What currency does Switzerland use?
Quick answer
Switzerland’s official currency is the Swiss franc, code CHF, divided into 100 centimes (called Rappen in German). It’s also the currency of Liechtenstein. Switzerland is not in the European Union, so it doesn’t use the euro, though some shops and hotels accept euros.
Key facts
- Currency
- Swiss franc
- Code
- CHF (from Confoederatio Helvetica, Switzerland’s Latin name)
- Issued by
- Swiss National Bank
- Also used in
- Liechtenstein
Why “CHF”?
Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. To avoid picking one, it often uses its Latin name, Confoederatio Helvetica, which is why its currency code is CHF and its web domain is .ch.
Notes and coins
| Type | Values |
|---|---|
| Banknotes | 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 1,000 francs |
| Coins | 5, 10 and 20 centimes; ½, 1, 2 and 5 francs |
The 1,000-franc note is one of the highest-value banknotes in circulation anywhere. The current notes, released between 2016 and 2019, celebrate Swiss themes like time, light and wind rather than famous people.
Why Switzerland doesn’t use the euro
Switzerland has chosen to stay outside the European Union, valuing its independence and long tradition of neutrality. Keeping its own currency lets the Swiss National Bank set its own interest rates. The franc is famous as a “safe haven”: investors often buy it during global crises, which can make it strong.
Can you pay with euros?
- Many shops, hotels, train stations and tourist spots near borders accept euros.
- But change is usually given in Swiss francs, and the exchange rate may be poor.
- Cards are widely accepted, and paying in francs usually gives the best value.
Prices and exchange rates change daily; this article explains the basics only. For another example of what moves money values, see why gold prices drop.
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