Swiss culture & living in Switzerland

If you’re planning to move to Switzerland or have recently arrived, you might be wondering how to navigate everyday life, integrate into Swiss culture, and understand the country’s unique customs.

Switzerland is known for its breathtaking landscapes, high standard of living, and efficiency.

But beyond these surface impressions, adapting to life in Switzerland involves understanding a set of unwritten social rules that govern interactions, punctuality, and lifestyle choices.

In this guide, we’ll take a deeper look at what it means to live in Switzerland, debunk common myths, and help you feel at home in this well-organized and unique country.

 

What you'll find in this guide ⤵︎

 

🔎 1. Super Quick Overview: What to Expect Before Moving to Switzerland

😮 2. What Might Surprise You: Common Cultural Shocks in Switzerland

🧩 3. Social Etiquette: How to Integrate into Swiss Society

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 4. Life in Switzerland for Expat Families

🇨🇭 5. The Röstigraben: Cultural Differences Within Switzerland

🧀 6. Swiss Lifestyle: Hiking, Fitness, and Apéro

💬 7. Essential Swiss Phrases and Expressions for Everyday Life

👩‍🎓 8. Student Life in Switzerland

📍 9. How to Adapt to Life in Switzerland

 

1. Super Quick Overview: What to Expect Before Moving to Switzerland

Switzerland offers an excellent quality of life, consistently ranking among the world’s top countries for safety, infrastructure, and healthcare. The country’s strong economy, well-maintained public transport system, and stunning landscapes make it an attractive place to live and work.

That said, relocating to Switzerland involves a couple of requirements that you should know in advance.

 

1.1 Eligibility and Requirements for Moving

Moving to Switzerland involves navigating a series of eligibility criteria and requirements, mainly depending on whether you are an EU/EFTA or non-EU/EFTA national. This means having a valid passport, demonstrating language proficiency, and proving sufficient financial resources.

When it comes to residence permits, there are several options to consider:

• L Permit: This is a temporary permit typically issued for short-term employment with a specific company. It’s ideal for those who have secured a job in Switzerland but are not planning to stay long-term.

• B Permit: This temporary permit is suitable for those who are either studying or working in Switzerland. It allows for a longer stay compared to the L permit and is renewable.

• C Permit: For those looking to settle in Switzerland indefinitely, the C permit is a permanent residence permit. It allows you to live and work in Switzerland without any time restrictions.

Upon arrival, international citizens must register with the local authorities and obtain their residence permit within 14 days. This process involves visiting the local Gemeinde (municipality) office, where you’ll need to present your passport, proof of address, and other relevant documents.

Understanding these requirements and preparing accordingly can make your transition to living in Switzerland much smoother.

 

1.2 Cost of Living and Finances

Switzerland is renowned for its high standard of living, but this comes with a higher cost of living compared to most countries. Be prepared for higher prices on everyday expenses such as groceries, dining out, and accommodation. However, it’s worth noting that purchasing power is also higher in Switzerland, which can help offset some of these costs.

When planning your move, it’s essential to consider several key financial aspects:

• Healthcare: Switzerland does not have a national health service. Instead, residents must purchase private health insurance. It’s crucial to choose a Swiss health insurance company that meets your needs and budget.

• Education: If you have children, you’ll need to factor in the cost of education. While public schools are free and of high quality, they are primarily taught in the local language. International schools, which offer curricula such as the International Baccalaureate, can be quite expensive.

• Housing: Accommodation costs vary significantly depending on the location. Cities like Zurich and Geneva are among the most expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas are more affordable.

 

2. What Might Surprise You: Common Cultural Shocks in Switzerland

Even the most seasoned travellers can experience moments of surprise—or outright confusion—when settling into a new country. And while Switzerland is known for being clean, safe, and efficient, it also has a unique rhythm of life that can feel unexpectedly rigid or unfamiliar at first.

Here are some of the most common cultural shocks people encounter while living in Switzerland, along with a few thoughts on how to adapt with a bit more ease.

 

2.1. Punctuality as an Art

The Swiss take punctuality very seriously. Whether you have a business meeting, a dinner invitation, or an appointment at the doctor’s office, arriving late is considered disrespectful. 

However, arriving too early isn’t ideal either. The perfect time to arrive? Precisely at the agreed moment or five minutes before.

This commitment to punctuality isn’t just about being efficient—it’s a fundamental part of building trust and credibility. In Switzerland, reliability is everything. 

Being known as someone who respects time can influence everything from career opportunities to securing an apartment.

✅ Even Swiss public transport reflects this cultural value. Trains, trams, and buses run like clockwork, and delays of even a minute are rare. If you’re used to a more relaxed approach to timekeeping, adjusting to this level of precision can take some getting used to!

