Switzerland’s breathtaking mountain scenery, world-class cities, and luxury experiences make it a dream destination, where managing money wisely ensures a hassle-free trip. Whether you’re skiing in the Alps, shopping in Zurich, or exploring charming villages along Lake Geneva, this guide provides all the details—what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Switzerland (Swiss Franc (CHF)), cash safety tips, and important dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll navigate Switzerland’s financial landscape smoothly and avoid unnecessary fees while enjoying its blend of nature and sophistication.
How to pay in Switzerland – cash or card?
In Switzerland, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, with a notable shift towards cashless transactions in recent years. A lot of establishments are friendly to accepting cards.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While major cities offer card payment options for buses and trams, some regional or rural transport services may still require cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Traditional markets and street vendors often prefer cash, though card acceptance is increasing.
Small Businesses: Some small or family-run shops and eateries might favor cash transactions, but this is becoming less common.
Tips and Gratuities: Tipping is customary, and cash is often preferred for this purpose.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, electronic payment facilities may be limited, making cash essential.
You can use card for:
Hotels: Most hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept major credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: Many dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets widely accept cards.
Car Rentals and Travel Agencies: Established agencies typically offer card payment options.
Online Bookings: Reservations for flights, hotels, and tours can usually be made using cards.
What’s the best currency to take to Switzerland
Swiss Franc (CHF) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Switzerland. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
While some merchants may accept Euros, they are not obliged to do so, and change will most likely be given in Swiss Francs. Therefore, it’s advisable to pay in CHF to avoid losing money.
US Dollars or British Pounds are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Switzerland
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Switzerland. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Switzerland
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Switzerland
If you’re withdrawing money in Switzerland from an ATM, ATMs commonly all major types of cards – Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus, American Express, JCB, UnionPay, Diners cards.Others like Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Switzerland
Bringing a small amount of Swiss Francs (CHF) before traveling can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, and small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Switzerland are often poor, and some foreign banks may not stock CHF.
Withdrawing CHF from ATMs in Switzerland is a convenient option, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check your bank’s international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to exchange money in Switzerland at banks or authorized exchange bureaus, which offer better rates than airports or hotels. If exchanging at the airport, do so only for a small amount to cover initial expenses.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is advisable. Many businesses in Switzerland accept EUR, but they will give change in CHF and often use a poor exchange rate, so it’s best to pay in CHF when possible. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash is useful for smaller transactions.
Where to withdraw money in Switzerland
You can withdraw money in Switzerland at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Switzerland are those owned by popular banks such as:
UBS AG,
Credt Suisse,
Raiffeisen,
Kantonalbank, and
Post Finance.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Switzerland.
Where to exchange currency in Switzerland
You can exchange currency in Switzerland at licensed exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Switzerland, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Wechselstube. These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include SBB Change, Global Exchange.
Banks: Major banks such as UBS, Credit Suisse, and Raiffeisen offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays.
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app—it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Switzerland.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash in Switzerland safe?
Carrying cash in Switzerland is generally safe due to the country’s low crime rate. However, petty thefts like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. It’s advisable to carry only the cash you need for daily expenses and keep your valuables secure.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Switzerland
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
