Europe

Switzerland

Switzerland does not have a WHV with Australia. It is one of the world's most expensive countries to visit. Best done as a 5-10 day Schengen leg, not a long stay.

Currency

CHF

1 AUD = 0.58 CHF (mid-market, 2026-05-21)

Cost of living

160% of Sydney

Working Holiday Visa for Australians

No WHV with Australia

Smartraveller

Check live advisory

Emergency: 112

Tourist or short-stay entry

Schengen visa-free entry

Up to 3 months. Work rights: none.

Australians can enter the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day window.

Source: www.eda.admin.ch

Highlights

World-class hiking and skiing; Interlaken, Zermatt, Verbier are the major resorts.
Spotless infrastructure and reliable rail (SBB) covers the whole country.
Multi-lingual (German / French / Italian / Romansh); English widely spoken.
Easy add-on to a Eurozone trip via train from Italy, France or Germany.

Watch outs

Cost of food, drink and transport is the highest in Europe.
No Schengen overstay forgiveness; counts against your 90 in 180 days.
High-altitude weather changes fast; pack proper layers and shells.
Avalanche risk on off-piste skiing; check SLF avalanche bulletins daily.

Money tips

Most places accept Swiss francs and euros; you get CHF change.
Half-Fare Travel Card pays for itself after a few SBB train trips.
Tap water is excellent and free; do not buy bottled.
Tipping is included; round up at most for good service.

Typical costs (AUD)

Hostel bed per night: $80
Budget meal: $32
Mid-range meal: $55
Beer (bar): $12
Public transport day pass: $22

Indicative only. Tourist-zone prices are usually 50-100% higher than local prices.

Practical basics

Power plug: Type J
Drives on: Right
Emergency number: 112

Sources

Last updated 2026-05-21.