Alpine Adventures Await in Switzerland This Summer

Alpine adventures, iconic rail journeys, and chocolate box chalets await travelers as Switzerland drops all pandemic-related restrictions in place for tourists on May 2.

In April, Switzerland eliminated its remaining domestic restrictions, including the obligation to wear a mask and self-isolation after a positive test result. Additionally, Swiss COVID-19 certificates, previously required for entering public venues, were also done away with.

This positive change coincides with the readiness of Switzerland’s mountain and lakeside resorts, along with its Michelin-starred dining cities, to welcome tourists for the busy summer travel season.

Currently, most countries outside of the EU and Schengen Zone remain on Switzerland’s list of high-risk countries. This means people from those areas who are not vaccinated or only partially vaccinated are banned from entering, including American and British tourists.

This situation will change on May 2 when all visitors, regardless of their departure point and vaccination status, will again be subject to normal visa requirements. Visitors will no longer need to show proof of vaccination or negative tests, and they are not required to fill out a passenger locator form.

“With effect from May 2, 2022, entry into Switzerland from all countries in the world will again be possible as before the pandemic,” stated the tourism board. “Protective measures due to the coronavirus no longer apply in Switzerland.”

Many countries in Europe have already relaxed entry requirements, but Switzerland’s neighbors—France, Italy, Austria, and Germany—still have varying degrees of strict measures in place. Therefore, if you are planning to travel between these countries or if your journey to Switzerland involves transit through one of them, it is crucial to check each country’s entry regulations beforehand.