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14 Best Swiss Souvenirs: Top gifts & trinkets to buy in Switzerland

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Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and delicious chocolate, Switzerland is a popular destination for travelers from all around the world. And what better way to remember your visit than with some of the best Swiss souvenirs?

From traditional crafts to modern creations, Switzerland offers a wide range of unique and high-quality souvenirs that are perfect for yourself or as gifts for loved ones. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the must-have souvenirs from Switzerland that will surely bring back fond memories of your trip. So let’s started

14 Best Swiss Souvenirs: The best souvenirs from Switzerland to buy

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

While many believe experiences to be the best souvenir you can take home after a trip, Switzerland has made a persuasive argument for this statement. From finely crafted machinery in small objects to stunning displays of sugary treats, this country has a kaleidoscope of collectibles to discover.

1. Original Swiss army knives – The valuable gift

A souvenir with a bit of edge (pun intended), a Swiss army knife is an excellent option if you’re looking for a special gift from Switzerland with utility.  This multi-purpose tool was a standard object to have in the Swiss army and was first issued in early 1886.

Modern Swiss army knives have a wide variety of types and tools available that would be helpful to have on your person. The tool’s efficiency and usefulness are a great asset for outdoor adventure seekers, as its compact nature makes it a vital tool to have when camping.

There are many Swiss-owned companies that produce these finely made beauties, but the elegance of Victorinox is the brand to choose if you’re looking for the real deal. 

Ibach, a small town in Switzerland, is where you’ll find this manufacturer’s base of operation.

2. Basler Läckerli – The traditional Swiss treat

Originating from Basel, Switzerland , Basler Läckerli is a type of traditional Swiss gingerbread that has been delighting taste buds since the 14th century. 

Made with a unique blend of honey, spices, and various nuts, this delectable snack offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The aromatic spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, infuse the gingerbread with a warm and comforting scent. 

The addition of crunchy nuts adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat to indulge in or looking for a thoughtful gift to share with loved ones, Basler Läckerli is a perfect choice that captures the essence of Swiss culinary tradition.

3. Swiss chocolate – The sweet gift

Another foodie item to add to the souvenir shopping list, Swiss chocolate is a must if you’re looking for a gift everyone would instantly love. Whether it’s for a loved one or simply to snack on when a nightly sugar craving hits, this blocked beauty is a must.

Often dubbed the “birthplace of milk chocolate,” this cacao-infused product often borders on the sweeter side of chocolate. More than 70% of its production is exported to other countries, which shows how this sweet treat is revered across the globe.

As Switzerland holds the number one spot in chocolate consumption in the world (per capita), it’s safe to say you’ll find an abundance of places dedicated to selling this commodity. 

From the melt-in-your-mouth products of Lindt to the instantly recognizable triangular shape of Toblerone, it’s safe to say that Swiss manufacturers have dominated the chocolate game. 

Throughout the country, you’ll be able to find a wide variety of chocolate museums to try and grasp the ins and outs of how this delectable delight is made. One of the most popular establishments is the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum based in Zurich, which would be a great way to obtain a souvenir with a story.

3. Heidi souvenirs – The child-friendly gift

An enchanting tale that involves a curious little girl who explores the Swiss Alps while she lives with her grandfather, Heidi is a classic fairytale often associated with Switzerland. 

While the story depicts the gloomy past of a Swiss girl who has lost her parents tragically, her lust for adventure bursts through the page and holds a place of nostalgia for many. 

Today, you’ll find many souvenir stores dedicated to providing a wide variety of Heidi-centered items, which includes the world-famous Heidi book itself.

4. Music boxes – The charming gift

A sparkling delight to liven any room, a Swiss music box is a perfect choice if you’re looking for an old-timey tune to dance to. 

Traditionally, these musical squares are made from wood with intricate mechanics that often chime a piece of classical Swiss music through the use of a mechanical cylinder.

This gift can be on the pricier side, as the craftsmanship of a traditional music box is unmatched. With its intricate wood carvings and beautifully plucked tunes of the music of the Alps, a Swiss music box is more of a stunning centerpiece than a mere trivial trinket.   

Read: 7 days in Switzerland itinerary

5. Swiss cuckoo clocks – The kooky gift

One of the sure-fire ways to show you’ve been to the captivating country of Switzerland, and a wonderful souvenir to display in your home, is a cuckoo clock. While this silly bird is often associated with the Swiss, this unique display actually originates in Germany.

Back in the 16th century, this decorative piece was constructed in the Black Forest area and then imported from Germany to be sold at Swiss souvenir shops. As this timely piece became quite popular, the connection between the cuckoo clock and Switzerland was created.

The wooden decoration is often embellished to depict the charming scenery of a homestead with the bird inside rearing its head on the hour. The Swiss have, historically, tried to make it their own by painting a wide variety of local scenery, such as the Swiss Alps, and adding their knack for wooden craftsmanship to the item.

In the canton of Berne, you’ll find the small village of Brienz, where these items are now manufactured in the facility of Loetscher.

6. Swiss cheese – The delicious gift

When thinking of Swiss food, the delectable variety and types of cheese this country offers come to mind. Its history finds itself in the area of Emmental and dates back as early as the 14th century. 

In Switzerland, you’ll be able to find a seemingly endless supply of cheese types to nibble and sample on. This dairy product is widely acclaimed not just for its extensive history but also for its unmatched and old-school production but also for its high quality, and exceptional taste.

When traveling to Switzerland, you’ll find that certain regions are known for producing a certain type of cheese. In southern Switzerland, you’ll find the nutty flavors of Gruyère, while in the center of the Swiss Alps, you’re met with the tangy sensation of Raclette du Valais.

This souvenir item is an easy product to obtain as Switzerland is sprinkled with a vast array of specialty shops and can also be obtained by simply visiting a local supermarket.

Tip: If you’re looking to add another layer to your cheesy experience, a Swiss cheese fondue pot is the perfect addition to any masterfully crafted dairy product.

7. Swiss watches – The luxury gift

A timeless piece you’ll be able to keep forever, the Swiss watch is the perfect investment to make if you’re looking to wear a piece of mechanical refinery on your wrist. 

Beyond the refinery and the excellent craftsmanship, Switzerland has a long and extensive history regarding this item. Leading wristwatch brands find their origins in this country, which includes the hefty price-tagged beauties of Rolex and Breitling.

