Guide for British Tourists in Switzerland

Entry and Currency

For entry into Switzerland, British tourists need a passport. Since Brexit, no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). As of August 2024, the exchange rate is approximately 1 CHF = 0.85 GBP. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses or rural areas.

Healthcare

Switzerland has a high-quality healthcare system. Tourists should take out travel insurance covering medical costs, as healthcare can be expensive. Emergency numbers are 144 for ambulances, 117 for police, and 118 for fire services.

Transport and Travel

The Swiss rail network is one of the best in the world. Popular train routes for tourists include the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express. Public transportation, such as buses and trams, is reliable and widespread. A "Swiss Travel Pass" can offer tourists unlimited access to most public transportation. For more information on train schedules and travel passes, visit the SBB website (Swiss Federal Railways - the national railway company of Switzerland). Additionally, you can explore options for Swiss Travel Passes and other public transport services (PostBus).

Cultural Differences and Behavior

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Public behavior is expected to be polite and reserved. Punctuality is important in Switzerland, and tipping, while not mandatory, is appreciated for good service (around 5-10%).

Tourist Attractions and Nature

The Swiss Alps are a highlight for many British tourists, with famous spots like Zermatt and Jungfraujoch. The cities of Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne are also known for their cultural offerings and historic architecture. Nature parks and lakes provide numerous opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. For more details on must-visit places, check out places in Switzerland to explore a wide range of attractions across the country.

Shopping Tips

Popular souvenirs include Swiss watches, chocolate, and cheese. Shops are generally open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but Sunday openings are rare. Tourists can apply for a VAT refund on purchases under certain conditions. For detailed information on shops and services, British tourists can use the Swiss Essentials: Top Resources for Tourists and Locals to search for cheese companies, chocolate companies and Swiss watch companies.

Events and Festivals

Switzerland hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year. Notable events include the Montreux Jazz Festival in July, the Lucerne Festival in summer, and traditional Christmas markets in cities like Basel and Zurich. The most important holiday is Swiss National Day on August 1st, celebrated with fireworks, bonfires, and parades across the country.

Important Holidays in Switzerland

Key holidays in Switzerland include New Year's Day (January 1st), Good Friday, Easter Monday, Swiss National Day (August 1st), and Christmas (December 25th). These holidays may vary by canton, so it’s advisable to check local specifics before traveling.

Culinary Experiences

Swiss cuisine features specialties like cheese fondue, raclette, and rösti. British tourists should also try local wines and the variety of breads available. Many restaurants offer English menus. For those looking to experience local nightlife and enjoy Swiss drinks, there are numerous bars in major cities. You can explore options in Bars in Bern, Bars in Geneva, and Bars in Zurich.

Communication and Mobile Phones

Tourists can buy local SIM cards or use international roaming services. SIM cards are available at major airports, train stations, electronics stores, and mobile phone shops such as Swisscom, Sunrise, and Salt. Wi-Fi is widely available and often free in hotels, restaurants, and many public places. It's advisable to compare plans to find the best deal for data and calls, especially if you plan to travel extensively within Switzerland.

Flight Connections

The most important flight connection from the UK to Switzerland is the London-Zurich route. London Heathrow (LHR) offers several daily direct flights to Zurich (ZRH), operated by airlines like Swiss International Air Lines and British Airways. This route is particularly important as Zurich is Switzerland’s main financial hub. Other significant connections include London-Geneva and London-Basel.

Ferry Connections

For British tourists who wish to drive to Switzerland, the ferry route from Dover to Calais is essential. This route allows easy onward travel via the French motorway network towards Switzerland. The drive from Calais to Zurich takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic.