Switzerland
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 9.09 million people live in Switzerland, on 41,291 km². The capital is Bern.
- Capital
- Bern
- Population
- 9,092,436
- Area
- 41,291 km²
- Official languages
- French, German, Italian, and Romansh
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Switzerland?
Sockets take plug type C/J, at 230 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in Switzerland?
Call 117 for the police, 144 for an ambulance and 118 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in Switzerland?
Round up, or leave small change.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Switzerland?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in Switzerland?
Prices are in Swiss Franc (CHF).
What language do they speak in Switzerland?
Official languages: French, German, Italian, and Romansh.
How do I call a number in Switzerland from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +41.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
