switzerland

Switzerland is made up of four main linguistic and cultural regions, German, French, Italian and the Romansh-speaking. It is famous for its mountains and lakes and for transports which are recognized among the best in the world.

The Alps make up about 60% of the country’s total area but the majority of the population lives in the Swiss Plateau. The country has more than 1500 lakes which together with glaciers, cover about 6% of the country’s terrain.

Total Area: 41,285 km2

Capital: Berm (de facto)

Country Code: +41

Country Population: 8,211,700

Credit Cards: All major credit cards accepted in tourist areas: American Express, Visa, Master Card and Diners Club

Currency: Swiss Franc

Departure Tax: Included in your ticket

Drives: Right

Electricity: 230 V

Ethnic Groups: 64% Swiss; 23% Resident foreigners (Italian, German, French)

Location: Central Europe

Official Language(s): German; French, Italian, Romansh

Religion: Roman Catholic, Protestant, Unaffiliated

Time Zone: CET (UTC +1)

Tipping: Tipping is not expected but “rounding up” on a bill is common practice.