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SPECIAL EDITION SWITZERLAND 2021
Special Edition Switzerland 2021: Useful Tips
02 Feb 2021
SPECIAL FEATURE
- THE ESSENTIALS
- HIT THE SLOPES
- DO AS THE LOCALS DO
- THE GRAND TOUR
What you need to know before your trip to Switzerland
Speak
There are four national languages in Switzerland: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. German is the most common language, followed by French. However, English is widely spoken, too.
Pay
The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF). While prices are sometimes indicated in Euros for comparison purposes (CHF 1 is approximately EUR 0.93), merchants are not obliged to transact in other currencies. Credit cards such as Mastercard, Visa, and American Express are widely accepted across the country, and most cash machines are on the Cirrus or Maestro network. Tipping is not mandatory but is always welcomed.
Get Around
Switzerland has three central geographical regions: the Alps, the Jura, and the Central Plateau. These regions are further divided into 26 cantons, with the capital being Bern. It is easy to get around the country thanks to its comprehensive public transport network, which comprises trains, buses, and boats.
- THE ESSENTIALS
- HIT THE SLOPES
- DO AS THE LOCALS DO
- THE GRAND TOUR
Hit The Slopes
Learn how to ski in the Swiss Alps
With miles and miles of powdery snow during winter, Switzerland is a veritable skiing paradise. If you’re new to the sport, fret not. Consider signing up for First Ski Experience, a range of all-in-one ski packages ideal for novices. These typically include several hours of private tuition under experienced instructors, ski equipment hire, and transport. There are both half- and full-day itineraries available for popular ski destinations such as St. Moritz, Grindelwald, and Crans-Montana, to name a few. You’ll be whizzing down the slopes like a pro in no time.
- THE ESSENTIALS
- HIT THE SLOPES
- DO AS THE LOCALS DO
- THE GRAND TOUR
Do As The Locals Do
Explore Switzerland’s secret spots with the help of local guides
Of course, no one knows Switzerland better than its residents – so tap their expertise on an immersive guided tour. Here are some of the numerous itineraries available:
For Thrill-seekers
Soar above the Bernese Oberland’s lakes and mountains on a tandem paragliding flight with an experienced pilot. Alternatively, go hiking in the company of a local farmer and his llamas in the lush valley of Safien- Platz.
For Foodies
Forage for wild herbs and plants with an expert chef in the Blenio Valley, before learning how to turn them into sumptuous dishes. Or embark on a food tour with a dessert aficionado in Zurich, where you’ll get to sample some of the finest chocolates in the city.
For Culture Vultures
Switzerland is famed for its timepieces, so try your hand at watchmaking under the guidance of a master watchmaker in Geneva. Otherwise, practise the art of yodelling with a music teacher’s help at the foot of the Aletsch Glacier.
- THE ESSENTIALS
- HIT THE SLOPES
- DO AS THE LOCALS DO
- THE GRAND TOUR
The Grand Tour
Take in Switzerland’s top sights on this epic journey
By Car
For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, embark on the Grand Tour of Switzerland. This spectacular 1,600 km journey will take you through verdant meadows, dramatic mountain passes, pretty villages, and bustling cities. You’ll get to enjoy the best of what the country has to offer – all within nine days.
Rent a car to explore the sights at your own pace, staying overnight at some of the country’s best hotels along the way. Highlights include the historic Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva banks, the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, the iconic Matterhorn in Zermatt, and more.
If you’re more eco-minded, consider renting an electric vehicle and undertaking the E-Grand Tour instead. There are approximately 300 charging stations along the route, which will sufficiently power you for the entire journey.
By Train, Bus, and Boat
Prefer travelling by public transport? On the 1,280 km Grand Train Tour, which typically takes a minimum of eight days, you’ll explore Switzerland’s best attractions by rail instead. Sit back and enjoy some of the country’s most scenic train rides, such as the Glacier Express, which offers passengers magnificent views of the Swiss Alps. And as you only need a single ticket –f the Swiss Travel Pass – you can hop on and off whenever you please.
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