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The prepaid credit card for travel.

The prepaid credit card for daily life.

The prepaid credit card for discerning customers.

The prepaid credit card for companies.

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Travel - the free prepaid credit card for travel

The Swiss Bankers Travel card is the secure prepaid card for use while travelling. You receive the card immediately, can add money to your balance as required and can pay worldwide – without an annual fee and with complete control in terms of spending limits.

The Travel Prepaid Card in CHF, EUR and USD is also available at over 200 outlets .

How you benefit from Travel, the new Travel Cash card.

With no annual fee..

Travel with ease and risk-free with the prepaid Travel card with no annual fee and with a free replacement card if the card should ever go missing.

Pay worldwide.

The card is accepted in more than 70 million shops and hotels throughout the world as well as for online payment. You can withdraw money at cash machines in Switzerland and abroad. If you have any questions, our free client service will be happy to assist you.

Available immediately.

The Travel card is available quickly and without a credit check in our online shop , at various outlets and at nearly all banks as well as branches of SBB – to all persons aged 16 and over and, with parental authorisation, also to persons aged 12 to 15. You choose whether the card is denominated in CHF, EUR or USD.

Easy to top up.

You can add money to your card in amounts up to CHF/EUR/USD 10’000 at outlets , using the Swiss Bankers app , on our client portal or using e-banking.

Up to 10% cashback at Booking.com.

Save up to 10% on Booking.com on over 28 million accommodation listings worldwide - plus discounted accommodation and the Genius loyalty program.

Swiss Bankers app.

The Swiss Bankers app includes practical features such as balance and spending overviews, adding money to the card balance, immediate card blocking in the event of loss, immediate digital card replacement in the app and more. Benefit from mobile payments . You pay conveniently with your smartphone or your smartwatch, for example via Apple Pay or Samsung Pay.

Country Information.

Useful information about your travel destination.

Safe and secure worldwide – always.

In the event of loss or theft, the card and its credit balance will be replaced by courier service worldwide at no charge. Cards stored digitally in the Swiss Bankers app can be reactivated immediately.

More about security

Fees and card information.

Annual fee: CHF 45

Monthly fee: CHF 2.90

1.5%, for cards obtained from Swiss Bankers 1.5% 1 , for cards obtained via outlets Fast charging by credit card/debit card (approx. 15min): Additional costs of 1.5% (on charging amount with charging fee). Charging with PostFinance card: Additional costs of CHF 6. Tip: When you top up your card via online banking, your credit is generally available in one working day. There are no further costs in addition to the top-up fee 1 .

None, for cards obtained from Swiss Bankers None 1 , for cards obtained via outlets Fast charge by credit card/debit card (approx. 15min): 1.5%. Charge with PostFinance card: CHF 6. Tip: It’s free to top up your card via online banking, and your credit is generally available in one working day 1 .

None Fast charge by credit card/debit card (approx. 15min): 1.5%. Charge with PostFinance card: CHF 6. Tip: It’s free to top up your card via online banking, and your credit is generally available in one working day.

1.5 % 1 Fast charging by credit card/debit card (approx. 15min): Additional costs of 1.5% (on charging amount with charging fee). Charging with PostFinance card: Additional costs of CHF 6. Tip: When you top up your card via online banking, your credit is generally available in one working day. There are no further costs in addition to the top-up fee.

Subject to conditions 1

None 1 Fast charge by credit card/debit card (approx. 15min): 1.5%. Charge with PostFinance card: CHF 6. Tip: Charge your card via e-banking (2-3 working days), so there are no additional costs.

Ways to top up your card

- Bank transfer/e-banking - Credit card/debit card/PostFinance card - Outlets Tip: To find your personal payment details, open the Swiss Bankers app and select “Top-up.” You can also view your payment details in the customer portal .

Charge per payment

CHF 1 / EUR 1 / USD 1

Processing fee foreign country

ATM withdrawal fee in Switzerland

CHF 5 / EUR 5 / USD 5

Subject to conditions

ATM withdrawal fee abroad

CHF 7.50 / EUR 7.50 / USD 7.50

Replacement card

Free replacement worldwide in case of loss or theft, usually within three working days, including the remaining card balance. Replacement of digital cards within one working day.

Replacement in case of loss or theft, including the remaining card balance, for a fee of CHF 20.00 in Switzerland and CHF 50.00 abroad. Replacement of digital cards within one working day.

Replacement of digital cards within one working day in case of loss or theft, including the remaining card balance, for a fee of CHF 20.00.

Replacement in case of loss or theft including remaining card value for a fee of CHF 20.00 in Germany and CHF 50.00 outside Germany. Replacement of digital cards within one working day.

Card top-up

Min. CHF 100 / EUR 100 / USD 100 Max. CHF 10 000 / EUR 10 000 / USD 10 000

Min. CHF 100 Max. CHF 10 000

Min. CHF 100 / EUR 100 / USD 100 Max. CHF 20 000 / EUR 20 000 / USD 20 000

Card currencies

CHF / EUR / USD

Use options

- ATM - Payment terminals / machines - Contactless payment - Internet / online payments

- Payment terminals / machines - Contactless payment - Internet / online payments

Mobile payment

- Apple Pay - Samsung Pay - Google Pay - Garmin Pay, Fitbit Pay, SwatchPAY!

Availability

In CHF: To the online shop In EUR / USD: To the outlets

To the online shop, Banks, SBB To the outlets

Via Swiss Bankers app

Selected private banks

To the outlets

Maximum number of cards per person

One card directly from Swiss Bankers Five cards via our outlets

Swiss Bankers App Features

– Top up your card – Block your card – Geo-blocking – Spending overview – Many other features

– Block your card – Geo-blocking – Spending overview – Many other features

Order Travel

Order Life Digital

1 Top-up fee may vary depending on the distribution partner

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Up to 10% cashback on Booking.com – plus discounted accommodation!

Save up to an additional 10% on 28 million accommodation listings worldwide with the Travel Card

Also applies to existing discounts such as: the Genius loyalty program

The Travel Card is free and has no annual fee

Book your next accommodation now with the Travel Card via the Swiss Bankers booking site

Important: The cashback* is only available via the Swiss Bankers booking site and provided you pay for the accommodation with the Travel Card. You also need an account with Booking.com.

Go to the Swiss Bankers booking page**

** Please note that Booking.com is not subject to banking secrecy and customer data can be transferred outside Switzerland. The Booking.com General Terms and Conditions apply on the Booking.com website or app. Swiss Bankers Prepaid Services AG assumes no liability when using Booking.com's offers.

Frequently asked questions.

Answers to general questions about PIN codes, security, mobile payment and services can be found under Frequently Asked Questions – general .

Where is the prepaid card Travel available?

You can get Travel in the online shop or from a number of banks and at SBB Change sales points. Please visit outlets for a current list of distributors. You can also order a card via the e-banking interface of many major banks.

How many cards can I have?

1 card via the Swiss Bankers online shop . Maximum 5 cards via outlets , but this number varies depending on the distribution partner.

In what currencies is Travel available?

The Travel card is available in euros, US dollars or Swiss francs.

Everything is even easier to do with the Swiss Bankers app.

The practical features of the Swiss Bankers app make using the Travel card even more convenient, with clear presentation of all options and relevant information.

Information about the Travel Prepaid Credit Card

Looking for a free prepaid credit card for travel?

You want to travel with a free credit card and stay in great hotels, from simple bed and breakfasts to five-star luxury hotels, at the best conditions? Then we have the solution for you: The Travel Card from Swiss Bankers offers everything at once. The Travel Card is free and at the same time you save up to 10% on Booking.com at over 28 million accommodation listing worldwide - plus discounted accommodation! Whether for travel in Switzerland, go on city trips in Europe or visit the USA, the Travel card is the perfect travel companion and is available in CHF, EUR and USD.

How can I save money with Travel?

Cashback even on discounted offers!

Benefit from up to 10% cashback* on Booking.com thanks to the Travel Card - even on existing discounts such as the Genius loyalty programme!

Click here for more information

The Travel Card is your exclusive door opener for this offer. Take the opportunity and book your accommodation today.

It's that simple

Top up your Travel Card with credit
Book accommodation on the Swiss Bankers booking page
Pay for your accommodation with your Travel Card
Receive cashback* after your stay in the Booking.com wallet

Important: The cashback* is only available via the Swiss Bankers booking page and if you pay for your accommodation with your Travel Card. You also need an account with Booking.com.

Why is the Travel prepaid credit card ideal for travelers

Up to 50% discount in more than 600 hotels – from hostels to five-star hotels
Free replacement card worldwide (usually within three working days)
No annual fee
Available in CHF, EUR and USD without exchange fees
Over 70 million points of acceptance worldwide
Full cost control via the Swiss Bankers app
Mobile payment with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay and much more
No credit check
Available to anyone 16 years of age and older (12 years of age and older with the consent of a legal guardian)

Who is the free prepaid credit card suitable for?