However, you don’t need to break the bank while purchasing an authentic Swiss watch, as there are many cheaper alternatives that bear the same refinery as their luxury counterparts. This includes brands such as Swatch and Seiko.

8. Traditional Swiss wear – The fashionable gift

From Lederhosen to decorated aprons, Switzerland has a fun and vibrant collection of traditional garb to enjoy and purchase. 

As each canton in this celebrates a variety of festivals, traditional Swiss clothing is a great item to buy if you’re looking for something that reminds you of a certain area in Switzerland.

You’ll be able to see authentic Swiss wear in action during holidays and festivals, and procuring a traditional clothing piece will allow you to wear your treasured memories from your trip.

9. Decorated cow bells  – The musical memory

One of the cutest Swiss gift ideas is a cow bell insignia that is proudly worn by Swiss cows. In the past, these bells were used as an important tool in keeping track of cows as they grazed in the mountains. 

Today, these bells have become a symbol of Swiss culture and are often decorated with traditional designs and patterns. You can find various sizes and styles of cowbells, from small keychain versions to larger decorative ones. 

Hang one in your home as a charming reminder of your trip or give it as a unique and musical souvenir to a loved one. 

10. Hand-made wooden toys  – The artisanal treasure

Switzerland is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, and this extends to the creation of traditional wooden toys. These Swiss made charming toys are meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, using only the finest quality wood. 

Each toy is thoughtfully painted with vibrant colors, resulting in delightful and distinctive designs that ignite the imagination.

From adorable farm animals that come to life in the hands of children, to timeless classic cars that transport you to a bygone era, these exquisite toys serve as not just souvenirs for kids, but also as captivating decorative pieces that add a touch of warmth and nostalgia to any home.

11. Swiss military blankets – The cozy reminder

Made from 100% Swiss wool, these soft and durable blankets are a popular souvenir choice among travelers.

Originally used by soldiers in the Swiss army, these blankets come in various sizes and designs, each with its unique combination of colors and patterns. Whether you’re looking for a cozy addition to your home or a practical gift for someone special, these versatile blankets make for a warm and comforting reminder of your journey through Switzerland.

12. Swiss-made biscuits – The classic gift

While cheese (and chocolate) might be the classic food souvenir in Switzerland, Swiss-made biscuits are a fantastic opportunity to stray from the norm while providing a taste of the country. 

You can visit a Swiss bakery for a batch of freshly made treats, but it’s often a wiser choice to add prepackaged items to your suitcase to ensure they do not spoil. 

Swiss cookies are a great addition to your gift list if you’re looking for a last-minute and hassle-free item that won’t take up much space in your suitcase. 

One of the most favorite biscuit brands in Switzerland is Kambly Biscuits , which can easily be found in any grocery store in the vicinity.

13. White wine – The alcoholic gift

With Switzerland’s popularity in all things dairy, it’s surprising to discover that wine production is a renowned practice in this country. This country has a whopping 200 grape varieties and a number of vineyards across the fertile plants of Switzerland.

Chasselas, a white wine known for its fruity notes, is by far the most commonly grown grape variety in this country. While there are many wine regions to visit, Valais is the largest and provides exceptional bottled gems to take home and enjoy the taste and remember the green valleys of Switzerland.

14. Other knick knacks 

With a full itinerary and a wide selection of attractions to fit into a busy Switzerland schedule, you’ll often find you leave your gift shopping too late. This is where airport souvenir shopping becomes the norm, but this doesn’t mean you’ll need to fill your cart with boring items.

Many souvenir shops carry a wide variety of items that will still provide that authentic feel of Switzerland. Take a look at a few things that will be sure to make any gift receiver feel special:

• Fabric bookmarks – Swiss quality, made in the country
• Painted postcards 
• Swiss house box
• Swiss cross stone
• Destination-related puzzles and cool card games

Tips for Buying Swiss Souvenirs

While it might be tempting to load up on a variety of gifts without a second thought, you’ll need to know a few things before making your present list. Take a look at a few key components to make your Swiss souvenir shopping easier:

• Check your country’s customs laws – Nothing puts a damper on a vacation than having your souvenir confiscated. While many items may be safe to package in your suitcase, be sure to abide by the airport rules when it comes to adding food and beverages to your hand luggage.
• Switzerland is not generally a place to haggle – While part of the adventure of shopping abroad might be the delicate dance of price negotiation, Switzerland is not known for its price adjustability to hand-made items. As the time and effort are calculated from their often extensive years of practice in their chosen specialty, these items are often of high quality and non-negotiable.
• Be careful when you pack – International flights can often be a bumpy ride, which could lead to damage to fragile items in your suitcase. So it’s vital to bubble-wrap your prized possessions in order to ensure you don’t get an unfortunate surprise at home. Many shops offer services to wrap items carefully and strategically for air travel, so be sure to enquire.
• Declare your goods – It’s always a good idea to declare the items you’ve purchased throughout your trip at customs in order to ensure a level of transparency. This will also allow you to become accustomed to what is permitted. For example, the general limitation for wine in your suitcase is around five liters.

Read: Create a Swiss bucket list and check off places like Zermatt, Matterhorn, Lake Zurich, and more

Final thoughts on Swiss presents to buy

From the charming urban spaces dotting the regions to the stoic grandeur of the Swiss Alps, this European gem is not easily forgotten after stepping foot on its fertile soil. Whether it’s a quick stopover for a few hours, or you plan to stay five days in Switzerland , a souvenir is the perfect chance to encapsulate your fond memories. 

Not only are Swiss souvenirs a relic from your past travels, but it’s also a way to remember your travels and share them with others. Whether it’s a gift for others or a keepsake, a Swiss souvenir is the perfect addition to any household (or your stomach).

Unable to find enough space for your Swiss souvenirs? Take a look at this ultimate Europe packing list to ensure you have ample room to fit in your shopping.

Read our Switzerland travel guides

• 2 days in Switzerland itinerary
• One day in Zurich itinerary
• One day in Basel itinerary
• Zurich to Bern day trip
• Best places to visit in Switzerland in winter

Pin: Best Souvenirs from Switzerland

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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Swiss Souvenirs: 17 Best Gifts from Switzerland

Last Updated on April 9, 2024 by Goya

Wondering What to Bring Back from Your Swiss Adventure? You’ve Come to the Right Place!

