Switzerland Travel Guide for Indian Travellers

Posted on: Aug 18, 2023 | | Written by:

Switzerland Travel Guide for Indian Travellers

Published on August 14, 2023. EST READ TIME: 3 minutes

Switzerland is a bit smaller as compared to some of its neighbouring countries, yet it is a preferred destination for several reasons. Switzerland is home to some of the most stunning mountain peaks, cities that are based on lakes and nature at its pristine best. On clear days, the Alps offer views that will have you hooked on for hours. And you can ski at some of the best places in the world. Here is a simple Switzerland travel guide if you are planning to visit this stunning country.

Visa

An important part of the Switzerland travel guide is to understand the visa requirements. Switzerland entered the Schengen area back in 2008. Thus, getting a Schengen visa will allow you to visit Switzerland. To apply for your Schengen Visa, you must have a valid passport or travel document and the document must have at least three months of validity from your date of exit.

Apart from these two, you will need a document showing your round trip itinerary, accommodation details, financial statements, and a cover letter. You must also get an overseas travel insurance plan with medical coverage of €30,000 or more.

Ideal Time

What makes Switzerland a top destination is that you can visit the country during all seasons and get a different flavour. Visiting the country in winter is ideal for skiing, while the autumn and spring season are sublime for trekking. On the other hand, the spring season allows you to explore the country without spending a lot of money. You can also explore the ski resorts and lakes in the country.

Summers can be a bit humid and hot with average temperatures ranging between 19 and 25 degrees Celsius. And the temperatures can drop to -10 degree Celsius. The spring season sees temperatures between 9 and 14 degrees Celsius.

Thus, the spring season which is between April and June is a good time to visit Switzerland. The entire country is green, the landscape somehow becomes prettier and cable rides to the mountain tops can be even more heartwarming.

Must-visit Destinations

A crucial part of Switzerland travel guide is knowing which places to visit once you land in the country. Here are some of the most popular destinations in Switzerland.

1. The Matterhorn

The famous mountain of Toblerone chocolate is on the Switzerland-Italy border. You can enjoy a pristine view from the small village of Zermatt or take a small loop hike. If you are an early bird, you can take the first train and view the mountain range and its reflection on the lake.

2. Pilatus Luzern

The majestic views from Pilatus Luzern will take your breath away. There are a lot of small trails that you can enjoy and not tired of. You can even experience the world's steepest cogwheel railway at Pilatus Luzern.

3. Lake Lucerne

Visiting the lake is the only way, you can believe how beautiful the lake is and how clean it is. Taking a boat ride will allow you to explore the lake completely.

Moving around in Switzerland

Travelling in Switzerland isn't all that difficult. The public transport system in the country is quite robust and one of the finest examples. There are several options that you can choose from, right from trams, boats, cable cars, trains, buses, and funiculars.

Unlike a few other European countries, you need not worry about booking train tickets in advance. The prices remain constant and will not give you a scare. You can find local trains, domestic trains, and even international trains.

Most of the major cities are connected by buses as well. Most of the bus operators sell tickets either on board or at ticket-selling machines. You can also utilise the SwissPass.

It is important to note that cabs in Switzerland are one of the most expensive in Europe, which is another reason for people relying heavily on public transport.

Health and Safety in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its low serious crime levels, however, there has been an uptick in petty crimes. As a traveller, ensure that you stay cautious especially during overnight trains, and at tourist spots. Also, the mountain ranges are known for avalanches, mudslides, landslides, etc. make sure that you follow the local news before heading out.

All travellers are subject to the same level of medical attention as Swiss citizens. And unlike other countries, there aren't any public hospitals in Switzerland. In the case of a medical emergency, the costs can be quite high. It is one of the most prominent reasons to opt for overseas travel insurance for your trip. A travel insurance plan will make sure that you get the required medical attention.

Currency details

Swiss Franc is the official currency of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. 1 Swiss Franc currently is equivalent to INR 94. If you are carrying local currency and want to convert, it is simple to do that in Switzerland. There are adequate exchange centres at airports and train stations, and you can exchange without losing a lot of money.

Common cultural etiquettes

Here are a few simple social etiquettes and tips that will help you get around in Switzerland.

1. Do not litter anywhere in the country.

2. Make sure that you greet everyone, even if it is a brief eye contact, nod, or a hello.

3. Swiss people respect time a lot.

4. Chewing gum in public is usually considered to be impolite.

5. Swiss leave a party before midnight so that the host gets time to clean up.

Few other tips

Apart from the above, the following are a few additional tips for your trip to Switzerland.

1. The public transport system is quite reliable, thus you need not worry about moving around.

2. Make sure you plan a visit to a spa during your visit, they are worth a visit.

3. Food can get a bit expensive in restaurants. You can look for alternatives at cafes and grocery stores for more affordable alternatives.

4. With so many ski resorts, you will find it hard to resist a session of skiing.

Conclusion

The above Switzerland travel guide will help you plan your visit and everything else that you would need to know. Make sure that you opt for travel insurance with adequate coverage and for a hassle-free travel experience.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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