Switzerland

Switzerland is a country in Western Europe, sharing borders with Germany to the north, Austria and Liechtenstein to the east, Italy to the south, and France to the west. Switzerland (Swiss Confederation) is also known by its Latin name ‘Confoederatio Helvetica’ which accounts for the country abbreviation ‘CH.’ 

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SWITZERLAND
Find out about European Travel Insurance

Switzerland is a wealthy country and also very rich in beautiful scenery, from the peaks and meadows of its spectacular mountain ranges to its crystal clear lakes, rivers, plateaus, lush valleys, waterfalls, and sophisticated and cosmopolitan cities.  

Switzerland is probably most famously known for the Swiss Alps and glaciers and glamorous ski resorts, as well as the Jura mountain range. The country has many beautiful lakes that are also hugely popular holiday destinations, such as Lake Maggiore, Lake Geneva, Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Constance.  The Matterhorn is probably the most well-known and photographed mountain peak but it is not the highest in the country.

Switzerland is a member of the United Nations and the Schengen Area but not a member of the European Union or European Economic Area and the currency is the Swiss franc (not the euro).  Although the country is not a member of the EU, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is valid in Switzerland. 

The capital city is Bern but Zurichis the largest city. Other major cities include Geneva,
Lausanne, Lucerne, Basel and Lugano.  The official languages are German, French, Italian and Romansch. 

Switzerland is a land known for its traditional and charming wooden mountain chalets, alphorns, yodeling, lederhosen, expensive watches, fondue, delicious cheeses, chocolate and raclette.  It has all that and much more.  There is so much to see, do, and explore in the country that visitors have no excuse to be bored. 

Switzerland is a fantastic destination for lovers of outdoors sports, from skiing, snowboarding, hiking, climbing, and mountain biking, as well as sailing and every type of watersport on its lakes and rivers.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Useful travel advice from the Foreign & Commonweath Office for travel to Switzerland. Click Here

Before you travel to Switzerland we recommend a visit to the website of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for the latest travel advice for Switzerland as part of their ‘Know Before You Go’ campaign.  Their advice is comprehensive and includes the following topics and issues:

• Passport and Visa information
• Diving in Switzerland, vignettes, and useful links
• Be aware of avalanche danger in the mountains
• Check that your travel insurance covers all your planned activities

Although Switzerland has a low crime rate visitors should be on guard as there is always the possibility of becoming a victim of a petty crime, pickpocketing, etc. especially at busy tourist areas, train stations, airports, car rental areas, and on public transport.  Keep an eye on your luggage and protect your valuables at all times when travelling.

Check that your travel insurance includes sufficient cover for medical treatment and also includes repatriation and mountain/helicopter rescue. It should also cover all your planned activities – especially with regard to winter sports and summer activities that may be classified as ‘hazardous’ by many insurers and require payment of an additional premium.  If in doubt always check before you travel.

If you plan to ski or snowboard in Switzerland don’t forget ski insurance.   

Pay a visit our Ski Guide for ideas and information.

Be aware that smoking is not allowed in most public places in Switzerland, including restaurants, bars, shopping centres and cinemas – unless indicated otherwise (due to a special license and designated smoking area). 

Summer visitors to Switzerland, especially when engaging in camping, hiking and other outdoor activities, should be aware of and do their best to avoid tick bites – as ticks are common in Switzerland at lower altitudes.  The ticks may transmit Lyme disease or a form of encephalitis.  Prevention through vaccination, wearing suitable clothing, and insect sprays is advised.  It is also advised that travellers who have not had Measles should obtain a vaccination.

Holders of the (free) European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should carry the card, as it is valid in Switzerland.  However, note that the EHIC should not be used as a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance.  (The EHIC does not include cover for medical repatriation, non-urgent or ongoing treatment, or the usual travel mishaps, lost luggage, etc.)  Also, in Switzerland be aware that the EHIC allows for emergency medical care but payment is normally required upfront for treatment and then a claim should be made upon your return home.  See the FCO website for more information and link to the Department of Health website.

Disclaimer: While we have tried to ensure the information in this Travel Guide is correct we do not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy, or the content of external links.

Inclusion in this Travel Guide does not guarantee travel insurance is available in any country at any given time. Travel Insurance is not available in countries where the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have issued an advisory against travel.

You are strongly advised to visit the FCO website for updated travel information and general travel advice before you travel.