CAPITAL

Bern

POPULATION

7,782,900

AREA

15,940 sq. km

LANGUAGE

German, French, Italian, Romansch

CURRENCY

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Switzerland

Facts & Figures

www.HolidaysToEurope.com.au

CONTENTS Switzerland 4 Documentation, weather, time zone 5 Telephones, internet access 6 Tipping 8 Shopping 8-9 Value Added Tax 10 Food and drink 10-11 Driving in Switzerland 12-15 Rail travel 16 Public transport 16 Other useful info 17 Bern 18-19 Zurich 20-21 Geneva 21-22 Rural Switzerland 23 Holidays to Europe’s favourites 24-25 Phrase guide 26 Useful links 27

SWITZERLAND Despite its small size, Switzerland has so much to offer the visitor. From thriving cities to chocolate-box villages, you’ll never be short of things to do. From stunning lakes to towering alps, medieval architecture to modern boutiques, Switzerland has it all. Bordering Italy, France, Germany and Austria, Switzerland has a varied climate and cultural diversity. The area bordering Italy has a casual ‘Mediterranean’ feel with Italian the official language, whilst Swiss German, French and Romansch are spoken in other regions. Boasting one of the highest living standards in the world, it’s no wonder the Swiss are so proud of their nation. With some of the most spectacular scenery you will see anywhere, they can feel justifiably proud. Cable cars and funiculars take visitors seamlessly to the top of the alps from where they can enjoy the picture-postcard views and wander amongst alpine pastures in Summer. In Winter, there’s only one place to ski. Switzerland is home to ski resorts to suit every budget. From the super-trendy resorts of St Moritz and Zermatt to more family-friendly resorts all over the country.

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TELEPHONES

Phoning Switzerland

The International dialling code for Switzerland is 41. If calling from another country, dial the local International Access Code (eg. 0011 from Australia), then 41 (the country code), then the area code and local number.

Example: 0011 41 27 111 2222

Phoning Australia/New Zealand FROM Switzerland (Australia’s international telephone code is 61, New Zealand’s is 64):- Example: To call a Melbourne (Australia) number, dial as follows:

00 61 3 9999 9999 – note that you DO NOT dial the ‘0’ in the area code

INTERNET ACCESS

Internet cafes are common in larger cities and towns. McDonalds restaurants and Starbucks cafes (which are generally only found in cities and larger towns) offer free Wi-Fi.

Most accommodation houses offer WiFi access if you are travelling with a laptop but connection charges can vary widely.

DOCUMENTATION Visas – Australian and New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa if their stay in Switzerland does not exceed 90 days.

WEATHER Bi-monthly day time average temperatures:

TIME ZONE Switzerland is in the Central European Time zone (CET) which is GMT +1. Daylight saving takes effect in Switzerland from the last

Sunday in March (when the clocks go forward by an hour) through to the last Sunday in October (when they go back by an hour).

ELECTRICITY Switzerland operates on a 230 volt electrical current. A two-pin European adapter is required to use Australian/New Zealand electrical appliances.

January March May July September November

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TIPPING

There is no obligation to tip in Switzerland as service fees are included in restaurants, bars, hotels, etc. Rounding to the next Swiss franc for small amounts or giving a couple of Swiss francs when spending larger amounts in expensive restaurants is usual. Tip luggage porters CHF2 per bag.

SHOPPING

Opening hours: Shop opening hours are generally from 9am to 8pm Monday to Friday with some shops staying open until 10pm (one day per week). Supermarkets often open at 8am and some close at 12pm and re-open at 2pm (in smaller towns), with all day Saturday shopping. Shops in larger areas may operate for longer hours. Most shops are closed on Sundays.

Forms of payment : Credit cards are widely accepted in Switzerland however the Swiss (and most European countries) require the use of a PIN and will not accept a signature. If your credit card does not have a PIN, it is wise to have one activated by your bank before you travel.

