Luxury Travel & Luxury Holiday Switzerland

General Information

Visa

EU citizens do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

EU citizens wishing to stay longer than 90 days require a so-called residence permit.

Entry

A passport or identity card is required for entry, which may have expired no more than 1 year ago. A provisional passport also entitles you to enter the country; however, it must be valid for the duration of your stay.

The import and export of domestic and foreign currency is unlimited, but amounts exceeding 10,000 Swiss Francs must be declared.

Further regulations on the import and export of goods can be found here.

Currency

The official currency is the Swiss Franc; however, it is possible to pay in Euros in most cases.

Paying by credit card is easily possible in most shops and restaurants in Switzerland. For immediate expenses, such as public transport, it is advisable to carry some cash.

Health Information

Medical care is excellent and comparable to the healthcare system in Germany.

For citizens of EU and EFTA countries, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) applies. (This does not replace travel insurance, e.g. for repatriation to your home country!)

Safety

Crime

The crime rate in the country is low. Pickpocketing may occasionally occur at busy and frequently visited locations.
Pay particular attention to your valuables at tourist attractions and in crowds.

Time Zone

Winter: UTC +1 (CET)
Summer: UTC +2 (CEST)

Electricity

Mains voltage: 230V, 50 Hz
Possible plug adapter: Type J

Driving Licence

Is my driving licence valid in the destination country?

Germany: Yes
Switzerland: Yes
Austria: Yes

Traffic violations in Switzerland are strictly enforced and may result in severe penalties. Heavy fines, revocation of driving licence or confiscation of the vehicle, and even imprisonment may apply.

Location

Switzerland is a country in Central Europe. To the north, it borders Germany; to the west, France; to the south, Italy; and to the east, Liechtenstein and Austria.

The entire territory of Switzerland lies within the Alpine mountain ranges, resulting in an alpine-temperate climate throughout the country. Temperatures vary considerably depending on altitude. Summers in the Alpine valleys are usually mild to warm, with average temperatures of around 23°C in midsummer, while even in high summer, temperatures in the high mountain regions rarely exceed 0°C. Winters are usually long and cold, with temperatures around freezing in the valleys and, in some cases, well below zero in high mountain areas. The cold winters result in frequent and sometimes heavy snowfall, particularly at higher elevations, which can lead to increased avalanche risk and the resulting closure of access and mountain pass roads.

An exception is the Ticino region in southern Switzerland, where a partly Mediterranean climate prevails and temperatures reliably climb above 10°C as early as March.
The central Alpine valleys are generally drier throughout the year than the Alpine foothills.

In some regions of Switzerland, Foehn winds occur frequently, particularly in spring, which can cause sudden temperature rises or drops of up to 25°C.

Luxury Travel Switzerland: Sights

Matterhorn

The distinctive Matterhorn remains the most photographed mountain in the world to this day. The triangular rock pinnacle rises majestically near the Italian border and can be admired from great distances. The view of the pyramid-shaped summit is particularly impressive from the small village of Zermatt, over which the Matterhorn towers. Many other viewpoints in the surrounding valleys and hiking trails also offer unique photo opportunities. Since its first ascent in 1865, the Matterhorn has enjoyed steadily growing popularity among mountaineers and still presents a true challenge for every alpinist today. Whether from afar with camera in hand or up close with crampons on your boots, the Matterhorn is an unmistakably impressive mountain.

Chillon Castle

The history of this castle dates back to the 12th century. The impressive fortress served the regional princes as a customs station and as an intimidating testament to their power. The castle was built on a small island in Lake Geneva and can be reached via a narrow bridge. Chillon Castle looks back on an eventful past, and much can be discovered and admired within the walls and courtyards of the complex. Many of the original decorations of the interior rooms are still preserved today, and a stroll through the corridors and chambers of the castle takes every visitor back to life in those times.

Glacier Express

Since 1930, the Glacier Express has connected the cities of St. Moritz and Zermatt. The Glacier Express is not a conventional passenger train but one of the most luxurious trains in the world and a highlight for every visitor to Switzerland. The train features large panoramic windows that offer an incomparable view of the Alpine landscape. The train is luxuriously appointed, and the journey is spent in cosy lounge chairs. Guests can also enjoy a delicious three-course meal on board. Passing deep-blue glacier lakes, between towering mountain peaks, and with views of the eternal white of the Alpine world, you can spend an unforgettable day while completely relaxing.

Reasons to Travel

Switzerland is a diverse travel destination. Within the smallest area, it offers a wide variety of sights, untouched valleys and snow-covered mountains.

Active holidaymakers will find a wealth of activities to pursue in the Alpine republic. The green valleys are ideal for extensive hiking or cycling tours. Hiking trails can be found throughout the country and vary in difficulty, so that everyone can enjoy the beautiful Alpine panoramas.

The mountains also offer excellent climbing routes for every alpinist.

During the summer months, the many mountain rivers are also suitable for kayaking and canoeing, as well as white-water rafting. In the winter months, a wide selection of ski slopes and other winter sports opportunities can be found.

The cities of Switzerland are also perfect for a city break, as they are full of charm and history. Impressive buildings from the Middle Ages and other eras still shape the city centres of places such as Lucerne or Geneva.

A shopping stroll through the magnificent shopping streets of Switzerland becomes an absolute highlight, and even major cities like Zurich have retained a cosy small-town charm.

Throughout its history, Switzerland has been influenced by a wide variety of cultures, which have not only become part of the linguistic culture but have above all enriched the cuisine of the Alpine republic. Regional specialities and delicious dishes that enchant every palate can be found in all cantons.