Do you have your eyes set on Switzerland for your next adventure and hope to snag some truly one-of-a-kind souvenirs to remember your trip by?

Or perhaps you’re on the hunt for that perfect Swiss gift to surprise your loved ones when you return home? Well, you’re in luck!

Having explored the charming streets of Bern and beyond , and stood in awe of the breathtaking vistas from the Top of Europe (or Jungfraujoch to friends) , I’m here to guide you through the world of Swiss souvenirs — with a little help from local bloggers and seasoned travellers who know Switzerland like the back of their hand.

This guide is your go-to resource for uncovering the most coveted Swiss souvenirs and gifts , putting your ‘what to buy in Switzerland’ question to rest once and for all.

Table of Contents

From the iconic Swiss chocolates to the elegant Swiss watches and charming traditional crafts, here are some of the finest Swiss keepsakes you can take home with you!

*This post contains affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on this site at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Food and Drinks from Switzerland

#1: swiss chocolate.

If there’s one souvenir that captures the essence of Switzerland, it’s the irresistible Swiss chocolates!

Known for their heavenly blend of richness and creaminess, they’re a must-try for any visitor. With iconic brands like Lindt and Toblerone , each bite is a moment of pure bliss.

So, when you visit Switzerland, remember to indulge in this rich, chocolaty experience and share the joy with Swiss chocolates as the best souvenirs.

Before You Come Back Home

Switzerland is dotted with chocolate experiences and tours that can add an extra layer of fun to your chocolate souvenirs.

From visiting the famous Maison Cailler in Broc, where you can immerse yourself in the sensory delights of chocolate-making, to participating in hands-on workshops at the Lindt Home of Chocolate in Kilchberg, there’s a chocolate adventure waiting around every corner.

#2: Appenzeller Beer

Recommended by Shar of SightseeingShar

“Appenzeller beer is a memento from the Appenzell region of Switzerland, known for its gorgeous mountain landscapes and  famous hiking trails .

The Appenzeller Brewery, Brauerei Locher AG, has been owned by the Locher family since 1886 and for five generations. It produces over 40 varieties of beer using the highest quality Swiss ingredients and traditional methods. 

The most famous variety is the Quöllfrisch , brewed using Alpstein still water, Pilsner Malt, and three types of hops. It has a slightly sweet and mild flavour, and the bottle is stunning. The bottle features a picture of a famous view from the Seealpsee Lake in Appenzell , connecting the stunning landscapes with its rich brewing history and making it the perfect Swiss souvenir. 

Though not a Swiss local, the Appenzell region holds a special place in my heart for its unbeatable hiking trails and breathtaking scenery. Some of my fondest memories were getting to the top of a difficult hike and enjoying an Appenzeller beer or connecting with locals at a bar while sharing one.

A bottle of Appenzeller beer is a great gift for beer lovers or the perfect keepsake for yourself! “

#3: Kambly Biscuits

Recommended by Zoe from  Together In Switzerland

“For a delicious Swiss snack to either take home as a souvenir or gift, consider Swiss biscuits! There is a lot to choose from, but a top suggestion is to buy biscuits from the Kambly brand . 

Dating back to 1910, the Kambly company was founded by a family living in the Bern canton of Switzerland. They have a few famous biscuit kinds including  Bretzeli  and  Caramels à la Crème d’Emmental. 

These together with many other kinds are distributed around Switzerland and many surrounding countries. The company also supplies biscuits to the Swiss Armed Forces. 

You’ll find it hard to pick just one box of biscuits from Kambly . They have so many different styles, designs, and with additional toppings and combinations with nuts. As you can see in the photo, they also create bio and vegan options. 

As a local, these biscuits are great to buy all year round, but even more delicious for celebrations like Easter or Christmas. Our neighbour also always has some biscuits hidden away for when her grandchildren also visit!”

#4: Basler Läckerli Biscuits

Basler Leckerli biscuits are a delightful souvenir or gift that embodies the essence of Switzerland. These traditional Swiss treats, known for their rich blend of almonds, honey, spices, and candied orange and lemon peels, offer a unique taste experience. Originating from Basel, the biscuits have a storied history, with recipes dating back centuries.

Jakob’s Basler Leckerly Manufakturladen stands out as a historic destination where these delicious confections are crafted following age-old methods. Visiting Jakob’s offers an authentic glimpse into Swiss culinary tradition, making their Basler Leckerli an ideal gift that carries the flavours and heritage of Switzerland to your loved ones.

#5: Fondue Cheese

Recommended by Giorgy from  Sabiduri

“Switzerland, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a delightful range of souvenirs to commemorate your visit. Among these, fondue cheese stands out as a quintessential Swiss gift that captures the essence of Swiss culinary traditions.

Perfect for anyone looking to bring a slice of Switzerland’s warm, communal dining experiences back home, fondue cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience that symbolises the country’s love for good food and togetherness.

Available at most supermarkets and speciality stores throughout the country, you can easily find high-quality fondue cheese, ensuring that you’re taking a piece of authentic Swiss tradition with you.

Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it in the comfort of your own home, fondue cheese is a reminder of the the unforgettable experiences of exploring Switzerland.”

#6: Swiss Wine

Yes, you read that right — the Swiss do make their own wine!

While Switzerland might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of wine production, this hidden gem nestled in the heart of Europe produces some truly unique wines born from its alpine climates and terraced vineyards , giving rise to wines with distinct flavours and aromas that are hard to find elsewhere.

Due to the small-scale production, much of Swiss wine is consumed domestically, making it a rare find outside the country’s borders .

Bringing back a bottle (or two) of Swiss wine is not just about gifting a unique beverage; it’s about sharing a piece of Switzerland’s lesser-known culture and tradition.

Discover Swiss Vineyards

While you’re in Switzerland, consider exploring its wineries and vineyards:

Unique Swiss Gifts and Souvenirs

#7: cow bell.

Recommended by Stefanie by E uro Travels by Design

“A Swiss cowbell stands out as a unique and interesting memento, great for any traveller seeking the perfect souvenir.

Every year, the herdsmen of Appenzell, Switzerland lead the herds up into the hills for grazing in the Spring and then back down in the Fall. Wearing traditional costumes, they walk along the roads for spectators to watch. This is known as the Alpine Cow Parade .