Most automatic teller machines (ATMs) will accept Australian and New Zealand ATM cards providing they bear the Maestro or Cirrus symbol. Charges apply for each withdrawal.

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Value Added Tax (VAT) Refund

Non-EU residents who purchase goods over €75.01 in one purchase in a store can apply for a refund of the Value Added Tax (VAT) paid if they leave the country within 3 months. To do this, you must ask the sales staff to provide you with the completed paperwork. This paperwork is then presented (with the goods purchased) to customs officials when departing the last EU country on your trip. Further information can be found at http://www.globalrefund.com

FOOD AND DRINK

Local specialties: Cheese features prominently in Swiss cuisine with some of the country's best known dishes using the tasty Swiss varieties. In fact, there are 450 different varieties of cheese in Switzerland!

Fondue, a dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot over a small burner, is eaten by dipping long-stemmed forks with bread or potatoes into the cheese.

Raclette consists of a selection of potatoes, small gherkins and pickled onions with hot cheese dribbled over the top.

Rösti are patties made of grated potato and then fried. They are similar to hash browns.

Another very popular Swiss specialty is Swiss chocolate!

At the supermarket: Most supermarkets in Switzerland require you to weigh and price your own fruit and vegetables. Each variety has its own ‘code’ (displayed next to the fruit or vegetable) which you punch into the scales located in the fruit and vegetable section, and a price sticker prints out. When you get to the checkout, the operator then just has to scan the prices. Meat, small goods and delicatessen items such as cheeses, are all priced per 100 grams not per kilogram, as is the case in Australia. You will also find that most supermarkets charge for plastic shopping bags so it's a good idea to take some of your own re-usable bags from home. And don't expect the checkout operator to pack your groceries into bags - that's for you to do!

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DRIVING IN SWITZERLAND

Road Rules: *Vehicles drive on the right hand side of the road. *Minimum driving age is 18 years. *Seat belts are mandatory. *The blood alcohol limit is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood. *It is compulsory to carry a high-visibility vest in the glove box which must be worn in case of accident or breakdown. *Third party insurance is mandatory. *It is against the law to use a mobile phone while driving, except when using a hands-free system.

Speed Limits: The speed limit on motorways is generally 120 km/h, 100 km/h on main roads, 80 km/h on normal roads outside towns and 50 km/h within towns. Driving in tunnels requires heightened attention: maintaining sufficient distance from the car in front of you and paying attention to traffic signals are mandatory.

Toll Roads: Switzerland has an excellent road network. Any motorists travelling on motorways in Switzerland are required to display a toll sticker (know as a vignette) on the windscreen of their vehicle. Vignettes can be purchased at Swiss border crossings, petrol stations, post offices and tobacconists. Vignettes cost CHF40 per year. If hiring a car in Switzerland, you should check that the hire car has the vignette attached to the windscreen and, if not, purchase one immediately. (All prices apply to a passenger vehicle and are current at the time of publication.)

Wine is produced in many regions of Switzerland, particularly the Valais, the Vaud, the Ticino and the canton of Zurich. Riesling X Sylvaner is a popular white wine produced in German-speaking parts of the country, while Chasselas is the most popular white wine in the French-speaking regions of the country. Pinot Noir and Merlot are also produced throughout Switzerland.

Tip:

When ordering water in a restaurant or café, it is assumed you want the carbonated variety. If you prefer still water (non-aerated), be sure to order ‘wasser mit ohne luft’ (water without bubbles).

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International Driving Permit (IDP): If you are planning on driving in Switzerland you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit prior to your departure from Australia. An IDP is an internationally recognised form of identification, and in many cases is a pre-requisite for hiring a car.

IDPs can be purchased from your local motoring organisation (RACV, NRMA, etc) by presenting your current drivers licence and a passport-sized photo. The International Driving Permit is valid for 12 months, and at the time of writing costs around AUD$35. A valid drivers’ licence from your country ofresidence must also be presented at the time of hire car collection or if requested by the Police.

