Switzerland

Switzerland (Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft)

A state in Western Europe. The name of the country comes from name of one of the three original cantons of Schwyz. Switzerland is a member of the UN since 2002 and is part of the Schengen Agreement since 2004. Being a traditional country of tourism, Switzerland traditionally holds quite a strong position in this area in Europe. The favorable geographical position, coupled with its picturesque landscape, as well as a well-developed tourist infrastructure provides the influx of a large number of tourists. Alps occupy 2/3 of the whole of Switzerland, attracting thousands of outdoor enthusiasts. Switzerland - a true paradise for skiers, climbers and all lovers of travel, and actively spend time and relax in the fresh air. Basic kinds of tourism in Switzerland - excursions and recreation, leisure, ski resorts.

General information

The location, grounds and landscape 

Switzerland - a country with no access to the sea, whose territory is divided into three natural regions: the Jura Mountains in the north, the Swiss plateau in the heart of the Alps in the south, occupying 61% of the territory of Switzerland. Borders in the north with Germany, in the south - with Italy in the west - with France, in the east - with Austria and Liechtenstein.

The country's territory is 41 284 км². 

Most of the country is located on the territory of the Alps. In the south are located the Pennine Alps (altitude up to 4,634 m - Dufour Peak, the highest point in Switzerland), Lepontine Alps, Rhaetian Alps and the Bernina Massif. The main passes are located above 2000 meters above sea level. For mountain landscape in Switzerland is characteristic a large number of glaciers and glacial landforms, the total area of ​​glaciers - 1950 km ². Just in Switzerland, there are about 140 large valley glaciers (Aletsch glacier and others), there is also a cirque and hanging glaciers.

Population: more than 7 million 950 thousand people.

Capital: Bern (de facto) with the population of 138 thousand people.

Biggest cities: Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, Lausanne.

Languages: official languages ​​are German, French, Italian and partially Romansh (the latter only for business communication with persons native Romansh language).

Religion: Protestants make up about 49% of the population, Catholics - about 49%.

Time zone: UTC +1.

Calling code: +41.

Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF). Produced banknotes in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 1000 francs. Rates 1.00 USD ≅ 0.89 CHF, 1.00 EUR ≅ 0.81 CHF.

Credit card payment systems:  Visa, MasterCard, American Express.