Switzerland
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Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Swiss landscapes, architecture and culture, which offer a rich diversity and unparalleled beauty. From the impressive Alps and clear lakes to historic cities such as Zurich and Geneva, Switzerland offers a wealth of photo motifs that will delight any photography enthusiast.

Fantastic mountain landscapes and charming villages

Photo spots in Switzerland

Welcome to the land of the Alps and clear lakes – Switzerland, where photo spots invite you on a journey through the many facets of culture, history and breathtaking landscapes. From the impressive Alps and clear lakes to the vibrant city life in Zurich and Geneva and the charming villages in the mountains – the architecture and nature in Switzerland reflect a fascinating diversity that inspires every photographer.

Explore the magnificent castles and fortresses, the charming villages in the Alps and the idyllic vineyards along Lake Geneva. Switzerland is a country full of contrasts, characterized by its rich history and cultural diversity, which enchants its visitors with every photo spot. From the small hidden gems to the vibrant cities, Switzerland offers an almost endless range of photo opportunities waiting to be discovered. Get ready to be captured by the beauty of this country and start your photo journey through Switzerland.

Good to know

Here you will find important information for your visit to Switzerland or for your trip through this fascinating country in the heart of Europe. We’ll give you everything you need to get the most out of your stay in Switzerland. Let’s go on a journey of discovery together and experience the best photo spots with Fotogoals.

Regions

Switzerland is divided into 26 cantons, including Zurich, Geneva, Basel-Stadt, Bern and Lucerne. These regions each offer their own unique sights and cultural highlights. From the impressive Alps and clear lakes to historic cities such as Zurich and Geneva and charming villages in the mountains, Switzerland offers a wealth of diversity to explore.

Currency

The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF), which is accepted as a means of payment throughout the country. The country’s largest banks include UBS, Credit Suisse, Raiffeisen and Zürcher Kantonalbank. ATMs can be found in banks as well as in many public places such as shopping centers, train stations and airports, making access to cash convenient and easy.

Mobile radio

Switzerland has the country code +41. The leading mobile phone providers are Swisscom, Sunrise and Salt. Other providers (e.g. supermarket chains) offer tariffs. For example, M-Budget Mobile from Migros) use one of the networks of the three major providers. The mobile network is generally well developed and offers extensive network coverage, even in rural areas. In general, 4G LTE is readily available. 5G is largely available in urban areas.

Grocery

In Switzerland, most supermarkets and discount stores are open from Monday to Saturday from around 8 or 9 am until 7 or 8 pm. Some supermarkets are also open on Sundays, especially in train stations and airports. The most popular retailers include Migros, Coop, Denner, Aldi and Lidl. They offer a wide selection of food and other products at affordable prices.

Transportation

There are a variety of transportation options in Switzerland. SBB offers an extensive train network for national and international travel. Cities have public transportation such as subways, streetcars and buses. Flixbus offers inexpensive long-distance bus connections. In addition, there are ride-sharing services such as Uber, traditional cabs and car rental companies such as Hertz and Avis for flexible transportation options.

Restaurant

Switzerland has a diverse restaurant landscape that offers something for every taste and budget. In addition to traditional restaurants serving Swiss cuisine, you will also find a large number of international chains and snack stands offering a wide range of dishes, from fondue to rösti. Prices for main meals average between 20 and 40 francs. Tipping is not customary in Switzerland, as service is usually included in the price.

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Switzerland - FAQ: Travel

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Switzerland

If you want to visit Switzerland, the best time to travel depends on your personal preferences and the activities you are planning. Summer (June to August) offers warm weather and is ideal for hiking in the Alps and visits to the lakes. Autumn (September to November) offers mild weather and colorful autumn landscapes, perfect for sightseeing and wine tasting. Winter (December to February) is ideal for winter sports in the Alps and visiting the Christmas markets. In spring (March to May), nature awakens and the cities blossom, which is perfect for walks and sightseeing tours. When planning your trip, consider your personal preferences and interests to find the best time to visit Switzerland.

If you wish to enter Switzerland, the need for a visa depends on your nationality, the purpose of your stay and the intended duration. Nationals of many countries do not require a visa for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. However, a visa may be required for longer stays or other purposes. It is important to check the current entry requirements and apply for a visa in good time if necessary.

If you are planning a vacation trip to Switzerland, the choice of airport depends on your destination and personal preferences. Most international flights land at major airports such as Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA) or Basel-Mulhouse (BSL). Zurich is the largest and busiest airport and offers a wide range of connections. All airports are well connected to the public transport network. If you have a specific destination in Switzerland in mind, it may make sense to choose the nearest regional airport. Find out about the various options in advance and choose the airport that best suits your travel plans.