Child seats: Children under the age of 7 must be secured in a child car seat. Children between 7 and 12 must use seat belts or child restraints which are appropriate to their size and age.

Fuel: In Switzerland, unleaded regular-grade 91 octane petrol (‘Benzin’), as well as Euro-Super(unleaded 95-octane) petrol, and diesel, are available at all petrol stations.

Petrol stations in many small towns and villages are closed for a two hour lunch break , and most are also closed on Sundays, so make sure you have enough fuel in the tank if you plan on travelling any distance on a Sunday. In some cases, fuel can be purchased by pre-paying with a credit card at special pumps when the petrol station is unattended.

Winter driving: Alpine winters often make driving

more difficult. You should equip your car with winter tyres and snow-chains, and check road conditions prior to departure. Snow chains are obligatory in some winter conditions.

Traffic Accidents: If you are involved in a traffic accident involving injury to any person, you must immediately report the accident to the police. Accidents involving material damage must only be reported when mutual identity has not been established.

Vehicle Breakdowns: In the event of a breakdown, assistance can be requested 24 hours a day by dialling 117. Accidents involving material damage must only be reported when mutual identity has not been established. The TCS patrol can be contacted on 140 in the event of a breakdown. Non-members are charged a fee for this service. The Automobile Club of Switzerland (ACS) offers members’ breakdown assistance across Europe.

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Emergency numbers

Emergency road service: 140 Fire brigade: 118 Police: 117 Ambulance: 144 Mountain rescue (helicopter) 1414

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Switzerland’s major cities and larger towns have agood public transport system operated by both local authorities and private companies. Bus and tram services are most common in the cities. Children under 6 travel for free on all public transport in Switzerland.

Cable cars and funiculars are abundant in alpine areas, offering an easy and scenic way to reach the mountain peaks all year round. Boats and steamers are a relaxing way to enjoy Switzerland’s many lakes.

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RAIL TRAVEL

Travelling around Switzerland by train is a fantastic way to not only get from A to B, but it’s also a most relaxing and scenic form of transport. The Swiss Railway (SBB) has a fantastic network of rail services around the country and on all major routes an hourly or two-hourly service operates.

Depending on the number of rail journeys you plan on taking in Switzerland, you can either purchase point-to-point tickets or a rail pass. A number of different Swiss Passes are available and these can be purchased in Australia/New Zealand prior to your departure. Multi-country Eurail passes which include Switzerland are also available for purchase should you be visiting other countries.

OTHER USEFUL INFO Public Toilets: Throughout Europe, including Switzerland, it is not uncommon for a fee to be charged to use public toilets. In some instances, a voluntary system applies where you put a few coins in a container but in other cases an attendant will collect a designated fee (usually less than CHF1). Fees for toilet usage often also apply at road side service stations and some railway stations. McDonalds (and other) restaurants often keep their toilets locked and you need to ask the staff for a code to access the toilets, but in these instances, there is generally no charge.

REGIONS OF SWITZERLAND The Swiss Confederation consists of 26 Cantons. The major tourist regions are:

MAJOR CITIES IN SWITZERLAND

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Bern - Switzerland’s capital, Bern, is often overlooked on a European itinerary, but it is a city with plenty to offer the visitor. Located in the Swiss Mittelland (middle land) region, Bern is within easy reach of many of Switzerland’s more popular destinations but warrants at least of couple of days to discover this historic city which was added to UNESCO’s world heritage list in 1983. The clock tower, which dates back to the early 1400’s, was the city’s first gate and is one of the most important landmarks in Bern. More than 800 years later, visitors can watch the clockwork figures perform every hour, and admire the intricate clock face which was added in 1530. Other sights worth visiting include the Altstadt (old town), and wandering the Laubengange, consisting of nearly six kilometres of covered arcades. It is the longest covered shopping promenade in Europe and houses cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, boutiques, galleries and more. It’s easy to while away a few hours window shopping or enjoying a coffee whilst you decide which Swiss watch to buy!

