Currency & Payment

Switzerland uses the Swiss franc (CHF), not the euro, as it is not part of the eurozone despite being surrounded by EU neighbours. Some shops, hotels and stations near borders accept euros, but change is usually given in francs at a rate that favours the merchant. For the best value, pay in francs by card or cash.

You rarely need to exchange much cash in Switzerland since cards work almost everywhere. If you do, banks, airport counters and exchange offices give fair rates, while paying by card usually offers the best rate with no need to carry large amounts. Avoid dynamic currency conversion by choosing to be charged in francs when a terminal asks.

Cards are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants and shops to trains, mountain lifts and vending machines. Visa and Mastercard are the most common, while American Express is accepted less widely. Contactless and mobile wallets work in most places. Keep a little cash for small mountain huts, markets or tips, but for most spending a card is all you need.

ATMs, called Bancomat, are plentiful at banks, stations and airports and dispense Swiss francs. They are safe and reliable; use machines attached to banks where possible. Your own bank may add foreign fees, and if the ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and choose francs for a better rate. Withdraw a sensible amount to reduce fees.

Switzerland is very cashless friendly. Apple Pay and Google Pay work almost everywhere cards are accepted. The homegrown app TWINT is hugely popular with locals for shops, markets and even person-to-person payments, but it usually needs a Swiss bank account, so visitors mostly rely on international card wallets. Contactless is fast and widely trusted.

Tipping is not obligatory in Switzerland because service is included in the bill by law. It is common to round up or leave a little extra, roughly 5 to 10 percent, for good service in restaurants, taxis and bars. Simply tell the staff the total you want to pay, or leave the small change. Tipping is appreciated but never expected.

Visitors living outside Switzerland can reclaim value added tax on shopping above a minimum spend per receipt at participating stores. Ask for a tax-free form when you buy, then get it validated by customs when you leave the country and claim your refund. Keep goods, receipts and forms handy at the border. Rules and minimums can change, so confirm details in store.