Many of the cows carry bells around their necks making a tinkling noise as they walk. The three most prized dairy cows carry the largest bells.

Taking one of the cowbells home is a wonderful way to celebrate the area’s cultural history and traditions.

The bells are not hard to find as they are in many of the shops in the area. They come in a variety of different sizes and are reasonably priced . Many come with colourful cloth, tassels or embroidery.

Combining artistry with tradition, a cowbell is a fun and creative way to remember time spent in the beautiful and charming area of Appenzell — one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in summer .”

#8: Swiss Watch

Recommended by Josh from A Backpacker’s World

“Switzerland is known for many things, and one of them is watches.

While it’s possible to buy famous Swiss watch brands such as Rolex or  Cartier watches all around the world, where better to buy them than in the country in which they originate?

Switzerland is expensive , and their watches definitely live up to this reputation. In fact,  Swiss watches are amongst the most expensive in the world.

The good thing about buying them as a souvenir though is that they are a constant reminder of your trip, right on your wrist.

You’ll also probably make money in the long run as most watches’ value goes up over time (provided it’s kept in good condition) , so not only are you getting a top-class souvenir, you’re making an investment.

And in a country which is centred around money and banking, it’s very in line with Switzerland, making a watch the perfect souvenir.

#9: Swiss Army Knife

Recommended by Paul from Paulmarina

“One of the most useful souvenirs that you can get from your trip to Switzerland, is a real Swiss army knife.

This versatile pocket knife was first invented as a multi-tool for the Swiss army by Victorinox. Today, various types and models can be purchased all over Switzerland.

The most basic Swiss army knives include a knife blade, scissors, a corkscrewer, a can opener, a tweezer and a toothpick. Look out for special editions that are suited for special hobbies and work environments. We encountered rare models with a wooden, alox and micarta finish at the  Mount Schilthorn  peak. 

Look out for official Victorinox resellers on your trip to Switzerland, and ask the reseller to show you different models so that you can open them up and choose a suitable Swiss knife as a souvenir or gift.”

#10: Swiss Army Blankets

Crafted entirely from Swiss wool, these blankets offer both softness and strength, making them a beloved memento for visitors.

Initially serving the Swiss military, these blankets are now available in an array of sizes and styles, featuring distinct colours and motifs. Ideal for adding a touch of warmth to any space or as a thoughtful present, these adaptable blankets serve as a snug and heartwarming token of your travels across Switzerland.

#11: Boccalino Jug from Ticino

Recommended by Augusta from Mini Me Explorer

“Boccalino is a unique Swiss souvenir which can be found only in Ticino , the Italian-speaking area of  Switzerland .

It’s a small pot-bellied terracotta vase with a round base, a handle, and a spout. It holds about two deciliters of liquid, or as we say in our local dialect, “un quintin” (one-fifth of a litre). It is used in local traditional taverns to serve red wine, and one can drink it straight from it.

You’ll often see it decorated with red and blue ribbons, grapes and wine leaves or images of picturesque landscapes.

While every local family has at least one at home , it is not sold in local stores — nor has it ever been. Either it is given away at local fairs or you will need to buy one in souvenir shops.”

#12: Woodcarving

Recommended by Suzanne from  Meandering Wild

“Switzerland boasts a longstanding tradition in woodcarving, with skills passed down through generations. Carvings often feature Swiss folklore, wildlife, and landscapes.

While cuckoo clocks are widespread souvenirs, more personal options like trolls and green man carvings, reflecting folk tales, are easier to transport. Each carving is unique, unlike mass-produced souvenirs.

The Swiss Woodcarving Museum in Brienz delves into the history of this craft, showcasing its deep connection to the country. 

Each village and town you visit will have a wood carver and many will have small trinkets including Christmas decorations and tableaus, as well as green men and cuckoo clocks to choose from.

Speaking of Woodcarving…

#13: Cuckoo Clock

Recommended by Sara from Big Adventures with Little Feet

“Most people recognise that Switzerland produces the best watches in the world.  Whilst a Rolex or Patek Philippe might make a wonderful Swiss gift, they’re probably a little over budget for most of us as souvenirs from a trip to Switzerland. 

However, if you’re into the timekeeping theme then a fun and unusual gift to bring back from your trip to Switzerland is the cuckoo clock. 

There are two types to choose from, the carved ones with wooden cases that are decorated with leaves and animals. And a second style that has a case in the shape of a chalet. Inside they have an automaton of a bird that appears through a small trap door when the clock strikes the time. 

You can buy them in most towns in Switzerland.”

#14: (Miniature) Swiss Alpenhorn

If you’re in search of a distinctive and meaningful souvenir from Switzerland, the Alpenhorn is an exceptional choice.

This iconic instrument, deeply rooted in Swiss culture, represents the soulful call of the Alps.

While a full-sized Alpenhorn might be challenging to transport, miniature versions are available that capture the essence of this traditional instrument. These compact replicas are meticulously handcrafted by local artisans, ensuring each piece is a work of art. Not only do they serve as a beautiful decorative item, but they also embody the spirit of the Swiss Alps.

Gifting a mini Alpenhorn is a wonderful way to share a piece of Switzerland’s history and traditions, making it a memorable and distinctive choice for friends and family.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can try fitting a full-sized (3.5 metres) Alpenhorn in your luggage, of course. It’ll definitely give airport security something to talk about! 🙂

Other Small Items

#15: Swiss Pins and Magnets

Swiss pins and magnets make for charming and lightweight souvenirs , perfect for travellers looking to bring a piece of Switzerland back home. These delightful items are adorned with iconic Swiss symbols such as the Matterhorn, Swiss flags, cows, and even miniature alphorns. They serve as vibrant reminders of your Swiss adventures and can decorate everything from your fridge to your backpack.

Collecting different designs from various cantons offers a fun way to commemorate your travels across Switzerland, making them a fantastic gift for friends and family who appreciate quaint and colourful keepsakes.

#16: Money Purse

A Swiss-themed money purse is not only a practical souvenir but also a stylish accessory to remind you of your travels. Crafted from quality materials, these purses often feature quintessentially Swiss designs, including the cross of the Swiss flag, alpine landscapes, or traditional folk art.

Compact yet spacious enough to hold your coins, notes, and even credit cards, they fit easily into any pocket or bag, making them ideal for everyday use.

