You’re probably reading this because you’re asking yourself what’s it like to live in Switzerland? Cheese, mountains, chocolate and money surely come into mind when you think of Switzerland but what is Switzerland actually like?
I’ve lived in Switzerland my whole life (19 years!) and want to write my experience on what it’s like to live in Switzerland for me. Of course, this is based on my own experiences and own opinions so it’s not the same for everyone!
Yeah it is expensive
Switzerland is probably known to be a quite expensive country and it’s definitely true! Although the cost of living is adapted to the average wage, it can still get quite expensive. I feel like as a local I tend to not notice it, but as soon as I travel to another country I realize how expensive Switzerland actually is. Apparently Switzerland is the home to the most expensive McDonald’s burger lol! But of course, since everything is more expensive everything is definitely the best quality…
The landscapes are pretty nice
When you think of Switzerland you probably think of mountains, cows, snow, and chalets. Well let me tell you, Switzerland is exactly that! Of course, we do have big cities such as Zurich, Geneva or Lausanne, but we also do have a heck lot of mountains! I would say this is a great advantage for hiking and nature lovers since we have plenty of hiking trails! Often if you want a nice holiday, you don’t need to travel far as there is so much to do and discover in Switzerland.
Its location is handy
Being surrounded by Germany, Italy, Austria and France it is a great location when wanting to travel, as you can easily get to another country in less than 3 hours (by driving) depending on where in Switzerland you are based. For example, I live only 10 minutes away from the French border so it’s super handy!
Plus, flying to another country in Europe by plane from Switzerland is super easy and fast!
Languages and more languages!
Yes, in Switzerland we do have 4 national languages which are Italian, German, French and Romansch so it is useful to know at least 2 of them if you want to live here. Everything is always written in the 3 main languages so that’s always convenient!
The food is delicious
Cheese, chocolate and more chocolate. If you come to Switzerland, you need to try our typical dishes such as fondue, raclette, rösti and our finest chocolates. Us Swiss, definitely do eat a lot of it as well. In winter, raclette and fondue are our main dishes, so if you love cheese and chocolate, Switzerland is your go-to place! I personally love all the food here!
Trains, buses, boats
Switzerland’s transport system is actually super handy! In about 4 hours of train ride, you can get across the country. Although the tickets are super expensive…the trains rides are often really scenic and relaxing! I do suggesting having a car though depending on where you live it can be quite far from public transport.
The weather is perfect
Hot in the summer but not scorching, snow in the winter but not too much? Switzerland weather is perfect according to me! You get the best of both world yet not in the extremes. Of course, it depends in what part of Switzerland you live.
In summer, although we are not close to the sea, we have plenty of lakes where you can go for a swim!
Its quite safe and clean
Switzerland is a quite safe place to live. Most of the time I would feel safe walking alone but of course, you should always be careful when walking around in the big cities but it’s definitely safer than most countries. It’s also very clean!
What’s the conclusion?
Living in Switzerland is a great experience. It’s clean, it has nature, amazing landscape, food, good quality of life. So if you’re thinking of moving here then go for it! If you end up not liking it then at least you’ll have the chocolate to comfort you…
So what do you think? Have you ever lived in Switzerland before or are you thinking on moving here soon? Let me know in the comments!
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