Over the years, I have learned that being well-prepared and using local advice can greatly enhance my trips to Europe. I have helpful tips and personal experiences to help anyone travelling to the Alps, for the first time or many times. In this booklet, you will find tips that help you save as you explore the culture, such as seasonal highlights and uncommon travel ideas. Applying these tips, you’ll have a more rewarding time visiting Vienna or any other spot.
1. Planning Your Trip: Visas, Currency & Timing
You should investigate your visa early if you do not hold citizenship in the EU/Schengen countries. While the Swiss use the Swiss franc (CHF), most other European countries use the euro. For the best weather and less busy areas, plan your trip in spring (April–May) or fall (September–October).
2. Transportation Across Europe
Trains are your best bet. You can use Omio or Rail Europe to find train tickets. For longer routes, go with EasyJet or Ryanair, but make sure to check the prices on trains, too. If you stay in a city for several days, try getting a metro pass to save some money.
3. Insider Tips: Hidden Gems to Discover
Avoid the main tourist attractions and visit Gruyères for the most delicious cheese, Appenzell for nice hiking, or Murten’s old town. I think Lake Bohinj in Slovenia is a better alternative to Lake Bled for most travellers since it is much quieter yet just as enchanting.
4. Budget Travel Tips
For many, Switzerland is one of Europe’s most expensive places to visit. If you want to trim costs, consider staying at hostels, Airbnbs, or low-cost hotel chains. Either prepare your food or buy food from supermarkets like Coop or Migros. You can learn a lot and still save money by going on free walking tours in large cities.
5. Getting Around Switzerland: The Swiss Travel Pass
If you’ll be travelling a lot, try getting the Swiss Travel Pass to hop on and off trains whenever you want. It gives you free travel to use all kinds of trains, buses, boats, and even some lift rides in the mountains. The Swiss train system is on time and takes you through beautiful views, so some trips, like the Bernina Express, feel like you’re in a moving picture of the countryside.
6. Seasonal Guides: What to Do When
Winter in Switzerland is great because you can go skiing at places like Zermatt or St. Moritz or take a more relaxed snowshoe hike in Engelberg. Summer is great for hiking, so you might want to check out the trails in Lauterbrunnen Valley or go to the Aletsch Glacier. Each season has something special about it.
7. Cultural Etiquette & Customs
Be punctual—especially in Switzerland. Say hello (Grüezi in German-speaking places) and be nice to the people you meet. Tipping isn’t always needed but adding a bit extra or leaving a few Swiss francs is nice. Respect quiet hours, especially in neighbourhoods or riding on public transportation.
8. Safety Advice
Switzerland is usually safe to visit, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas to avoid losing things to someone sneaky. Use bags that sit across your body, avoid showing off your valuables, and copy essential papers if something happens. In Switzerland, it’s important to keep an eye on the weather and trails before hiking in the Alps.
With 15 years of experience, working as a Traveller is usually a real challenge, but it can also be gratifying. Switzerland and Europe is full of amazing places and different cultures, so plan your trips well and keep learning. Safe travel!