They are also perfect for safekeeping your (let’s face it, otherwise unusable) Swiss coins until your next trip to Switzerland!

#17: Postcards

With stunning photography capturing Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and picturesque villages, these postcards are a joy both to send and receive. Writing a heartfelt message on the back adds a personal touch that transcends the distance, making friends and family feel part of your journey.

Postcards from Switzerland offer a classic and personal way to share your travel experiences — and the best part is you don’t even have to worry about taking them back yourself!

Tips for Buying Swiss Gifts and Souvenirs

Before you dive headfirst into Swiss souvenir shopping, let’s make sure you’re armed with all the right info. Here are some handy pointers to make your souvenir-hunting adventure a breeze:

• Familiarize yourself with customs regulations: Avoid the disappointment of having your prized souvenirs confiscated by acquainting yourself with your country’s customs laws. Pay particular attention to restrictions regarding food and beverages in your hand luggage.
• Embrace the no-haggle culture: Unlike some bustling bazaars where haggling is practically an art form, Switzerland isn’t big on negotiating prices, especially for those beautifully crafted handmade items. These treasures are often priced for their quality and craftsmanship, so expect them to be non-negotiable.
• Pack with Care: Turbulence isn’t just uncomfortable for passengers; it can also spell disaster for fragile souvenirs. Protecting your finds with bubble wrap or asking stores for protective packaging can prevent any heartbreak upon unpacking. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Final Thoughts: Souvenirs and Gifts from Switzerland

Switzerland, a country renowned for its majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a diverse array of souvenirs and gifts that embody the essence of Swiss tradition.

Whether you’re drawn to the culinary specialities, the artisanal craftsmanship, or the simple beauty of Swiss design, Switzerland’s souvenirs and gifts beautifully reflect the country’s heritage and landscapes. They stand as timeless reminders of your travels, inviting you to carry a piece of Switzerland with you, wherever you go.

As you explore these 17 top souvenirs and gifts, I hope this guide inspires your choices, helping you find the perfect souvenirs to commemorate your Swiss journey.

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Best Gifts and Souvenirs from Switzerland #1: Swiss Chocolate #2: Appenzeller Beer #3: Kambly Biscuits #4: Basler Läckerli Biscuits #5: Fondue Cheese #6: Swiss Wine #7: Cow Bell #8: Swiss Watch #9: Swiss Army Knife #10: Swiss Army Blankets #11: Boccalino Jug from Ticino #12: Woodcarving #13: Cuckoo Clock #14: (Miniature) Swiss Alpenhorn #15: Swiss Pins & Magnets #16: Money Purse #17: Postcards

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This is a great list, some familiar things but many I didn’t know about. I would love to visit someday.

So glad to hear! Hope you get to visit and bring some of these souvenirs back very soon! 🙂

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Carpe Diem OUR Way Travel

See the World | One Family Adventure at a Time

What to buy in Switzerland? 10 Authentic Swiss Souvenirs and Gifts to buy!

2023-04-24 by Lindsay Nieminen

If you are planning a trip to Switzerland or want to know what to buy in Switzerland, this post has you covered! One of my favourite things about travel is finding something special from the places I visit. It could be something small, like a piece of jewelry, or something handmade locally in the country, like a painted ostrich egg that I bought in Jordan .

Swiss souvenirs represent the country, especially for those at home. Whether you are shopping in Switzerland for gifts, or looking for what to buy in Switzerland as a keepsake from your trip, you will find plenty of ideas below!

One of the things that I try and collect in every county I visit is a small flag. While in Switzerland I also picked up the flag representing Geneva, because of its unique and colourful design! Keep reading for tips on what to buy in Switzerland on your visit!

What to buy in Switzerland: Switzerland Souvenir Ideas

Switzerland is a pricey country overall, so it makes sense to choose your Swiss souvenirs wisely. Keep reading below to see some of the best things to buy in Switzerland, and if you are looking for quality products, Switzerland is where you will find it!

Swiss Army Knife

The bold red colour of the swiss army knife and the versatility of the tool has made it recognizable all over the world as the most popular pocketknife. It is first on the list of things to buy in Switzerland because it was probably the first thing you thought of as well. According to wikipedia, it is one of the cultural icons of Switzerland, which earns it my vote for one of the best small gifts from Switzerland or a great moment from your trip.

If it was not the Swiss Army knife that you thought of first when it comes to the best Swiss souvenirs or the best gifts from Switzerland, Chocolate would probably been it! Want to know why Switzerland is known for having some of the world’s best chocolate? It is because of the pasture grazed cows that produce the milk that makes chocolate in Switzerland. If you visit Interlaken, be sure to pop into the Funky Chocolate Club to make some chocolate of your own and learn all about the best Swiss chocolates.

Swiss Watches

Swiss watch brands are the top in the industry. They are one of the best things to buy in Zurich if you can afford it. Whether it is materials, design, or even the case, swiss watches are distinguished from other brands. people are willing to pay hundreds of dollars for swiss made watches thanks to their rich history, their quality materials and workmanship, and their luxurious look. Yes, you can get a Chinese made watch for a few dollars, but a Swiss made watch is for more than just telling time. 

Cheese Fondue

Cheese fondue is a traditional dish in Switzerland that originated in the Alps region. Traditionally, it was a hearty peasant dish using ingredients that are available in winter: cheese, wine and coarse bread. In Switzerland, “la fondue” means cheese fondue, not any other kind of dipping fondue. If you want to recreate a Swiss cheese fondue, you need a fondue pot and a few types of cheese. Greyère is a popular choice. You also need white wine and kirsch. Any kind of bread with a strong crust will do. Whether or not you bring it home with you, it is one of the things to buy in Switzerland that you can enjoy, right at its birthplace.

While in Switzerland, you should also consider a cheese factory tour! They are fascinating and you will learn all about how that cheese we love so much, ends up on the store shelves!

Photos as Swiss Souvenirs

I do not always add this, but when it comes to such a beautiful place it makes the perfect Switzerland souvenir. Bring your camera, capture the beauty and share it with everyone you know! One of the best kept secrets in Switzerland is Swiss National Park. The Swiss National Park hiking trails make for some stunning, not-often-captured photographs!

