TRAVEL TIPS
SWITZERLAND
OVERVIEW
ATTRACTIONS
TRANSPORTATION
SHOPPING
WHERE TO EAT
WHERE TO STAY
OVERVIEW Worldly known by its delicious chocolates,
In spite of being a small country, with little
high quality watches and the beautiful
more than 41 thousand km 2 (slightly small-
Alps, Switzerland, in central Europe, is one
er than the State of Rio de Janeiro) Switzer-
the countries with the lowest crime rates
land has 26 Cantons (federative members
in the world and better quality of life in
of the Federal State with broad autonomy),
the world.
which until half the XVIII century were sovereign states, each of them maintaining
Visiting Switzerland is learning about
its cultural roots and identities. The country
a country with charming streets and
borders are France to the West; Germany to
houses, advanced public transportation
the North, Austria and Lichtenstein Princi-
system and infrastructure, besides
pality to the East and Italy to the South.
admirable natural beauties. Huge snow peak covered mountains and dazzling
Switzerland unites the tranquility and
millennium architecture make tourists fell
beauty of the mountains, glaciers
like in a movie set.
and lakes to the modernity of the
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cosmopolitan life of larger cities. Tourists
worry. English is widely spoken across the
will be charmed by the historical streets
country.
of the capital Bern or the charming Lucerne, and can go in an adventure on the
In Switzerland, the seasons are well de-
mountains of Interlaken, visit the countless
fined. The best time for visiting depends
museums in Basel or have fun in Zürich,
on the kind of activities you want to enjoy.
the country’s most populated city.
Therefore, planning is fundamental. Depending on the time of the year, it may be
With rich cultural diversity, every region in
necessary to bring warm coats, comfortable
Switzerland has a mostly spoken language.
shoes or sunglasses and sunblock.
The main four are: German (spoken by 63.5% of the population), French (22.5%),
Winter (from January to February) is the
Italian (8.15%) and Romansh (1%), a
best time for those who wants to go ski-
dialect spoken in Graubünden Canton.
ing, due to the intense snow on the lower
Romansh is a linguistic relic derived from
mountains. There are several ski resorts.
Latin, which survived in the rocky valleys
However, be prepared to face cold tempera-
isolation and was acknowledged as national
tures ranging from -2º C to 7º C. Going out
language. In case the tourist is not fluent in
on the street may be freezing.
any of the languages, there is no need to
Those who are not used with cold weathers and prefers to enjoy milder temperatures
ATTRACTIONS
should travel on springtime (from March to May). During this season, the fields are
Visiting Switzerland is certainly on of the
deep green and flowers blossom in the
most incredible experiences a traveler may
streets, inviting for a stroll. There is snow
get. You will be mesmerized by its charming
on the highest regions of the Alps, but it is
rivers, bridges and museums, and admire
not the best season for skiing.
one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, with lakes and mountains showing
During Fall (from September to November),
a wide shade of forest greens and snow
the leaves change their color, painting a
whites, depending on the season. Have fun
beautiful landscape. Temperatures range
at the bars and restaurants of the larger
between 8º and 15º C just like Spring.
cities or practicing radical sports by the countryside.
Lots of tourists visit Switzerland during Summer (from June to August) crowds
ZÜRICH
the cities. Daytime temperatures my vary
The most populated town in Switzerland
between 18º and 28º C reaching staggering
is a great example of what the tourist can
30º C on hotter days.
expect in his visit. Counting with operas, theaters, musicals, art exhibits, a sizzling nightlife, over 50 museums and 100 art gal-
PASSPORT AND VISA The visa is only necessary for tourists staying for more than three months in a row. All travelers must have a passport valid for at least 90 days after leaving the country. For more information on visas, permanent residency as well as work authorizations and business matters, the traveler must contact the nearest Swiss Consulate.
leries, having few entertainment options is not an issue. Featuring historical buildings, Old Town Zürich transports the visitors to Medieval Times. Other attraction is Zürich Lake, which counts on walking options either on summer or on winter. The Bürkliterrasse is a gathering spot where the Alps can be admired on cleared sky days. Rapperswil charms visitors with many attractions: the castle, the historical wooden bridge, the zoo and Alpamare water park, ideal for family time.
