Switzerland, officially called the Swiss Confederation, is a dream international holiday destination for many individuals. This landlocked, mountainous country is known for its surreal scenic landscapes, heritage sites, chocolate and watch-making industries, etc. If you have chosen this majestic country as your next international vacation spot, make sure to plan thoroughly before setting out. It includes things from packing suitable clothes and booking hotels in advance to investing in a proper International travel insurance policy and learning about the local etiquette for the trip.
Switzerland travel insurance enables tourists to enjoy their vacation without worries by offering a wide range of coverage. Continue reading further to learn more about travel insurance for Switzerland, the best time to visit, places to check out, and other details.
Here are some key features of travel insurance for Switzerland:
Key features | Details |
Extensive coverage | Covers baggage-related inconveniences, travel-related hassles and medical emergencies. |
Round-the-clock support | Offers 24x7 support for quick claim settlements and query resolution. |
Cashless feature | Offers cashless benefits via multiple network of hospitals. |
COVID-19 cover | Offers COVID-19- related hospitalisation coverage. |
Wide coverage amount | The overall coverage amount ranges from $40k to $1000k. |
It is important to purchase the right travel insurance for Switzerland that fits your travel criteria and budget. Here are the types of policies offered:
There are tons of benefits to buying a travel insurance Switzerland plan, such as;
International travel insurance provides financial peace by offering coverage for unexpected circumstances, reducing stress and financial burden.
Switzerland travel insurance includes cashless medical assistance, ensuring you can receive treatment at network hospitals without worrying about upfront payments.
Enjoy 24x7 customer support and efficient claims processing with Switzerland travel insurance, ensuring a hassle-free trip.
Protect your belongings from delays, loss, or damage during your international journey by purchasing Switzerland trip insurance.
Switzerland travel insurance covers various medical expenses, including emergency medical care, dental costs, evacuation, repatriation, and more.
Get coverage for unexpected situations like flight delays, personal liability, and hijack distress allowance, enhancing your travel experience
This benefit covers hospitalization, room rent, OPD treatment, and Road Ambulance costs. It also reimburses expenses incurred on Emergency Medical Evacuation, Medical Repatriation and Repatriation of mortal remains.
We believe dental healthcare is just as important as hospitalization due to physical illness or injury; hence, we cover dental expenses which can occur during your travel. Subject to policy terms and conditions.
We believe in seeing you through thick and thin. In the event of an accident, while traveling abroad, our insurance plan provides a lump sum payment to your family to assist with any financial burdens caused by permanent disablement or accidental death.
We believe in being by your side through ups and downs. So, under unfortunate circumstances, we will provide a lump sum payout in case of accidental death or permanent disablement arising out of an Injury whilst on a Common Carrier.
If a person is hospitalized due to injury or illness, we will pay the per day Sum Insured for each complete day of hospitalization, up to the maximum number of days stated in the Policy Schedule.
Flight delays or cancellations may be beyond our control, but worry not, our reimbursement feature allows you to meet any essential expenses arising from the setback.
In case of a trip delay or cancellation, we will refund the non-refundable portion of your pre-booked accommodation and activities. Subject to policy terms and wordings.
Losing important documents can leave you stranded in a foreign land. So, we will reimburse expenses related to obtaining a new or duplicate passport and/or international driving license.
Don't worry if you have to cut your trip short due to unforeseen circumstances. We'll reimburse you for your non-refundable accommodation and pre-booked activities as per the policy schedule.
If you ever find yourself liable for third-party damage in a foreign land, our travel insurance helps you compensate for those damages effortlessly. Subject to policy terms and conditions.
Medical emergencies may mean you need to extend your hotel booking by a few days more. Worried about the added expense? Let us take care of it while you recover.subject to policy terms and conditions
Don't worry about unexpected expenses due to missed flight connections; we will reimburse you for the expenses incurred on accommodation and alternate flight booking to reach your destination.
Flight hijacks can be a distressing experience. And while the authorities help sort out the issue, we'll do our bit and compensate you for the distress it causes.
When traveling, theft or robbery can lead to a cash crunch. But don't worry; HDFC ERGO can facilitate fund transfers from the insured 's family in India. Subject to policy terms and conditions.