If you’re looking for a secure payment card with no annual fee that keeps your spending under control, the Travel prepaid credit card is just the ticket. It is ideal for those who do not want to pay fixed fees and want to use the card worldwide when travelling.

In case of loss, the card is replaced worldwide free of charge, including credit, in one to two days by courier. Digitally, a replacement card can even be made available immediately on your smartphone.

Charges are only incurred when loading, topping up and inserting the card. If you occasionally need a prepaid credit card, you are well served with Travel. With the free Swiss Bankers app, you benefit from additional advantages: You receive a notification in real time for every payment, keeping an eye on all your expenses and your budget under control. You can pay using your smartphone via mobile payment, change your PIN at any time and ensure maximum protection for your card with security settings, such as blocking countries.

What are the advantages of a card without an annual fee

If you are not sure when and how often you want to use the card, Travel is exactly the right card for you. With the Travel prepaid credit card, you have no fixed costs. You only incur fees when you use it. Even if you don’t know exactly if and when you will need a prepaid credit card, it makes sense to apply for the Travel free of charge online. If you need the card one day, you only have to load it and it will be ready for use immediately.

Are there any transaction fees?

The Travel prepaid credit card is ideal for those who use their card only occasionally. The credit can be topped up as needed. A top-up fee of 1.5% of the added amount is usually charged for this (deviations are possible at some points of sale). If the card is no longer used, no further costs are incurred. Swiss Bankers only charges a fee of CHF 1 per transaction (or EUR 1 or USD 1 depending on the card currency) when you use the card.

Which currencies is the prepaid credit card available in?

You can order the card in CHF, EUR and USD. The loading fee is the same for all currencies.

Who can load and top up the card?

A deposit by bank transfer can be made without restriction either by you or by another person. Loading and topping up via credit card, debit card or PostFinance is only possible with a card issued in your name. Alternatively, you can have another Swiss Bankers cardholder send you money via Send – our innovative money transfer service – at any time.

How can I load and top up the card?

You can load and top up the Travel quickly and conveniently at the branches of the sales partner from whom you ordered or purchased the card. Many Swiss Bankers partner banks offer instant loading and top-up in e-banking. In addition, you can load and top up the Travel Card via the Swiss Bankers app or the customer portal by bank transfer or by credit card, debit card or PostFinance card. When loading or topping up by credit card or via PostFinance, the balance is available on the card within a few minutes. A deposit by bank transfer can usually be credited to your card on the same business day.

How much credit can I add to the card?

The minimum load or top-up amount is EUR/USD/CHF 100, the maximum load or top-up amount or card balance is EUR/USD/CHF 10,000.

How long does it take to load or top up the card ?

You can load and top up the card easily and quickly. By bank transfer, the new balance is usually available on the same business day. If you load or top up by credit card or PostFinance card, the amount will be credited to your card within a few minutes.

How are the high security standards guaranteed?

You can use the Swiss Bankers app to block or unblock the card for specific countries.
The PIN code can be changed at any time in the Swiss Bankers app.
In case of loss, simply and quickly block the card via Swiss Bankers app. We will send you a new Travel card with your existing balance worldwide free of charge by courier within a few days.
Monitoring of suspicious transactions around the clock by our security experts.
If fraud is suspected, Swiss Bankers notifies you immediately and blocks the card.

* Cashback is only available if it is displayed when selecting the accommodation. It will only be credited to the Booking.com wallet after a stay and payment for the accommodation. Cashback is between 5% and 10%. The offer can be changed or cancelled by Booking.com at any time within 5 days. Payment in cash and legal recourse are excluded.

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Cash or Card? How to take money to Switzerland

Whilst the days of carrying travellers’ cheques on an overseas trip are well behind us, it can still be hard to decide the best way to take money to Switzerland. Will a credit card be all you need? Should you get some Swiss currency before you leave? Or is there a better option?

In this article I cover the different means of making purchases whilst in Switzerland and what works best for me.

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information. ]

But first, a bit of info about the Swiss currency.

Switzerland’s official currency is the Swiss franc but many travellers ask “Can I use Euros in Switzerland?” (or “Can I use US dollars in Switzerland?) and whilst the Euro will be accepted at some establishments, the exchange rate is likely to be unfavourable.

(US dollars are generally not accepted in Switzerland.)

Keep in mind that if you do pay in Euros, change will be given back to you in Swiss francs.

It is therefore recommended that when purchasing goods and services in Switzerland, you use the Swiss franc.

Prices are usually displayed preceded by the three-letter currency code CHF.

It’s common to ‘tap and go’ with most debit and credit cards for smaller transactions and a PIN is usually required for transactions over CHF 100.

Before you leave home, it is recommended that you advise your credit card or debit card provider that you will be travelling – and tell them where and when – so that they don’t block transactions that you try to make whilst you are abroad.

So let’s look at the different ways of carrying your spending money in Switzerland.

What's in this Article

Best payment methods in Switzerland

Credit cards.

Mastercard, Visa and American Express credit cards are widely accepted in Switzerland and it is advisable to take a credit card with a chip in it.

It is recommended that when using a credit card to make a payment, you request that the transaction be processed in Swiss francs – not your home currency – as this way (in the majority of cases), you will benefit from a better exchange rate.

Don’t assume that your current credit card provider is giving you the best deal. Some banks and credit card providers charge fees of around 3% for international transactions and many also charge fees for withdrawing cash at an ATM.

There are credit card providers out there who have no fees (or very minimal fees) for international transactions – in Australia, Macquarie Bank, ING and 28 Degrees are a few examples.

US members of my Switzerland Travel Planning group ( you can join here ) have recommended the Costco and Capital One credit cards.

Check for: International transaction fees, ATM withdrawal fees, annual account fees

Debit cards

You may be wondering “Can I use my debit card in Switzerland?” The short answer is yes but, similarly to checking that you are getting the best deal from your credit card provider, you should also check that your debit card has no fees, or very minimal fees, attached. This applies to both international card transactions and ATM withdrawals.

I use a Wise debit card and highly recommend it. It has no ATM fees*, no transaction fees, no monthly account fees, no minimum transactions per month and the most competitive currency exchange rates I have come across.

(*Note that when withdrawing cash from an ATM, the local bank from which you are withdrawing the cash may charge a fee, however this only happened to me once on a five week trip around Switzerland.)

Before I travel, I simply add the amount of Swiss francs I think I’ll need for my trip into my Wise account. Then it’s just a matter of ‘tap and go’ each time I need to make a payment.

Applying for an account online is simple and I also love that there’s an app so I can track my spending on the go and add more funds as needed.

(See which apps I recommend you download before you travel to Switzerland here .)

Check for: International transaction fees, ATM withdrawal fees, monthly account fees

Travel Money Card (Cash Passport)

I’m a big fan of travel money cards and have used Travel Money Cards in Europe on many occasions without a problem. I love the fact that I can preload my card with currency well before my trip if I want to, therefore purchasing the foreign currency when I’m happy with the exchange rate.

The one big disadvantage to using a travel money card in Switzerland that I encountered was that (at least, for Australians), there were no prepaid cards that allowed me to load Swiss francs.

This meant that I had to load Euros onto my card and then be charged up to as much as 6% for the privilege (?!) of having a transaction in Switzerland converted from Euros to Swiss francs.

Having already converted from my local currency when I preloaded the card, I was then hit with another conversion fee to convert from Euros to Swiss francs.

For this reason, I don’t recommend using a Travel Money Card in Switzerland – instead I use the Wise debit card which I’ve mentioned above. However, you may find a Travel Money Card that does allow you to preload Swiss francs and this may be the best option for you.

Check for: Ability to load Swiss francs onto card

A commonly asked question is ‘Do I need to carry cash in Switzerland?’ The simple answer is no however I believe it’s always a good idea to have a small amount of cash with you for purchases such as a coffee or ice cream or for luggage storage lockers at train stations.

In smaller villages or establishments, cards may not be accepted, and at some train stations there is a small fee (usually CHF 1) to use the public toilets, so having some cash as a standby is also a good idea.

Carrying a small amount of cash is also handy in times of emergency, too. Could you get by if your card was lost or stolen or there was a power loss and credit card machines were out of action?

Some travellers prefer to buy Swiss francs prior to leaving home at a bank or foreign exchange store. This method will usually involve fees.

As I use the fee-free Wise debit card when I travel, I prefer to wait until I arrive in Switzerland and I then withdraw the amount of cash I require.

Where to exchange money in Switzerland

When it comes to money exchange, Switzerland has plenty of options.

