SWITZERLAND
Travel abroad to Europe and Switzerland with a uniquely personal, liberating plan

Everything you might be curious about regarding a trip to Switzerland.

The Best Season for Traveling in Switzerland

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• september
• October
• november
• december

Average temperature and precipitation

Source: Weather Base (http://www.weatherbase.com/)

Cash, cards and currency exchange

• It’s best to exchange money locally. Although you can exchange currency in Japan beforehand, the rates are generally not as good.
• Credit cards are accepted in most places, and you generally won’t encounter any issues using VISA or MasterCard. Even small independent shops and stalls are increasingly accepting them.
• We recommend primarily using credit cards while keeping a small amount of cash on hand for emergencies.

Tips

• Tipping is not a deeply ingrained custom here.
• In Switzerland, service fees are often included in the bill, so tipping is generally unnecessary. However, if you receive special services—such as help with heavy luggage—a tip of 2 to 3 francs is appreciated.

Public order

• Switzerland is one of the safer countries in Europe. However, compared to Japan, minor crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching occur more frequently, so caution is advised.
• In heavily toured urban areas, airports, train stations, on trains, and even in restaurants, pickpocketing and bag snatching are common. To avoid falling victim, refrain from carrying large amounts of cash, travel only with the essentials, and avoid walking alone at night—take proper safety precautions.

clothing

• Since the climate in Switzerland varies by region, it’s important to wear clothing that can easily adapt to temperature changes.
• With significant altitude—and therefore temperature—differences throughout the day, it’s essential to dress in layers for easy adjustment. For example, start with a long-sleeved shirt or a basic top, add a cardigan, a light sweater, or a fleece, and in higher altitude areas, top it off with an outer layer that helps block the wind.

Things you should bring

・Stomach medicine, cold medicine, mobile battery, insect repellent, sun protection items, etc.

Visa availability and arrangements

• Japanese nationals traveling for tourism, business, diplomatic, or official purposes can stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without obtaining a visa. However, please verify in advance that you meet the conditions: you must have a passport issued within the last 10 years and a departure ticket from a Schengen country valid for at least three months beyond your departure date.

Required vaccinations

• There are no vaccinations required for travel; however, immunizations such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), DTP (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus), and polio are recommended.