Preparation file

Preparing for Zurich

Switzerland is in the Schengen area but its currency is not the euro, it is the Swiss franc. Public transport runs to the minute and is expensive. There are four official languages, by region. What follows applies across the whole country.

Last updated: 2026-08

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Everyday etiquette

All of Switzerland

Punctuality and quiet are taken seriously. There are four official languages: German, French, Italian or Romansh depending on the region; English is understood everywhere.

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Getting around the country

All of Switzerland

Trains, buses and boats work as one network and keep to the timetable to the minute. Connection times are short because delays are not expected.

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Money and cards

All of Switzerland

The currency is the Swiss franc, not the euro. Where euros are accepted the rate is the business's own and your change comes back in francs. Cards work everywhere.

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Practical notes

All of Switzerland

The sockets are DIFFERENT: Switzerland uses its own type J standard and thick earthed plugs may not fit. Fountain water is excellent and free.

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In an emergency

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Emergency call: 112One number for police, ambulance and fire. It is the same across Europe, so there is nothing to look up on arrival.
Non-emergency police: 117For reporting theft; 112 also works in an emergency.
Pharmacy: APOTHEKE / PHARMACIEMarked with a green cross; the out-of-hours rota is posted at the door.
Lost passport: Your country's missionReport the loss to the police first, then apply to your mission. On a group tour, tell your tour leader immediately.

Checklists

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Phrases worth knowing

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