If you are planning on getting cash in Switzerland, you’ll get the best exchange rates for foreign currency at any of the Swiss banks (they exchange bank notes only, not coins).

You can also exchange foreign notes at currency exchange desks at the major airports, railway stations and some hotels but service fees may be charged.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? At Holidays to Switzerland we are passionate about sharing our love of Switzerland and helping you to plan the perfect trip. Read our guide to planning a trip to Switzerland to kick start your travel plans and join our free Switzerland Travel Planning group on Facebook to chat with other past and future travellers. Want monthly news and podcast updates, helpful travel tips and special deals sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to Holidays to Switzerland and we’ll send you a bonus copy of our 10 Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Switzerland guide. 🇨🇭 Check out our exclusive discount offers and save on your Swiss vacation. 🇨🇭

About the Swiss franc

What money do they use in Switzerland?

Now that you’ve read this article, you’ll know that the money in Switzerland is called the Swiss franc.

The Swiss franc is a decimal currency and it comes in the following denominations:

Coins – 5, 10, 20, 50 Cents and 1, 2, 5 Francs

Bank notes – 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 1000 Francs

Currency Conversion Chart

Use our handy Currency Conversion Chart to calculate the current exchange rate between the Swiss franc and your own currency. > Click here to access the chart .

Final Thoughts

Without a doubt my preferred method of payment in Switzerland is with the Wise debit card . I always carry some cash for minor incidentals or emergencies, but 99% of the time I make all my payments with my card.

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Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

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The Leisure Travelcard.

Do you often go on excursions with public transport in your free time? Combine the Leisure Travelcard with the Half-Fare Travelcard and enjoy 20 or 30 days of unlimited travel per year on all SBB trains and most other railways as well as trams, buses, postbuses and boats. Your Leisure Travelcard comes on the SwissPass.

Due to the various new offers available, the sale of Leisure Travelcards was discontinued as of 31 March 2024. All purchased Leisure Travelcards will remain valid for one year. As an alternative, we recommend the new Half Fare Travelcard PLUS, which offers more flexibility.

Terms and conditions.

is only available on the SwissPass and is managed via your personal SwissPass account.
is valid only in combination with a Half Fare Travelcard.
is valid on the GA area of validity. You can purchase connecting tickets at a reduced fare when you use the Half Fare Travelcard.
is personal and non-transferable.
cannot be deposited.
You must present your valid Half Fare Travelcard on the day of your journey.
You must activate your leisure days yourself on swisspass.ch before you travel. To do so, you will need a personal SwissPass account – if you do not already have one, swisspass.ch Link opens in new window. . If you would like to activate leisure days before the first day of validity for your Leisure Travelcard or if you need any help, please contact a staffed public transport point of sale or call the SBB Contact Center on 0848 44 66 88 (CHF 0.08/min.)
Activated leisure days may be deactivated at your account on swisspass.ch up to the start of the period of validity at 23.59.
Upon presentation of a doctor’s note, which confirms the inability to travel, at most staffed public transport points of sale you may have the leisure day deactivated even on the travel day or thereafter.
A leisure day that has been redeemed is valid until 5 o’clock of the following day.
You can buy route-specific class upgrades, Supersaver Class Upgrades at a discounted price or 1-day class upgrades for your 2nd class Leisure Travelcard with a valid Half Fare Travelcard.
An increase of leisure days from 20 to 30 days or a change from 2nd class to 1st class is not possible with the same Leisure Travelcard. In this case, we reimburse the pro-rated amount of the existing travelcard without a deductible, and issue a new Leisure Travelcard.
Discounts on day trips with RailAway. With tickets for public transport, you can enjoy at least 10% discount or added value for numerous leisure experiences.

Reimbursement.

Unused leisure days cannot be transferred to the subsequent year, however they may be reimbursed. We set off 75 Swiss francs (2nd class) or 127 Swiss francs (1st class) for every used leisure day, which corresponds to a Day Pass for the Half Fare Travelcard. You receive the remaining amount minus the customary deductible of 10 Swiss francs.

In the following exceptional cases, you are fully reimbursed for unused leisure days, and are not charged the deductible:

If you purchase an annual travelcard (Point-to-Point, Modular or Regional Travelcard; this does not apply to the purchase of a Half Fare Travelcard).
If you purchase a GA Travelcard.
If you purchase a Leisure Travelcard in one of the following cases:

In the event of death, we will also reimburse you the unused leisure days in full minus an excess of CHF 10.

Discounts on day trips with RailAway.

Are you looking for a suitable trip destination? Be inspired by our countless trip ideas and benefit from advantageous offers.

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With your public transport ticket, you benefit from a discount of up to 50% on numerous leisure activities.

Subject to changes of price, product and timetable.

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Swiss Francs

Get the best Swiss franc exchange rate

Compare the latest Swiss franc exchange rates from the UK's best currency providers

Best Swiss franc exchange rate

The Swiss franc is one of the strongest and most stable currencies in the world, largely due to Switzerland's long-standing history of political and economic stability. Francs are one of the few currencies in the world that are still backed by physical gold - the Swiss National Bank holds vast gold reserves to support the value of the franc - which helps to keep the currency strong in times of global economic uncertainty.

If you're travelling to Switzerland, it's important to shop around and compare currency suppliers to maximise your chances of getting a good deal. We can help you to find the best Swiss franc exchange rate by comparing a wide range of UK travel money suppliers who have Swiss francs in stock and ready to order online now. Our comparisons automatically factor in all costs and commission, so all you need to do is tell us how much you want to spend and we'll show you the top suppliers who fit the bill.

Compare before you buy

Some of the best travel money deals are only available when you buy online. By using a comparison site, you're more likely to see the full range of deals on offer and get the best rate.

Order online

Always place your order online, even if you plan to collect your currency in person. Most supermarkets and high street currency suppliers offer better exchange rates if you order online beforehand.

Combine orders

If you're travelling with others, consider placing one large currency order instead of buying individually. Many currency suppliers offer enhanced rates that improve as you order more.

The best Swiss franc exchange rate right now is 1.1338 from Travel FX . This is based on a comparison of 16 currency suppliers and assumes you were buying £750 worth of Swiss francs for home delivery.

The best Swiss franc exchange rates are usually offered by online travel money companies who have lower operating costs than traditional 'bricks and mortar' stores, and can therefore offer better currency deals than their high street counterparts.

For supermarkets and companies who sell travel money online and on the high street, it's generally cheaper to place your order online and collect it from the store rather than turning up out of the blue and ordering over the counter. Many stores set their 'walk-in' exchange rates lower than their online rates because they can. By ordering online you're guaranteed to get the online rate and you can collect your order from the store as usual.

Swiss franc rate trend

Over the past 30 days, the Swiss franc rate is up 0.18% from 1.1338 on 14 May to 1.1358 today. This means one pound will buy more Swiss francs today than it would have a month ago. Right now, £750 is worth approximately fr. 851.85 which is fr. 1.5 more than you'd have got on 14 May.

These are the average Swiss franc rates taken from our panel of UK travel money providers at the end of each day. You can explore this further on our British pound to Swiss franc currency chart .

Timing is key if you want to maximise your Swiss francs, but the best time to buy will depend on the current market conditions and your personal travel plans.

If you have a fixed travel date, you should start to monitor the Swiss franc rates as soon as possible in the period leading up to your departure so that you've got time to buy when the rate is looking favourable. For example, if the Swiss franc rate has been steadily increasing over several weeks or months, it could be a good time to buy while the rate is high.

Some people prefer to buy half of their Swiss francs as soon as they've booked their holiday, and the remaining half just before they depart. This can be a good way of maximising your holiday money if the exchange rate continues to rise after you've bought, but will also help to minimise your losses if the rate drops.

You could also consider signing up to our newsletter and we'll email the latest rates to you each month.

If you need your Swiss francs sooner and don't have time to wait for the rates to improve, you can still save money by comparing rates from a range of different providers before you buy. Online travel money suppliers usually have better Swiss franc rates than high street exchanges, but supermarkets are a good compromise if you want to collect your currency in person and still get a decent rate. Just remember to buy or reserve your Swiss francs first before you collect them from the store so you benefit from the supplier's better online rate.

Swiss franc banknotes and coins

The Swiss franc is the official currency of Switzerland, neighbouring micro-state Liechtenstein, and the tiny exclave of Campione d'Italia in Northern Italy. The currency is often abbreviated to it's three-letter currency code CHF which stands for 'Confoederatio Helvetica Franc'. 'Confoederatio Helvetica' is the Latin name for Switzerland.

