8 most important apps you need when living in Switzerland

Looking for the best apps to use download on your phone to help you navigate all aspects of life in Switzerland? We've got you covered. Here are the best apps to have when visiting or living in Switzerland. 

Must-have apps in Switzerland

Switzerland is a stunning place to visit, and an amazing place to move and live as a resident. Here are some Swiss apps that can make navigating your new life a little easier.

1. Your bank's app and TWINT

One of the most important things you will need to do in Switzerland as a new resident is to get a bank account. Once your account is open, it's worth getting yourself set up with your bank's mobile banking app, as it makes it a lot easier to manage your money on the go. UBS is a popular bank along with local cantonal banks such as Zurich Cantonal Bank. Some banks have more than one app, so check when you sign up what is needed.

With your banking app set up, you'll then want to download and connect TWINT, Switzerland's favourite payment app. Not only can it be used to send money to friends and family, but also to pay for things in person and online, digitally and with no need for cash, simply by scanning a QR code. Lots of bills in Switzerland are paid using TWINT.

2. SBB Mobile: The public transport app

SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) is the country's biggest public transport operator, so it should come as no surprise that SBB Mobile is the most popular app for public transport in Switzerland.

You can buy tickets and day passes directly in the app, plan journeys to and from destinations across the country, and create personalised timetables for all of your trips. The app also provides exclusive ticket offers to help you save money and you can connect your GA travel card (Generalabonnement).

Other convenient transportation apps include Google Maps, FAIRTIQ, Mobility (for shared car rental, and local apps where you can rent a bike (PubliBike, Velospot, Donkey Republic, Nextbike). 

3. SwitzerlandMobility: Navitage hiking routes

Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes, and what better way to explore them than through the SwitzerlandMobility app? This free app is great for anyone who is looking to get out and about in Switzerland, since it provides maps of the country with detailed routes, including the complete network of signposted hiking trails, cycle routes, and various routes for winter activities. There is also information about points of interest, overnight accommodation, and public transportation options.

Other similar apps include Swisstopo, Komoot, PeakLens and PeakFinder. 

4. Migros and Coop

Migros and Coop are Switzerland’s largest retail and supermarket chains, making it very likely that you'll be shopping here, but did you know that you can save money by using coupons and vouchers on the Migros and Coop apps?

You can also use the subitoGo feature to make grocery shopping quicker: simply scan your products, pay on the app, and then you’re done!

If you prefer to shop at Lidl, Denner or Aldi then these supermarkets also offer their own loyalty scheme apps. If you're a fan of a bargain, check out TooGoodToGo to get discounted food from local shops and restaurants. 

5. Smood

Smood is a popular food and grocery delivery app in Switzerland, so if you’re in the mood for fresh food, but don't want to cook or shop, then this is the app for you. It offers the widest selection of options in Swiss cities, normally promising delivery in under 45 minutes. Additionally, keep an eye out for the frequent promo codes or gift cards to redeem a discount.

Other food apps to consider are JustEat and Uber Eats.

6. PlaySuisse

PlaySuisse is the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR’s streaming platform, and it is a great way to watch Swiss entertainment. On this app, you can find films, series, and documentaries from all Swiss linguistic regions with subtitles in German, French, and Italian.

The app now features English subtitles, so it is a great way to practise your German language skills. 

7. Swiss Post

If you're going to be sending letters and parcels in Switzerland, you'll want to download the Swiss Post app to buy stamps and frank parcels, track your deliveries, change delivery times and locations, and even notify the postal service if you change address. 

8. MeteoSwiss

For a country so packed with natural wonders, the weather is an important factor in life in Switzerland. The MeteoSwiss app provides probably the most accurate weather forecasts for the alpine nation. The app has a unique feature to see how the weather in your local area could be affecting your health, with readings on air quality, pollen forecast, and a UV index. Another popular weather app in Switzerland is AccuWeather.

It's also worth downloading Alertswiss to receive information in case of emergencies, such as flooding, landslides, or if your local tap water becomes undrinkable. 

Get these Swiss apps today!

There are many useful apps that are advantageous to visitors and residents in Switzerland, but these are the ones we would recommend starting off with. Have you got any more to add? Let us know in the comments below!