The Good Trip guide · For U.S. travelers
SwitzerlandA little local knowledge.
Travel by rail between lakeside cities, historic towns, Alpine valleys and high mountain landscapes.
Public tap water is generally safe to drink in Switzerland.
Police: 117
Swiss Franc
Exercise Normal Precautions
Essential Etiquette in Switzerland
Key dos and don'ts every American traveler should know before arriving.
Match the local language
German, French, Italian, and Romansh are national languages. A greeting in the language used locally is a considerate way to begin an interaction.
Be punctual
Arriving on time is valued for reservations, tours, and arranged meetings. Allow extra time for rail platforms, mountain lifts, and unfamiliar addresses.
Respect quiet shared spaces
Keep phone calls and conversation subdued on public transport and in residential buildings, especially early and late in the day.
Service is included
Service charges are included in listed restaurant prices. Rounding up or leaving a small amount for good service is customary but not required.
Essential German Phrases
Respectful expressions with phonetic pronunciations to help you connect with locals.
"Hello (formal)"
"Hello (informal)"
"Thank you"
"Sorry / Excuse me"
Take all 65 phrases and offline audio with you in Good Trip.
Water & pharmacies
Tap water is drinkable
Use normal judgment at fountains or taps marked as non-potable, and follow any local notice.
Local Pharmacy Rules
Pharmacies can advise on many minor health needs; look for a pharmacy sign and confirm local opening arrangements.
Apps to Download Before Flying to Switzerland
Useful apps for transit, navigation, and food delivery in Switzerland.
SBB Mobile
SBB’s official public-transport app provides timetable planning, service information, and ticket access for travel in Switzerland.
ZVV
The Zürcher Verkehrsverbund app supports public-transport planning and ticketing for the Zurich region.
FAIRTIQ
FAIRTIQ is a Swiss mobility app for eligible public-transport journeys using check-in and check-out travel.
Emergency Contacts & U.S. Embassy
If you lose your passport, need urgent medical evacuation, or encounter legal trouble, keep this info accessible offline.
U.S. Embassy Bern
Sulgeneckstrasse 19, 3007 Bern, Switzerland
Field Guides & Dispatches for Switzerland
This preview comes from the Good Trip country guide. Conditions and travel advisories can change. Check the latest U.S. State Department advice before departure.
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