 

2.2. Silence Is Golden

One of the first things newcomers notice is how quiet Swiss society can be. It’s not just about speaking in hushed tones—it’s a broader cultural preference for calm and low noise levels.

Public spaces like trams and lifts are often nearly silent. Loud phone conversations or boisterous laughter in public may draw disapproving looks.

Sundays and evenings are for rest, and even vacuuming or doing laundry during 'quiet hours' may breach building etiquette in some areas.

✅ Our tip: Embrace the calm. It’s part of the broader culture of mutual respect. Just don’t forget to read the building notice board—rules about noise are usually posted there.

 

2.3. Reserved Social Culture

If you come from a culture where people smile at strangers, strike up conversations in queues, or spontaneously invite you for dinner—you may find the Swiss socially distant at first.

This isn’t rudeness. It’s a different concept of privacy and boundaries. Social circles are formed slowly and intentionally, often built around long-term consistency rather than fast bonding.

✅ Our Tip: Focus on consistency. Join local clubs, attend events regularly, volunteer, or get involved in school life if you have children. Over time, you’ll be invited in—and once you are, the warmth and loyalty are genuine.

 

2.4. Rules (and Trust in the System)

One of the most fascinating shocks for newcomers is the strict observance of rules—paired with deep public trust in institutions. You’ll see people stopping at red pedestrian lights even when no cars are coming, recycling sorted to near perfection, and an almost religious devotion to proper garbage disposal.

This may feel limiting at first, but it’s also what makes Swiss society run so smoothly.

✅ Our Tip: Learn the rules early - especially around waste, driving, and housing - and follow them. It’s less about obedience and more about contributing to a shared sense of fairness.

 

2.5. Formality in Everyday Interactions

In many areas of life—from how you greet people to how services are provided—Swiss interactions tend to be formal and structured. Titles and surnames are commonly used until someone explicitly invites first-name terms.

Even in casual settings, the Swiss can appear restrained, particularly when it comes to humour or expressing strong emotions publicly.

✅ Our Tip: Start formally, stay polite, and follow the lead of the person you're talking to. Relationships take time to build, but once trust is there, Swiss friendships are loyal and enduring.

 

3. Social Etiquette: How to Integrate into Swiss Society

Swiss people are friendly but reserved, especially with those outside their immediate circles. Unlike in some cultures where spontaneous gatherings are common, Swiss social life tends to be carefully planned.

 

3.1 Building Relationships with Neighbours and Colleagues

Unlike some other countries where neighbours frequently drop by for a chat, Swiss people view their homes as private spaces. Instead of inviting people over casually, neighbours often meet in common areas like shared gardens, parking spaces, or at local events.

If you’re new, don’t wait for your neighbours to introduce themselves—it’s up to you to make the first move. A simple gesture, such as inviting them for a casual drink or snacks, can help break the ice. But don’t expect immediate friendships. Swiss people value long-term relationships, and it takes time to build trust.

At work, the same principles apply. Social interactions tend to be formal, and colleagues may not immediately engage in casual conversations. Over time, as they get to know you, relationships will become warmer.

 

3.2 Basic Social Courtesies

• Always greet people properly: In German-speaking regions, a handshake is common, while in French and Italian-speaking areas, cheek kisses (usually three) are more frequent.

• If invited for dinner, bring a small gift such as flowers, chocolates, or wine.

• Wait for the host to make a toast before drinking at a meal.

• Sundays are quiet days—avoid noisy activities, as they are generally frowned upon.

• If hosting a gathering, inform your neighbours in advance, or better yet, invite them.

These small gestures will help you integrate more easily into Swiss society and demonstrate respect for local customs.

 

4. Life in Switzerland for Expat Families

Adapting to a new school system, understanding local healthcare options, and finding social networks can feel overwhelming. However, there are many resources available to help families settle in smoothly.

4.1. Education Options for Expat Children: International Schools

Switzerland has a mix of public, private, and international schools, allowing families to choose an education system that best suits their needs.

• Public Schools: Highly regarded for their quality but primarily taught in the local language (German, French, or Italian). Great for long-term integration.

• International Schools: Offer curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British, American, and French systems. Ideal for families planning to stay for a limited time.

• Bilingual Schools: Combine Swiss and international curricula, helping children become fluent in multiple languages.

 

4.2 Family-Friendly Infrastructure and Activities

Switzerland is an extremely family-friendly country, offering:

• Safe, clean cities with excellent public transport

• Playgrounds and green spaces in every town

• Well-organized childcare options, including crèches, Tagesmütter (day mothers), and after-school programs

For activities, families can explore:

• Swiss museums with interactive exhibits for kids (e.g., the Technorama Science Centre)

• Zoos and animal parks (e.g., Zurich Zoo, Goldingen Wildlife Park)

• Lake and mountain day trips (e.g., boat cruises on Lake Geneva, mountain excursions to Jungfraujoch)

4.3. Cultural Shocks for Expats with Children

For families, some of the biggest shocks while adapting to life in Switzerland emerge not from language or logistics, but from how Swiss society approaches childhood, education, and parenting.

