About
Switzerland is a highly developed European country with a federal republic form of government, known for its neutrality, banking system, and mountainous landscapes.
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Cities and Resorts
What to See
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faq.subtitle Switzerland
Switzerland is part of Schengen Area but not EU. EU citizens enter freely. Russians, Chinese, etc. need Schengen visa (CHF 80). US, Canada, Australia citizens can enter visa-free for 90 days. From October 2025, EES introduces biometric registration.
Swiss Half Fare Card (CHF 120/month) gives 50% off all trains, buses, boats and many mountain lifts. Swiss Travel Pass (from CHF 232 for 3 days) — unlimited travel + free museums. Supersaver Tickets on sbb.ch — up to 70% off with early booking. Regional day passes save on short trips.
Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Restaurant lunch: CHF 25-50. Coffee: CHF 4-6. Big Mac: CHF 7.50. Beer: CHF 7-10. Budget hotel: from CHF 100/night. Tip: buy groceries at Migros/Coop, eat at canteens (Mensa), drink fountain water (it's safe!).
Currency is Swiss Franc (CHF), but euros often accepted (change in CHF). Cards accepted almost everywhere. Tips are included by law, but you can round up. ATMs dispense CHF, withdrawal fees may apply. TWINT is popular payment app. Exchange currency at banks, not train stations.
Connectivity & Internet
Average Speed140 Mbps
4G CoverageExcellent, 5G
SIM from Swisscom, Sunrise or Salt costs CHF 20-40 for 5-15GB. NOT in EU - separate purchase needed. 5G excellent in cities. Mountain coverage good.
Electricity
Voltage:230VV
Frequency:50HzHz
⚡
C
J
Swiss Type J plugs (three round pins in triangle) and Type C. Voltage 230V. Type J is Switzerland-specific. Adapters widely available
Local Transport
Operators: PostBus (PostAuto), FlixBus
Booking: postauto.ch, flixbus.ch
Switzerland has world's best trains—punctual, comfortable, scenic. Trains every 30min-1h on all routes. Zurich to Geneva in 3h. Swiss Travel Pass (CHF 244/3 days) gives unlimited travel—worth it for 2+ long trips. Half Fare Card (CHF 120) gives 50% off everything. Flying unnecessary—trains faster door-to-door. PostBus reaches mountain villages.
Local Cuisine
Fondue
raclette
chocolate
Tipping
Local term: Trinkgeld/Pourboire
Restaurants
Service included, 5% for excellentTaxi
Round up fareHotels
Porter1-2 CHF per bag
Housekeeping1-2 CHF per day
Concierge5-10 CHF for special service
Tours
Guide (per day)10-20 CHF per person
Driver (per day)5-10 CHF per person
Tipping in Switzerland: Service charge included in prices by law. Additional tip (3-5%) is a nice gesture for exceptional service but not expected.