The Swiss currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). The exchange rate varies to other currencies. You can check the current exchange rate here.
In some places (restaurants, train stations, larger shops), the Euro is also accepted. Please note that any return currency will be given in Swiss Francs.
Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, less frequently American Express) are accepted almost everywhere, but often only for purchases larger than 20 or 50 CHF. Some smaller restaurants and shops might not take it at all. When in doubt, please ask beforehand.
Currency exchange can be done at the airports, train stations, and at most banks.
Lausanne is located in the French speaking region of Switzerland. Many people speak English, especially in hotels and tourist centers (train stations, etc.).
Most travelers (EU countries, US, Canada, Japan) do not need a visa to enter Switzerland for visits shorter than 90 days. Participants with other nationalities should check with their closest Swiss representation or can also check the Federal Office for Migration.
Lausanne is very well connected by bus and metro. You have to buy a ticket at the bus or metro stop directly; there is no ticket sale in the bus or metro. Additionally, you need to have exact change (currently CHF 2.40 for a ticket to EPFL), there is no change given at the ticket machines. You can buy a Bus/Metro debit card for the Lausanne public transportation system that is accepted by the ticket machines, or buy a daily/weekly pass. The debit cards and passes can be bought at the train station’s bus/metro counter.
There are several taxi stands in town, or a taxi can be called for. All taxis have a counter that displays how much the fare is. Taxis do not always accept credit cards, you should enquire beforehand. It is not necessary to leave a tip, but it is custom to give about 10%.
The emergency phone numbers in Switzerland are as follows:
Police: 117
Fire: 118
Medical Emergency/Ambulance: 144
220V/50Hz.
Plug adapter: Continental European 2 prong adapter or Swiss 3 prong adapter.
The prices noted in restaurants and shops include all taxes and services. For hotels, a tax of CHF 2.00 person/night might be added to your bill. Leaving a tip in a restaurant is not necessary, but if you are satisfied with the service, it is custom to “round up” the bill 5%. For taxis, the service is also included, but it is custom to tip about 10%.