Travel comparison
Switzerland vs Italy
A side-by-side look at the practical travel essentials for Switzerland and Italy — power, safety, money and getting around — so you can plan or choose between them quickly.
Quick answer
Traveling between Switzerland and Italy, you likely won't need a plug adapter, and a voltage converter is generally not needed for dual-voltage chargers.
| Detail | Switzerland | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Power plug | Type C/J | Type C/F/L |
| Voltage | 230V | 230V |
| Frequency | 50Hz | 50Hz |
| Emergency (general) | 112 | 112 |
| Police | 117 | 112 / 113 |
| Ambulance | 144 | 112 / 118 |
| Tap water | Generally safe | Generally safe |
| Driving side | Right | Right |
| Currency | Swiss Franc (CHF) | Euro (EUR, €) |
| Dialing code | +41 | +39 |
| Time zone | UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST) | UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST) |
| Best season | June to September is best for hiking, lakes and scenic rail trips. December to March is strongest for skiing. Spring and autumn are quieter, though mountain weather and lift schedules vary by region. | April to June and September to October are the most comfortable months for major cities and cultural trips. July and August can be hot and crowded, while coastal areas are busiest during Italian summer holidays. |
Full brief
Switzerland travel essentials
Plugs, emergency numbers, tap water, tipping and more for Switzerland.
Full brief
Italy travel essentials
Plugs, emergency numbers, tap water, tipping and more for Italy.