Traveling in Switzerland is a wonderful experience: The small Alpine country is world-renowned for its breathtaking nature and charming atmosphere. Are you excited about this? Then you're in the right place. Whether it's entry requirements, traffic regulations, travel tips, or sights: In this article, you’ll find all the important travel information for Switzerland.
As an EU citizen, entry into Switzerland is easy and straightforward. When you travel to Switzerland, a valid ID card or passport is sufficient. With this, you may stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.
Identification Requirement:
In Switzerland, there is a requirement to carry identification. Therefore, make sure you always have a valid ID card or passport with you.
Entry with Minors:
Minors also need a valid ID or passport. If a child is traveling with only one parent or a third party, a written consent from the other parent or legal guardian is recommended.
Bringing Pets:
Pets require an EU pet passport with proof of a valid rabies vaccination.
Traffic regulations, tolls, and gas stations: In this section, you’ll find important information about driving in Switzerland.
The traffic regulations in Switzerland are quite similar to those in Germany. However, there are some specific rules that you should keep in mind during your travels in Switzerland:
Speed Limits in Switzerland:
Special Traffic Rules in Switzerland:
Fines:
Traffic violations in Switzerland are strictly penalized. Illegal parking, speeding, and ignoring the light requirement can result in high fines.
For traveling in Switzerland, note that a vignette for Switzerland is mandatory for driving on highways and expressways. It is only available as an annual vignette and is valid for the current calendar year. Vehicles over 3.5 tons are exempt from this rule and must pay the lump-sum Heavy Traffic Tax (PSVA) instead. This fee depends on the total permissible weight of the vehicle and the distance driven.
Buying a Vignette for Switzerland
You can easily buy the digital vignette for Switzerland online. This saves valuable time upon arrival, and you can enter Switzerland directly. Alternatively, the vignette is available at designated sales points locally.
Cost of the Digital Vignette
The vignette for Switzerland currently costs 46 CHF (50 €).
Fueling in Switzerland is easy, and the gas station density is high. Well-known gas station chains include AGROLA, Ruedi Rüssel, Coop, Eni, and AVIA. Payment is typically possible with cash, credit card, or mobile payment.
Charging electric cars is also not an issue in Switzerland. Especially in large cities and along highways, you will find numerous charging stations. Typically, you will need charging cards or apps from the providers to use them.
Switzerland is a very safe country to travel to. However, here are a few relevant tips to ensure your safety while traveling in Switzerland:
Emergency Number:
In Switzerland, you can reach the police, fire department, and ambulance via the European emergency number 112.
General Safety:
Switzerland is one of the safest travel destinations in the world. Crime is rare. However, as anywhere, you should remain attentive and watch over your valuables.
Travel Advice from the Foreign Office:
For current travel information and safety advice, it’s worth checking the website of the Foreign Office. Here you can find the latest information on entry requirements, health issues, and regional peculiarities.
Health Insurance:
EU citizens are covered in Switzerland by the European Health Insurance Card, which grants access to medical services.
Medical Care:
Medical care in Switzerland is comprehensive and of the highest standard. Pharmacies are widespread and offer all common medications.
Weather Conditions:
In Switzerland, there can be sudden weather changes, particularly in the Alps. Therefore, it is important to stay updated on current weather warnings.
Road Conditions:
In winter, pay attention to road conditions in the Alpine regions. Snow chains and winter tires are often indispensable.
Switzerland is a diverse travel destination that offers something for both nature lovers and city fans. Here are our most important travel recommendations and sightseeing tips:
Traveling in Switzerland: Climate and Travel Time
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For hiking and sightseeing in cities, the summer months are ideal. In winter, however, the ski resorts attract winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world.
Language and Communication
Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. In most tourist areas, English is also spoken. If you have communication problems, we recommend using mobile translation tools, such as Google Translate.
Currency and Payment Methods
The official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). In many tourist areas, the Euro is also accepted, though usually at an unfavorable exchange rate. Credit card payments and mobile payment methods are also widely used.
Holiday in Switzerland: Sights
Regional Particularities
Switzerland is a safe and fascinating travel destination with breathtaking nature, beautiful cities, and a well-developed infrastructure. Pay attention to the entry requirements for Switzerland, the traffic rules, and make sure you have your vignette. With proper preparation, you can enjoy your holiday in Switzerland to the fullest.
Yes, a vignette is required for driving on highways and expressways. You can easily purchase it online in digital form.
In tourist areas, the Euro is often accepted, but usually at an unfavorable exchange rate. It is recommended to use Swiss Francs (CHF) or a credit card.
EU citizens need a valid ID card or passport. Ensure that your document is valid for the entire duration of your stay.
Follow the traffic rules, especially the speed limits and the light requirement. You also need a valid vignette for Switzerland if you are driving on highways and expressways.
