Banks: 9:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday
Post Offices: 9:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday
Government Offices: 09:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 09:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 09:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:30, Monday to Friday; 08:30 to 12:00, Saturday

Zermatt is considered an extremely safe town with regards to crime, but there are many other hazards to watch out for. With the town being a car-free zone and electric vehicles constantly driving about, keep in mind they are very quiet, which can lead to accidents with pedestrians.

The high altitude can cause problems and visitors should be wary of any symptoms of altitude sickness. The snow and ice can cause accidents even when walking about town so take extra care to avoid any injuries. Be sure to have your travel insurance details on you in case any situations arise.

With a wide range of dangerous sports including skiing and snowboarding being popular in Zermatt, healthcare services are of a high standard. World-class hospitals are located close by and emergency services include a helicopter coupled with well-equipped ground rescue teams. Throughout the small town of Zermatt, numerous doctors and pharmacies are available for prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines.

Hospital Visp: +41 27 948 21 11
Emergency services: 144

Switzerland has four national languages - German, French, Italian and Romansch. In Zermatt, German is predominantly spoken.

Switzerland uses the Swiss franc (CHF), with F1.00 equal to 100 rappen.

With a wealth of different cultural backgrounds and languages spoken, different customs are found throughout Switzerland. Greetings and pleasantries are conservative with a simple handshake the most common form and sometimes kissing between friends. Lateness is accepted to a degree, even with business appointments, with five-minutes tardiness rarely frowned upon. Swiss nationals are proud of their country and take pride in protecting the environment and keeping it clean; therefore, when visiting you should be wary of your impact.

When travelling in Switzerland it is essential to be polite and reserved in your demeanour, as the Swiss consider loud and exaggerated behaviour to be rude or suspicious. Tipping is not obligatory in restaurants, bars or hotels, but rounding up to the next Swiss franc is usual. Talking loudly on a mobile phone while in public areas is frowned upon. Being polite and courteous to shop assistants and waiting staff is commonplace and appreciated.

Visitors from any EU country do not need a visa to enter Switzerland. Nationals of many other countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and Ireland, only require a valid passport for a stay of up to three months. For longer stays or for nationals from other countries, visas can be obtained from Swiss embassies and consulates around the globe.