15 Things They Don’t Tell You (But Should) Before You Go to Switzerland

Switzerland is stunning — mountains, lakes, chocolate, cheese — the whole dream.

But behind the postcard-perfect scenery are a few surprises you’ll want to know before you land.

Here’s what nobody told you (but we will):

Switzerland Is Crazy Expensive

Be ready. A basic lunch can run you CHF 25.

A full meal out can cost 100 CHF for one person – starter, main, dessert, plus drinks.

A coffee? CHF 5.

It’s not budget-traveler friendly unless you plan carefully. Cook when you can, take advantage of grocery store meals (hello, Coop + Migros), and look into city passes and transport discounts.

👉👉 Check out these Budget Tips

Public Transport Is a Masterpiece — But Not Cheap

Trains and buses are clean, punctual, and scenic. They are the simplest and most relaxing way to get around, especially since cars are not welcome in many places, and parking is very limited.

But tickets add up quickly, so often a train pass is the best way to go.

Pro Top: If you’re traveling around, grab a Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card — they’ll save you a ton.

Cheese and Chocolate Are a Way of Life

Fondue, raclette, Toblerone, Lindt — it’s not a stereotype, it’s a national obsession.

If you’re lactose-intolerant, bring your enzymes. Otherwise, prepare for tastebud heaven.

You can just grab chocolate in the supermarket, or head to one of the many specialty shops in each city or town (more links on that below). There are also some great factories like Lindt outside Zurich, or Cailler, a short trip from Geneva.

And as for cheese, you can also go nuts in the supermarket, or head to one of the various cheese makers for a tour.

👉👉 Chocolate Shops in Zurich, Lucerne, Geneva

Sundays Are Basically a National Nap

Almost everything is closed on Sundays — shops, supermarkets, and even some restaurants.

Plan ahead, or get used to wandering empty streets, wondering where everyone went.

This is also true of public holidays, but don’t think the mountains are closed – they want your money and are open almost all year around, except when they do maintenance in the shoulder seasons (grab you mountain closures list here)

Peak Season Can Be VERY Busy

Most of you want to come in the peak of summer (or winter for skiing) but don’t realise how busy it is. How expensive it gets. And how difficult it can be to find accommodation.

Of course, it could be that you don’t have a choice. But if you can avoid July and Christmas, you will be far better off.

👉👉 Learn all about the Best Seasons to Visit

It’s Like Four Countries in One

Switzerland has four national languages — German, French, Italian, and Romansh — and each region feels completely different.

German is spoken in most of the country from Zurich to Zermatt.

But head to the very west and you will get French, all the way down to Geneva and the French border.

In the South, in the center, you have a small Italian part, which gives it a Mediterranean feel!

And in the South-east, there is Graubunden and the Engadine Valley where the lovely Romansh is spoken.

But don’t stress, English is spoken almost everywhere.

You Often Have to Pay to Use Public Toilets

I tell my consultation clients this all the time.

Public restrooms can cost CHF 1–2. Not all places are free, especially in train stations. So make sure you have a little change with you at all times.

Some accept cards, some don’t. Use restrooms when you’re at restaurants or stores to avoid the charge.

And if you are running for a train, then remember there are toilets on them as well.

👉👉 Need to go to the bathroom? Where to find toilets in Switzerland

👉👉 Learn all about tipping in Switzerland

The Weather Is a Rollercoaster — Even in Summer

You can start your day sunbathing and end it in a snowstorm if you’re in the Alps.

Always carry layers and a waterproof jacket.

Trust me on this. It’s just not Cancun. Even if you only saw sun in the pictures on Instagram.

👉👉 Pro Tips: This post helps with picking the perfect jacket, here is another packing list to help.

The Tap Water Is Some of the Best in the World

Seriously — don’t waste your money on bottled water.

Swiss tap water is crisp, clean, and straight from the Alps in many places. Y

ou’ll even find public fountains everywhere (especially in cities like Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne) where you can refill your bottle.

If there’s no sign saying otherwise, it’s drinkable.

The Swiss Take Quiet Seriously

No loud talking on public transport. No vacuuming or lawn mowing on Sundays.

No wild house parties past 10 PM.

Respect the peace or face the disapproving looks of doom. Or, even a call to the police, seriously!

Punctuality Is Practically a Moral Value

Being late is rude. Five minutes early is ideal.

Whether you’re catching a train, meeting someone, or going on a tour — be on time. Always.

If you make a restaurant booking, which I recommend in peak season, you must turn up on time; if you are 30 minutes late, your table may not be there.

If you are not coming at all, just call to let them know, it’s lost money for a business!

The Sun Can Be Brutal in the Mountains

Even when it’s cold or cloudy, the sun at altitude is intense.

Pack and wear sunscreen — especially if you’re skiing, hiking, or just vibing by a lake.

Sunburn here sneak up on you fast..

Small Talk Isn’t Really a Thing

The Swiss are polite but reserved. Don’t expect strangers to strike up conversation.

It’s not unfriendly — it’s just culturally different. Respect the personal space.

Hiking Trails Are Everywhere — and Gloriously Marked

Switzerland is a hiker’s dream.

Trails are marked by yellow signs and you’ll find everything from chill lake strolls to alpine adventures.

Bonus: cable cars make high-altitude hikes super accessible and take you to some stunning hikes like

• Mannlichen Panorama Trail
• Bachalpsee hike above Grindelwald First
• Oeschinensee Lake

👉👉See other hikes around Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Interlaken

Swiss Wine Exists — and It’s Really Good

They just don’t export much, so you’ll rarely see it outside the country.

When you’re there, try local wines (especially from the Valais or Vaud regions).

You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Cleanliness Is a National Sport

Littering? Huge no. Recycling? Mandatory.

Even your Airbnb might have a 3-bin system. Respect the rules—they help keep the country as stunning as it looks.

So, if you are out and about, try to throw your trash in the bin, and if you can, in the bin designated for PET bottles, paper, and cans.

Plan Your Trip to Switzerland

Accommodation: I always book my hotels via Booking.com. They have some of the best rates, longterm deals, easy cancellation and more

Transport: Train travel is one of the best ways to explore Switzerland. Buying a Swiss Travel Pass is a great way to save money on travel and museums.

Car Rental: Having a car gives you flexibility on your travels. I use RentalCars.com and Discover Cars to get the best deals on car rentals in Switzerland.

Luggage Storage: Find out where you can store your store your luggage while you are visiting various places in Switzerland.

Trips & Tours:Viator and Get Your Guide are the best places to find local tours and trips for your adventures in Switzerland.

Packing: Here are my recommendations for what to pack for a trip to Switzerland. As someone who has lived half their life in Switzerland, I have a good idea of what you need to bring!