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LEARN MORECurrency: | 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.
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
Order Swiss franc online, lock in the rate and collect at your local store or at the airport before you fly.
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LEARN MOREThe Swiss Franc is the only official currency in Switzerland. Euros are accepted in Switzerland by some merchants however they are not obligated to do so. In the case that Euros are accepted, it is likely the merchants will give you Swiss as change.
Most major credit cards are accepted in Switzerland with the most popular ones being American Express, Visa and Mastercard. Some places may not accept credit cards so it can be wise to keep a small reserve of cash with you for immediate expenses such as taxies, and general city transportation, or emergencies.