Best time to visit Switzerland

Switzerland any time throughout the year. Summer lasts roughly from June to September You'll find much better deals and fewer crowds in the shoulder seasons of April-May and late-September-October.

At any time, as you travel around the country you will hit many different climatic conditions. The continental climate in the Alps tends to show the greatest extremes between summer and winter. Summer temperatures are typically in the low-to-mid 20°Cs (60-70°F) and between 2°C (36°F) and 6°C (42°F) in winter. Travellers need to be prepared for a range of temperatures dependent on altitude. There is perennial snow cover at altitudes above 3000m (9842ft). Summer is the most pleasant time for outdoor pursuits (with the exception of skiing).

What to Pack

The climate is moderate without excessive heat, cold or humidity. From July to August the daytime temperature range is 18 to 28 °C (65° - 82° F) and from January to February the temperature range is -2 to 7 °C (28° - 45° F). In spring and autumn, the daytime temperature range is 8 to 15 °C (46° - 59° F). Depending on the altitude the temperatures may vary. It is highly recommended for visitors to pack a

• Sweater

• Walking Shoes

• Sunscreen with high SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

• Sunglasses

• A Compact Umbrella

• Light Rain coat

• Hat or Cap for shade from the sun

• Light cotton clothing

• Insect Repellent

• Bathing Suits

• Credit Card (Visa, American Express, MasterCard, Diners Club, and Eurocard are accepted)

Health Care / Security / Insurance

Switzerland have one of the lowest crime rates of all industrialized countries. But it is always wise to keep an eye on wallets and luggage in busy areas.

Drinking and eating-out is hygienic and the tap water is safe.

Immunization for contagious diseases is only required if the traveler has been in an infected are within 14 days preceding arrival in Switzerland. Medical facilities are generally expensive in Switzerland. It’s considered to have a travel insurance, which covers Switzerland.

Personal travel insurance is strongly recommended, including coverage of personal accident, sickness, loss or damage to luggage and personal effects and cancellation charges.

Shopping in Switzerland

English is spoken in most shops and department stores. Switzerland's superb products make it a shopper's paradise. All major Credit Cards are accepted in fine shops and most Department stores. Shops are usually open from 9am to 6:30pm on weekdays and from 9am to 4pm on Saturdays.

Fine watches come in an infinite variety and are generally less expensive than in other countries. Chocolates come in a variety of sizes, shapes and flavors. Excellent buys are: textiles, embroideries, fine handkerchiefs, linen, precision instruments, drafting sets, multi-blade pocket knives, music boxes, woodcarvings, ceramics and other handmade items as well as antiques and art books.

You may ask at the shops for your Tax free Shopping Cheque and reclaim the VAT if your purchase costs at least CHF. 400. Europe Tax free Shopping offers you a swift cash refund system at Zurich and Geneva airports as well as at all major airports in Europe.

Entry Points to Switzerland

The main entry points for International flights are Zürich and Geneva. Basel, Bern and Lugarno airports also receive international flights.

Trains are a popular and convenient way to travel to Switzerland, and European rail passes make train travel affordable.

Buses tend to be slower and less comfortable, though sometimes cheaper. Getting to Switzerland by road is simple, since there are fast, well-maintained motorways through all surrounding countries.

If you have time and money, it's possible to get to Switzerland by boat along the Rhine all the way from Amsterdam. Switzerland can also be reached by lake steamer ferries from Germany via Lake Constance, from Italy via Lake Maggiore and from France via Lake Geneva.

Entry Formalities and Switzerland Visa:

Foreign nationals who wish to enter Switzerland must observe the entry and customs regulations. In any case, they must be in possession of a valid travel document recognized by the Swiss authorities. In addition, a visa is required in certain cases.

Visa fees: The Visa fees w.e.f Dec 12, 2008 for all categories i.e. single, double, multiple entries or transit visa are up to 1 year: INR3,900.00 + VFS Fee 510 + SC 1,000

• The visa fee is payable in CASH only, is non-refundable and is the same amount for adult as well as children

• The applicable visa fee in Indian Rupees is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.

• The optional courier facility is available at Rs.200/- (inclusive of service tax) per application.

• All fees are non-refundable.

"Important Notice: Switzerland has joined Schengen Territory effective December 12, 08. Current valid Swiss visa will only allow entry into Switzerland even after they join the Schengen States!."

Required Documents for a Honeymoon Couple

1. Visa application (completed and signed by the holder of the passport submitted)

2. National passport valid at least 3 months beyond the date of return, with available pages for visa sticker and of ”standard” quality (not damaged, torn, faded, etc.)

3. Your previous passport if available

4. Clear photocopy of the first and last page of the passport

5. 2 photos required. One photograph to be pasted (please do not staple) on the visa application form. The second one to be attached with a paper clip to the form (should not be pasted or stapled). Scanned and color photocopies will not be accepted.

   • Not more than 6-months old

   • 35-44 mm in width; close-up 70-80% of the photograph

6. The required visa fee

7. Confirmed return ticket to India or confirmation of reservation & one photocopy

8. Evidence of sufficient financial means and proof of accommodation in Switzerland (e.g. hotel confirmation, bookings of the entire stay, receipt of paid package tour)

9. If you have been refused a visa by an Embassy or High Commission in the last 5 years: Written explanation about reason for trip and refusal

10. Invitation card as well as wedding album or at least 10 photographs (will be returned)

11. Evidence of your (or husband/sponsor) financial status:

    • If you are employed

      • letter from the employer (non-objection certificate)

      • pay slips, recent Income Tax Return, bank books -statements for the last 3 month. The bank statement should be till date, statements older than 3 month will not be accepted (A4 size only)

    • If you are self employed

      • provide your company documentation: company registration, partnership deed, tax registration and certificates

      • bank books, statements for the last 3 month. The bank statements should be till date, statements older than 3 month will not be accepted (A4 size only)

Required documents for a Tourist Visa:

1. Documents briefed under Honeymoon Couple from No 1 - 9

2. A covering letter on a business letterhead from your employer/company stating your position and the length of your service.

3. If an applicant is submitting the applications of his/her family, then all applications must have a copy of the covering letter.

4. Students above the age of 16 years (beyond secondary school certificate either travelling alone or with parents) should attach copies of their college ID cards

5. Visas for Schengen-Countries, UK and U.S.A to be obtained first in case the applicant visits any of these countries before Switzerland

6. Income Tax and bank statements and Personal Interview (for first time travellers)

7. For children (under 18 years of age) travelling alone, an authorisation letter signed by both parents with their passports or a notarised affidavit signed by both parents is required

8. Original marriage certificate issued by the Registrar of Marriages of the concerned State, duly legalised by the competent State Home Ministry or names of spouses endorsed on the passports

9. Overseas Medical Insurance policy for people older than 60 years

10. Any additional documents as requested by the Consulate

Important:

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. If necessary, you may be requested to bring additional documentation or to appear for a personal interview. Photocopies of all relevant documents must be provided for the Consulates General. Please carry along all original documents, consular general may need to see them. Do not submit originals; once submitted, no document will be returned.

Time required to issue Swiss Visa: From 2 working days to 2 weeks. It is advisable to allow plenty of time.