BERN
and art works from outstanding artists such
The country capital is another city that de-
as Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, among others.
serves. Walking through the streets is trav-
The medieval style squares, several modern
eling back in the time to the medieval age.
art fairs, the Münster Cathedral and Reno
The historical center, known as Old Town, is
River are other attractions. The city also
part of UNESCO World Heritage. In addition
have the country’s larger zoo, surpassing 600
to its unique architecture, the city portrays
species. Also in Basel is Dufry’s headquarters,
the longest cover shopping sidewalks in
which was founded in 1865.
Europe stretching for about 6km.
MATTERHORN MOUNTAIN
LUCERNE
Considered on of the country’s main sym-
Considered by many as the most beautiful
bols, the mountain in the city of Zermatt
town in the country, it lives up to its
is a must-see attraction. Immortalized on
reputation. With breathtaking landscapes,
Toblerone chocolates wrappings, it is one
one of the most enchanting is the “cherry
of the most photographed mountains in the
street”, just out of town, offering the
world. Climbing the Motterhorn is extremely
tourist a beautiful sight of the cherry trees.
challenging and recommended to expert
The trip to the Pilatus or Rigi mountains
mountaineers. For the non-mountaineers, is
and the steamship tour on the waters
possible to use the Zermatt Lift Chair to the
of Lake Lucerne with its curves and
highest station of the Alps, 3,820 meters
embranchments, are also noteworthy.
above sea level. The view is stunning.
GENEVA
INTERLAKEN
Located on the French Canton, it is another
It is one of the most sought after destina-
important city, which welcomes its visitors
tions by tourists, especially those who enjoy
from around the globe. Due to its human-
adventures. Located between the Thun and
itarian traditions and cosmopolitan envi-
Brienz lakes, the site offers a beautiful view
ronment it the European capital of the UN,
of the enormous Eiger, Mönch and Jung-
the the Red Cross headquarters, and is also
frau . Internationally famous, it is the start-
known as the “capital of peace”.
ing point for many excursions throughout Switzerland. With more than 45 railroads
BASEL
taking you to an amazing tour through the
Located in northwest Switzerland, near the
mountains, in addition to several ski lifts,
French and German border, it is the oldest
ski slopes and ice skating and several
town in the country. It is a must-go for the
hiking tracks.
culture, art, and design lovers, boasting on its 40 museums. The highlight is the Art Muse-
Still in Interlaken, a mandatory visit is the
um, which has approximately 200 sculptures
St. Beatus Caves, a limestone cave with
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about 1 km large and gorgeous waterfalls.
SWISS TRAVEL PASS FLEX
It is accessible by boat, car, bus or hiking.
In this fare modality, in addition to all the
Another unforgettable tour is the Top
advantages of the Swiss Travel Pass, you
of Europe, train ride up to Jungfraujoch
can choose the dates and destinations. The
Mountain, the highest peak of the conti-
fare is valid for a given number of days
nent, where you can get to by train (nearly
within the selected month. Days can be
3,500m of altitude).
selected individually and do not need to be consecutive.
TRANSPORTATION
SWISS TRANSFER Indicated for travelers who want to stay in only one city. The fare includes transporta-
Switzerland has one of the largest public transport networks in the world, with around 26 thousand kilometers, and fully interconnected system. It is also why the country is considered one of the best ones to live on. Tourists have the convenience of being able to use only one type of “all-inone� fare, which works for train travel, boat or bus across Switzerland. The trains are extremely comfortable and departures have regular times, every half-hour or 1 hour, depending on the place of destination.
SWISS TRAVEL PASS Is a fair way to save money for those who want to visit several cities using public transport. It offers a series of advantages: free and unlimited travel (by train, intermunicipal bus or boat); free and unlimited travel in municipal transportation for 75 towns and cities; 50% off in the main cable car rides and free admission in more than 490 museums. The fare amount varies according to the number of days you want to use it (3, 4, 8 or 15 days).
tion to and from the airport train station to your destination and is valid for one month. It also has all the advantages of the Swiss Travel Pass.
SWISS FAMILY CARD
SWISS HALF FARE CARD
If the visitor takes a family trip and uses
Indicated for those who want to spend
one of the fares listed above, a free Swiss
many days in Switzerland. Valid for 1
Family Card may be requested with no
month, the ticket offers a 50% discount
charge. Children under 16 years old travel
on the purchase of train tickets and urban
with no charge when accompanied by at
transport fares. There are no discounts for
least one of the parents. If they want to
attractions and sightseeing.
travel unaccompanied, they are entitled to a 50% discount on any one of the fares. Chil-
All tickets may be purchased at the coun-
dren under 6 years old travel for free, even
try’s official site (http://www.myswitzer-
without the Swiss Family Card.
land.com/en-us/transport-travel/transport-travel-passes/swiss-travel-pass.html)
SWISS YOUTH PASS
or Swiss railway stations.