• Children Are Expected to Be Independent Early

  Swiss culture places a strong emphasis on independence from a young age. It’s common to see primary school children walking to school alone, taking public transport, or playing outside without close adult supervision. This trust in children—and the systems around them—can feel startling to newcomers.

  ▹ How to adapt: Take it step by step. Speak with local parents or teachers about what’s developmentally expected. While it might feel uncomfortable at first, you may come to appreciate the confidence this approach builds in children.

   

• The School System Is Decentralised and Structured Differently

  Swiss education is not one-size-fits-all. Each canton runs its own school system, and many newcomers are surprised by its early streaming of children into academic or vocational paths. Homework begins early, and expectations for behaviour are high, even in primary school.

  Also, schools often operate on split schedules, with children coming home for lunch or having free afternoons—requiring parents to plan around midday pickups or arrange lunchtime care.

  ▹ How to adapt: Learn how your canton’s system works, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. A guidance call can help clarify what’s typical in your region and whether a bilingual, local, or international school is the best fit for your family.

   

• Limited After-School Activities (at First Glance)

  Unlike some countries where school clubs and extended day programs are extensive, many Swiss schools do not offer after-school care or enrichment programs as part of the standard school day. What exists is often privately organised, requiring proactive sign-up and early planning.

  ▹ How to adapt: Look for Gemeinde (local council) activity offerings, join parent WhatsApp groups, and explore local sports, music, and art clubs. These can also be great ways to build social connections for both children and parents.

   

• High Trust, Low Fuss

  Swiss society tends to avoid helicopter parenting. Children are trusted to manage tasks, resolve conflicts, and explore their environment. Teachers may not communicate frequently unless there’s an issue, and there is less emphasis on constantly tracking academic progress.

  ▹ How to adapt: This can feel like a breath of fresh air or a source of anxiety, depending on your parenting style. Understanding that less visible involvement doesn’t mean lack of care can help ease the transition. When in doubt, reach out to your child’s teacher—they’re usually happy to clarify expectations.

 

5. The Röstigraben: Cultural Differences Within Switzerland

Switzerland isn’t a single cultural entity—it’s a country with four national languages and distinct regional traditions.

Citizens of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries can enter Switzerland without a visa for up to three months, similar to EU citizens, and have various residence permits available for long-term stays.

The Röstigraben (literally “Rösti ditch”) refers to the cultural divide between the German-speaking and French-speaking parts of Switzerland. The name humorously comes from Rösti, a potato dish popular in German-speaking areas.

Similarly, the Polentagraben marks the divide between the Italian-speaking Ticino region and the rest of the country.

Even daily life differs from one region to another:

• Swiss Germans are known for their efficiency, formality, and structured approach to life.

• Swiss French tend to be more relaxed and expressive in their social interactions.

• Swiss Italians have a Mediterranean-influenced lifestyle, with a greater emphasis on social gatherings.

Understanding these differences can help you adapt to life in Switzerland depending on the region you choose to live in.

 

6. Swiss Lifestyle: Hiking, Fitness, and Apéro

One of the best parts of living in Switzerland is the country’s incredible outdoor lifestyle. Swiss people love to stay active, and whether it's hiking, skiing, or cycling, outdoor activities play a huge role in everyday life.

Hiking is particularly popular, and Switzerland offers over 65,000 km of marked trails. 

Unlike a casual Sunday walk, Swiss hiking can be challenging, often involving steep mountain paths, glaciers, and even the occasional encounter with a herd of curious cows.

Swiss seniors are some of the fittest people you’ll meet. Don’t be surprised if you see 70-year-olds effortlessly overtaking you on a steep mountain trail!

If you want to truly embrace Swiss culture, investing in a sturdy pair of hiking boots and hitting the trails is a great way to start.

 

6.1. Popular Pastimes in Switzerland Beyond Outdoor Activities

While hiking and skiing are deeply embedded in Swiss culture, locals also enjoy various other pastimes:

Pictured above: alpine descents festivals - one of the best ways to explore Swiss traditions and local flavor

 

• Cultural Events & Festivals: Switzerland has a rich tradition of festivals, from the Montreux Jazz Festival to the Fête de l’Escalade in Geneva.

• Board Games & Cards: Many Swiss families enjoy traditional card games like Jass, which has regional variations across the country.

• Fondue & Raclette Evenings: Gathering around a hot pot of melted cheese is a beloved social activity, especially in the winter months.

• Visiting Thermal Baths: With natural hot springs across the country, spending time at wellness spas like Leukerbad is a favourite pastime.

