Фотогалерея ‒ Switzerland

Guide to Switzerland

Basic Information

Switzerland, nestled amidst the Alpine foothills, stands as one of the wealthiest nations globally. The very mention of Switzerland conjures images of trustworthiness, exemplified by Swiss banks, Swiss knives, and Swiss watches. This compact country is renowned for its impeccably equipped ski resorts, stunning lakes, and a plethora of captivating excursion destinations. Switzerland's charming castles, perched on mountain slopes amidst towering fir trees, appear straight out of the pages of a Christmas fairy tale.

Photos of Switzerland

Capital
Bern
Language
German
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Time zone
UTC+1, in summer UTC+2
Population
7 996 026
Territory
41,285 km²

Dishes worth trying:

Fondue — cooked over an open fire with one or 2-3 varieties of local cheese. Each canton has its own recipe!

Raclette — a special oven is placed in the center of the table where cheese and appetizers are cooked. Ham, homemade sausages, boiled potatoes, pickles are arranged around the grill. Grill the appetizers on the grill and pour the cheese over them.

Reshti — a puffed pancake 10-15 cm in diameter made of raw or boiled grated potatoes.

Geschnetzeltes — veal or chicken cut into thin strips across the fibers. The meat is fried and then stewed in a thick cream sauce with fried mushrooms, a glass of white wine, pickled cucumbers or fresh vegetables and fragrant spices.

Cholermus — pancake made of eggs, fresh cream, rice or wheat flour. The finished pancake is chopped into pieces with a sharp spatula and mixed with the filling.

Alpen macaroni — homemade potato and pasta casserole based on an alpine shepherd's recipe.

Zuger kirschtorte — delicate sponge cake with refreshing lemon zest, light kirsch cream, airy nut meringue

Things to do in Switzerland

  • A ride on the Glacier Express.
  • Walk across Europe's oldest bridge, the Kapellbrücke Bridge
  • Taste chocolate at the famous Sprüngli pastry shop in Zurich
  • Visit the "Top of Europe" observation deck at the top of the Sphinx cliffs
  • To admire the Chillon Castle.
  • Go to a sailing regatta
  • See the floral clock in Geneva's English Garden
  • Climb Mount Pilatus
  • Experience the power of the Rhine Falls
  • Visit the "Bear Park" in Bern

Tips

Switzerland is not part of the European Union and has its own currency, the franc. It is best to change money in banks, as they offer the most favorable exchange rates.
In order to get a VAT refund, you need to make a purchase of more than 400 Swiss francs, get it stamped in the store from the seller and then present it at customs. The VAT rate is 7.6%.
Tipping is usually included in the bill not only in restaurants, but also in hotels and even cabs. The average tip is 10%, 10 francs are left in the room after departure, and 2 francs are given to a staff member who helped carry luggage.
Most medicines in Switzerland are sold in pharmacies only with a doctor's prescription, so it is recommended to take everything you need with you on your trip.
In Switzerland, you can drink water from fountains on the street or directly from the tap.
Electrical outlets in this country are not of European standards, adapters can be asked for at the hotel reception desk.
The weather in Switzerland is very changeable, especially in the mountains, so even in summer you should have warm clothes with you.
Museums are usually closed on Mondays or Tuesdays. Some sights and historical monuments are only open for a couple of hours a day; it is best to check opening hours in advance.

Tours to Switzerland

Switzerland offers various types of tours to cater to its visitors. Ski tours are among the most popular, with the Swiss Alps being globally renowned, and the ski resorts here are among the best worldwide.

Thermal tours to Switzerland are equally well-received. Mineral spring treatments are available year-round, making therapeutic tours a viable option at any time.

For sightseeing tours, summer days are the ideal choice. Switzerland's moderate climate ensures comfortable exploration even during the warmer months. Additionally, summer is perfect for touring the country's picturesque lakes, offering opportunities for swimming and fishing.

It's worth noting that tours to Switzerland, regardless of the season, come at a cost. Switzerland ranks among the wealthiest European countries and is consequently one of the most expensive. The average cost for a week-long trip for two people typically starts at 900 EUR, covering airfare and hotel accommodations. Additional expenses, such as visas and other costs, are not included in this basic tour amount.

Where to go Switzerland

Although Switzerland is a small country, it is almost impossible to get around in one trip. It is therefore worth choosing in advance where you want to go. Whether it's the mountain slopes of the Alps, Switzerland's forested lakes or its cities with their diverse attractions. All of these deserve a separate, thoughtful and in-depth introduction. tripmydream is ready to help you choose where to go in Switzerland.
Excursions

When to go Switzerland

During the winter season, Switzerland becomes a magnet for skiers who come to explore the Alpine slopes and revel in the beauty of snow-covered peaks. In the summertime, Switzerland transforms into a haven for lake swimming enthusiasts, museum explorers, and history buffs visiting its historical monuments. The country's thermal resorts stand ready to welcome those seeking wellness through healing spring waters, making Switzerland an enticing destination year-round. For assistance in planning your trip to Switzerland, Tripmydream can provide guidance, and consider taking advantage of early booking for air tickets to save on your flight costs through Tripmydream's services.

Switzerland in spring

During spring, the air in Switzerland warms up from +9°C in March to +20°C in May. Spring rains are not uncommon in Switzerland, especially in March when the weather is unstable. In April, all Swiss gardens and parks begin to bloom in abundance.

Switzerland in summer

Summers in Switzerland are cool. In the northern regions of the country, summer temperatures do not rise above +24°C. In July in the south of Switzerland the air occasionally warms up to +30°C, but this surprises even the Swiss themselves. Rain in Switzerland in summer is also not uncommon.

Switzerland in the fall

Autumn in Switzerland comes smoothly, from September to November the air temperature gradually decreases from +20°C to +7°C. All the golden and scarlet colors of autumn are generously offered by the Swiss nature, so autumn is the best time for walks in forests and parks.

Switzerland in winter

In the valleys of Switzerland, winter temperatures range from +3 to -3°C. In the ski resorts at the same time, the cold can also reach -10°C. The snow here is dense, creating a reliable cover for skiing.

Usefulness

The information we have gathered for you about Switzerland will make your trip to the country easier and more convenient.

Visa to Switzerland

No visa needed for European citizens

Customs & Tax Free

Switzerland's customs regulations are an important part of its sustainable economy.

Travel by car

Rent a car in Switzerland allows you to travel around most of the country, independently forming your own route.

Phrasebook for tourists

A few useful phrases learned in Swiss will help you navigate the country better.

Public transport and prices

Switzerland's trains and buses are a well-oiled system that will get you anywhere in the country quickly.

Events

If you want to visit one of the Swiss holidays during your trip, check out our Switzerland events calendar.

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