Banks in Switzerland

Swiss bank are ranking among the most prominent in the world with its good reputation based on the political and economic stability of Switzerland.

All Swiss banks can be roughly divided into six categories:

• Large international banks
• Raiffeisen banks
• Cantonal banks
• Regional banks and savings banks
• Stock exchange, securities and asset management private banks as well as foreign banks
• PostFinance, a division of Swiss Post, which has a very strong position in retail banking. 

Largest Swiss Banks

The two major universal Swiss banks, UBS and Credit Suisse, are the largest banking groups in Switzerland and among the largest in the world. In contrast to many foreign counties, these banks play the most important role in the domestic retail banking market, despite the fact that the Raiffeisen banks and the cantonal banks have a higher market share regionally. 

Opening Hours

In big cities, the banks’ branches are usually open Monday to Friday 8:30 to 16:30. In rural areas, usual operating hours are Monday to Friday 8:30 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 16:30 / 17:30. All banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Currency

The national currency in Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF). In many places, however, the prices are displayed in euros and in Swiss francs. Very often it is also possible to pay in euros (however, with a change in CHF). 

Currency Exchange

You can change money at the following locations:

• Swiss banks
• Airports
• Main train stations 
• Larger hotels

The best exchange rates for cash or traveler cheques in foreign currency usually can be found in the Swiss banks’ branches. Most exchange offices or hotels charge a fee for their currency exchange services.