Best money to use in Switzerland? US$ accepted?
A traveler named Biggette is preparing for a trip to Switzerland and wants to know the best way to spend money there. They’re asking if US dollars are widely accepted and whether it’s better to bring Swiss Francs (CHF) or use credit cards because they don't like to carry too much cash.
- Always bring some Swiss Francs, as not all places accept credit cards.
- ATMs are widely available, and using them to withdraw CHF can be cost-effective.
- While larger shops accept cards, smaller establishments may still be cash-only, especially in less touristy areas.
- Check a hotel or restaurant’s website for accepted payment methods before visiting.
AI-generated summary-
Can you please tell easiest and most appreciated method for spending? Is US dollar pretty much accepted everywhere? Should I get some CHF before I leave for this trip? Or is major credit cards best option? I do not like to carry too much $$$ around. Thanks
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Hi Biggette,
I took $1,000 USD to Switzerland and exchanged it to CHF when I arrived. I use CHF for all small purchases ($50 CHF or less) and my US credit card for larger purchases such as SBB tickets, picking up the bill in a restaurant, or picking up the bill for a day on the Hoher Kasten (a lovely mountain in Appenzell with hiking trails and a restaurant).
Myriam
Hi biggette,
US dollars are not accepted in Switzerland – only the official currency: Swiss Francs (and sometimes Euros).
These days credit cards can be used for just about anything but I’d always have some CHF on you. There are still some smaller shops that are cash only.
Thank you both very much for advice. Myriam, I am visiting 7 areas on my trip and unfortunately Appenzell is not on the itinerary – maybe I will do my “bucket list Alps” again and then I will be sure to add this area. Carol
Dear Lucas,
It should be easy to change foreign currency for CHF at the airport, surely, or just draw cash on one’s credit card or travel wallet? How many foreign exchange merchants are there at Kloten, for example?
Thanks and regards,
GARTH
Hi Biggette –
As Garth noted, ATM’s are common. My US Bank (JPMorgan Chase) has no foreign exchange fee, and a standard commission of about 3%, so I get cash in CHF from ATM’s in modest amounts as needed. Also, I am lucky, because I go to Switzerland frequently, and always take home some CHF as “starter” money.
My AMEX cards have eliminated the usage fee, as have many other US credit cards, and only charge a trace less than 3% exchange rate. That is close to my exchange rate for cash. AMEX is not universally accepted.
Larger hotels in the cities will sometimes take USD, but less commonly as the use of credit cards has expanded. The exchange rates are typically awful.
In any airport I have ever been in, TRAVELEX has exorbitant and bad exchange rates. In Switzerland, I look for ATM’s from the banks ( Raiffeisen Bank is common almost everywhere) Credit Suisse, UBS, Zürich Kantonal Bank. Their availability the airport has varied. They are available at Zürich main station…buy train tickets with a credit card if you need some way to get that far.
In non-touristy destinations (out in the country) and even some traditional old time tourist areas as well, “cash only” is not uncommon, still. If you are worried about a hotel bill or a restaurant bill, their web sites usually note which credit cards are accepted, if any.
Slowpoke
Excellent advice, Slowpoke, thank you!
Talking about “out in the country” (and this does not necessarily apply to actual tourist attraction) do be aware that small local supermarkets (often less of the “super” 🙂 ) do close for lunch.
Interesting. I hadn’t noticed any markets close for lunch before!
banks, post offices etc for sure though!
Doubtless things have changed – I had this experience in the Zuercher Oberland a few years ago.
I certainly wouldn’t be surprised! 🙂
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