One Swiss franc (fr.) can be subdivided into 100 'rappen' (rp. - German and Romansh) or 'centimes' (ct. - French and Italian). There are five denominations of Swiss franc banknotes in frequent circulation: fr. 10, fr. 20, fr. 50, fr. 100 and fr. 200, plus a fr. 1000 note which is less-frequently used due to its high value. Swiss franc banknotes are renowned for their security features and striking, vibrant designs. The front of each note features a portrait of a famous Swiss national, such as scientist and explorer Charles-Edouard Guillaume (fr. 200) and Nobel Peace Prize winner Albert Schweitzer (fr. 1000). The reverse side of each note depicts motifs from Switzerland's cultural or natural heritage, including musical notes, natural elements and a depiction of the universe under a magnifying glass.

Swiss franc coins are available in denominations: rp. 5, rp. 10, rp. 20, rp. 50, fr. 1, fr. 2, and fr. 5. All coins are made from cupronickel, apart from the rp. 5 coin which is made from an aluminum-bronze alloy. The edge of each coin is inscribed with the phrase 'DOMINUS PROVIDEBIT' which means 'the Lord will provide' in Latin. This phrase has been used on Swiss coins since the 19th century and is a testament to Switzerland's strong cultural and religious heritage.

There's no evidence to suggest that you'll get a better deal if you buy your Swiss francs in Switzerland. While there may be better exchange rates available in some locations, your options for shopping around may be limited once you arrive, and there's no guarantee the exchange rates will be any better than they are in the UK.

Exchange rates aside, here are some other reasons to avoid buying your Swiss francs in Switzerland:

You may have to pay commission or other hidden fees to a currency exchange that you wouldn't have paid in the UK
Your bank may charge you a foreign transaction fee if you use it to buy Swiss francs when you're abroad
It can be harder to spot scammers and fraudulent currency exchanges in Switzerland

Lastly, it can be handy to have some cash on you when you arrive at your destination so you can pay for any immediate expenses like food, transport and tips. You don't want to be searching for the nearest currency exchange when you've just landed and you're desperate for a cup of tea - or a cocktail!

Tips for saving money in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its high cost of living and it can be an expensive holiday destination for British travellers. Here are some suggestions for how you can save money on your trip:

Eat like a local: Many supermarkets in Switzerland offer a discount on certain items at specific times of the day, such as fresh bread in the late evening or dairy products in the morning. If you're staying in a hotel or apartment with a kitchen, consider doing some grocery shopping and preparing your own meals. Not only is this a great way to save money, but it can also be a fun cultural experience to shop in Swiss supermarkets and cook with local ingredients.
Plan your itinerary: Take advantage of free activities such as hiking or exploring. Switzerland has thousands of miles of well-marked hiking trails with breathtaking scenery that are free to access, or if you fancy something a little shorter; many cities and towns have free walking tours which are a great way to learn about the local culture and history. You'll also find lots of free public parks and gardens, and many museums and galleries offer free entry on certain days or for specific exhibitions.
Find discount vouchers: Many tourist attractions and activities offer discount vouchers and codes that can save you money on entry fees and other perks. Look for vouchers online; sign up to newsletters and follow the social media accounts of places you're planning to visit.
Buy a Travel Pass: If you're planning on doing a lot of travelling around Switzerland, considering buying a Swiss Travel Pass. The Swiss Travel Pass is a travel card that provides unlimited travel on public transportation in Switzerland, including trains, buses, trams, and boats. It also offers free or discounted access to many museums and attractions across the country. The pass can be purchased online or in person at Swiss transport hubs for durations of 3-15 consecutive days, and can be used to travel to almost every destination in Switzerland. The pass also includes free travel on panoramic trains and some mountain railways and cable cars, making it a great value option for those planning to explore the country in style.
Use public transport: If you're heading to one of the bigger cities in Switzerland, look out for public transportation discounts such as the ZurichCARD or the Geneva Transport Card. These cards offer unlimited travel on local public transport, and they often also include discounts on museum admissions, tours, and other attractions. They can be a cost-effective way to get around and see the sights of a city.
Take cash: Using cash will help you to stick to a budget more easily than paying by card, and you'll also avoid foreign transaction fees. If you do take a card with you, look out for ATMs that are affiliated with your UK bank to avoid ATM fees, and if you're asked whether you want to pay in pounds or Swiss francs - always choose Swiss francs. If you pay in pounds the merchant can set their own exchange rate which won't be in your favour.

Choosing the right payment method

Sending money to a company you might not have heard of before can be unsettling. We routinely check all the companies that feature in our comparisons to make sure they meet our strict listing criteria, but it's still worth knowing how your money is protected in the unlikely event a company goes bust and you don't receive your order.

Bank transfer

Your money is not protected if you pay by bank transfer. If the company goes bust and you've paid by bank transfer, it's unlikely you'll get your money back. For this reason, we recommend you pay by debit or credit card wherever possible because they offer more financial protection.

Debit cards are the most popular payment method and they offer some financial protection. If you pay by debit card and the company goes bust, you can instruct your bank to make a chargeback request to recover your money from the company's bank. This isn't a legal right, and a refund isn't guaranteed, but if you make a chargeback request your bank is obliged to try and recover your money.

Credit card

Credit cards offer full financial protection, and your money is protected by law under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. Section 75 states that your card issuer must refund you in full if you don't receive your order. Be aware that many credit cards charge a cash advance fee (typically around 3%) for buying currency, so you may have to weigh up the benefits of full financial protection with the extra cost of using a credit card.

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Swiss Travel Pass

Exploring Switzerland has never been easier! For foreign guests, the all-in-one ticket Swiss Travel Pass is the key to Switzerland’s public transport network.

This single ticket enables visitors to explore Switzerland from end to end by train, bus and boat on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days. With the Swiss Travel Pass Youth, young people up to their 25th birthday travelling through Switzerland benefit from a 30% discount off the regular Swiss Travel Pass ticket fare.

Unlimited travel by train, bus and boat. View area of validity
Unlimited travel on premium panoramic trains (seat reservation fees and/or surcharges apply).
Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns and cities.
Free admission to more than 500 museums .
Mountain excursions included: Rigi , Stanserhorn and Stoos
Up to 50% discount on many other mountain excursions.
Up to 50% discount on SBB RailAway offers. Available at all ticket counters within Switzerland.
Children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday accompanied by at least one parent (holding a Swiss Travel System ticket) travel free of charge with the complimentary Swiss Family Card .
Children under 6 years of age who are accompanied by a holder of a valid Swiss Travel System ticket travel free of charge.
The Swiss Travel Pass is available as e-ticket.

Information

A seat reservation and/or supplement is required to travel on some trains/buses/boats such as Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express and Palm Express.
Swiss Travel System tickets are available to persons with residence outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein
In Switzerland, fares apply in Swiss Francs as detailed in the chart (in case of cash payment in EUR, USD or GBP: current exchange rates apply)

General provisions and legal information

Price – adult.

Valid on consecutive travel days.

Validity: 01 Jan 2024 – 31 Dec 2024

Price – Youth

Valid on consecutive travel days, for young travellers up to their 25th birthday (30% discount).

Swiss Family Card

With the Swiss Family Card , children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday travel free of charge.

On request, a Swiss Family Card is provided free of charge, entitling children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday to travel free if accompanied by at least one paying parent.

Bonus Benefits with the Swiss Travel Pass

Regional passes, sales outlet swiss travel system.

How to Buy Swiss Francs in the USA Without Huge Fees

Jarrod Suda

A writer and editor at Monito, Jarrod is passionate about helping people apply today’s powerful finance technologies to their lives. He brings his background in international affairs and his experiences living in Japan to provide readers with comprehensive information that also acknowledges the local context.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Preparing for your travels to Switzerland? You may be wondering whether you should prepare some Swiss Francs in cash prior to your departure, or if its cheaper to simple use your cards in Switzerland after arrival.

In this guide, we will explore the best overall place to get Swiss Francs online in the USA, which is with a travel money card like Wise . If you'd like to simply withdraw Swiss Francs in cash from an ATM in Switzerland, we will explain how to do so without incurring unnecessary fees.

We'll cover the costs, and the pros and cons, involved for each method. By understanding your options and their fees up front, you can enjoy the peace of mind that you're getting the best deal for your situation.

We highly recommend Wise 's travel debit card to buy Swiss Francs in the USA cheaply. Wise is a multi-currency account that allows you to hold and exchange US dollars, Swiss Francs, and over 50 other foreign currencies at industry-low, transparent fees and exchange rates. Best of all, you can easily do this online or straight from the app!

The Best Places to Buy Swiss Francs in the USA

01. Swiss Franc travel money card scroll down
02. ATMs abroad via travel debit card scroll down
03. Online foreign currency exchange scroll down
04. Traditional banks scroll down
05. Money changer kiosks scroll down
06. Airport kiosks scroll down
07. Summary: Where to buy Swiss Francs in the USA scroll down

1. Swiss Franc Travel Money Card

Travel money cards are prepaid debit cards that let you hold the local currency of your destination (CHF) so that ATMs and point-of-sale devices treat you like a local card holder. Simply top up your card balance in US Dollars and convert those balances to Swiss Francs. Then use your card to pay with peace of mind like a local.