Lost your checked-in baggage? Don't worry; we'll compensate you for the loss, so you don't have to go without your essentials and vacation basics. Subject to policy terms and conditions.
Waiting is never fun. If your luggage gets delayed, we'll reimburse you for essentials like clothing, toiletries and medication so you can start your vacation worry-free.
Theft of baggage can derail your trip. So, to ensure your trip stays on track, we'll reimburse you in case of baggage theft. Subject to policy terms and conditions.
The above mentioned coverage may not be available in some of our Travel plans. Please read the policy wordings, brochure and prospectus to know more about our travel insurance plan.
Sickness or health issues caused due to war or a breach of the law is not covered by the plan.
If you consume any intoxicants or banned substances, the policy shall not entertain any claims.
If you suffer from any illness before the travel you’ve insured and if you undergo any treatment for an illness that already exists, the policy does not cover expenses related to these incidents.
Should you or any member of your family opt to undergo any cosmetic or obesity treatment during the course of the travel you’ve insured, such expenses remain uncovered.
Any hospitalization expenses or medical costs arising from self-inflicted injuries are not covered by the insurance plans we offer.
• Click here link, or visit the HDFC ERGO travel insurance webpage to BUY our policy.
• Enter traveler details, destination information, and trip start and end dates.
• Choose your preferred plan from our three tailored options.
• Provide your personal details.
• Fill in additional details about the travelers and proceed to pay using online payment methods.
• All that's left to do is- download your policy instantly!
Here are some interesting and lesser-known facts about Switzerland that all travellers should know prior to commencing their trip:
Categories | Specification |
Scenic Landscapes | Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking alpine landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming villages. |
Innovation and Banking | Switzerland is a global leader in innovation, particularly in pharmaceuticals and banking services. |
Geography | Switzerland’s unique geography includes the Swiss Alps, the Jura Mountains, and the Swiss Plateau, offering diverse terrains for exploration. |
Languages | Switzerland is a multilingual country with four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh, reflecting its cultural diversity. |
Historical Heritage | Switzerland is known for its medieval towns, historic castles, and the iconic Swiss watches and chocolates. |
Similar to most foreign countries, tourists are required to get a visa in order to visit Switzerland. Here are the documents needed for a Switzerland tourist visa;
• Duly filled and signed Swiss visa application form,
• A couple of passport-sized photographs,
• Valid passport,
• Copies of previous visas (if any),
• Documents verifying your civil status,
• Proof of accommodation,
• Complete round-trip flight itinerary (documents verifying you have a booked flight to enter and exit Switzerland),
• Proof of adequate financial means for the period of your stay in Switzerland,
• A valid Schengen travel insurance with a minimum of €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies,
• A cover letter explaining the reason for your visa application, and
• Visa fees.
There are four main Switzerland tourism seasons that you can choose from. Among them, summer is considered the best time to visit Switzerland. It usually stretches from June to August and has an average temperature range of 19°C to 32°C. The pleasant temperature and clear weather during this period make it the peak tourism season of the country. It is a great time for participating in outdoor adventure activities, such as hiking, boating, kayaking, camping, etc. Visiting Switzerland in summer is also ideal for sightseeing and embracing the region's natural beauty. For high-quality international travel insurance policies, visit our website.
Besides summer, you can consider scheduling your Switzerland trip in autumn. It usually extends from September to November and has an average temperature range of 7°C to 20°C during the day. Nights can get pretty chilly, so make sure to pack clothes accordingly. You can visit Switzerland during these months if you want to avoid the peak tourist crowd and wish to witness the natural beauty of the region in the colours of autumn.
To know more about the best time, climate, temperature and other factors before visiting Switzerland. Read our blog on Best time to visit Switzerland.
1. Passport and travel documents, including Schengen visa if required, and travel insurance details.
2. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and nature trails.
3. Sunglasses and sunscreen, particularly for high-altitude areas.
4. Reusable water bottle for hydration.
5. Camera and electronic chargers/adapters.
6. Hiking gear if planning mountain excursions.
7. Warm jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially in the mountains.
• Always check the current weather report before going outside as the weather conditions in mountainous regions of Switzerland are constantly changing.