Photos of your trip make amazing souvenirs but sometimes it is hard to capture that perfect family moment! I have found that I almost always end up behind the camera. More and more when I travel I have looked for professional photographers who I can book a photo session and then not stress about getting great family memories! If you are like me and love photos, consider booking a photoshoot.

Some trips deserve more than selfies! Occasions like honeymoons, anniversaries, family holidays, solo adventures and even surprise proposals are perfect moments to capture with a Flytographer shoot — or simply because you believe that memories are the best souvenir.

I have booked and used Flytographer on my travels. If you use the code LINDSAY you will save $25 off your booking!

Make the effort to print these memories or make a photo book. It might be one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland and will last for years to come.

Why are cows so important in Switzerland? Well, part of the reason is their milk, making world-famous chocolates. You can buy cowbells all over Switzerland and they make a fun thing to take home from Switzerland reminding you of the cows in the fields around the country.

Swiss Cheese

Before you purchase cheese to take home from your trip to Switzerland, ensure that you can make it home without it spoiling and that you can bring it into your home country. If it is not something you want to take home with you, you can still enjoy it while you visit Switzerland.

Anything “HEIDI”

The story of Heidi is centered around the swiss alps and it is so popular that over 20 films have been made based on the book. Look for Heidi souvenirs, or pick up the book before you visit!

Cuckoo Clocks

Whether it is a small toy cuckoo clock or a large hanging piece worth thousands of dollars, a cuckoo clock is popular souvenir to buy in Switzerland. They come in beautiful colors with intricate pieces and show off why the swiss are excellent timekeepers.

Kambly Biscuits

Kambly biscuits are made in Switzerland and are one of the cheap things to buy in Switzerland t bring back from your trip. If you have time to visit the factory in Emmental, you can try them and choose your favourites to take home!

REX Vegetable peeler

Touted as the world’s best but those who use it, the REX peeler has remained unchanged since 1947. It is ergonomic and unique, but because its design is so perfect, there is no need to improve on what is already perfect! It is lightweight and made of aluminum with a sharp potato eye remover on the side. If you want to bring home one of the best things to buy in Switzerland that you will use often, the REX peeler is that souvenir!

  What to Buy in Switzerland Conclusion:

Switzerland is a very expensive country to travel in, and they use their own currency. It is close in value to the Euro and you can get by mostly using Euros. But you are better of to get yourself some local cash, as you will do better exchange rate wise.

If you are on the hunt for cheap souvenirs from Swizerland, stick to confectionary things like chocolate and biscuits or look for street shopping in Zurich or Geneva.

Alternatively, if you are looking for excellent quality goods, Switzerland is where you will find it!

Whether it is a watch, a swiss army knife, a beautiful table runner or other textiles that are locally produced or even high quality hiking gear, you will not be second guessing whether you have made a good purchase.

SWITZERLAND TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR 2023

Looking for the perfect city tour, day tour, bus tour, & skip-the-line tickets? Start with Get Your Guide and Viator Tours. They offer several tours all over Switzerland.

Find the best hotel selection on booking.com or hostelworld.com

Want a local authentic meal? Browse eatwith.com to find food tours, cooking classes and unique local foodie experiences!

Find information and cruise reviews on cruisecritic.com

Ensure you have proper insurance coverage, consider World Nomads.

Need to travel light? You can safely store your luggage with Radical Storage.

Capture those memories! Book a romantic or family photoshoot while on holiday! Click Here to find a local photographer. Use code LINDSAY to save $25 off your first photoshoot!

Further Reading :

The Best Places to Visit In Switzerland with Kids

Planning a Trip to Switzerland? Check out these Switzerland Travel Tips

Planning on visiting Lucerne? Check out the Best things to do in Lucerne with Kids!

Is Zurich on your Itinerary? Find out 4 Places not to miss in Zurich!

You might also like:

Alaska Souvenirs

What to buy in Greece

Munich souvenirs

Things to Buy in Paris

Unique Japanese Souvenirs

Lindsay Nieminen hails from Vancouver, Canada and shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about showing others that they should not put off traveling the world just because they have young children or are single parents. She aims to encourage them to seek out adventure, whether it is at home or abroad by providing information on how just about everywhere can be a destination to explore as a family.

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Reader Interactions

Róisín says

2020-02-12 at 3:23 pm

Nice post Lindsay. Only problem might be getting my luggage home through with Ryanair 🙂

Lindsay Nieminen says

2020-03-10 at 6:26 pm

yes … luggage space is always a problem!

2020-04-11 at 12:00 pm

Cuckoo Clocks are german tough.

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23 Souvenirs From Switzerland to Bring Home With You

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Switzerland is one of the world’s dreamiest travel destinations. There are no two ways about it. But apart from alpine scenery and mesmerizing cities, there are also plenty of wonderful souvenirs in Switzerland to bring home!

Wondering what to buy in Switzerland ?

Wonder no more because here’s a list of the best souvenirs in Switzerland to bring home with you! 

Table of Contents

1. Chocolate

When you think about what to buy in Switzerland, chances are you’ll instantly think of Swiss chocolate ! After all, it is easily one of the most sought-after souvenirs in Switzerland, known for its creamy goodness.

If you’re wondering about where to buy chocolate in Switzerland, you can’t go wrong with famous brands like Toblerone and Lindt . They’re readily available in almost every supermarket and offer some of the best chocolate to buy in Switzerland. However, we actually recommend making your own Swiss chocolate from scratch! 

At Funky Chocolate Club in Interlaken, you can sign up for an hour-long course on chocolate-making. You’ll be able to sample the different varieties of cacao seeds used to manufacture chocolate and try your hand at making your own chocolate bars!

That way, not only will you be able to bring home some custom-made chocolate, but you’ll also be able to learn about the intricate processes behind one of the world’s most beloved treats. It is definitely an experience you don’t want to miss! 

Join chocolate tours in Switzerland!

• Geneva: 3-hour Chocolate Tasting and Old Town Visit
• Zurich: Zurich Tour including Lake Cruise and Lindt Home of Chocolate
• Zurich: Swiss Chocolate Walking Tour of Zurich

2. Swiss army knives

I remember my first Swiss army knife. It was one of the many gifts from Switzerland that my uncle brought back from his maiden visit. I still have it today in fact! It’s stored right next to the one I bought when I went to Switzerland myself in 2017. 

Yes, just like Swiss chocolate, Swiss army knives are also popular Swiss souvenirs that make for excellent gifts.