Purposed for passengers under 26 years old who wants to travel through Switzerland by train, bus or boat. They are entitled to a 15% discount on the regular Travel Pass Swiss value.
SHOPPING Going to Switzerland and not buying at least one piece of cheese or chocolate is such a waste! However, those are not the only popular items among tourists. The Swiss clocks, knives and pocketknives are renowned worldwide and are among the most sought after by travellers utensils. One of the more traditional clock and jewelry stores is the Bucherer, in Lucerne. Famous for having the most complete selection of Rolex watches, it has a huge diversity of models and other brands. In addition, the jewels of its own creation, such as natural color diamonds, uniquely colored stones and Tahiti pearls are also a hit. For those seeking Swiss pocketknives, the best option is Victorinox. With several units
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throughout the country, it is also possible to find knives, watches, suitcases, clothes, perfumes and various traveling articles. It is a great place to buy souvenirs for friends and relatives. It is worth knowing the Victorinox Brand Store, in Brunnen, which houses a museum that shows the story of the Swiss army knife. If this visit is not part of the script, the good news that is that Dufry shops sell Victorinox accessories in the main airports of the world. Therefore, save a space in your bag to ensure the best products fit in there; and better yet: with special discounts. We also recommend that you save space in your bag for the irresistible Swiss delicacies. And one of them, without a shadow of a doubt, is the famous and traditional cheese. One of the must-see activities is visiting the Switzerland Cheese Marketing, in Bern, with about 450 types of cheese. The most famous are the spicy Appenzeller and Sbrinz AOP, the extremely soft Vacherin Mont d’Or AOP, and the aromatic Le Gruyère AOP . The cheese bombs, known as Malakoffs, are also delicious and ideal for savoring in slices. The famous Swiss chocolates could be left out of the list, right? Sold throughout the country, Frey chocolates melt in your mouth. In addition to the irresistible flavor and diversity of flavors, their price is more accessible. Also worth a visit is the beautiful Cailler chocolate factory in the city of Bulle, near Lake Geneva. In addition to knowing
the entire manufacturing process, it is possible to experience all products and choose your favorite. And last, but not least, the authentic Lindt chocolates, which are worldly famous and can be found on the main markets. Another great place to buy traveling souvenirs is in the Bahnhof Street, in Zürich. Considered the main shopping area of the city, has several fashion and department stores, boutiques and souvenir shops. Another tip is to know the Freitag, a shop specialized in ecological bags, made of recycled materials, with stunning designs. A great option for a gift. Bern is also a great city for shopping, boasting the longest shopping promenade
airports, in the main railway stations (Western Union) and in big hotels . Usually, the banks offer the best rates. The hotels and some exchange houses may charge an extra fee for this service. Foreign tourists are eligible for a refund in case of purchases over CHF 300 (including value added tax) in case the goods leave the country within 30 days. The tax on the value added in Switzerland is 8 % on purchased products. When paying for the purchase, the tourist can request a Refund Check to the seller. When leaving the country, it is necessary to show the goods purchased, invoices and the passport at the customs authorities so in Europe. There are 6 km of arcades
theRefund Check is stamped. At the nearest
(covered shopping sidewalks) where it is
Refund Office, just show the stamped Re-
possible to find clocks, chocolates, clothes,
fund Check, your passport and credit card
pocket knifes and high quality perfumes.
to request an immediate credit card Refund.
LOCAL CURRENCY AND TAX
Reimbursement can also be done in cash.
The currency is the Swiss Franc, represented by the acronym CHF. Although Switzerland is not part of the European Union, it is common to find products being sold in
WHERE TO EAT
Euros, for it receives many visitors from all over the continent. However, it is likely that
As the habits and traditions that have been pre-
the returned change is in Swiss Francs.
served over the years, Switzerland has a huge wealth and culinary diversity. World famous for
The Swiss franc has 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents
its cheese and chocolate, Swiss dishes go way
and 1, 2 and 5 franc coins. The bills are 10,
beyond that and are delicious. In rural areas,
20, 50, 100, 200 and 1,000 CHF.
there are a number of festivals and foodie
In addition to the official exchange houses, it is possible to exchange money in banks,
exhibitions, in which local chefs present their typically Swiss irresistible creations.
