What is the best currency to take to Switzerland?

Use local cash. For example, in Switzerland, which officially uses Swiss francs, some ATMs give euros, prices in touristy areas are listed in both currencies, and travelers can get by with euro cash.



The best and only official currency to take is the Swiss Franc (CHF). While some larger shops, hotels, and tourist attractions may accept Euros (EUR) in 2026, they will typically give you a poor exchange rate and return your change in Swiss Francs. In the mid-2020s, Switzerland has become heavily reliant on "tap and go" digital payments, but carrying a small amount of cash is essential for rural farm shops, small mountain cafes, or public toilets that charge a CHF 1 fee. For the best value, travelers are encouraged to use a multi-currency travel card like Wise or Revolut, which allows you to spend in CHF at the interbank rate, avoiding the 3-6% conversion fees often charged by traditional banks or physical exchange bureaus at airports.

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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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As you plan your travel to Switzerland, think about how you'll pay for those special unexpected moments. Credit cards are best for major purchases, but you'll need to plan for some small day-to-day items and incidentals. In other words—carry some cash.

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In fact, in 2021, consumer prices in Switzerland were 54.4 percent higher in Switzerland than the European Union average. This makes Switzerland the most expensive country in the European room ahead of Iceland (50.4 percent higher), Norway (41.2 percent higher) and Denmark (33.7 percent higher).

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Taxis usually accept fare payment by credit card, but it's better to ask the driver before you get in. If you don't speak German, have your address written down ready to show the driver. It's not common to tip taxi drivers in Switzerland, but you can round up the bill if you're happy with the service.

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The tap water is safe to drink everywhere in Switzerland, including fountains. If not, there will be a sign saying so. It tastes like, well, water. Many people I know prefer tap water to bottled water, it's healthier because it contains more elements and hence has a richer taste.

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This is because the waitstaff don't want to intrude on your meal. Because of this, your waiter won't automatically bring you the check at the end of the meal, they will let you stay as long as you like. To ask for the bill, flag your waiter down and say “l'addition s'il vous plait” which means “the check please.”

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A known reason for some price differences is geographically discriminatory wholesale pricing, a scenario where product owners charge Swiss retailers higher wholesale prices than those they charge retailers in other markets. Sometimes this is done via local wholesalers that are given exclusivity to sell in Switzerland.

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Top 10 things to do in Switzerland – for free
  • Take a tour of the Bundeshaus.
  • Wander around Lucerne old town.
  • Indulge your artistic side at the MCBA.
  • Lounge by Lake Geneva.
  • Educate yourself at the University of Zurich.
  • Hike through the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
  • Float through central Bern.
  • Walk on the wild side with Peter and Paul.


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Buy currency before you travel.
Doing so gives you time to shop around for the best rate. Plus, when you arrive, you won't have to immediately find a bank or currency exchange. Do some research ahead of time to see if US dollars are widely accepted at places you plan to go to.

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