If you are planning a trip why not opt for heaven on earth that is Switzerland. We have compiled a list of things you need to know before you visit Switzerland.
Take a look.
1. People in Switzerland Speak Multiple Languages
Swiss people are generally divided on the basis of four languages: French, German, Romansh and Italian.
The western provinces that include Neuchatel, Geneva and Lausanne speak French. And, the southern province of Ticino speaks Italian.
The majority of Switzerland citizens speak German with a dialect that is hard to understand.
You can brush up on French, German or Italian language through courses like the A2 German course in case you want a raw experience but if you don’t know any of these languages then need not worry because most Swiss people speak English to a functional level.
2. World Class Transportation Network
Travelling around in Switzerland is a breeze all thanks to the Swiss Rail Pass. Take trains as it is the most common means of transport. You can also rent bikes or go on guided cycling tours around the main cities.
3. Amazing Cities
Switzerland has so many cities to visit, these are all recommended for short breaks or longer explorations:
- Zürich
- Geneva
- Basel
- Lausanne
- Bern
- Winterthur
- Lucerne
- St. Gallen
4. Switzerland is Expensive
Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world to visit, you will need to be prepared for this and budget accordingly.
Cities like Zurich, Basel and Gevena are some of the most expensive cities for tourists in the world but there are lots of ways to save money like booking accommodation in-advance and also avoiding the luxury restaurants.
View some tips for how to visit Geneva on a budget.
5. Tasty Local Cuisine
Most of the food in Switzerland is locally sourced so you need not worry about the quality of food.
If you happen to be an asparagus lover, try to visit Switzerland during the white asparagus season. The eateries offer asparagus soup which is a staple on traditional Swiss menus
Independently shopping and cooking your own meals will cost you much less than dining out, as Switzerland is expensive by European standards. Meat is very expensive to cook and eat so try to go vegetarian. Swiss restaurants and eateries offer delicious vegetarian meals as well.
Also one last food tip, instead of buying chocolate from supermarkets, go to local chocolatiers. Try every flavour of chocolate they offer and you will have your mind blown for life.
6. You Can Drink Tap Water
Tap water in Switzerland is perfectly safe to drink as it comes from filter plants. You can take a reusable water bottle with you and refill them everywhere you go. This way not only do you save on the money to buy bottled water but also save the environment.
7. People are Very Friendly
The people of Switzerland are very friendly and most can speak English especially in the touristy areas. Don't be afraid to try to learn some basic French, German or Italian.
8. The Lakes are Beautiful
There are plenty of beautiful lakes in Switzerland. Lake Lucerne and Lake Geneva are two of the most beautiful and breathtaking lakes in the country. Plan your daily activities around the lakes.
9. Currency
What is the Swiss franc? The Swiss franc is the official currency of Switzerland, Liechtenstein and the tiny Campione d'Italia. It is divided into 100 centimes. Swiss franc banknotes come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 1,000 denominations.
10. One of the Highest Quality of Living in the World
Compared to other countries around the world, Switzerland ranks above the average in subjective well-being, jobs and earnings, income and wealth, health status, social connections, environmental quality, education and skills, work-life balance, housing and personal security.
It is easy to see why so many people every year apply to work in Switzerland. There are high salaries and seasonal-jobs-working-holidays in most industries.
