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Do's & Don'ts in Switzerland


If you want to give a gift to someone in Switzerland, you might be tempted to give something extravagant. However, in Switzerland, expensive or extravagant gifts can be viewed as tacky - or worse, as a sign of bribery. Instead, give something simple but elegant, like wine, high quality chocolates, or flowers.
The Swiss appreciate honesty and tolerance. In order to respect the things most important to them, you should learn about Switzerland's culture and etiquette. Below is a list of dos and don'ts for you to keep in mind on your trip to Switzerland.

1. What to Wear
  • DO dress conservatively and neatly.
  • DO wear a suit and tie to a business meeting if you are a man, or a suit or dress if you are a woman.
2. Food/Drinks
  • DON'T drink until after the first toast. The first toast is always given by the host.
  • DON'T rest your hands in your lap during a meal. Keep your hands on the table, but keep your elbows off the table!
  • DO use your fork to cut food such as salad and potatoes instead of a knife.
  • DO break bread with your hand, but most other food should be eaten with utensils.
  • DON'T ask for salt and pepper if it's not already on the table.
  • DON'T smoke while eating.
  • DO eat everything off your plate and sample a little bit of everything, especially when dining at someone's home.
  • DO put your knife and fork side by side at the 5:25 position when you're done eating to indicate that you are finished.
3. Tipping

DON'T feel obligated to tip. A service charge is included in restaurants and hotels. However, in a more expensive restaurant, it is customary to round the bill up or leave a few extra Swiss franks.
DO give a tour guide a small gift as opposed to a tip.

4. Gift Giving and Accepting Gifts
  • DON'T give anything sharp as a gift, such as knives or scissors. This signifies severing off the friendship.
  • DO give gifts such as books, candy, chocolate, pastries, wine, or whiskey.
  • DON'T give large or expensive gifts. It can be seen as tacky or even as a form of bribery.
  • DON'T give red roses or carnations, as they signify romantic intentions. White chrysanthemums and white lilies should be avoided too, because they're for funerals. Flowers should always be given in odd numbers.
  • DO maintain good posture.
  • DON'T put your hands in your pockets while talking to people.
  • DON'T chew gum, litter, or clean your nails in public.
  • DON'T point your index finger to your head. It's considered an insulting gesture.
5. Greeting
  • DO shake hands upon meeting someone. Shake hands with all who are present, including children.
  • DON'T address someone by their first name until invited to do so. Use surnames and titles instead.
6. Language
  • DO recognize that Switzerland has four official languages: German, Italian, French, and Romansch. Romansch is the least commonly spoken language in Switzerland.
  • 8. Visiting Someone's Home
  • DON'T ask your hosts for a tour of their home.
  • DON'T leave a party later than midnight.
  • DON'T put your feet up on the furniture.
  • DO send flowers to your hosts either before a party or the next day, along with a thank you note.
  • DON'T be more than 30 minutes late to a dinner party, although showing up 15 minutes late is acceptable.
7. Business
  • DO be on time and call with an explanation if you are running late.
  • DO give a business card to everyone you meet.
  • DO be conservative in business environments. There is not much small talk and meetings tend to be very orderly.
  • DO be prepared to give a gift in case you are offered one, although gifts are not usually exchanged at business meetings.
  • DON'T use high pressure sales tactics.
  • DON'T call a businessperson at their home unless it's an emergency.
8. Conversation
  • DO be polite. You will find that when talking to a waiter or a store employee, the Swiss will greet you with a "hello" or "excuse me", and say "please" and "thank you" a lot. It may seem overly formal, but not speaking this way can be viewed as rude.
  • DON'T ask personal questions, such as questions about salary, age, or religion.
  • DON'T speak loudly in public, especially on a cell phone.
The Swiss are very proud of their country's heritage, history, and culture. Because of this, you must remember to respect Switzerland and its people by following their etiquette. Have a safe and happy trip to Switzerland!

Comments (8)

  • Comment# 8
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    dib5/20/2012 6:44:59 PM

    Hi, please let me know how good is switzerland for masters in computer science

  • Comment# 7
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    farook5/17/2012 5:09:13 PM

    GESTO Hotel Management Institute Offers: Degree, Diploma and International Certificates with 100% Placement Assistance. For More Details visit: http//:www.gestoacademy.com

  • Comment# 6
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    merin4/14/2012 10:54:35 PM

    is there any stay back option for study visa program? i am a nurse by profession.

  • Comment# 5
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    vicky1/12/2012 11:02:57 AM

    i am indian i completed my graduation and i want to admission in master degree in abroad please help me.

  • Comment# 4
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    shadow11/10/2011 4:27:21 PM

    I've been to Switzerland recently for some shopping and it was really nice! I bought lots of stuff including some marina de bourbon perfume for my loved one. It was really expensive the trip plus the shopping but in my opinion it was really worth it! I recommend you go shopping there if you have the time and the money.

  • Comment# 3
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    Oliver10/24/2011 8:10:09 PM

    Switzerland is in generally expensive but there are also free offers for museums available. For a list of docens of free museums please check the following web-site: www.baden-bremgarten-wohlen-zurich-schweiz-stetten-lodge-bnb.ch/gratis.html

  • Comment# 2
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    John10/14/2011 4:04:53 PM

    nice article. yahoo

  • Comment# 1
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    Md.Muktadir Billah10/6/2011 6:29:22 PM

    I am Bangladeshi.I completed HSC in 2004.I want to admission in bachelor degree in your institutions.Please help me.

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