With so many different utility tools stored in its compact body, every Swiss army knife offers many different functions. Apart from each model having its own set of tools in addition to the blade, every Swiss army knife is also unique in appearance by model. 

If I had to recommend the best Swiss army knife brand, it would be Victorinox. A tried-and-tested brand, Victorinox produces top-quality Swiss army knives and is often the first brand that you see.  

3. Swiss army blankets

While the original Swiss army blankets were designed in the late 19th century for soldiers to carry with them on long trips and missions, today’s Swiss army blankets perform a variety of functions.

Today, the iconic grey and red blankets with the Swiss cross can be used as picnic blankets, car seat covers, or as blackout curtains. They can also be upcycled into bags, purses, boots, gloves, slippers, book covers, and more! Why all the rave though?

Swiss army blankets are made of 75% Swiss sheep’s wool and 25% other fibers, a composition that makes them soft, durable, and versatile. Plus, they’re lightweight so they can be easily brought anywhere.

You can easily find Swiss army blankets at many clothing or craft stores all around Switzerland.

4. Swiss watches 

While chocolate and army knives are fantastic souvenirs in their own right, nothing makes a statement quite like the luxurious gleam of a Swiss watch!

Showcasing expert craftsmanship, Swiss watches are the epitome of elegance and prestige. In short, they are one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland! 

And while famous brands like Rolex or Tag Heuer can be a little pricey, there are also more affordable options like Swatch and Wenger. Regardless, whether you’re looking to pamper your loved ones with a luxurious Swiss souvenir or simply want a shiny new accessory for yourself, you really can’t go wrong with Swiss watches. 

If you’re wondering where to buy Swiss watches, we recommend paying a visit to the town of Interlaken. Not only are there numerous watch boutiques there, you can also enjoy stunning alpine views as you do your shopping! 

Also Read: The 17 Top Swiss Luxury Brands You Should Know About

5. Swiss fondue set

Swiss fondue is arguably the national dish of Switzerland and is one of the best ways to celebrate the diverse flavors of cheeses in Switzerland!

For those who’ve never had it, Swiss fondue is basically a mixture of different cheeses that are melted in a communal pot. You then dip bread and potatoes into the cheese for a satisfying and savory meal. 

Needless to say, Swiss fondue is relatively challenging to find outside of Switzerland. So, before you head back, why not pick up one of the most unique souvenirs from Switzerland: a fondue set! It often includes a fondue pot and some skewers for the bread and potatoes (these are, of course, not included). 

Of course, you’ll also need to get the right cheese if you want to authentically recreate the experience. That’s why, before you depart Switzerland, you’ll also want to pick up the next item on this list. 

Enjoy Zurich and fondue!

🫕 What can be better than combining exploring Zurich and tasting a traditional Swiss meal of fondue and wine? Nothing, it seems! Consider taking the Fondue and Wine Tuk Tuk Tour in Zurich for a unique and intimate Swiss dining experience!

6. Swiss cheeses

I’ll let you in on a secret: the ingredient that makes Swiss chocolate so good is alpine milk, which is milk produced at high-altitude farms in the Alps. The same alpine milk is also often used to produce another famous Swiss souvenir: Swiss cheese!

And no, by Swiss cheese, I don’t just mean those famous cheese slices with holes in them. 

In truth, Switzerland has a wide variety of different cheeses, each with its own flavor profiles and uses. Emmentaler, Gruyère, Appenzeller — these are just SOME of the most famous cheeses in Switzerland.

Conveniently enough, cheeses in Switzerland are often sold in tight, condensed, blocks. This makes it super easy to carry them around and bring them home! 

However, stuffing a block of cheese into your bag for an extended period of time may be challenging. That’s why we recommend buying these souvenirs just before you head home. And since Zurich is the most common international departure point, Swiss cheese is actually one of the top things to buy in Zurich. 

7. Raclette maker

Another unique Swiss souvenir that can bring out the deliciousness of Swiss cheese is a raclette maker. Like Swiss fondue, raclette is a popular cheese dish in Switzerland.

Basically, molten cheese is scraped onto a serving of potatoes, making a quick and yummy snack. It’s also readily available almost anywhere in Switzerland. But unlike Swiss fondue, raclette uses only one type of cheese (usually): raclette.

Yes, the dish shares the same name as the cheese that’s used. 

A raclette pan is a unique cooking utensil that can help recreate the culinary experience. Of course, you’ll also need to pick up a block of raclette to make it truly legit. While it may sound like a hassle just to recreate such a simple dish, trust me, it’s definitely worth it. 

8. Swiss wine

Being a landlocked nation that borders Italy and France, it comes as no surprise that Switzerland houses plenty of vineyards in the south.

But unlike Italian and French wine which frequently gets exported to the rest of the world Swiss wine is more often sold domestically. 

Naturally, this makes Swiss wine another one of the most sought-after gifts from Switzerland. The crisp, fruity Swiss wines definitely pair well with the savory texture of Swiss cheeses and can make for quite the indulgence.

The only thing to take note of when buying Swiss wine is ensuring that you pack it safely to endure the long flight home! 

9. Swiss cowbells 

Moving away from souvenirs in Switzerland that satisfy your palette, let’s look at some of the more traditional Swiss souvenirs you should pick up on your vacation.

First, picture the Swiss alps. What do you see? What do you hear? For me, I picture snow-capped mountains, verdant meadows, and a herd of cows grazing. As they move, the sound of cowbells echoes through the alpine air.

That, my friends, is actually not far at all from what it’s really like on Swiss alpine farms! 

Cowbells are known by the locals as the music of the Alps and believe it or not, you can actually buy these cowbells as souvenirs from Switzerland! While most countries use cast iron cowbells, Swiss cowbells are made using pressed sheet metal that’s called a Trychel.

Trychel cowbells have a more distinct clank and are supposedly more comfortable for the animals wearing them. Hmm, maybe that’s why Swiss alpine milk makes the best chocolates and cheeses! 

You don’t have to go out of your way to buy these Swiss souvenirs though because Swiss cowbells are readily available almost everywhere. 

10. Swiss cuckoo clocks

Another popular traditional Swiss souvenir is a Swiss cuckoo clock. While it’s true that cuckoo clocks likely originated in the neighboring country of Germany, Swiss cuckoo clocks have their own unique charms not found anywhere else.

