Hotel Continental
Hotel Continental
Bern
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General Information
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Traveling by train b  
Traveling by train
  
Switzerland has en excellent railroad network which makes traveling very pleasant and uncomplicated. The connections are easy, and delays occur rarely. Except for special trains like the „Bernina Express“ or the „Glacier Express“, seat reservations are not needed.

You can buy your tickets at any train station.
 
Traveling by car b  
In Switzerland, traveling by car is very easy and safe. Most road signs are international, and the others are self-explanatory.

In the major cities, in hotels or at train stations you can rent your car. The most popular car rental companies like Avis, Europcar or Hertz can be found.
  
Traveling by car
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The minimum age for drivers is 18. Seatbelts are mandatory. Children younger than 12 must be seated on the back seat. Fines for speeding or too much alcohol are very high.
         
Speed limits  

Highways (Autobahn) Outside of city limits Within city limits

 

120 km/h
80 km/h
50 km/h

 
Traveling in cities
Traveling in cities
  
In the major cities, buses, streetcars and trolley buses offer a very good route network. Tickets can be bought at every teller (they can be found at any bus station), at the train stations or tourist offices.

In general, tickets are not sold on the bus, streetcar or trolley bus. Fines for fare dodgers are very high.
 
Shopping b  
What would a stay in Switzerland be without a souvenir like the world-famous watches, Swiss army knives, chocolate or cheese!

In all major cities, Swiss watches can be bought at special jewelers or other specialized dealers. Bucherer is the biggest and best-known jeweler in Switzerland and offers a very broad selection.

  
Shopping
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From 70 to 100’000 francs, something can be found for every taste. Chocolate and cheese can be purchased either directly from the producer, or at specialized dealers and in shopping malls. Typical souvenirs like woodcarvings, Swiss army knives, ceramics or wall clocks can be found at the souvenir shops in the bigger Swiss cities.
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Business hours   Mo - Fr   09.00 – 12.00
13.30 – 18.30
    Sa   10.00 – 16.00
    So   Closed (Exceptions: Airports, gas stations or central stations)
     
Payment  
Most stores accept the usual credit cards like Visa, MasterCard or American Express. Traveler Cheques in US$, £ or Euro can be cashed at any bank.
 
Value-added tax
The VAT is 7.6% on purchased goods. Ask for the „Global Refund Form“ in order to get a refund of the VAT when you return to your country (minimum amount is 400 francs). For further information: www.globalrefund.com
 
Bank and postal services
Bank and postal services
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Bank
Business hours 		b Mo - Fr b 08.30 – 12.00
14.00 – 16.30
    Sa + So   closed
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Post office
Business hours		   Mo - Fr   08.30 – 12.00
14.00 – 18.00
    Sa   08.30 – 12.00
    So   closed
 
Security b  

Switzerland is one of the safest countries to travel in Europe, but you should always keep an eye on your valuable objects.

In case of theft or loss, the local police will be of assistance.

  
Security
 
Health
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No vaccinations are required for traveling in Switzerland. However, if a person has been to an infected area prior to entering Switzerland, vaccinations against contagious diseases are indispensable. Vaccinations against tick bites are recommended.

For further information: www.iamat.org
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You can enjoy food and drinks in restaurants, cafés or bars without any worries. Tap water is potable everywhere.
 
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Hotel Continental  •  Zeughausgasse 27  •  CH-3011 Bern  •  Tel. +41 031 329 21 21  •  Fax +41 031 329 21 99
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