Currency

General facts

Since Switzerland is not a member of the EU, the national currency is the Swiss franc (CHF). In many places, however, prices are displayed in euros and Swiss francs. Very often it is also possible to pay in euros (change in CHF).

The Swiss franc:

Coins
5, 10, 20, 50 centimes and 1, 2, 5 francs
Current coins in circulation

Banknotes
10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 1000 francs
The current banknote series

  • Creditcards

    The most commonly accepted payment options are cash, credit cards and debit cards. Credit cards and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. The most common are Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Maestro. It is advisable to check in advance...

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  • Prices and quality of life

    Life in Swiss cities is quite expensive, but the quality of life is also correspondingly high. In this respect, Zurich and Geneva repeatedly come out on top in international studies. Prices vary depending on the area and tourist spots. For example,...

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  • Money exchange places

    You can change money at the following places: Banks Exchange offices Airport Major hotels Exchange offices usually offer better exchange rates than banks. At airports, the rates may be slightly higher than in the city...

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  • Tax Free Shopping

    Foreign guests will receive a refund for purchases of more than CHF 300.00 (incl. Value added tax), provided that the goods leave the country within 30 days. You can find more information here: Federal Tax Administration FTA The value added tax you...

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  • Business Hours

    Stores In general, most stores are open Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. Many stores are closed on Sundays. However, stores are open at train stations, airports and gas...

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  • Shopping

    Whether fashion or practical, boutique, small local store or shopping mall: Switzerland offers a lot for an extensive shopping trip. Of course, chocolate and watches are among the classics when in Switzerland. So is the wide range of cheese. In...

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  • Tipping

    In Switzerland, the guest is not obliged to tip. In many restaurants, however, it is customary to pay a tip. This amounts to approximately 10 percent or it is rounded up to a round amount.

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