• Keep your purses, personal documents and other valuables secure, especially in crowded tourist areas.
• When visiting high-altitude areas in Switzerland, make sure to travel slowly to give your body time to adjust to the changing conditions.
• Invest in travel insurance for Switzerland from India to stay financially safe against unexpected events.
• Stick to marked paths and roadways to avoid getting lost when exploring rural and mountainous areas.
• Always carry your valid ID proof with you in Switzerland.
Covid-19 travel specific travel guidelines
• Wear a face mask in public places and while using public transportation.
• Maintain personal hygiene and safe distancing in crowded tourist areas.
• Learn about the latest regional Covid-19 guidelines and rules and follow them.
• Comply with the local authorities if you develop any symptoms.
The availability of multiple international airports in Switzerland makes travelling to the country from major parts of the world quite easy. The most well-known international airports in Switzerland are listed in the following;
City | Airport Name |
Zurich | Zurich Airport |
Geneva | Geneva Airport |
Cork | Cork Airport |
Bern | Bern Airport |
Basel | Euro Airport Basel- Mulhouse-Freiburg |
Lausanne | Lausanne Airport |
Make sure to add these popular locations to your Switzerland travel plan for a one-of-a-kind tourism experience;
Interlaken is a beautiful town in the Swiss Alps region, referred to as the gateway to the lakes and the mountains. Apart from offering picturesque landscape views, Interlaken is known for its local culture and traditions. During your visit, make sure to explore the town on foot, go on a Lake Thun cruise, participate in adventure activities, etc.
Zurich is the largest city and one of the most popular tourist spots in Switzerland. Also known as the chocolate capital of Switzerland, the city is home to numerous tourist attractions, such as the Swiss National Museum, Old Town Zurich, Grossmunster Church, Zurich Zoo, etc. Make sure to invest in a good travel insurance plan to keep yourself financially covered during your trip.
Geneva in Switzerland is known for offering a soothing blend of mesmerising panoramic views, rich history and unique culture. It is a perfect place to visit around the year and is home to a wide number of renowned tourist attractions, including St. Pierre Cathedral, Lake Geneva, Jardin Botanique, Palais des Nations, Reformation Wall, etc.
The most notable part of the city of St. Gallen in Switzerland is the Abbey of Saint Gall, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other tourist attractions in and around this Swiss city are the Abbey Library of Saint Gall, Arbon Castle, Drei Weieren, Botanical Garden St. Gallen, Walter Zoo, etc. Make sure to properly research and invest in an international travel insurance plan for your Switzerland trip.
Lucerne, also known as Luzern, is a city nestled on the banks of the Reuss River in central Switzerland. It is among the top-rated tourist attractions in the country, known for its grand churches, elegant houses, charming natural beauty, ancient towers, and much more. During your visit, check out the Clock Tower, Lucerne City Hall, Lake Lucerne, Lion Monument, etc.
Lugano in Switzerland is a widely popular vacation spot for tourists looking for a laid-back experience amidst a calm environment. Also called the Monte Carlo of Switzerland, the city features some of the most alluring parks, mountainous viewpoints, serene lakes, etc. During your visit, check out Lake Lugano, Lugano Town Centre, Lugano Arte e Cultura, etc.
Here are some popular things you can consider doing in Switzerland during your trip:
• If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to take a tour of a chocolate factory and visit renowned chocolate shops across Switzerland.
• Explore Zurich's Old Town to witness the alluring sceneries made of ancient churches, vintage building architecture and winding alleys.
• Shopaholics can indulge in some luxury shopping at Bahnhofstrasse, which is known as one of the world's most expensive shopping avenues.
• Spend some romantic time gazing at the majestic Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. This 75.5 ft tall waterfall is popularly known as the largest waterfall in Europe.
• If you are a history buff and interested in the rich past of Switzerland, visit the Swiss National Museum in Zurich. It is home to several artefacts, including paintings, weapons, scrolls, etc., dating back to the 4th century.
