Before you go to Switzerland, check out the following:
- Get lost in a good book…here are 10 set in Switzerland.
- Grab your popcorn – some well-known movies have been filmed in whole or in part here.
- Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit – river swimming is a “thing.”
- Check out this BBC Travel Show that features unique aspects found here, like bunkers, balloons and bogies!
- If you’re interested in doing some retail therapy during your visit, you might want to visit some of these stores.
- Make sure you’re following the rules…here are some unusual ways to break the law here.
- Traveling to the Bern Region? You might want to watch this!
- You’ll probably take a lot of pictures on your trip. Here’s a video we loved that gives some simple tips and tricks for making your photos “pop”!
- Are you planning to rent a car? Here’s what you need to know.
- Know your history!
Did You Know?
- Be sure to carry your own reusable water bottle – Swiss tap water is excellent!
- Switzerland is one of only two countries in the world, the other being Vatican City, to have a square flag.
- There are four official languages spoken in Switzerland – French, Swiss German, Italian and Romansh.
- Public transportation in Switzerland is excellent. Expect to be able to get anywhere fairly easily on trains, trams, cable cars, funiculars & buses.
- You’ll want to carry cash with you for smaller purchases. A lot of places do take cards, but if you are buying a coffee, ice cream or something similar, you should have some money on you. Some shops and restaurants won’t accept your card if your bill is under 20 francs.
- Here are some mealtime tips:
- Regular breakfast is bread, butter, jam and cheese and cereals (no eggs, no bacon)
- You won’t find free refills with soda or coffee and should also expect to pay for water at restaurants. If you want ice in your drink, you’ll have to ask for it!
- You can sit and enjoy your meals for as long as you like. You’ll find that service is definitely a bit slower than in the US as they cook orders from scratch.
- Typical Swiss greetings call for kissing 3 times, cheek to cheek, to greet family and friends. However, when meeting someone you don’t know, always shake hands to say hi or introduce yourself.