If you are traveling to Switzerland, no special vaccinations are usually required. However, it is recommended that you keep your standard vaccinations up to date according to your home country's vaccination calendar. If you are traveling from countries with yellow fever infection areas, you may need to provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination. It is advisable to find out about current health and entry regulations before you travel and to seek medical advice if necessary.

Yes, many people in Switzerland speak English, especially in urban areas, tourist centers and among the younger generation. English is a widely spoken foreign language and is often learned as a second or third language at school. In hotels, restaurants, stores and tourist attractions, it is common for staff to speak English or at least have a basic knowledge of English in order to communicate with international visitors. If you don't speak German, French or Italian, you can usually communicate in English to find your way around and get help.

Switzerland - FAQ: Daily life

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about daily life in Switzerland

In Switzerland, the voltage is 230 volts and the frequency is 50 hertz. The sockets correspond to type J. If you come from a country that uses other plug types, you may need an adapter to connect your electronic devices. These adapters are available in most electronics stores, airports and hotels. It is recommended that you check whether you need an adapter before your trip to ensure that your electronic devices can be used without any problems.

Yes, tap water in Switzerland is generally of high quality and can be drunk without hesitation. Most cities and municipalities have strict water treatment regulations to ensure that drinking water meets legal standards. It is therefore not necessary to buy bottled water unless you prefer certain flavors or carbonation. Drinking tap water is not only environmentally friendly, it also saves you money during your stay in Switzerland.

Payment by card, in particular by credit card, is widespread in Switzerland. In larger stores, restaurants and bars in cities or tourist regions, payment by credit card is generally accepted. However, some smaller stores or rural areas may only accept cash. It is therefore advisable to find out in advance whether payment with your credit card is possible.

American Express credit cards can sometimes cause problems as they are not accepted everywhere. Visa and Mastercard, on the other hand, work almost everywhere. All cards are usually accepted in supermarkets, as are Apple Pay and Google Pay. It is always a good idea to have both cash and a credit card with you to be prepared for all eventualities.

In Switzerland, you can buy alcohol in supermarkets, discount stores, petrol stations and kiosks. You can get a standard selection of alcoholic drinks almost everywhere, while a larger selection is usually only available in specialty drinks markets or in large supermarkets. The sale of alcohol is generally not limited in time, but it is advisable to find out about local regulations. Beer and wine may be sold from the age of 16, while high-proof alcohol is only available from the age of 18.

In Switzerland, you can buy cigarettes and tobacco in supermarkets, kiosks, petrol stations and special tobacco stores. These products are usually kept behind the counter and must be requested from the staff. It is important to note that the sale of tobacco products is regulated and the minimum age for buying tobacco is 18. A pack of cigarettes costs around 8-9 francs on average.

In Switzerland, you can buy drugstore and hygiene products in supermarkets such as Migros and Coop as well as in specialized drugstores such as Müller. These stores offer a wide range of products, including body care, cosmetics, household cleaners and baby care. Drugstore items are also available in pharmacies, which are widespread in most towns and communities.

In Switzerland, legal traffic prevails. The speed limits vary depending on the type of road: the limit is usually 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads and 120 km/h on freeways. Seat belts must be worn by all vehicle occupants. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. The use of cell phones without hands-free equipment while driving is prohibited. It is important to obey traffic signs and traffic lights and to give priority to pedestrians at crosswalks.

When visiting Switzerland, there are a few important things to bear in mind to ensure a smooth and pleasant stay:

  • Dress: Switzerland has a relaxed dress code, but it is advisable to dress appropriately in urban areas and for formal occasions. Conservative clothing should be worn in religious sites.

  • Traffic: Traffic in Switzerland is well organized, but it is important to follow the traffic rules and drive carefully. Pedestrians have priority at crosswalks.

  • Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, restaurants, bars and many public places. There are designated smoking areas which should be used.

  • Alcohol: The consumption of alcohol is permitted in Switzerland from the age of 16 for beer and wine and from the age of 18 for spirits. However, it is forbidden to drink alcohol in public, except in designated areas such as licensed bars and restaurants.

  • Emergency number: The emergency number in Switzerland is 112. This number can be used for the police, fire department and ambulance.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Switzerland, as the service is usually included in the price. However, a small tip is appreciated for good service.

Switzerland - FAQ: Photo

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about photography in Switzerland

In Switzerland, there are some important rules and regulations regarding photography:

  • Respect privacy: Do not photograph people without their express permission, especially in private or sensitive situations.
  • Military and government buildings: Photography of military facilities and government buildings is often restricted or prohibited.
  • Religious sites: Special care should be taken when taking photographs in churches and cathedrals. Find out in advance whether photography is permitted.
  • Commercial photography: Permission is required for commercial photography. Find out about the necessary permits in advance.