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In addition to the above, in Zurich, for instance, there are more than 1,700 restaurants and bars, where the tourist can enjoy from the most traditional dishes to exotic specialties. There are various types of flavors for all tastes and budgets.
FOOD IN ALL PRICE RANGES The most accessible meal usually is the “Tagesmenü” (the today special), offered by restaurants at lunchtime, which includes an entry (soup or salad) and a main course. During the evening, choose between dishes a little less expensive than those offered on the menu. The average price of a main dish “à la carte” may vary from 20 to 50 Swiss francs. If the option is to pay less for meals, the best choice are the snack bars or restaurants in the department stores, such as Migros, Coop and the Manor. Those
FOODIE TOURS
visitors who do not eat meat will also find
A delicious activity is to visit the traditional
all kinds of options in vegetarian dishes and
Klamby Bakery, in Trubschachen, Central
restaurants.
Switzerland. There, it is possible to see the bakers in action, make your own cookies and
Lunchtime is usually between 12 and 2pm.
try over 100 types of Swiss biscuits. The best
However, in some restaurants, it can be
option is to take the train. There are daily
even sooner. Most of the times, dinner is
departures, hourly, taking the BLS going from
served between 6pm and 9:30pm. Many
Berne or Lucerne to Trubschachen.
restaurants, mainly in the cities, also offer hot meals throughout the day, from 11am
Another place you can’t-miss is one of the
to 10pm.
Swiss chocolate factories. The Chocosuisse is an association of 18 manufacturers, large and small, as Cailler, Aeschbach Alprose, Chocolatier, Frey Chocolates, among others. Visitors learn how chocolate is produced, taste them and may buy chocolate directly in the factory store.
For those who enjoy wine, one must stop
WHERE TO STAY
is Vaud, one of the main wine regions of Switzerland. Located on Lake Geneva, it has
With unique quality hotels, Switzerland
an ideal landscape to appreciate one of its
hospitality is a world reference. Country
48 special labels.
of cultural diversities, in Switzerland there are different types of accommodations:
It is worth remembering that Switzerland
ski resorts, luxury hotels, accommodations
has more than 200 varieties of grapes, pro-
in which guests sleep on haystacks, stilts,
duces different noble wines and only 2% of
apartments, chalets and hostels.
them are exported. The small vineyards and steep slopes make it a difficult and limited production. Therefore, the organization in-
RESORTS AND LUXURY HOTELS
vests in a smaller-sized production, but with
Elected the best hotel in the world by
very high quality.
TripAdvisor in 2014, the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina, was founded in the 19th century and has luxurious rooms with unique architecture. The Alpine region also
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houses several options of luxury hotels and
the most sought is in Basel, famous by
resorts for anyone who wants to go skiing.
design and architecture.
The majority of them has comfortable accommodation with spa, jacuzzi, heated pool,
BED & BREAKFAST
in addition to the incredible mountain view.
This type of accommodation is another option for those who want to make a trip
RURAL HOTEL
on budget. Search www.bnb.ch and you will
For those who enjoy picturesque lodgings,
find different options and descriptions of
we recommend the Erlebnisbauernhof
the accommodations. The Vivement jeudi
Weid. Located in the Obwalden Canton, hosts
Bed & Breakfast in Couvert, a municipality
travelers in its farm wooden stable with an
with less than 3 thousand inhabitants, of-
area of 9 acres. In operation since 1914, on
fers rooms in remodeled trailers for guests.
the same access road to Melchsee-Frutt ski station, the farm specializes in rural tourism and welcomes guests with cheese, apple and
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
cherry juice: all locally produced.
PALAFITTE HOTEL Considered the only one in Europe that was built on stilts, the accommodations in which guests have exclusive access to the Lake Neuchâtel, in western Switzerland. With approximately 218 km² is considered the biggest Swiss lake. In the summer the tem-
41 117 118 144 1414
COUNTRY CODE POLICE FIRE DEPARTMENT MEDICAL EMERGENCIES RESCUE
perature reaches 23º C; one can even swim. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS
APARTMENTS AND CHALETS: Those who want a little more privacy can also choose to rent an apartment or chalet. Available in all major regions, prices vary between 400 CHF 700 CHF per week.
(41) 43-816-2211 ZÜRICH AIRPORT
(41) 22-717-7111 GENEVA AIRPORT
YOUTH HOSTELS Available in almost all regions, these hostels are great options for those in search for economy. Charming and cozy, it is possible to find daily rates of up to 50 CHF. One of
00800 100 200 29 TOURIST INFORMATION