planning a trip to
Switzerland
Here is what you need to know:
Switzerland is a land of wonders and one of our favorite countries to connect with nature. From stunning lakes to towering mountains and vast, dark forests, this place is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. What’s even better is that it’s just a 2-hour drive from our home in France.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Switzerland has something for everyone. The breathtaking mountains are perfect for hiking, and many offer cable cars to take you up to incredible viewpoints. Of course, the hiking trails are right there, so you can explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
About
Switzerland is a small, landlocked country in the heart of Europe, with a population of 8.5 million people spread across 41,285 km² of land.
It is divided into 26 cantons (regions) and has been an independent nation since 1648, when it broke free from the Holy Roman Empire.
Notably, Switzerland is not a member of the EU and managed to stay neutral during both World Wars. Its mountainous terrain, with the towering Alps, made it difficult to invade. Adding to this, many Swiss citizens serve in the military, maintaining a strong defense tradition.
The flag of Switzerland is a square design featuring a white cross at the center of a red field. The white cross, known as the Swiss cross, symbolizes the Christian faith and the historic Swiss Confederacy. The red color represents the country’s war flag, signifying courage and strength.
Switzerland has four official languages: French, German, Italian, and Romansh. French is spoken in the western part of the country, German is the most widely spoken language and dominates the central region, Italian is used in the southern part, particularly in the canton of Ticino, and Romansh, a much smaller language, is spoken in some areas in the eastern part of Switzerland.
Edelweiss, known as the Queen of Flowers, grows high in the Alps and is regarded as a national symbol of Switzerland. Its scientific name, Leontopodium alpinum, literally means “alpine lion’s tooth” due to the flower’s unique shape. The Edelweiss is cherished for its resilience, thriving in harsh alpine conditions and representing the beauty and strength of the Swiss mountains.
The Swiss Army Knife is a versatile multi-tool pocketknife manufactured by Victorinox. The term “Swiss Army knife” was coined by American soldiers after WWII, as they struggled to pronounce the German name “Offiziersmesser.” Known for its durability and practicality, this knife is a must-have companion for hiking and traveling, offering a variety of tools in one compact design.
What to expect?
Language: Switzerland has four official languages: French, German, Italian, and Romansh. Each region speaks its own language, but most people also speak English and can understand the other official languages.
Food: Switzerland is renowned for its local cheeses, which are freshly made from the Alps pastures. It’s a must-try for any food lover.
Transportation: Trains are the main mode of transportation between cities, while buses are commonly used within cities. Road trips are highly recommended, as Switzerland is nestled in the beautiful Alps.
Money: The currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). At the time of our visit, 1€ was worth 1.08 CHF. Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available.
Plugs: The plugs in Switzerland are type C, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz.
Safety: Switzerland is known to be one of the safest countries in the world, making it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for all types of travelers.
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