Useful information

Currency

The Swiss franc is the monetary unit, usually indicated as CHF. Often is possible to pay in Euro, but normally the change will be returned in Swiss franc.

Exchange

You can change money at any Swiss bank, airports, main hotels and train stations (Western Union) and at the Swiss Post. The current exchange rates can be found on: www.ubs.com

Language

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian and Rhaeto-Rumantsch. In Ticino the official language is Italian but it’s easy to find assistance in other foreign languages.

VAT

In Switzerland the VAT applied on the purchase of goods and services is of 8%. You may ask at the shops for your Global Refund Cheque and reclaim the VAT. For more information regarding terms and conditions refer to Swiss Federal Tax Administration.

Phone area code

The international area code for Switzerland is +41.

Opening times

Shops are usually open Mondays to Fridays from 8/8.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m.. Some shops extend their opening hours on Thursdays to 9 p.m. On Saturdays shops open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed Sundays and on public holidays.

Emergency Numbers

117 Police

118 Fire service

144 Ambulance

1414 Swiss Air-Rescue Rega

140 Breakdown Assistance

Voltage

The Swiss voltage is 230 Volt and the frequency 50 Hertz (for the domestic electrical appliance up to 2200 Watt). Kitchens, washing machines and etc use 400 or 3x400 Volt. The wall socket is of J type.