Currency exchange at Swiss airport, banks, ATM?
A traveler named PrincessPal is planning a two-week trip to Switzerland from the US and wants to know the best way to exchange US dollars for Swiss francs. They are particularly concerned about fees at the airport versus other locations and are looking for advice on how much cash they might need during their visit.
- Use local moneychangers for potentially better rates compared to banks, but be aware rates may vary between the airport and city centers.
- Since credit cards are widely accepted, you likely won't need more than a couple hundred Swiss francs for small purchases like souvenirs or snacks.
- Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees on your credit card to avoid unexpected charges.
- It's handy to carry some cash for restroom fees at train stations, as some may charge a small fee.
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I know this has been addressed, but I could not locate on the forum. Traveling from the US and wanted to know is it best to exchange my $US dollars on arrival at the airport, train station, bank near hotel or just an ATM? I think airport kiosks have large fees, & maybe the banks also, but which could be the better exchange rate? Will credit card most, but for a 2 week trip how much CHF’s cash should I need?
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Hi PrincessPal,
I think local moneychangers offer better rates than banks. You can find several moneychangers at Zurich Airport but the rates might be slightly higher than those found in city centres. You can also withdraw Swiss francs from ATMs. Be sure to check with your bank about additional fees and charges.
For your information, debit and credit cards are widely used in Switzerland. It’s not necessary to bring a lot of cash when you travel. Further practical information and tips are available here: http://www.myswissalps.com/swissfranc
Regards,
Anna
Hi PrincessPalz,
If you’re planning to use mostly your credit card, you shouldn’t need more than a couple hundred Francs. I went for two weeks and cashed in a thousand dollars worth. I went to the local AAA Travel agency and did it there. I believe the rates were competitive, but I really didn’t concern myself with it. I just did it. This eliminated the need of looking for/comparing rates and making another stop along the way. I used my card for all hotels and some meals. I found some smaller kiosks/souvenir stands at or near some train stations were cash only, but most places will take cards, especially the larger ones. I went 5 years ago, and perhaps more places accept cards now ( I’ll find out a month from now). The most important thing is to make sure there are no foreign exchange fees with your card carrier, especially if you do plan on using it for most things. Most of my cash went on souvenirs, a lot of food, and lots of drinks. It’s nice to have on hand, especially if you may need to use the restroom, as some stations will charge for it (Lucerne being one). Generally speaking, they are clean, though. Have a great trip.
Regards,
Danielsan
Hi PrincessPalz, my wife and I just returned from our Switzerland trip. We traveled from the US to Zurich. See my trip report in the “Trips Report” about Zurich airport and other things. Bottom line: I do not believe you need more than 50 Chf for your entire trip. Credit cards are widely accepted. We never even had to pay for a restroom. The SBB office in the Zurich Airport at 01 level will exchange your American dollars into Swiss Francs. There is also an ATM right outside the SBB office if you wish to use your credit card to obtain Chf. Best wishes on your trip.
Thank you everyone for the info. I have two credit cards that have no foreign transaction fees. I was just worried about cash for restrooms (WC’s) and street food. I think I am all set!
Hello PrincessPal,
For the restrooms , you will find at most major train stations a small fee will be charged to use the facilities. So I would say some small change would be handy. Some even actually take card payment but not all.
Many of the Street Food stalls accept cashless/card payment so I think you should be fine 🙂
KInd regards,
Yolanda
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