• Cinema & Theatre: Local cinemas showcase Swiss and international films, while cities like Zurich and Lausanne have thriving theatre scenes.

• Wine & Cheese Tastings: Many Swiss enjoy weekend trips to vineyards in regions like Lavaux or Ticino.

These pastimes reflect another side of the Switzerland lifestyle, balancing adventure with relaxation and social connection.

 

6.2. The Swiss Apéro: Language, Culture, and Expectations

One essential part of Swiss social life that newcomers are often delighted to discover is the “Apéro” — short for apéritif.

An Apéro is a pre-meal social gathering where drinks (often wine, prosecco, or local specialties) are served alongside light snacks like cheese, cured meats, olives, nuts, and bread. While similar to a happy hour, it tends to be more structured and holds a stronger cultural value in Switzerland.

🍷 What to Expect at an Apéro

• It can be formal or informal: An apéro can be as casual as chatting with neighbours in the garden or as formal as a business-related networking event.

• It often replaces a full meal: Don’t expect dinner afterwards unless you’re told otherwise — a “rich apéro” (Apéro riche) often is the meal.

• Everyone is invited to toast: Wait for the host to raise a glass and make a toast — usually with a simple “Prost!” in German, “Santé!” in French, or “Salute!” in Italian. Make eye contact while clinking glasses.

• Be punctual: As with everything else in Switzerland, being exactly on time for an apéro is important.

• Don’t overstay: Apéros have a natural time limit, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours. When you sense things are winding down, thank the host and leave politely.

 

7. Essential Swiss Phrases and Expressions for Everyday Life

When you first move to Switzerland, you’ll quickly notice that even though many Swiss speak excellent English, most everyday interactions — especially with local authorities — happen in one of the national languages: German, French, Italian, or Romansh.

For most newcomers, especially in the German-speaking regions, encountering Swiss German (Schweizerdeutsch) can feel like a language barrier all of its own. It differs significantly from High German (Hochdeutsch), and even fluent German speakers may find it difficult to understand at first.

While locals don’t expect you to master Swiss German immediately, knowing a few key words and expressions will help you navigate daily life and official matters, and it shows respect for the culture in Switzerland.

 

7.1. Common Swiss German Words & Phrases for Daily Use

These expressions will come in handy during casual conversations, shopping, or simply being polite in public:

7.2. Useful Phrases for Interacting with Local Authorities

When you’re handling official matters like registering your residence, enrolling kids in school, or sorting out health insurance, these terms might pop up:

Knowing these words will help you better understand official documents and know what to ask for when dealing with the administrative side of living in Switzerland.

 

8. Student Life in Switzerland: A Blend of Independence and Academic Rigor

For international students, living in Switzerland offers a unique combination of academic excellence, multicultural exposure, and high quality of life — but it also comes with a few surprises.

Switzerland is home to some of the world’s most respected universities and technical institutes, including ETH Zurich and EPFL in Lausanne. Degrees are often delivered in English at the master’s and PhD level, while undergraduate programs may require proficiency in the local language (German, French, or Italian, depending on the region).

For internationals considering studying in Switzerland, there are several important factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, you must meet all visa requirements before travelling. This typically involves securing a student visa, which requires proof of acceptance from a Swiss educational institution, evidence of sufficient financial resources, and health insurance coverage.

Then, you will need to have health insurance coverage. Some Swiss universities offer health insurance plans for international students, but you may also need to explore private health insurance options.

 

🎓 What Stands Out About Swiss Student Life?

• Academic culture is structured and demanding: Students are expected to work independently, manage their time well, and come prepared. Professors tend to be accessible but formal, and participation is important — though less casual than in other countries.

• The lifestyle is practical and low-key: While there are student bars and events, Swiss universities don’t always have the same campus social life found in the UK or US. Socialising often happens in smaller circles, during club activities or informal gatherings.

• Living costs are high, but public infrastructure is excellent: Many students live in shared flats (WG or Wohngemeinschaften) and get around using excellent public transport. University cafeterias (Mensa) offer affordable meals, and libraries and study spaces are typically modern and well-resourced.

• Work-life balance is valued: Students often spend weekends hiking, skiing, or travelling. With a central location in Europe, Switzerland makes weekend trips to neighbouring countries easy — if your budget allows.

9. How to Adapt to Life in Switzerland

Adjusting to a new country takes time, but there are ways to make the transition smoother:

• Learn the local language: While many Swiss speak English, knowing German, French, or Italian will make daily life much easier.

• Get involved in local activities: Joining a sports club, volunteering, or attending local events can help you meet people.

• Respect privacy and social boundaries: Swiss people value their personal space, so be mindful of social cues.

• Embrace outdoor activities: Hiking, skiing, and cycling are great ways to integrate into local culture.

• Be punctual and organized: This will help you professionally and socially.