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The Low Down on Swiss Currency

Currency:

Swiss franc

Currency code:

CHF

Central Bank:

Swiss National Bank

Currency symbol:

FR., CHf (franc)

Currency sub unit:

c (centime)

Bank notes:

10 FR, 20 FR, 50 FR, 100 FR, 200 FR, 1,000 FR

Coins:

5, 10, 20, 50 centimes, 1 FR, 2 FR, 5 FR




The Swiss Franc is the official currency of Switzerland. It is identified by the symbols FR. or CHf. CHF stands for Confoederatio Helvetica Franc. Confoederatio is the Latin name for the Swiss Confederation. The name ‘franc’ was derived from the Latin words ‘Francorum Rex’ (King of Franks).



The Swiss Franc is not backed by Gold like many other currencies. The Swiss National Bank has the power to print any amount of Swiss currency. The Swiss currency subunits differ for each region i.e. Centime in French, Rappen in German, Centisimo in Italian and Rap in Romansh.



It is important to note when travelling to Switzerland that the country is not a member of the European Union, it is a part of the European Economic Area. As a result, it does not make use of the Euro as the official currency. The Swiss franc is however, legal tender in Switzerland, Liechtenstein and the Italian exclave of Campione d’Italia.



There are 4 national languages spoken in Switzerland: French, German, Italian and Romansh.



What to spend your franc on**:

  • *

    A bar of authentic Swiss chocolate

    2.5 CHF *

  • *

    A cup of cappuccino

    4.58 CHF *

  • *

    A cheese fondue for two in a restaurant

    32 CHF *

  • *

    Bottle of water

    3.19 CHF *

  • *

    A 1 km taxi ride

    4 CHF *

How many Swiss franc will I need?**

Please select your budget above.


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* * * * * *

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Total spending money needed:

  • *A budget
  • *for people for
  • * nights


*Recalculate

Must-sees in Switzerland

*
  • Geneva
  • Located on the edge of Lake Geneva and the foot of the Swiss Alps, the city of Geneva is a beautiful combination of architecture, nature, commerce and culture. From the landmark Jet d’Eau shooting water over 400 feet in the air, to the numerous luxury timepiece manufacturers based in the city, Geneva exudes sophistication.
*
  • Zurich
  • Switzerland’s largest city, and winner of numerous ‘quality of life’ accolades, Zurich is a financial powerhouse with a scenery to match. When making a visit, the numerous art galleries, museums and theatres are a must for any traveller.
*
  • Verbier
  • For those with a penchant for powder, the slopes of Verbier offer breathtaking scenery and action-packed skiing. With views of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, this Alpine village offers a classic taste of Switzerland.

Buying Swiss franc online is easy

Order Swiss franc online, lock in the rate and collect at your local store or at the airport before you fly.

  • 1. Click the ‘Buy Swiss franc Now’ button below
  • And tell us how much you need for your trip.

  • 2. Choose where to get it
  • Collect your currency from 33 Travelex stores.

  • 3. Pay online
  • Simply pay using either your debit card (recommended) or credit card and you’re all set!

Prefer to Buy in Store?

Prefer to Buy in Store?

If buying online is not your thing, visit your nearest Travelex store around and one of our friendly sales consultants will help you organise your real for your trip to Switzerland.

Find a Store

Travelling to Switzerland in the Future?

Travelling to Switzerland in the Future?

Track Rates and get notified when the Swiss franc matches your ideal rate so you can decide if it’s a good time to buy!

Track Rates

Travel Card or Cash?

Travel Card or Cash?

What’s Better When Travelling Abroad?

We’ve outlined the pros and cons of travelling with a travel card or cash to help you decide.

Learn more

*Rates are subject to change throughout the day. In-store rates vary compared to online.

**The figures provided are indicative only and are there to provide an idea of the amount of travel money you may need during your trip.