If you’re looking for a beautiful and picturesque travel destination, look no further than Switzerland. This alpine country is full of stunning mountain views, crystal clear lakes, and charming villages.
Although it can be expensive to visit, you can enjoy an affordable and amazing trip to Switzerland with a little bit of planning. Here are some helpful tips to help you get started.
Transportation
There are plenty of options for getting around Switzerland, from trains to buses to boats. However, the most popular way to travel is by train. The Swiss Railways network is extensive and covers the entire country.
Tickets can be purchased in advance or onboard the train. If you’re planning to visit several cities or make a round trip, then the Swiss Travel Pass is your best bet. It offers unlimited travel on trains and buses throughout Switzerland.
If you are traveling on a budget, do not take taxis - they are costly in Switzerland. Instead, you can use the excellent public transport network or book a seat on one of the many buses heading from the city to the city.
Food and Drinks
Switzerland is known for its world-renowned cheeses and chocolates, so be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re there. A word of warning - Swiss branded chocolates sold on airport kiosks and souvenir stalls are often overpriced.
There are plenty of supermarkets throughout Switzerland where you can buy these chocolates for a reasonable price. Also, it is important to stress that you may opt not to buy bottled water from these supermarkets as tap water from fountains all over Switzerland is free and safe to drink.
Accommodation
Switzerland has a range of accommodation options, from hostels and campsites to luxury ski chalets and hotels. Accommodations located outside of the main cities can be a little bit cheaper, but you’ll need to include the travel time when planning your trip.
If you’re looking for a centrally located hotel with easy access to public transport, we recommend checking out Travelpony.com - they have a wide range of hotels and apartments to choose from.
Currency
The Swiss currency is the Franc (CHF), and at the time of writing, 1 Franc is worth around 0.91 US dollars. Most businesses in Switzerland accept cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case.
Credit cards are the most common way to pay for items, but be aware that some small businesses and restaurants may not accept them. If you are planning to use your credit card, it’s advisable to check with the business first, just in case.
Language
Four official languages are widely used in Switzerland: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. English is also spoken quite widely throughout the country – especially at tourist attractions.
If you wish to communicate with locals or if your travel plans include areas where few people speak English, then it may be a good idea to learn some basic phrases before traveling.
These are just the most important things to keep in mind when planning a trip to Switzerland. This is a beautiful country with many amazing things to see and do - so get planning!
