Travel Guide - Switzerland

SWITZERLAND

DESTINATION GUIDE

Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking alpine landscapes, precision engineering, and impeccable quality of life. Famous for the majestic Swiss Alps, the country offers world-class skiing and hiking opportunities, with stunning views of towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush valleys. Switzerland is also known for its rich history, charming cities, and cultural diversity, with major cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne offering a mix of modern sophistication and old-world charm. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, such as the medieval Château de Chillon on Lake Geneva or the Swiss National Park in the Alps. Swiss cities are famous for their high standards of living, well-maintained public transportation systems, and delicious cuisine, particularly fondue and chocolate. Whether you're exploring mountain villages, enjoying outdoor adventures, or savoring some of the best chocolate and watches in the world, Switzerland offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and luxury.

CURRENCY INFORMATION

Currency Name: Swiss Franc (CHF)
Currency Code: CHF
Symbol: CHF (often written as Fr or SFr)
Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, 1 CHF, 2 CHF, 5 CHF
Banknotes: 10 CHF, 20 CHF, 50 CHF, 100 CHF, 200 CHF, 1000 CHF

DAILY COST IN SWITZERLAND

ACCOMODATION

Budget: CHF 50 to CHF 150 per night for a basic shared room in a hostel or budget guesthouse

Mid-range: CHF 150 to CHF 300 per night for a 3-star hotel or private room in a guesthouse

Luxury: CHF 300 to CHF 600 or more per night for high-end hotels or luxury resorts

MEALS

Budget: CHF 10 to CHF 20 for a meal at a casual restaurant or takeaway

Mid-range: CHF 20 to CHF 50 for a 3-course meal at a mid-range restaurant

Fine Dining: CHF 50 to CHF 100+ for fine dining in upscale restaurants

TRANSPORTATION

Public Transport: CHF 2 to CHF 5 per ride on buses, trams, or trains in major cities

Taxis: CHF 8 to CHF 15 for short rides within city limits

Rental Car: CHF 50 to CHF 100 per day, depending on car type and location

Swiss Travel Pass: CHF 75 to CHF 100 per day for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats

SIGHTSEEING & ENTERTAINMENT

Museums & Attractions: CHF 10 to CHF 25 for entrance fees to most museums or historical sites

Major Landmarks: CHF 20 to CHF 50 for attractions like the Jungfrau Railway or Swiss National Park

Guided Tours: CHF 50 to CHF 100+ for scenic tours or excursions (e.g., mountain tours or boat cruises)

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIPS FOR SWITZERLAND

ATMs

Hong Kong has many ATMs that accept international cards, with most machines charging a small fee for withdrawals. ATMs in locations like 7-Eleven, Circle K, HSBC, Bank of China, and other major banks typically accept international cards, making it convenient to withdraw cash.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE

Currency exchange services are available at airports, train stations, and exchange offices in Swiss cities. However, exchange rates at airports and tourist-heavy locations are often less favorable. For better rates, use exchange offices in the city center or at major banks. Local Swiss banks offer reliable services with competitive rates. To avoid high exchange fees, it's advisable to exchange a small amount of money upon arrival for immediate expenses, such as transport or meals. For the best rates, you may want to visit a reputable currency exchange service like Currency Hub in Knox, Melbourne, before your trip.

USING CARDS

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Switzerland, especially in cities, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted, while American Express may be less frequently used. Be sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card transactions. Additionally, keep in mind that foreign transaction fees may apply, depending on your card issuer. While cards are convenient for most purchases, it's advisable to carry some Swiss Francs for smaller transactions in local markets, remote areas, or when using public transport, as not all establishments accept cards.

YOUR SWITZERLAND ITINERARY

VISIT THE MATTERHORN
Admire the iconic Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world, and enjoy skiing or hiking in Zermatt, a car-free resort town at its base.
EXPLORING INTERLAKEN AND THE JUNGFRAUJOCH
Take a scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe," and enjoy stunning views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
CRUISE ON LAKE LUCERNE
Relax on a boat cruise around Lake Lucerne, surrounded by stunning mountains, and explore the charming town of Lucerne with its medieval architecture.
EXPLORE THE OLD TOWN OF BERN
Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Bern, Switzerland's capital, famous for its well-preserved medieval buildings, clock tower, and the Bear Park.
HIKE IN THE SWISS NATIONAL PARK
Discover Switzerland’s first national park, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, offering scenic hikes for all levels of adventure.
WALK THROUGH THE GORGE OF AARE
Explore the Aare Gorge near Meiringen, a natural wonder with wooden walkways and tunnels that take you through a spectacular canyon.