What Tourists Need To Know About 'Swiss Directness' Before A Vacation To Switzerland

Switzerland is a land of unparalleled scenery with beautiful traditional villages that you likely haven't heard of, tucked into lush green valleys and surrounded by miles of snowy, jagged mountain peaks. But visiting the country can be a jarring experience if you don't know about the local culture. Many travelers have noted that Swiss locals can seem strikingly blunt or direct, especially considering that the country shares a border with Italy, where the cheerful greetings and animated gestures of the people can often make them come off as friendlier and more outgoing. The far more reserved Swiss can seem overly formal to some, so it's best to be prepared and not let it put you off when you arrive. 

There are exceptions to every rule, of course, but in general, know that the Swiss are not fond of small talk. Don't expect chit-chat from hotel staff during the check-in process or with your server when dining at a restaurant. However, this communication style should not be taken personally –– or interpreted as rudeness or a bad attitude. It's just that Swiss people value efficiency in all things, so they get right down to business in their interactions rather than wasting your time (and theirs) by exchanging niceties or talking about the weather. 

Another expression of the Swiss cultural emphasis on efficiency is a tendency to be quite prompt, with much of the country operating like a well-oiled Swiss clock. According to a report (via Railtech), the punctuality rate of Swiss railways in 2023 was over 92%, even with many construction projects and an increasing number of passengers. This punctuality can be a welcome change after train travel in other European countries like Germany, for example, where punctuality hovers around 60%. However, if you're one of those who's always running a few minutes behind schedule, you may need to step up your game when traveling in Switzerland.  

Once you board that Swiss train, there are few more things to know about the culture that will help you avoid all those things only tourists do (which locals hate). First, before sitting down next to someone, always ask if the seat is still available. This is just something the Swiss do, even though it seems to contradict their tendency to avoid unnecessary interactions in other circumstances. Finally, once you're seated, keep your noise level down to avoid aggravating your neighbor. Refrain from talking loudly on your cell phone on the train and in all other public areas, for that matter. Similarly, in restaurants, remember that you can have a good time without getting too loud or boisterous –– even when really excited about that Swiss cheese fondue. As long as you're a considerate tourist who is knowledgeable about Swiss culture, there's no reason why you can't have fun or make friends with the locals in Switzerland.