Switzerland holidays

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

For Switzerland, pack layers to adapt to changing mountain weather and varying temperatures. Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and hiking trails, plus a waterproof jacket for sudden rain. Summers are mild, so include light clothing and a warm layer for cooler evenings. In winter, pack thermal wear, gloves and a warm coat for snow activities. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential year-round at higher altitudes.

Switzerland has varied nightlife with Zurich offering cocktail bars, nightclubs and live music venues in the Langstrasse district. Geneva has lakeside bars and lounges with international influences and late opening hours. Smaller towns like Interlaken and Zermatt focus on hotel bars, fondue restaurants and lowkey pubs.

Traditional Swiss cuisine is available in many restaurants across the country. We recommend trying local specialties like fondue, raclette, and rösti. In rural areas and mountain resorts, you'll often find authentic Swiss dishes. Many hotels also offer Swiss nights featuring local cuisine.

Tipping in Switzerland isn't as common as in other countries. Service charges are typically included in bills. However, if you're particularly pleased with the service, rounding up the bill or leaving a small extra amount is appreciated but not expected.

Switzerland offers diverse shopping experiences. In Zurich and Geneva, you'll find luxury brands and high-end boutiques. For unique souvenirs, we recommend exploring local markets in smaller towns. Many resorts also have shops where you can purchase Swiss chocolates, watches, and other local specialties.

While Switzerland is landlocked, you'll find beautiful lakeside beaches. We recommend visiting Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, or Lake Lucerne for scenic shores and swimming. Many of these areas offer water sports and have well-maintained facilities for a relaxing day by the water.

When visiting Switzerland, punctuality is highly valued, so arrive on time for tours, meals and appointments. Greet people with a handshake and use formal titles like Herr or Frau until invited to use first names. Keep noise levels low in public spaces and on public transport, as Swiss culture values peace and consideration for others.

When visiting Switzerland, you'll need a Type J plug adapter, which has three round pins. Type C adapters with two round pins may occasionally work in some sockets, but Type J is the standard and ensures compatibility. We recommend bringing a Type J adapter for all your devices.