• Visit Harder Kulm to get some of the most majestic panoramic views of the surrounding Swiss Alps peaks, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
• Explore the 12th-century Chillon Castle, which is known for being a symbol of romance.
Travelling to and within Switzerland can be a bit expensive, however, there are some ways to save money during your vacation. Here are some popular tips that you can follow;
• Instead of booking rooms at luxury Swiss hotels, consider planning your stay in hostels, campgrounds, Airbnbs or other cheaper alternatives. Another way to save money on accommodations is by staying in small towns near the main tourist cities.
• You can save a ton of money by planning your sightseeing and adventure activities properly. For example, you can skip the high-priced activities you are not interested in, visit the places without any admission fee, go on a free bike ride in Zurich, and so on.
• Some hotels offer their guests a “Guest Card”, which they can use to travel for free on public transportation and get great deals on other transport mediums.
• Purchase Switzerland travel insurance so it can financially protect you from contingencies and keep you from exceeding the overall travel budget. You can find good travel insurance plans online on our website.
• Consider getting a “Swiss Travel Pass”, which allows tourists to travel across Switzerland by train, bus and boat for free for a set number of days. It is quite reasonably priced and can help you save a lot of money in transfer costs.
• One of the best ways to save money during your Switzerland trip is to travel outside the peak season. You can get some attractive deals on hotels, flights, transport, and so on, during the shoulder and off seasons.
Here are some well-known Indian restaurants across Switzerland to satisfy your desi food cravings;
• Bombay Restaurant
Address: Rue de Berne 11, Geneva 1201, Switzerland
Must-try: Paneer Tikka and Chicken Kebab
• Bajwa Palace
Address: Elisabethenstrasse 41, Basel 4051, Switzerland
Must-try: Poulet Biriyani and Tandoori Kahazana Grillades
• GourmIndia
Address: Baselstrasse 31, Lucerne 6003, Switzerland
Must-try: Aloo Achari and Garlic Naan
• Cafe Bollywood
Address: Place e la Navigation 6, Geneva 1201, Switzerland
Must-try: Chicken Biriyani and Navratan Korma
Travellers visiting Switzerland must follow and respect the local laws and etiquette in the region. Some examples are:
• All visitors are required to carry proper identification in Switzerland at all times.
• It is illegal to cross the street at a red light or jaywalk in Switzerland. If you are caught doing so, the police will issue you a fine.
• Littering and improper garbage disposal are frowned upon acts in the country.
• Punctuality is important in Switzerland, and being late is considered rude behaviour.
• It is considered polite to say “hello” upon entering and “bye” upon exiting a shop in Switzerland.
Singapore-based Indian Embassy | Working Hours | Address |
Embassy of India, Bern | Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Kirchenfeldstrasse 28, 3005 Bern, Switzerland |
Consulate General of India, Zurich | Mon-Fri, 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM | Sonnenbergstrasse 50, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland |
Consulate General of India, Geneva | Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Rue du Valais 9, 1202 Genève, Switzerland |
Take your pick from the options below, so you can be better prepared for your trip to a foreign country
Here are some of the countries that require mandatory overseas travel insurance: This is an indicative list. It is advisable to check each country’s visa requirement independently before travel.
Source: VisaGuide.World
Yes, individuals are required to have a valid travel insurance plan to apply for a Switzerland tourist visa.
You can purchase travel insurance for Switzerland via both online and offline methods from a reputed insurance provider. For instance, you can visit the official HDFC ERGO website, enter the required details and buy travel insurance for Switzerland from India in just a few minutes.
A lot of factors can affect the premium of your international travel insurance plan, such as the country you are visiting, total trip duration, selected coverage type, age of traveller(s), etc. You can visit this link, enter your trip details and get quotes on your Switzerland travel insurance in just a few minutes.
Generally, Switzerland travel insurance includes medical coverage, journey-related coverage and baggage-related coverage.
Yes, it is mandatory to have travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 in order to apply for and receive the Schengen visa for your Switzerland visit.
No, pre-existing diseases and their complications are not covered under travel insurance for Switzerland from India.
A minimal amount of documentation is involved in the process of acquiring Switzerland travel insurance. You can reach out to contact@hdfcergo.com for any queries.