Money

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) but the Euro is accepted in many (but not all) shops and restaurants. Bureaux de change are located in the airport (1st floor, check-in 3) and at the main train station (main hall, ground floor).

Credit cards

Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, but it is a good idea to keep some cash on hand. Commonly accepted credit cards include: MasterCard, VISA, Eurocard, and American Express.

Banks

Banks are generally open Monday to Friday, from 08.30 – 16.30, and closed Saturdays and Sunday. The major banks in Zurich are: Credit Suisse, UBS and Zürcher Kantonalbank.

ATMs

ATM machines are located at the airport, the main railway station and throughout the city. Most use the CIRRUS® or MAESTRO® system, and many provide both Swiss Francs and Euros, and allow you to make cash advances on your credit card.

Tipping

Tipping is not usually necessary, as gratuities are included in most hotel, restaurant and taxis fares.

Business hours

Most shops are open Monday to Friday from 09:00 or 09:30-18:30 (most department stores until 20:00), and Saturday from 08:30-16:00 or 17:00 (most department stores until 20:00). Restaurants and cafés are generally open Sundays, but with the exception of shops located in the railway stations, all retail and grocery stores are closed on Sundays.