User-friendly fintech apps like Wise far and away offer superior rates when compared to banks and bureau de change kiosks. Since you can download the apps and use their virtual cards directly onto your smartphone, we also consider them to be more convenient. Compare the in more detail with our in-depth prepaid travel card guide .

Wise Account

Unlike banks, credit unions, airport kiosks, and foreign ATMs , Wise is transparent about never charging a hidden exchange rate margin when you convert your dollars into euros (and 51 other currencies) with them. The live rate you see on Google or XE.com is the one you get with Wise . Instead, they charge an industry-low commission fee, which ranges from 0.35% to 2.85%.

Trust & Credibility 9.3
Service & Quality 8.9
Fees & Exchange Rates 7.6
Customer Satisfaction 9.6

2. ATMs Abroad Using a Debit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fees

We recommend getting Swiss Francs in cash from ATMs with debit cards because credit cards with charge you cash advance fees and high APR on ATM withdrawals. Plus, debit cards will use exchange rates set by your card network (like Visa and Mastercard ), which are near the mid-market rate.

Foreign transaction fees are fixed percentage fees (usually around 2.5%) that card issuers will tack on to the purchase price. These fees pile up when you travel and spend internationally, which is why you should always travel with a card that waives foreign transaction fees .

Travel Tip: Read more about the 5 best debit cards that waives international transaction fees .

Always Pay in the Local Currency

When the point-of-sale machine or ATM in Switzerland ask you to "Pay in CHF" or "Pay in USD", always opt to pay in the local currency: Pay in CHF.

Learn more about dynamic currency conversions .

3. Online Foreign Currency Exchange

Online foreign currency exchange services are convenient and can be reasonably priced if you order a few weeks in advance. Take note to not pay with a credit card because your card provider will treat it like a cash advance, which will incur fixed fees and APR costs. When you order Swiss Francs in cash online, foreign exchange service providers will charge you two kinds of fees:

Exchange Rate Margin: Providers apply an exchange rate that is poorer than the true "mid-market" exchange rate . They keep the difference, called an exchange rate margin .
Commission Fee: This fee is usually a percentage of the amount converted, which is charged for the service provided.

In-Person Cash Pick-Up

Most services allow you to visit a local branch in your neighborhood to pick up your cash. This is usually a no-cost service.

Home Delivery

For added convenience, you can pay a delivery fee to have the money sent to your designated address on a set date and time.

4. Traditional Banks

Despite commonly heard advice, banks and credit unions are outdated currency exchange providers. Many banks offer foreign exchange services online, but you may need to be a client of the bank. You can pay by cash, card, or with your existing account balances.

For illustration, we found that Bank of America was converting €1,000 EUR into $1010.60 USD even though the mid-market exchange rate was at €1,000 EUR = $1,063.60 USD*. That's a markup worth $53.

*Exchange rates recorded on 22 September 2023 12:55 CEST.

We generally recommend against getting Swiss Francs from your traditional bank or credit union.

5. Money Changer Kiosks

Money changers generally charge high exchange rate margins, like banks and online foreign exchange services. We tend to treat these providers in the same category as airport bureau de change. Even if they advertise "no commission," you will still incur the hidden cost of the exchange rate margin.

While these kiosks may be conveniently located in cities and tourist attractions, we recommend going to bank ATM instead, using a prepaid travel card or a debit card that waives foreign transaction fees .

6. Airport Bureau de Change Kiosks

While bureaux de change at airports in the USA may be convenient for last-second exchanges, they charge huge exchange rate margins and hefty commission fees. They should be avoided at all costs.

If you need cash for your trip to Switzerland, we recommend that you withdraw cash from an ATM abroad, using a prepaid travel card or a debit card that waives foreign transaction fees .

Summary: How to Buy Swiss Francs in the USA

Each method to get Swiss Francs in the USA will have its conveniences and drawbacks depending on your situation.

Here is a summary of the best places to buy CHF with USD:

Prepaid Travel Money Card: Compare the best travel money cards .
ATM with Debit Card: The top 5 that waive foreign transaction fees .
Online Foreign Currency Exchange Service: Learn about travel money .
Traditional Banks: Explore bank currency exchange .
Money Changer Kiosks: Find the best way to spend money abroad .
Airport Bureau de Change: Use ATMs abroad as better alternatives .

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get Swiss Francs in the USA

We generally only recommend getting Swiss Francs in the USA if you open a free multi-currency account from Revolut or Wise . If you want Swiss Francs while in Switzerland, then it is best to simply get cash from an ATM there.

You can use any of the 6 methods included in this article. We recommend travel money card, which let you hold CHF via a multi-currency account and spend them with a card.

Yes, you can exchange for Swiss Francs at a bank in the USA. However, it is generally expensive because they may charge commission fees and very high exchange rate margins.

Open an account with Wise ;
Access your account online by desktop or by smartphone;
Top up USD onto the multi-currency account;
Convert the USD to CHF using their industry-low rates.

It depends on your method. If you want to get Swiss Francs in the USA, then we recommend you open an account with a multi-currency account like Wise . If you want Swiss Francs while in Switzerland, then its best to get cash from an ATM.

Currency exchange rates are constantly in flux due to market fluctuations. This is why we recommend multi-currency account like Wise . They have features that let you lock in a desired exchange rate, which will trigger a conversion if met by the mid-market rate.

Learn More About Where to Best Buy Foreign Currency in the USA

Find the Best Places to Buy Other Foreign Currencies in the USA

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The Best Places in the USA for Swiss francs

If you have a trip to Switzerland planned, you’ll need to work out the best way to get Swiss franc to pay for things while you’re there. While carrying Swiss franc cash is a popular option, you might find using a travel card is cheaper and more convenient - and more secure than carrying a lot of cash too.

Where to buy Swiss francs in the USA

When it comes to getting Swiss franc for your trip, you’ve got several different options, including taking cash in USD to exchange, converting to Swiss franc online before you travel or at the airport, or picking up a travel money card for convenient spending and cash withdrawals in Swiss franc on arrival in Switzerland.

Each option has its own features, fees, pros and cons. Which is best for you will depend a lot on your personal preferences - this guide will help you pick the right one based on convenience, cost, availability and more.

Swiss franc travel money card

Travel money cards and international prepaid debit cards are a safe and convenient way to spend in Swiss francs - and if you pick the right one they could help you save on currency conversion, too. Top up your card balance in dollars and convert those dollars to Swiss francs to spend in stores and restaurants, or withdraw cash from ATMs when you need it. Easy.

Learn more about the best Swiss francs cards in the US. Let's look at Wise and Revolut card more in detail:

Wise debit card

The Wise travel money card is likely to get you a better exchange rate and lower fees compared to your bank. Spending on the card will use the local currency if you have it in your Wise account - no matter where in the world you are. And if not, the card can simply auto-convert your money at the real rate, for a small fee.

You can also withdraw Swiss francs from an ATM whenever you need them - giving you the safety of spending with a card, and the convenience of cash.

It’s free to open a Wise account , with a one time fee of 9 USD for the Wise debit card. Converting USD to CHF costs 0.47% with Wise - making this by far one of the cheapest ways to get your hands on travel money for Switzerland.

Want to learn more? Click here to read Wise debit card review

Revolut debit card

Open a Revolut account online and order your travel money card, to start spending in 150+ countries. You’ll be able to choose from a Standard account which has no monthly fee to pay, or upgrade to an account with a monthly fee which also unlocks extra perks and benefits. All account tiers offer some no-fee currency conversion, and some no-fee international ATM withdrawals, with fair usage fees applied once your account plan allowances run out.

Revolut accounts can be used to hold and exchange 25+ currencies and depending on which plan you pick you could also get handy benefits like some travel insurance and airport lounge access, to make your trip more comfortable.

Buy Swiss francs online

Often this is one of the best ways to buy Swiss francs, based on convenience and cost. You won’t even need to leave home to order your money - and the dollar to Swiss francs exchange rate might be better online , to give you more Swiss francs for your US dollars. You can reserve your order, pick it up in a store or even have it delivered to your door, depending on which provider you pick.

If you’d prefer to use a travel money card, you can also get that set up online. Open a digital multi-currency account with a provider like Wise or Revolut , get your card, and simply make an ATM withdrawal once you arrive in Switzerland to get your Swiss francs cash. That means you don’t need to collect your travel money in advance, making the process fast and easy.

