Switzerland uses the Swiss franc, abbreviated as CHF, as the official currency.
Quick Facts #
Subunit: 1 franc = 100 centimes (sometimes written as Rp. or ct.)
Coins: 5 ct, 10 ct, 20 ct, 50 ct, 1 fr, 2 fr, 5 fr
Banknotes: 10 fr, 20 fr, 50 fr, 100 fr, 200 fr, 1,000 fr
Exchange rate: CHF is usually stronger than the euro (EUR) and most other currencies.
Payment Tips #
Cash is widely used, but cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but change is given in francs and the rate is usually unfavorable.
ATMs are widely available; withdrawing CHF from an ATM often gives a better exchange rate than currency exchange counters.
💡 Tip: If you plan to travel in rural areas or mountain villages, keep some francs in cash, as not all small shops or buses accept cards.
Here’s a practical guide to using Swiss francs (CHF) and euros (EUR) in Switzerland:
1. Official Currency #
Swiss franc (CHF) is the official currency throughout Switzerland.
All prices in shops, restaurants, transport, and attractions are listed in CHF.
Banknotes & coins:
Coins: 5 ct, 10 ct, 20 ct, 50 ct, 1 fr, 2 fr, 5 fr
Banknotes: 10 fr, 20 fr, 50 fr, 100 fr, 200 fr, 1,000 fr
2. Using Euros #
Accepted in some tourist areas (cities like Zurich, Geneva, Interlaken, Zermatt).
Mostly for cash payments at hotels, shops, and some restaurants.
Change is always given in francs, often at a poor exchange rate.
Small towns & rural areas: Euros are rarely accepted—CHF is required.
3. Cards and Mobile Payments #
Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro) are widely accepted, even in many rural areas.
Apple Pay / Google Pay accepted in larger stores and restaurants.
Using a card often gives a better exchange rate than paying in euros.
4. ATMs #
ATMs widely available in cities, towns, and even many mountain villages.
Withdrawing CHF from an ATM usually gives a better exchange rate than currency exchange offices.
5. Practical Tips #
Keep some CHF cash for small purchases, public transport in rural areas, or mountain villages.
If paying in euros, check the rate offered and know that change comes in francs.
For longer trips, consider a Swiss Travel Card or prepaid card to minimize cash handling.
