Switzerland is generally well-organized when it comes to public infrastructure, including toilets. Here’s a list of the best places to find public toilets in Switzerland, along with why they’re reliable or ideal options:
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1. Train Stations (Bahnhöfe)
Swiss train stations—especially major ones like Zürich HB, Bern, Geneva, and Lausanne—almost always have clean, well-maintained public toilets that are usually clearly signposted and accessible.
Bonus: They’re often open 24/7 in major cities, and staff frequently keep them clean.
Note: Most charge a small fee (CHF 1–2), payable by card or cash. So, always have a few 1 CHF coins handy, they are a lifesaver when you need it.
2. Department Stores (e.g., Globus, Manor, Coop City)
Big department stores in city centers offer free restrooms, usually on upper floors. They’re clean and easy to find once you’re inside. The only challenge I have found is that they are usually on the top floor near the restaurant, and they are starting to put paid gates on them lately.
Bonus: No purchase is usually required, and the staff are used to people popping in just for the loo.
3. Public Parks and Tourist Areas
Swiss cities tend to have public toilets in central parks or popular sightseeing areas (like the lake promenade in Zurich or the old town in Lucerne). So, if you are out and about strolling around, don’t give up hope, just see what you can find, or ask a local.
Bonus: Often free and surprisingly clean due to strict municipal maintenance.
Tip: Look for small buildings or kiosks labeled “WC” or “Toilettes.”
4. Public Transport Stops (Tram or Bus Interchanges)
In bigger cities like Zurich or Basel, large tram or bus interchange stops often have a small WC unit nearby.
So, if you are traveling around a city and are at a big interchange, look for the WC sign!
5. Fast Food Chains (McDonald’s, Burger King, Starbucks)
These international chains have standardized, customer-accessible toilets. The only challenge is they are usually locked with a code. This is also quite typical in Starbucks I find, which you will also find scattered around most big cities and towns.
Of course, you can wait until someone comes out or buy something to get the code.
Trick: You can also try your luck with a staff member, even if you’re not a paying customer (though buying a small item helps).
6. Shopping Malls (e.g., Sihlcity in Zurich, Westside in Bern)
Swiss malls have free, well-signposted, and usually modern restroom facilities. I make use of them a lot, when I am in the area.
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Of course, this is mainly a big city thing, but you never know what is round the corner when you have to go!
Bonus: Great for families or people needing accessible toilets.
7. Cable Car Stations / Mountain Resorts
Anywhere that services tourists, especially in the Alps (Zermatt, Grindelwald, etc.), is well-equipped with clean and free or cheap toilet access.
Bonus: Often stunning views while you wait!
8. Nice Hotels
One trick my partner likes to use when we are traveling is to pop into nice hotels in the middle of cities. They are often quiet, have a bathroom in the foyer or near the entrance, and no one asks any questions.
And even if you have to ask where the toilets are, they are highly unlikely to quiz you on who you are or why you are asking.
You can go to any big hotel you see, even if it looks out of your league. It may seem a little cheeky, but when you have to go! you go.
Why: Hotels have great, clean toilets, usually quiet and empty during the day.
Bonus: If you pop into a five-star hotel, you can check out how the other half lives. Try it!
9. Municipal Buildings (Town Halls, Libraries)
Why: Public buildings usually have restrooms accessible to visitors during business hours. Bonus: These are often empty and clean, since not everyone thinks to go here.
10. Highway Rest Stops (Autobahn Raststätten)
Why: Swiss rest areas are top-notch and have very clean facilities if you’re driving. The only downside is that they usually require payment, so have your credit card ready (and hopefully, they have all upgraded from the 1 CHF coins by now).
Bonus: Usually open 24/7 and with vending machines, snacks, and sometimes showers.
11. Tourism Offices
Why: These often have restrooms inside or can direct you to the nearest good option.
Bonus: You might also pick up a free map or get tips on things to do nearby.
12. On The Train
Why: If you are traveling between cities and about to get on the train, why not just wait til you are on the train. There are always toilets (labelled “WC”) on inter-city and local trains. And they are free.
Only downside is they are often not the cleanest. Although in comparison to many EU countries, they are a dream! They are also disabled friendly.
Bonus: You might also pick up a free map or get tips on things to do nearby.
we have been to Switzerland 3 times. Base has been Wengen and almost ever day used our Swiss Rail Pass to access trains, boats, busses plus used the discount on cable cars. Only one night required us to stay out overnight and that was to see the Matterhorn. Wish I wasn’t so old, I’d go again.
Thank you, Ashley! My wife and I will be in Lucerne on May 31 for 2 1/2 days before we join a Viking River Cruise in Basel. Your guidebook and email updates have helped me schedule and plan our time in Lucerne including a Golden Round Trip up Mount Pilatus! We are looking forward to seeing this beautiful area of Switzerland! Thank you!
If I could offer a tip for future reference, my wife has to eat gluten free. More information on how to navigate this food and drink allergy would benefit your readers. Just a thought.