Europe
Switzerland
Europe
Switzerland
Updated Mar 10, 2025
Overview
Switzerland captivates with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. From the iconic Matterhorn to the serene shores of Lake Geneva, this compact country packs a punch. Explore medieval old towns, indulge in world-class chocolate, and ride scenic mountain railways. For an authentic experience, join locals at a traditional alphorn concert or try your hand at Swiss cheese-making. Adventure seekers can hike alpine trails, ski world-class slopes, or paraglide over lush valleys. Don't miss the chance to unwind in a thermal spa nestled in the mountains.
Best time to visit. Visit June to August for warm weather and outdoor activities, or December to March for world-class skiing. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and hiking amidst stunning foliage.
Country stats
Population
8,327,126
99th
Land area
15,940 sq. mi.
132nd
Highest elevation
15,203 ft
Currency
Swiss franc
Generally accepted payment methods
Mobile, Card, Cash
Total GDP
$938.458 billion
20th
GDP per capita
$105,669
5th
Year founded
1291 CE
Official langauge
German
English speaking
Spoken in major cities
European Union
No
Schengen Area
Yes
Human development index
0.967
1st
Timezone
Central European (UTC+1)
Driving side
right
Capital
Bern
Website
Google Maps link
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 38°F - 28°F | 34°F - 22°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:05 am | 5:00 pm | 11 days 2.4 in | 8 days 10.0 in | 7 mph |
| February | 41°F - 29°F | 37°F - 24°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:35 am | 5:45 pm | 10 days 2.1 in | 6 days 8.0 in | 7 mph |
| March | 50°F - 35°F | 47°F - 31°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:45 am | 6:30 pm | 12 days 2.8 in | 3 days 3.0 in | 9 mph |
| April | 57°F - 41°F | 55°F - 38°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:45 am | 8:15 pm | 12 days 3.0 in | 1 days 0.5 in | 7 mph |
| May | 66°F - 49°F | 65°F - 47°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:50 am | 9:00 pm | 13 days 3.4 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| June | 72°F - 55°F | 72°F - 54°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:30 am | 9:25 pm | 12 days 3.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| July | 77°F - 59°F | 77°F - 58°F | Sunny | 5:45 am | 9:15 pm | 11 days 3.4 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| August | 75°F - 58°F | 75°F - 57°F | Sunny | 6:20 am | 8:35 pm | 11 days 3.8 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| September | 68°F - 52°F | 67°F - 50°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:00 am | 7:40 pm | 9 days 2.9 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| October | 57°F - 44°F | 55°F - 41°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:40 am | 6:40 pm | 10 days 2.8 in | 0 days 0.1 in | 7 mph |
| November | 46°F - 35°F | 43°F - 31°F | Cloudy | 7:25 am | 4:55 pm | 11 days 2.8 in | 2 days 2.0 in | 7 mph |
| December | 39°F - 29°F | 35°F - 24°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:00 am | 4:35 pm | 11 days 2.6 in | 6 days 7.2 in | 7 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Celebrated nationwide to mark the beginning of the new year with fireworks and festivities. | Avoid travel, most places closed. | ||
| Good Friday | Varies (March/April) | Christian holiday commemorating crucifixion of Jesus. Many businesses close for long weekend. | Limited services, plan accordingly. | ||
| Easter Monday | Varies (March/April) | Public holiday following Easter Sunday. Families gather for meals and egg hunts. | Some closures, but tourist areas open. | ||
| Labour Day | May 1 | Celebration of workers' rights. Parades and demonstrations occur in major cities. | Expect crowds at events, plan ahead. | ||
| Ascension Day | Varies (May/June) | Christian holiday marking Jesus' ascension. Many Swiss take long weekend for short trips. | Popular travel time, book in advance. | ||
| Whit Monday | Varies (May/June) | Christian holiday celebrating descent of Holy Spirit. Often marks start of summer activities. | Busy day, but most attractions open. | ||
| Swiss National Day | August 1 | Celebration of Swiss Confederation's founding. Fireworks, bonfires, and parades nationwide. | Festive atmosphere, but crowded. | ||
| Christmas Eve | December 24 | Evening celebration of Christmas. Families gather for meals and gift exchanges. | Limited evening services, plan ahead. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Christian holiday celebrating birth of Jesus. Nationwide holiday with family gatherings. | Avoid travel, most places closed. | ||
| St. Stephen's Day | December 26 | Public holiday following Christmas. Extended Christmas celebrations and shopping sales. | Some closures, but sales attract crowds. |
1 | Learn basic Swiss-German phrases like 'Grüezi' (hello) and 'Merci' (thank you). While many Swiss speak English, locals appreciate efforts to use their language. |
2 | Be punctual. Swiss culture values timeliness, so arrive on time for appointments, tours, and public transportation. Trains and buses run like clockwork in Switzerland. |
3 | Respect quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 7 AM. Swiss people value peace and quiet, especially in residential areas. Avoid loud conversations or noisy activities during these times. |
4 | Recycle diligently. Switzerland has strict recycling laws. Familiarize yourself with local recycling practices and use designated bins for different types of waste. |
5 | Tipping is not expected in Switzerland as service charges are usually included. However, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated. |
6 | Remove your shoes when entering someone's home. It's polite to ask if you should take off your shoes, but many Swiss households have a no-shoes policy indoors. |
7 | Don't litter. Switzerland prides itself on cleanliness. Always dispose of trash properly and keep public spaces tidy. Fines for littering can be hefty. |
8 | Respect Sunday as a quiet day. Many shops and attractions are closed on Sundays. Plan accordingly and be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas. |
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