The official currencies of Switzerland and Germany are:
Switzerland: Swiss Franc (CHF)
Germany: Euro (EUR)
The current exchange rates (as of August 2026) are approximately:
$1 USD = 0.81 CHF
$1 USD = 0.86 EUR
Exchange rates fluctuate, so the amount you receive at banks, ATMs, hotels, or currency exchange offices may vary slightly from the market rate.
You can exchange U.S. Dollars for Swiss Francs (CHF) and Euros (EUR) at banks, airports, train stations, and authorized currency exchange offices throughout Switzerland and Germany.
You can also obtain local currency from ATMs located throughout both countries, including airports, train stations, major cities, and popular tourist areas.
Credit & Debit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted throughout Switzerland and Germany, particularly at hotels, restaurants, larger shops, and tourist attractions. American Express is accepted at many establishments but may not be accepted everywhere, so it should not be the only credit card you bring.
Although card payments are common, some smaller restaurants, cafés, local shops, markets, and other businesses—particularly in Germany—may prefer or require cash. Keeping some local currency with you is recommended.
Prior to departure, you may need to inform your bank and/or credit card company that you will be traveling to Switzerland and Germany. Make sure you know your PIN if you plan to withdraw cash from an ATM.
Please check with your bank regarding international ATM fees and any foreign transaction fees that may be charged when using your card abroad.
Helpful Tip
Switzerland and Germany use different currencies, so remember that Swiss Francs are used during the Switzerland portion of your trip and Euros once you arrive in Germany. Carrying a small amount of each local currency is helpful for gratuities, cafés, public restrooms, local markets, and smaller purchases.