Want to learn more? Read Wise account review and Revolut review

Currency Exchange International (CXI)

Currency Exchange International specializes in providing foreign currency exchange at great rates with superior customer service. CXI owns and operates 30+ of its own branch locations across the United States, as well as working through affiliates to extend branch services - plus you can order foreign currency online through its website.

Buying euros online for home delivery is easy with CXI. Select from more than 90 foreign currencies and receive it as soon as the next day. Available in most areas.

Want to learn more? Click here for our review of CXI

You can buy Swiss francs with dollars at major banks like Wells Fargo and Bank of America . You will need to be a bank customer already and can order Swiss francs online easily.

Banks do offer a wide range of currencies that you can buy but make sure you spend your foreign currency overseas because you might not be able to convert it back to dollars when you get back home.

In some cases, you can choose to receive your order in small, large or mixed denominations but it is subject to availability.

Currency exchange services offered by the bank might not offer the best Swiss francs to US dollar rates but they are convenient, particularly if you are an existing customer.

When you buy Swiss francs from the bank you can pay with credit card, cash or from one of your bank accounts.

Foreign Currency Exchange

Money changers are another option to buy Swiss francs in cash. However, it can be hard to find them outside of the city and they may not stock less common currencies.

Often the exchange rates are on a board facing the front of the shop, so finding the USD to Swiss francs rate is easy. Ask what transaction fees they charge for the foreign exchange and if it costs more to pay with credit cards - and bear in mind that the exchange rate you get is likely to include a markup, which is a fee added onto the mid-market rate.

It’s good to know that you’ll often find that the exchange rates are better in major cities where competition drives down overall cost - that can make it well worth going to a city center if you're exchanging high value amounts.

Yes, you can buy currency at the airport. But that doesn't mean you should. While it's convenient, it's also often very expensive , which can mean that you receive less Swiss francs for your USD at the airport. Most airport currency exchange services accept cash and credit cards.

Ordering your Swiss francs online and picking it up at the airport can be cheaper than buying Swiss francs on the spot when you arrive for your flight. However, because of the costs overall, if you've run out of time before your trip, it might be better to buy your Swiss francs when you get to your destination, or use your cards instead, to make an ATM withdrawal on arrival in Switzerland.

What is the cheapest way to buy Swiss francs in the US?

The cheapest way to buy Swiss francs in the US is usually online. You’ll have a couple of options, depending on what suits your needs:

Choose a specialist provider which has multi-currency accounts to support international spending - like Wise or Revolut
Use an online money exchange service, and collect your foreign cash or have it delivered to you - in this case, you may pay an exchange rate markup, which is an extra fee

Your other alternatives include getting your cash at your bank, or at the airport. Banks may not have any conversion fee advertised, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the service is actually free. The costs are often simply added into the exchange rate used for conversion, which can make them harder to spot.

Of course, you also have the option to buy Swiss francs at the airport. However, this can be very expensive compared to buying your Swiss francs online before you head off, simply because airport exchange services know you have no other options until you get to your destination. That can mean high commission fees and very poor foreign exchange rates.

Go to Wise Go to Revolut

How to get Swiss francs in the US

There are a few different ways to get Swiss francs in the US, so you can pick the method that suits you best. Each service will have its own process, so whichever way you choose, you’ll want to check directly with the provider you choose to make sure you know exactly what’s required to get your Swiss francs conveniently and without unnecessary delays.

Usually if you plan to get foreign currency cash through a bank or a specialist travel money service, you’ll need to visit a branch or agent location, and take along your USD in cash, or a card to pay for your Swiss francs. Assuming the bank or currency exchange office you visit has enough Swiss francs in stock, you’ll be able to take away your travel money instantly.

However, picking up your Swiss francs in person is not necessarily the most convenient choice. In many cases, you’ll also have the option to arrange your Swiss francs online, which means you can get everything organised without needing to take extra time out of your day to go to the bank.

How to buy Swiss francs online

Often buying foreign currency online is more convenient than visiting a branch in person. One great option is to sign up for a multi-currency account with a linked card which lets you manage your account digitally and make cash withdrawals. Specialist non-bank providers like Wise and Revolut both offer convenient ways to hold, exchange and spend in a broad selection of foreign currencies, with easy to manage accounts you can access from your phone.

To buy Swiss francs online with a specialist provider that offers multi-currency accounts or travel cards, you’ll usually need to:

Head to the provider’s website or download their app
Hit Sign Up, add your personal details and create a password
Get verified by uploading images of your ID documents - you might also need a proof of address
Add some money to your account in USD, for spending later

Depending on the provider you pick, you can order a linked international debit card to spend while you’re away, or you can convert to the currency you need to make online payments. Some providers can issue you a virtual card instantly for online spending, and once you have your physical card you can withdraw cash as you travel for convenience.

Go to Wise Go to Revolut

If you’re keen to have travel money in your pocket before you leave the US, you can also choose to order cash in Swiss francs online and either collect it or have it delivered to your home address. That can be a convenient option, and gives you the reassurance that you’ll have access to Swiss francs even before you travel.

To buy Swiss francs for cash spending with an online money exchange service, you’ll usually need to:

Visit the provider’s website, and place an order for your currency
Decide if you want to have your money delivered, or collect your cash at an agent location
Make payment for your foreign currency in USD
When you collect your cash, or when it’s delivered you’ll need to show a valid ID document

Where can I exchange USD to Swiss francs

Your options to exchange USD to Swiss francs broadly split into two categories: ways to get Swiss francs online, and ways to get Swiss francs through a physical location.

Online, you can order foreign currency cash to collect or for delivery through a specialist service or your bank. Or you could open a multi-currency account with a specialist service like Wise or Revolut , and order a travel money card you can use to spend and make withdrawals in Swiss francs and in many other supported currencies, too.

If you’d rather set up your travel money in person you can do so by visiting a currency exchange store or bank and paying for your Swiss francs in cash or with a card. You can also exchange money at the airport before you leave the US - but this often costs more overall, so do check the exchange rates available before you get started.

Go to Wise Go to Revolut With multi-currency accounts, you can open a Swiss bank account online . With Wise account, you can open a CHF balance, get local account in details in Switzerland, hold and exchange CHF with mid-market exchange rate.

Where can I get the best exchange rate for Swiss francs?

There’s no single best provider when it comes to exchange rates. Different services set their own rates which may vary based on the currency, the amount you want to exchange, how you want to pay, and whether you’re exchanging money in a digital account or for physical cash.

Generally, looking for a service which has transparent exchange rates which are the same as - or close to - the mid-market exchange rates is a good idea. You can compare a few live exchange rates for popular providers using the Exiap tools, to see which works best based on the specific transaction you want to make.

Let’s take a look at the exchange rates you might be able to find through some different exchange services:

Wise exchange rate : mid-market exchange rates with transparent conversion fees split out, from 0.43%
Revolut exchange rate: all accounts have some currency conversion which uses the mid-market rate - fair usage fees apply once you’ve exhausted your plan limits
Currency exchange international: exchange rates are likely to include a markup, but tellers in physical locations may offer to match or beat other local bank and airport exchange rates if you ask
Banks: exchange rates usually include a variable markup which is added on to the mid-market exchange rate
Currency exchange offices: exchange rates usually include a markup which is added on to the mid-market exchange rate - the amount of markup used does vary, so looking for a service in a city center where providers compete may mean you get a better rate
Airports: exchange rates usually include a markup which is added on to the mid-market exchange rate - because of a lack of competition this can be a pretty high fee

Conclusion: Best ways to buy Swiss francs in the US

The good news is that you have several different options to buy Swiss francs in the US - which means that with a bit of research you’ll find the right one for your specific needs.

Generally your options will include heading to a physical location - like your bank or a currency exchange store - to buy your Swiss francs cash; or arranging your exchange online. Ordering your foreign currency online, or opening a multi-currency account and getting a linked debit card for spending in Swiss francs means you can get everything organized without even needing to leave home. You may also get better exchange rates and lower overall costs, depending on which service you select.

Check out Wise and Revolut as good options for convenient spending in Swiss francs, with fair exchange rates and low overall fees. With Wise you can open a free online account to hold and exchange 40+ currencies, and spend with your card in 150+ countries. All currency exchange uses the mid-market exchange rate with fees from just 0.43%.

Revolut lets you hold and exchange 25+ popular currencies - and you can pick the account tier which meets your needs, depending on how often you’ll transact and which features you’ll use. All accounts offer some currency exchange which uses the mid-market exchange rate , and some no-fee ATM withdrawals, with fair usage fees once you exhaust your specific plan limits.

How to buy Swiss francs FAQs

Is it cheaper to buy Swiss francs in the US or in Switzerland?

