Switzerland: Schengen Guide for UK Travellers
Yes, Switzerland is a member of the Schengen zone, but it is not in the European Union. This distinction confuses many travellers. Despite not being an EU member, Switzerland signed bilateral agreements to join the Schengen area in 2008. Every day you spend in Switzerland counts toward your 90-day Schengen allowance.
Switzerland is famous for its Alps, chocolate, watches, and precision trains. For UK travellers, it is one of the most expensive European destinations but also one of the most rewarding. The scenery is extraordinary, the cities are clean and efficient, and the transport system is arguably the best in the world. Just remember: it uses the Swiss Franc, not the Euro, and it counts as Schengen days.
Key Facts
- Schengen Member: Yes
- EU Member: No
- Year Joined Schengen: 2008
- Capital: Bern
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh
Switzerland is in the Schengen zone but is NOT a member of the European Union. This is a common source of confusion. Days in Switzerland count toward your Schengen allowance.
Visiting Switzerland?
Switzerland is Schengen but not EU, which confuses many travellers. Every day counts toward your 90-day limit. Track your Swiss trip with Entorii alongside all your other Schengen travels.
How Long Can You Stay?
UK passport holders can stay in Switzerland (and the wider Schengen zone) for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period. Despite Switzerland not being in the EU, it is a full Schengen member. Days in Switzerland count exactly the same as days in France, Italy, or any other Schengen country.
A typical Swiss trip for UK visitors lasts 5 to 10 days, often focused on a specific region (the Bernese Oberland, Zermatt, or the Engadin) or a scenic train journey. Switzerland's high costs make very long stays expensive, which naturally keeps most trips well within the 90-day limit.
Top Destinations in Switzerland
Zermatt & the Matterhorn (3-4 days)
Car-free village at the foot of the Matterhorn with world-class skiing and hiking.
Lucerne & Lake Lucerne (2-3 days)
Medieval covered bridge, mountain excursions to Pilatus and Rigi, and stunning lake views.
Interlaken & Jungfrau Region (3-5 days)
Gateway to the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau peaks, with hiking, paragliding, and Lauterbrunnen.
Zurich (2 days)
Switzerland's largest city with excellent museums, a vibrant old town, and lake views.
Geneva & Lake Geneva (2-3 days)
International city on the French border with the Jet d'Eau fountain, CERN, and vineyard terraces.
Getting There from the UK
Direct flights from the UK serve Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. Flight times are about one and a half to two hours. British Airways, SWISS, easyJet, and Jet2 operate regular services. Geneva is also accessible by TGV from Paris (about 3 hours), and Zurich connects to Munich and Milan by fast train. The Eurostar from London to Paris with a TGV connection reaches Geneva in about seven hours total.
Travel Tips
Switzerland is expensive. Budget at least 50 to 80 pounds per person per day for meals, and significantly more for accommodation. The Swiss Travel Pass covers trains, buses, boats, and most mountain railways at a fixed daily rate, and can be excellent value for active travellers. Swiss trains are famously punctual and scenic, with routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express ranking among the world's greatest rail journeys.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF), not the Euro. Some places near the borders accept Euros but give change in Francs. Credit cards are widely accepted. Tipping is not expected as service is included, but rounding up is common. Tap water is safe and excellent throughout the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Switzerland in the Schengen zone?
Yes. Switzerland joined the Schengen zone in 2008 through bilateral agreements. It is a full Schengen member despite not being a member of the European Union.
Is Switzerland in the EU?
No. Switzerland is not a member of the European Union. It has its own currency (Swiss Franc), its own government, and separate trade agreements. However, it is in the Schengen zone, which means free movement across borders and shared Schengen day counting.
Do I need to exchange currency for Switzerland?
Yes. Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF), not the Euro. You will need Swiss Francs for most transactions, although some border areas and tourist locations accept Euros. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country.
How long can a UK citizen stay in Switzerland?
UK citizens can stay in Switzerland for up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period under the Schengen rules. This limit is shared across all 29 Schengen countries combined.
Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?
The Swiss Travel Pass covers all trains, buses, boats, and many mountain railways for a fixed number of days. At current prices, it typically pays for itself within 2-3 days of active travel. It also includes free entry to over 500 museums. For UK visitors planning to travel extensively within Switzerland, it offers excellent value.