Things to Not Do in Switzerland – What Tourists Must Avoid

Switzerland enchants travelers with its snow-covered Alps, sparkling lakes, and picturesque towns. Yet, amidst its precision and charm, there are certain unwritten rules every visitor should know.

To make the most of your Swiss adventure, here’s a helpful guide on what not to do in Switzerland. This list highlights key mistakes to avoid, helping you travel smoothly while respecting local customs and culture.

1. Do Not Be Late

In a country renowned for its precision, punctuality is paramount. One of the things not to do in Switzerland is to be late. Swiss trains and buses run like clockwork. If you’re meeting friends, arrive a few minutes early. Being more than 5 minutes late is considered rude unless you have a good reason.

2. Do Not Be Loud

The Swiss value their peace and quiet. Avoiding loud behavior is one of the key things not to do in Switzerland for first-timers. Keep your voice down in public spaces like trains or restaurants, and avoid boisterous laughter or loud phone conversations. Many Swiss towns and villages have strict noise regulations, especially at night and on Sundays.

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3. Do Not Engage in Small Talk Unnecessarily

While the Swiss are polite and friendly, they tend to be more reserved than some other cultures. Respect their values and avoid unnecessary small talk, especially with strangers. Respect people’s personal space and privacy. In shops or restaurants, stick to necessary interactions and avoid chatty conversations unless the other person initiates it.

4. Do Not Insult Switzerland

The Swiss take immense pride in their country and its traditions. Among the unspoken things that offend locals in Switzerland are insulting or criticizing their way of life.

Do not make unfavorable comparisons or comments about Swiss customs or national symbols. Respect local traditions, even if they seem quirky or old-fashioned to you.

5. Do Not Cut in Lines

Whether you’re waiting for a bus or in line at the supermarket, cutting in front of others is a big no-no. The Swiss value order and fairness, so one of the travel mistakes in Switzerland to avoid is jumping the queue. Wait your turn patiently, even if you’re in a hurry. And in places without a visible line, like a crowded bar, ask who was there before you to establish the order.

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6. Do Not Do Laundry on Sundays

Sunday is considered a day of rest in Switzerland. One of the surprising things not to do in Switzerland, especially if you’re staying in an apartment or shared building, is doing laundry on Sundays. Many buildings have rules against running washing machines or making noise on Sundays. The same goes for other loud chores like vacuuming or DIY projects.

7. Do Not Discuss Sensitive Topics

The Swiss value their privacy and neutrality. Avoid publically discussing sensitive topics like personal finances, voting choices, or Switzerland’s role in World War II. Unless you know them very well, steer clear of prying questions about someone’s salary, wealth, or political leanings.

8. Do Not Wear Shoes Indoors

In Swiss homes, taking your shoes off at the door is customary. Do not bring your outdoor shoes inside someone’s house. Use their shoe rack or designated area near the entrance to place your shoes there. Some hosts may offer you slippers to wear inside. Unless explicitly told it’s okay to keep your shoes on, go shoe-free.

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9. Do Not Assume Queuing Culture

While the Swiss respect lines and order, their queuing culture isn’t rigid. One of the things not to do in Switzerland for first-timers is to disregard queues entirely. Be observant and ask if you’re unsure who’s next in an informal line. Avoid holding up lines with lengthy chats or transactions.

10. Do Not Miss Local Customs

Part of respecting a culture is learning its unique customs and quirks. Forgetting to follow local traditions is among the common mistakes to avoid in Switzerland. For instance, when eating sausage in St. Gallen, local custom dictates you don’t add mustard. At some traditional restaurants, it’s normal for strangers to share a table. Embrace these little idiosyncrasies to immerse yourself in authentic Swiss life.

11. Do Not Disrespect Local Rules

The Swiss are sticklers for rules and order. One of the things not to do in Switzerland is to ignore local regulations, whether it’s recycling guidelines or parking restrictions.

Obey signs for littering fines, quiet zones, and off-limits areas. Follow posted rules for noise levels, cleanliness, and conduct in shared spaces like trains or apartment buildings.

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12. Do Not Assume English is Widely Spoken

While many Swiss speak excellent English, especially in cities and tourist areas, it’s not universal. One thing to avoid as a tourist in Switzerland is assuming everyone understands English. Switzerland is a multilingual country. You can learn key phrases in German, French, or Italian. Locals appreciate the effort, even if you’re far from fluent. Start with greetings, please/thanks, and basic questions.

13. Do Not Litter

One of the significant things that offend locals in Switzerland is littering or disregarding recycling rules. Always dispose of your waste correctly, in a designated bin, or by taking it with you until you find one. Separate recyclables like plastic, glass, and paper according to local guidelines. In some areas, littering can incur hefty fines.

14. Do Not Jaywalk

Switzerland’s streets are orderly and well-regulated. Among the things not to do in Switzerland’s urban areas is jaywalking or crossing against the light. Wait for the green pedestrian signal, even if there’s no traffic in sight. The Swiss respect traffic rules and expect others to do the same. Ignoring crosswalks or darting across busy streets is unsafe and frowned upon.

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15. Do Not Forget to Recycle

Recycling is a way of life in environmentally-conscious Switzerland. Failing to sort and recycle your waste correctly is one of the things you should avoid when you are a tourist in Switzerland. Most cities and towns have separate bins and bags for different disposal materials. Please familiarize yourself with the local recycling guidelines and follow them diligently. Improper recycling can result in fines.

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FAQs

What are the laws in Switzerland for tourists?

Switzerland has strict laws around littering, recycling, noise control, and public transport etiquette. Familiarize yourself with local regulations to avoid fines or legal issues. The official Swiss government website has detailed information for tourists.

Is it ok to wear shorts in Switzerland?

Yes, shorts are generally acceptable in Switzerland during warm weather. However, some religious sites or upscale restaurants may have dress codes requiring covered legs. When in doubt, opt for longer pants or skirts.

Can unmarried couples go on holiday to Switzerland?

Absolutely. Switzerland is a modern, progressive country and welcomes unmarried couples. Hotels and accommodations have no restrictions based on marital status.

Is it safe to visit Switzerland as a solo traveler?

Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a reliable infrastructure. Solo travelers can explore with peace of mind, though taking basic precautions like being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure is always wise.

What is the best month to go to Switzerland?

The best time to visit depends on your interests. For skiing and winter sports, December to March is ideal. June to September offers mild weather and long days for hiking and outdoor activities. April-May and October-November see fewer crowds and lower prices.

Can two male friends share a hotel room in Switzerland?

Yes, Switzerland is an open-minded, LGBT-friendly country. Two male friends sharing a room is entirely normal and accepted.

What is not allowed in Switzerland as a tourist?

Some things not to do in Switzerland include littering, making excessive noise (especially on Sundays), ignoring recycling rules, and disrespecting local customs. Refer to local authorities or tourist offices for specific regulations.

What are the strict rules in Switzerland?

Switzerland has strict rules around punctuality, cleanliness, noise control, and respecting others’ privacy. Littering, jaywalking, and disregarding quiet hours can result in fines. Always follow posted signs and regulations.