Whether it’s cheaper to buy Swiss francs at home or once you arrive in Switzerland depends a lot on the exchange rates you’re able to find online or in physical exchange stores locally. As an alternative, travel money cards from providers like Wise and Revolut give the convenience of using a card with the flexibility of being able to withdraw cash at an ATM in Switzerland with good exchange rates and low fees, making them a great choice for many travelers.

Should I get Swiss francs before going to Switzerland?

Getting your travel money in advance means you’ll save time once you’re on your trip, but you’ll need to shop around to get a good deal. Take a look at options like Wise and Revolut which offer convenient and flexible digital accounts you can use to hold and spend in Swiss francs conveniently.

What is the best way to get Swiss francs for travel?

There’s no single best way to get your Swiss francs for your trip. Compare a few services using the handy Exiap tools, including physical exchange locations and convenient digital alternatives, like Wise and Revolut, to find the best option for your needs.

How long does it take to get Swiss francs?

If you’re ordering cash in Swiss francs you may be able to collect it instantly or on the same day, depending on the provider you pick. Home delivery of currency usually takes a few days. Getting a travel money card from a service like Wise or Revolut allows you to add USD instantly, and then spend or make withdrawals in cash in Swiss francs as soon as you arrive, so you can access Swiss francs right away.

How to get the best exchange rate for Swiss francs?

You’ll need to shop around to get the best exchange rate for Swiss francs, including physical locations and banks, and digital and online services like Wise and Revolut. The good news is that Exiap has lots of handy comparison tools to let you see live exchange rates, fees and more. Use these to kickstart your research and get the best deal for your specific needs.

Best ways to spend travel money in Switzerland: Debit and prepaid cards

Learn more about the best card to use, if you should use a uk debit card and other ways to take spending money to switzerland..

In this guide

Low-cost travel money options for Switzerland

How much can i expect to spend in switzerland, which one do i choose: travel card, debit card or credit card, buying swiss francs in the uk, finding cash and atms in switzerland, exchange rate history (gbp to eur), bottom line.

Regardless of what you plan to do in Switzerland, you’ll need to organise your travel money before you get there. If you’re not sure where to start, use our travel money guide to compare travel money options. This guide will also help you familiarise yourself with the best ways you can juggle your finances on your holiday.

Switzerland is not a member of the European Union and uses its own national currency, the Swiss franc. As one of the most developed nations in the world it can be easy to spend a fortune in Switzerland, making it even more essential that you’re saving as much as you can when converting, withdrawing and spending your cash.

Thankfully Switzerland’s high levels of development also make all of these relatively easy to do, with the country offering many global banking institutions, an abundance of ATMs and card acceptance at the point of sale. Visa and Mastercard debit and travel money cards are widely accepted throughout the country, but American Express and Diner cards less so.

Read on for a comparison of products you can use in Switzerland without the fees for international transactions.

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Travelling with a credit card.

Nearly all mid to large restaurants, hotels and shops will accept over the counter credit card payments. Making a withdrawal on credit isn’t advised as cash advance charges apply, so use your debit or travel card. Travel extras such as insurance or an increased earn rate on rewards cards for overseas purchases are other points to consider when you’re comparing credit cards to use overseas.

Tip: Some providers waive cash advance charges when you keep a positive balance and make ATM withdrawals. Find out which providers let you do this and which won’t.

Using debit cards

A travel debit card lets you spend and withdraw in Switzerland like you would at home. Find a debit card that waives the international ATM withdrawal fee and you can make free withdrawals when you use an ATM offered by a Swiss bank.

The Virgin Money M Plus account could be a handy product to use in Switzerland. As well as spending and withdrawing without paying to convert pounds to francs, Virgin Money does not charge any international ATM withdrawal fees.

Tip: Always choose to be charged in the local currency when withdrawing your Swiss francs to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) exchange rate charges.

Using prepaid travel cards

Prepaid travel cards let you load British pounds and lock in a rate when you convert the funds to Swiss francs. This allows you to avoid paying additional currency conversion fees, often around 3%. It also means that you can load the money at a time when the exchange rate is more favourable, compared to debit and credit cards which use the live exchange rate to convert your cash.

However, these cards can have other charges such as reload fees, card issue fees and inactivity fees (yes, that’s right – when you’re not using the card). Preloading a set amount of pounds stops you from overspending – something that’s very easy to do in Switzerland.

However, if you run out of cash, it can take a couple of days for your pounds to be reloaded onto the card, so never leave it till your card is empty before you top up. You’ll also be provided a spare card in case one of them goes missing. These cards can be cancelled separately to one another.

Using traveller’s cheques

Traveller’s cheques are an outdated travel money product. It’s far easier and much cheaper (using the right product) to get francs by using an ATM. If you do have traveller’s cheques, you can cash your cheques at exchange offices at train stations or at a bank. Exchange offices offer the same rates as banks; however they may charge a commission for the transaction.

Tip: Banks are open during regular business hours Monday to Friday: 8:30am–4:30pm.

Taking a cash with you

It’s cheaper to get your cash exchanged in Switzerland than it is in the UK. It’s cheaper still if you make an ATM withdrawal using a card that doesn’t charge for currency conversion or international withdrawals.

Nonetheless, we always recommend taking some cash with you just in case you do have any issues. If you have pounds or euros you need to exchange in Switzerland, bureaux de change outlets can be found at airports and train stations. You can also change your money at a bank, which will usually give you the most competitive rate for changing cash locally.

Tip: Some large retailers will accept euros (the majority of businesses will not). If you use euros, you will get a worse rate than paying with the local currency.

Yes, the rumours are true, Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world to visit, and, according to some estimates, the most expensive country in the world to live. Although hardly a budget destination, it is possible to save a penny here and there. If you’re on a tight budget, you may have to avoid eating out, or instead enjoy some cheaper international dishes.

*Prices are approximate and based on summer seasonality and are subject to change

Visa and Mastercard branded products are accepted in more places than American Express and Diners cards throughout Switzerland. You will be able to see which cards are accepted in different places by looking for the card scheme logo at the point of sale terminal and ATM machines.

Switzerland is a modern economy with financial services as one of its primary industries, so you won’t need to carry a large amount of cash as you can use your card in more places than not. Make sure your card has a chip. This will let you make contactless payments for over the counter purchases and the majority of point of sale terminals use the chip rather than the magnetic strip to process the payment.

Travel money options for Switzerland at a glance

This table is a general summary of the travel money products in the market. Features and benefits can vary between cards.

It will be cheaper to wait to exchange your British pounds to Swiss francs in Switzerland, either at a bank or by making an ATM withdrawal, rather than getting cash changed in the UK before you depart.

Remember when withdrawing cash to always be charged in the local currency (Swiss francs) as otherwise you’ll be forced to pay the unfavourable Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) exchange rate.

*2024 rate is the average up to 18 April 2024.

Its always best to have a mixture of travel money options so you can benefit from their various advantages at different times. It’s also much safer to have a few different options just in case you experience any problems. A line of credit gives you peace of mind to cover any unforeseen circumstances; while using a debit card or travel card for cash withdrawals and over the counter purchases in Switzerland is much cheaper.

Whether you’re heading to Switzerland to hit the slopes or simply to enjoy the culture, there’s a bit you need to get in order before you depart. Take the right combination of cards so you can withdraw and spend conveniently and cheaply. If you have questions about travel money for Switzerland, ask us a question using the ‘Ask a Question’ form below.

You might be also interested in:

Some general travel tips for Europe that can help you save money
Travel Money Guide: Germany
Travel Money Guide: France

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Delivery options, available branches and fees may vary by value and currency. Branch rates will differ from online rates.  T&Cs apply

Buy Swiss francs online with Post Office 
Choose Click and Collect or home delivery when buying online
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Lake in the centre of a Swiss landscape surrounded by mountains, trees, and snow-capped mountains

Cuckoo for Switzerland? Get your travel money from us

Right at the heart of Europe, Switzerland is a land of majesty and mystery, shrouded in mountains and bordered by France, Germany, Italy, Austria and Lichtenstein, absorbing parts of those cultures into its own. Famous for its high-end luxury, Switzerland isn’t known for budget trips. But spending sensibly can keep your costs down.

Get your Swiss francs with Post Office. We offer great rates and convenience for getting your holiday cash before you set off. You can  order currency online  and choose click and collect or home delivery .

If you order online by 3pm, you can grab your Swiss francs in a local branch of your choice the next working day. Or order by 3pm and we’ll deliver to your home the next working day.

For ease and security, you can load up a Travel Money Card with Swiss francs and pay using contactless payment, Apple Pay and Google Pay .

Get our best rates online. The more you buy, the better the rate.

