoking is permitted.

• Tipping: Service is generally included in prices at Swiss restaurants and cafés. Nevertheless, it is customary to leave a tip of 5–10% for good service or to round up the bill.

• Other: Punctuality is particularly important in Switzerland, whether for business or private appointments. Travellers should avoid being late. Cleanliness and environmental protection are also highly valued. Waste separation is widespread and litter should never be discarded carelessly.

• Drinking water quality: The quality of drinking water in Switzerland is excellent. Tap water is strictly monitored and safe to drink. At public fountains, look out for signs such as “Kein Trinkwasser” or “Not drinking water”.

• Vaccinations: There are generally no specific vaccination requirements for entry into Switzerland. Travellers are nevertheless advised to keep their routine vaccinations up to date, including those against polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.

• Medical care: Medical care is of a very high standard. During a temporary stay, travellers from EU/EFTA countries and the United Kingdom are entitled to medically necessary treatment on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card. Additional travel insurance is recommended, as cost-sharing may apply and medical repatriation is not covered.

• Medication: If you depend on certain medication, your travel first-aid kit should contain an adequate supply. Please note, however, that many countries have special regulations governing the import of medication containing narcotic substances, such as methadone, and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, contact the relevant foreign representation, embassy or consulate directly before departure.

Check the media for information about the current situation before and during your trip, and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• More information about the current security situation is available on the website of the German Federal Foreign Office.

• Terrorism: Follow the worldwide security advice.

• Crime: The crime rate is low. However, pickpocketing and handbag theft can occur in busy locations, at railway stations and on public transport. Keep valuables and documents secure and remain cautious of suspicious messages, calls and offers.

• Driving licence: The Swiss driving licence is recognised.

• Car hire: The minimum age ranges from 19 to 25, depending on the car hire company and vehicle category. Additional fees or restrictions may apply to younger drivers.

• Traffic rules: Daytime running lights or dipped headlights are compulsory during the day. Dipped headlights must be used at night and in poor visibility.

• Vehicle equipment: A warning triangle must be carried and kept within easy reach. A CH sticker is not required when driving within Switzerland; it is generally compulsory for vehicles registered in Switzerland when travelling abroad.

• Blood alcohol limit: 0.25 mg/l or 0.5‰. A de facto ban on alcohol, with a limit of 0.05 mg/l or 0.1‰, applies to new drivers holding a probationary licence, learner drivers, driving instructors, persons accompanying learner drivers and certain professional drivers.

• Other: A motorway vignette is required to use Swiss national roads with motor vehicles and trailers weighing up to 3.5 tonnes. The adhesive vignette and e-vignette each cost CHF 40.– and are valid from 1 December of the previous year until 31 January of the following year.

• Long-distance trains: Switzerland has a comprehensive and efficient long-distance rail network operated by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). Long-distance trains connect the country’s largest cities and important international destinations. The trains are comfortable and many offer services such as Wi-Fi and on-board catering. They are punctual and provide regular domestic and international connections, including to Germany, France and Italy.

• Regional trains: In addition to long-distance trains, a dense regional rail network serves smaller towns and rural areas. These trains often run frequently and provide fast, convenient connections within each region. They are operated by SBB and various regional railway companies such as RhB and BLS.

• Buses: Switzerland’s bus network is well developed and complements rail connections, especially in rural and remote regions. Regional buses and PostBuses serve places that are not directly accessible by train. The vehicles are modern and services reliable. Timetables are often coordinated with train connections.

• Metro/trams: Larger cities such as Zurich, Basel and Geneva have well-developed tram networks. Lausanne is the only Swiss city with a metro system. These modes of transport provide an efficient way to travel around the cities.

• Tickets: Public transport tickets are available at railway stations, bus stations and ticket machines. They can also be purchased online from SBB or regional operators. The Swiss Travel Pass offers foreign visitors travel by train, bus and boat on the corresponding network. The SwissPass, by contrast, is a card used to hold Swiss public transport travelcards and should not be confused with the Swiss Travel Pass. Day passes and multi-journey tickets are also available for urban public transport.

• Other: Switzerland also has an efficient and well-organised network of boat services on its major lakes and rivers, which is often integrated into transport planning. Public transport is known for its punctuality, reliability and ease of use. Many vehicles and stations are accessible, although restrictions may apply depending on the route, stop and vehicle.

Switzerland has several international airports:

• Zurich Airport (ZRH)

• Basel-Mulhouse Airport (BSL/MLH) – EuroAirport is located on French territory and serves the tri-national region

• Geneva Airport (GVA)

Major airlines operating in Switzerland include Swiss International Air Lines, Eurowings, Edelweiss Air, Helvetic Airways, easyJet and Lufthansa.

00 41 (omit the initial zero of the Swiss area code)

• General emergency number: 112

• Police: 117

• Fire service: 118

• Ambulance/emergency doctor: 144

The contact details of Swiss embassies and consulates abroad can be found on the relevant country page. The FDFA Helpline is also available in the event of a consular emergency abroad.

FDFA Helpline

Tel.: +41 800 247 365 or +41 58 465 33 33

Email: helpline@eda.admin.ch