If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, one of the first questions that pops up is: “Will Switzerland take euros?”
It’s a fair question after all, Switzerland sits in the heart of Europe, surrounded by countries that use the euro (EUR). Yet, the Swiss have their own proud and stable currency: the Swiss franc (CHF), also written as Franken in German or francs suisses in French.
So, can you pay in euros? The short answer: Yes, but not everywhere and usually not in your favor. Let’s dive deep into when and where euros work, how to exchange money smartly, and the best ways to manage your spending in Switzerland.
What Currency Does Switzerland Use?
The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF). It’s used across the entire country, including major cities like Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, Bern, and Basel.
Each 1 franc equals 100 centimes (or rappen) depending on the language region. Swiss coins and banknotes are famous for their colorful design, security, and precision much like everything else Swiss-made.
Can You Use Euros in Switzerland?
While Switzerland is not part of the Eurozone, some places do accept euros especially those near borders, in airports, train stations, or tourist-heavy areas.
For example:
- Hotels and major restaurants in Zurich or Geneva may take euros.
- Some supermarkets (like Coop or Migros) near borders accept euros in cash.
- Tourist attractions and railway counters often display prices in both CHF and EUR.
However, if you pay in euros:
- You’ll usually get a poor exchange rate.
- Change will be given in Swiss francs (CHF).
- Small local shops, bakeries, and cafés typically only accept CHF.
Exchange Rate: Euro to Swiss Franc
The exchange rate between EUR and CHF fluctuates slightly daily. You can check live rates using apps like XE Currency, Wise, or Revolut.
When paying in euros inside Switzerland, note that businesses often round the rate for convenience for example, €1 = CHF 0.90 or similar. That’s typically worse than the official rate, so you lose a bit each time.
Using Credit and Debit Cards
The good news: Cards are widely accepted across Switzerland.
Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro work almost everywhere. Even contactless payments like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay are popular.
Card payments are charged in CHF, and your bank handles the currency conversion automatically. Using cards is usually cheaper than cash exchange unless your bank charges foreign transaction fees.
Where Euros Are Commonly Accepted
| Location Type | Euro Acceptance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airports (Zurich, Geneva, Basel) | Yes | Accepted but exchange rate is lower |
| Train Stations (SBB counters) | Yes | Change given in CHF |
| Border Towns (Basel, Chiasso, Geneva) | Yes | Especially near France, Germany, Italy |
| Tourist Attractions | Sometimes | Depends on popularity |
| Local Shops & Markets | No | Only CHF accepted |
| Hotels & Restaurants | Sometimes | Usually only large chains |
Why Switzerland Doesn’t Use the Euro
Even though it’s surrounded by Eurozone countries, Switzerland chose to keep its own currency to maintain economic independence and monetary stability.
The Swiss National Bank (SNB) controls the franc, ensuring stability and protecting against inflation. The franc is seen globally as a “safe-haven currency”, trusted by investors during uncertain times.
This independence helps Switzerland control interest rates, banking policies, and its export economy especially for industries like luxury watches, pharmaceuticals, and finance.
Also Read: Swiss Travel Money
Best Ways to Handle Money in Switzerland
To avoid confusion or losing value when spending euros, here are some smart money-handling tips:
- Use CHF whenever possible – You’ll get better prices.
- Withdraw cash from ATMs – You’ll get the real exchange rate (minus small fees).
- Use multi-currency cards – Apps like Wise, Revolut, or Monzo let you hold CHF.
- Check prices before paying in euros – The exchange rate can vary store to store.
- Avoid airport exchange counters – They often charge higher commission.
What If You Only Have Euros?
If you’re carrying euros, here’s what you can do:
- Exchange them at banks (UBS, Raiffeisen, or Kantonalbank).
- Use them in large shopping centers near borders.
- Convert via ATMs many allow euro withdrawals and CHF deposits.
- Book and pay online in euros if the website allows (especially for hotels).
Currency Conversion Example
| Scenario | Amount in EUR | You Receive (CHF) | Exchange Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Exchange | €100 | CHF 85–88 | Least favorable |
| Bank Exchange | €100 | CHF 88–90 | Better rate |
| Card Payment | €100 | CHF 89–91 | Depends on your bank |
| Wise App | €100 | CHF 90+ | Best rate (mid-market) |
Final Thoughts:
So, will Switzerland take euros? Yes sometimes, but it’s always smarter to use Swiss francs for fair pricing and easy transactions.
Switzerland’s financial independence and strong currency reflect its identity: precise, stable, and uniquely Swiss. Bring a travel card, a bit of local cash, and enjoy your journey without worrying about conversion chaos. Because when you’re surrounded by the Alps and sipping hot chocolate in Zurich, the last thing you want to think about is exchange rates.
Common FAQs About will Switzerland take euros
Q1: Can I use euros in Swiss supermarkets?
Some, like Coop and Migros, do accept euros but only in cash, and the change is in CHF.
Q2: Will hotels in Switzerland take euros?
Yes, many hotels, especially in tourist cities, accept euros but use their own exchange rates.
Q3: Can I withdraw euros from ATMs in Switzerland?
ATMs usually dispense Swiss francs, though a few near borders offer euros.