•Basel •Bernese Oberland •Central Switzerland •Eastern Switzerland/Liechtenstein •Fribourg •Geneva •Graubunden

•Lake Geneva region •Neuchatel/Jura/ Bernese Jura •Schweizer Mitteland •Ticino •Valais •Zurich

A leisurely ten minute walk towards the River Aare and over Nydeggbrucke (Nydegg bridge) takes you to the home of Bern’s symbol, the brown bear. The Barengraben, is home to a number of Pyrenean brown bears. The bear ‘garden’ features a large grass area, two small forests, three caves and a pool parallel to the Aare allowing the bears to enjoy the closest thing to a real bear’s life. It’s worth taking the time to stop and take in the views as you cross back over the Nydeggbrucke. The Aare winds its way in a U-shape around the city, and from the bridge you can really appreciate the city’s medieval history and architecture. Below you, the rushing blue-green waters of the Aare thunder by. Back in the old town, head for the Berner Munster (cathedral) for more great views. Building started in 1421 and today the Munster is the largest sacred building in Switzerland. Climb the 100 metre tower to see the city from above, and take a look at the 12 metre-high stained glass windows. Just around the corner from the Munster you can visit Einstein’s house where the physicist lived when he developed the theory of relativity.

Zurich - Perfectly situated on Lake Zurich, the city of Zurich offers a unique mix of urban and rural pleasures. From downtown Zurich you can enjoy views of the snow-covered Alps on the horizon whilst partaking in a spot of retail therapy from some of the world's best known brands. The city skyline is dominated by the famous Grossmünster church, which has become the city's landmark. With its twin towers, it certainly makes an impressive statement, whilst nearby St Peter's is home to the largest clock face in Europe. With more than 50 museums and 100 galleries to visit, Zurich offers plenty for art lovers, whilst the city's Opera House and Concert Hall are the venue for many world-class performances.

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Beautiful Bern

Geneva - As the world headquarters for the Red Cross, the International Olympic Committee, World Health Organisation and the European seat of the United Nations, Geneva is a truly international city. Situated on the border of France, Geneva is a mix of both countries and most residents are bilingual in both German and French, and often many other languages as well. In fact, with so many international organisations housed here, there's barely a language you won't hear! The city is rightly proud of its lake, which is Europe's largest Alpine lake, and the its emblem, the Jet d'eau. The fountain spurts water 140 metres above the lake making a spectacular sight, and is the city's most photographed attraction. 21 22

The best way to see Geneva is by foot. With the city being so compact, it's easy to shop till you drop in the Old Town and then be by the lakeside in only a few minutes. Boat trips are popular on Lake Geneva and visitors have the choice of cruising on an historic paddlesteamer or travelling from shore to shore on one of the 'mouettes' (shuttle boats) that traverse the lake. For fabulous city views, climb the 175 steps up the north tower of St. Peter's Cathedral and take in the panorama of Lake Geneva and the city. And for views further field, you can take the cable car up to Salève (in France) and enjoy the 360-degree views that stretch across the Alps to Mont

Blanc and even as far as Annecy.

A stroll through the old town is the perfect way to discover Zurich's 2000 year history, and at the same time become aquainted with the bookshops, bars and boutiques that line the narrow alleyways. Right on the city's doorstep, Lake Zurich, offers a multitude of things to do. Boat trips are always popular and in summertime the Lido is the place to be seen - and to cool off!

Lake Geneva

Rural Switzerland Switzerland is surely one of the most picturesque countries in the world and the magnificent rural scenery never fails to impress. Amongst Europe's highest mountains, the Swiss Alps make a spectacular backdrop to the sparkling lakes and lush green meadows where, more often than not, you'll hear the jangling of cow bells. With so many mountain paths and ski runs to choose from, you'll never want for something to do. For stunning views from above, there are an endless number of cable cars to take you high up the mountains. Why not get up high and sip a coffee whilst you take in all of Switzerland's beauty?

