Switzerland travel money guide

Money at a glance

DestinationSwitzerland

CurrencySwiss franc

Currency codeCHF

Payment styleCard friendly

Indicative MELBFX rates

CHF rate history

See how the indicative MELBFX rate for Switzerland has moved, then obtain a current quote before ordering.

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Historical rates are indicative observations, not live quotes. Lock a current rate in the order calculator before purchasing.

Cash, cards and ATMs

Cards and contactless payments are widely used, especially in cities. Keep a modest amount of local cash for smaller merchants, tips, transport, service interruptions and places that do not accept your card.

Euros may be accepted, but change is often returned in francs.

Tipping and everyday payments

Service is included; rounding up is optional.

When a card terminal offers to charge you in Australian dollars, compare the conversion carefully. Choosing the local currency usually lets your own card provider perform the conversion, but fees depend on your account.

Everyday spending

Typical Switzerland price guide

Coffee$6–$11 AUDApproximately 3.28–6.01 CHF locallyCafé coffee

Local beer$12–$24 AUDApproximately 6.56–13.11 CHF locallyTypical licensed café, bar or restaurant price.

Glass of wine$16–$35 AUDApproximately 8.74–19.13 CHF locallyTypical licensed café, bar or restaurant price.

Average mid-range holiday spend per person$320–$650 AUD per dayApproximately 175–355 CHF locallyAccommodation, meals, local transport and one paid activity.

TippingFollow local customService is included; rounding up is optional.

Indicative August 2026 planning ranges for one adult are shown in AUD, with an approximate CHF equivalent using the current displayed MELBFX rate. The daily range allows for mid-range accommodation, meals, local transport and one paid activity; it excludes international flights and shopping. City, resort, venue and seasonal prices vary.

Useful words

A small German language guide

HelloGuten Tag

Thank youDanke

GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen

PleaseBitte

Switzerland has several national languages. German is shown here; French, Italian and Romansh are also used by region.

How much cash should I take?

Start with your accommodation and major bookings, then estimate cash-only spending for food, transport, markets, tips and regional travel. Split your travel funds between local cash and at least one backup payment method. Avoid carrying the entire trip budget in one place.

Before you leave

Tell your bank where and when you are travelling.
Check international purchase and ATM fees on each card.
Carry cards from more than one payment network where possible.
Keep emergency funds separate from your day-to-day wallet.
Save your bank’s international contact number offline.
Check current government travel advice before departure.

Frequently asked questions

Should I take cash to Switzerland?

Can I order CHF before I travel?

Yes. Use the MELBFX calculator to select your foreign amount or AUD budget, lock the displayed retail rate and choose collection from Southland, Waverley Gardens or Mornington.

Which banknotes will I receive?

Choose Mix, Large or Small as your banknote preference on the review page. Preferences are subject to stock and note availability.

When should I order?

Allow enough time for payment to clear and for the selected store to prepare your order. You will receive a message when it is ready to collect.

This guide is general information, not financial advice. Payment acceptance, fees, currency controls and local customs can change. Confirm important details with official sources and visit Smartraveller for current travel advice.