Get your Swiss currency from us

Voted ‘Best Foreign Exchange/Travel Money Retailer’ at the British Travel Awards 2022

Over 60 currencies available, all with 0% commission and great rates online

Order online or in your local participating Post Office branch

Our best rates are available online, but you can still buy your Swiss francs in branch

Better rates the more you spend, and order between £400 and £2,500

We deliver orders of £500 - £2,500 for free, or it’s £4.99 for orders between £400 and £499

Order by 3pm for home delivery the next working day

We’ll buy back any unused Swiss franc banknotes, or if your holiday’s cancelled we offer a refund guarantee within 28 days of purchase. T&Cs apply

Click and collect in branch

Get hold of your holiday money quickly. Pick it up from the dedicated counter at your nearest Post Office.

Home delivery

Want your cash delivered tomorrow? Order by 3pm today for delivery to your home.

Smarter Swiss travel at your fingertips

You can load your Swiss francs onto our handy Travel Money Card and pay using contactless payments, Apple Pay and Google pay. Plus, top it up and even switch between currencies on our free travel app.

How far will your Swiss francs go?

With leading resorts like Verbier and Zermat as well as some of Europe’s highest peaks, it’s not surprising that snow enthusiasts the world over descend on (or ascend up) Switzerland every year

Aside from the snow sports, Switzerland is also known for its private banking sector and world-leading private schools

All of this together does not a cheap country make. That said, it’s possible to do a Swiss holiday without breaking the bank by saving where possible, if that’s your aim

Try buying food and drink at local supermarkets and preparing it yourself. Avoiding expenses like ski school if you don’t need them. Taking your own equipment if you have it. Choosing your accommodation carefully can all help stay on-piste where your budget’s concerned

And of course, there’s more to Switzerland than skiing, Toblerones and cuckoo clocks. There are the beautiful cities of Geneva, Zurich, Bern, Basel, Lucerne, Lausanne… For a small country, Switzerland packs a punch with its notable towns

Some common questions

What is the swiss franc.

The Swiss franc is the official currency of Switzerland, Liechtenstein and the tiny Campione d’Italia. It is divided into 100 centimes.

Swiss franc banknotes come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 1,000 denominations. Centime coins are 5, 10, 20, 50 (or ‘half-franc’), and franc coins are 1, 2 and 5.

Which countries use the Swiss franc currency?

Swiss francs are used in Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Campione d’Italia. It has a relatively stable value on the stock exchange and is therefore commonly traded.

Where can you buy Swiss francs?

Buy your Swiss francs with Post Office. We’ve got plenty of ways you can order your holiday money – whether that’s at the dedicated counter at any of our participating branches, online or loaded onto a Travel Money Card.

Ordering online is both the most convenient and offers the best rates. And remember, the more you buy, the better the rate.

If you buy online (minimum order £400, maximum £2,500) by 3pm and choose our  click and collect service , your travel money will be ready for pick-up the next working day at branch of your choice. Find a branch near you .

Or if you order by 3pm and choose home delivery instead, we can send your travel money to you by Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm, which aims to deliver the next working day. Orders over £500 have free delivery on working days. Orders of £400 to £499 cost £4.99 to deliver.

Paying with card is common in Switzerland, so you could take a Travel Money Card . It is a prepaid Mastercard® which you can load up with 22 different currencies, including Swiss francs. You can use it as you would your normal card, including with Apple Pay and Google Pay, for contactless payment, chip & PIN and cash withdrawals.

What are the highest and lowest Swiss franc denominations?

The highest Swiss franc banknote is CHF1,000, while the lowest denomination is 5 centimes.

Read all travel money FAQs

Related products, services and information

Popular currencies.

Visiting other countries on the same trip or in the near future? These other currencies might be of interest.

Post Office Travel Money Card is an electronic money product issued by First Rate Exchange Services Ltd pursuant to license by Mastercard International. First Rate Exchange Services Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales with number 4287490 whose registered office is Great West House, Great West Road, Brentford, TW8 9DF, (Financial Services Register No. 900412). Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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Get your Swiss Franc Currency Card
Standard. Free. Sending money abroad or sticking to a budget with built-in tools, no matter your needs, get more from your money with our Standard account. Plus. £3.99/month. Enjoy extra perks like priority in-app support and everyday spending protection, for less than the price of a coffee. All this and more, with Plus.
Free Travel Card
The Swiss Bankers Travel card is the secure prepaid card for use while travelling. You receive the card immediately, can add money to your balance as required and can pay worldwide - without an annual fee and with complete control in terms of spending limits. The Travel Prepaid Card in CHF, EUR and USD is also available at over 200 outlets.
Travel money Switzerland: How to pay & how much to bring
A travel card makes sense if you're spending your time in the Eurozone (France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, etc.) and the UK, but if you're spending the majority of your time in Switzerland, you'll pay for currency conversion when you spend in francs. ... The Swiss Franc is one of the most stable currencies in the world and ...
Guest cards and tickets
Guest cards and tickets. Zurich, guests with Swiss Travel Pass. In most Swiss destinations, guests get a guest card if they book one night's stay or more, or can buy one at a discount. Almost all of these allow you to use public transport for free and to benefit from discounts on numerous attractions and activities.
Take out cash abroad with the Travel Card
The Travel Card is safer than cash and will be replaced free of charge by courier service worldwide in case of loss. The card can be loaded with an amount between 100 and 10,000 in your desired currency (CHF, EUR, USD). Your desired amount is paid for in Swiss francs.
Swiss Travel Pass
The Swiss Travel Pass is available online or at any staffed public transport point of sale. For online purchasing, purchase as a "guest". You do not need a login. The Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Family Card cannot be loaded onto a SwissPass card. You will not receive a customer number or an additional card. Children aged under 6 travel ...
Cash or Card? How to take money to Switzerland
Credit Cards. Mastercard, Visa and American Express credit cards are widely accepted in Switzerland and it is advisable to take a credit card with a chip in it. It is recommended that when using a credit card to make a payment, you request that the transaction be processed in Swiss francs - not your home currency - as this way (in the ...
The Leisure Travelcard on the SwissPass
Unused leisure days cannot be transferred to the subsequent year, however they may be reimbursed. We set off 75 Swiss francs (2nd class) or 127 Swiss francs (1st class) for every used leisure day, which corresponds to a Day Pass for the Half Fare Travelcard. You receive the remaining amount minus the customary deductible of 10 Swiss francs.
Best Swiss franc Exchange Rates
We found 16 travel money suppliers offering £750 worth of Swiss francs for delivery and accepting payment by debit card. You receive fr. 847.73. Exchange rate 1.1303. Insured delivery Free. Buy Now. Travel FX . You receive fr. 847.44. Exchange rate 1.1332.
Swiss Travel Pass
For foreign guests, the all-in-one ticket Swiss Travel Pass is the key to Switzerland's public transport network. This single ticket enables visitors to explore Switzerland from end to end by train, bus and boat on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days. With the Swiss Travel Pass Youth, young people up to their 25th birthday travelling through ...
How to Buy Swiss Francs in the USA Without Huge Fees
1. Swiss Franc Travel Money Card. Travel money cards are prepaid debit cards that let you hold the local currency of your destination (CHF) so that ATMs and point-of-sale devices treat you like a local card holder. Simply top up your card balance in US Dollars and convert those balances to Swiss Francs. Then use your card to pay with peace of ...
Get your Swiss Franc Currency Card
Where is the multi-currency Swiss Franc card available? Order your debit card in the Revolut app and get it sent to you. Then spend in Swiss Francs like a local when you travel to Switzerland. You can order your multi-currency card from 30+ other countries. Check availability via the Revolut app. Start spending abroad.
The Best Places to Buy Swiss Francs in the USA
Swiss franc travel money card. Travel money cards and international prepaid debit cards are a safe and convenient way to spend in Swiss francs - and if you pick the right one they could help you save on currency conversion, too. Top up your card balance in dollars and convert those dollars to Swiss francs to spend in stores and restaurants, or ...
Swiss franc must-knows: currency and payment in Switzerland
Swiss franc symbol. The symbol for the Swiss franc is "CHF". The official currency code (ISO currency standard) is "CHF" as well. Alternatively, the abbreviation "Fr." is widely used as a symbol as well. Swiss franc notes and coins Notes. 10 francs; 20 francs; 50 francs; 100 francs; 200 francs; 1000 francs; Coins
Best ways to spend travel money in Switzerland: Debit and prepaid cards
Prepaid travel cards let you load British pounds and lock in a rate when you convert the funds to Swiss francs. This allows you to avoid paying additional currency conversion fees, often around 3%. It also means that you can load the money at a time when the exchange rate is more favourable, compared to debit and credit cards which use the live ...
GBP to CHF exchange rate
Order online or in your local participating Post Office branch. Our best rates are available online, but you can still buy your Swiss francs in branch. Better rates the more you spend, and order between £400 and £2,500. We deliver orders of £500 - £2,500 for free, or it's £4.99 for orders between £400 and £499.

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