HOLIDAYS TO EUROPE’S FAVOURITES Lucerne - Nestled between a backdrop of towering mountains and a sparkling lake, Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most visited cities. Ideally located in central Switzerland, Lucerne is easily accessible from all parts of the country and beyond. Only an hour or so from both Bern and Zurich, Lucerne makes an ideal day trip for those with limited time, but also offers plenty to see and do for visitors staying a few days. Highlights include Chapel Bridge, the Old Town, the Dying Lion monument, Verkehrhaus, lake cruises and of course, trips to Mt Pilatus, Mt Rigi and Mt Titlis.

Lauterbrunnen - Lauterbrunnen is a typical Swiss chocolate box village – quaint alpine houses and chalets are surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, even in Summer. Situated in a valley with sheer rock faces either side, over which waterfalls tumble, the village has a ‘cosy’ feel to it. Lauterbrunnen is a great starting point for many of the region’s most popular attractions including visits to the Jungfraujoch, the Schilthorn, the alpine gardens at Schnyige Platte as well as the surrounding towns of Interlaken, Brienz, Grindlewald and Wengen.

Locarno – Locarno sits on the northern tip of Lake Maggiore, close to the Italian border. Despite being a Swiss city, Locarno’s official language is Italian and it enjoys quite a casual Mediterranean-style atmosphere. Aside from lakeside pursuits, popular places to visit in the

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Obergoms, Valais region

region include the trendy resort town of Ascona and Bellinzona, Switzerland’s city of castles.

GREAT FOR KIDS – kids will love Swissminiatur, a 1:25scale miniature Swiss village. The park is home to many of Switzerland’s most important buildings re-created in miniature, whilst 18 trains travel around the village, historic boats sail over lakes and cog railways scale alpine peaks. Based in Melide, near Lugano, this is one place your kids won’t want to miss!

GREAT FOR COUPLES – enjoy some time with yourloved one and be pampered at the same time. Spend a day or two at one of Switzerland’s world class thermal baths and spa resorts where you can soak your worries away. The soothing alpine waters are the best way to de-stress and the relaxing atmosphere will allow you to re-connect with your partner.

TREAT YOURSELF – stay in style at the 5* Badrutt’sPalace in trendy St. Moritz. Ski all day or shop in designer boutiques then come ‘home’ to the distinguished Grande Dame of St. Moritz where the hotel’s mantra is to fulfill your wishes and dreams.

PHRASE GUIDE

My name is ….. Ich heisse …..hello/goodbye hallo/auf Wiedersehen please/thank you bitte/danke excuse me/sorry entschuldigung/bitte yes/no ja/nein Sir/Madam Herr/Frau I would like….. ich Mochte …..Can you help me? konnen Sie mir helfen? How much? wieviel? Where is …..? wo ist……?The bill Rechnung yesterday gestern today heute tomorrow morgen car/train auto/bahn petrol/diesel benzin/diesel ticket Billet railway station Bahnhof airport Flughäfen map Karte road/bridge Strasse/Brücke left/right links/rechts toilet Toilette water/milk Wasser/Milch coffee/tea Kaffee/Tese wine/beer Wein/Bier breakfast/dinner Frühstuck/Abendessen lunch Mittagessen shop/supermarket Geschäft/Supermarkt

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USEFUL LINKS

Information about accommodation, rail travel, car hire and leasing, coach tours and sightseeing in Switzerland can be found at www.holidaystoeurope.com.au. For information on specific Swiss towns and villages, visit this link: http://bit.ly/1S5H77p

The Switzerland Tourism website, www.myswitzerland.com, is also an excellent resource when planning your trip to Switzerland.

Alpine flowers

Disclaimer – every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this guide is correct at the time of

publication. ©Holidays to Europe, 2018.

Photo credits: Switzerland Tourism, HolidaysToEurope.com.au

www.HolidaysToEurope.com.au 27 www.HolidaysToEurope.com.au