For one, they often come in the shape of Swiss chalets and feature depictions of life in Switzerland. 

Swiss cuckoo clocks combine expert craftsmanship, delightful music, and the ever-iconic, hourly singing of the cuckoo bird into one impressive Swiss souvenir.

If you’re wondering where to buy cuckoo clocks in Switzerland, look no further than the famous Teddy’s Souvenir Shop in Zurich! 

11. Mondaine railway clocks

If there’s one positive stereotype that the Swiss are proud of, it’s Swiss punctuality.

Indeed, ask anyone who has visited Switzerland and they will surely rave about how committed the Swiss are to being on time. This is most clearly reflected in the efficiency of Switzerland’s extensive network of trains and railways. 

While a Swiss train is, of course, a great souvenir in itself, a more memorable gift from Switzerland would be Mondaine railway clocks!

Mondaine railway clocks are placed in every federal station of the Swiss railway and can be easily seen when embarking and disembarking on the platforms.

What makes a Mondaine railway clock so special is the fact that it only ticks for 58 seconds. That is a direct reference to the Swiss sentiment: being two seconds early always makes you on time.

If you ask me, this is one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland for the habitually late!

12. Music boxes

Even though Swiss watches are all the rage these days around the world, the most famous Swiss souvenirs used to be music boxes.

These intricate, ornamental souvenirs were extremely popular in the 19th century and even eclipsed the popularity of Swiss watches at one point! 

Elegant and classy, traditional Swiss music boxes are carved out of the finest wood and often feature hand-painted scenes of life in the Swiss Alps. The most common music boxes play classics like “Edelweiss” and the “Happy Wanderer”. However, more high-end music boxes can also be modified to play a large variety of tunes. 

Even though music boxes aren’t as popular these days as they used to be in the past, they are still wonderful Swiss souvenirs to bring back to your loved ones. 

13. Traditional wooden toys and carvings

Speaking of intricate Swiss souvenirs made from wood, another unique item that should be on your souvenir shopping list is a traditional Swiss wooden toy. These beautifully crafted figurines are extremely popular, not just among children in Switzerland, but also among classic toy collectors. 

The toys come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, ranging from classic wooden tops, planes, trains, St. Bernards, alpine cows, and more! All of these are masterfully crafted from beech, maple, lime, and birch trees in Switzerland.

These handicrafts often exude a Christmassy ambiance as well, making them excellent gifts from Switzerland for the holidays. 

14. Heidi books & souvenirs 

If there’s one fictional Swiss character that’s famous throughout the world, it’s got to be Heidi! This classic Swiss character has been around since the 17th century, appearing in books, movies, and even as toys! 

For the uninitiated, Heidi is a children’s book character often portrayed in a traditional Swiss milkmaid dress. The stories usually center around the adventures of Heidi and her grandfather in the Swiss Alps. 

When in Zurich, you’ll see entire stores dedicated to Heidi, selling a plethora of different merchandise centered around the character and her stories. While they are all wonderful in their own right, the best souvenirs to get are the books themselves!

In fact, Heidi books are actually considered one of the top souvenirs in Zurich! And hey, Heidi’s stories are often considered tales for children and for those who love children, so even if you’re just buying them for yourself, we think it’s still pretty cool too! 

15. Traditional Swiss costumes (for girls) 

Speaking of Heidi, if you’re happy with just the books or toys, you can go a step further and purchase a traditional Swiss costume (usually for young children) too. These Heidi-style dresses are super adorable and colorful and are sure to catch the eye. 

In addition, another traditional Swiss souvenir that doubles up as a fashion statement is a Tigerfinkli. It’s basically a pair of tiny baby slippers traditionally worn by girls in Switzerland throughout numerous generations. They are often bright red in color and feature feline prints.

Actually, I should probably make a note to buy a pair of these for my baby niece the next time I’m in Switzerland! 

16. Appenzeller dog collars

Of course, while we’re shopping for Swiss souvenirs to bring home to our friends and family, we also can’t forget our adorable fur kids! Truth be told, most of the time when I buy a souvenir for my pet, I opt for something general like a ball or a toy. They’re easy to please after all. 

But in Switzerland, you actually can find a perfect gift for your faithful companion! In this case, it’s an Appenzeller dog collar. Appenzeller is an alpine region in the northeast of Switzerland where the famous mountain dog breed, Appenzeller Sennenhund, originated from. While you probably can’t bring one home with you, you can definitely purchase one of their iconic dog collars!

Made from pristine Swiss leather, Appenzeller dog collars are red in color and adorned with gold metal decorations on the side. They come in various sizes so you’ll definitely find one that’s a perfect fit for your furry friend at home! 

17. Alta Terra food products 

Ask anyone who’s been to Switzerland and they’ll tell you that they simply can’t get enough of the Swiss Alps! Be it fresh air, the stunning sights, or simply the quality ingredients that they hold, the Swiss Alps are truly one of Mother Nature’s most treasured gems. 

In the canton of Bern, you will find a family-based business called Alta Terra which produces and sells flavored oils, honey, and other food products infused with alpine herbs and spices. What’s more, every ingredient that is used is 100% organic! 

While Alta Terra food products are one of those Swiss souvenirs that are harder to come by, they are certainly worth picking up if you’re ever in the area. After all, these are gifts from Switzerland that will truly impress guests at your next dinner party! 

18. SIGG Bottles

Did you know that water in Switzerland is so clean, that even in cities like Zurich, you can simply drink your fill from a public fountain without needing to buy mineral water from the store? That’s why most Swiss go around their daily business clutching their own water bottles. 

If you’re still torn about what to buy in Switzerland, then we recommend taking a leaf out of the locals’ book and getting a SIGG bottle! This durable and lightweight bottle is made using a single piece of aluminum, making it the perfect eco-friendly water bottle for travelers and backpackers. 

Basically, if you’re looking for a practical and stylish “Made in Switzerland” souvenir, a SIGG bottle is arguably your best choice! 

19. Caran D’ache stationery 

As you’re visiting the Swiss Alps and taking in the views, inspiration may suddenly strike you and you might feel the sudden urge to pen a soulful poem! Lucky for you, just like the pristine views of the Alps, Switzerland also has a luxurious brand of writing instruments! 

Caran D’ache is a collection of writing instruments that double up as impressive Swiss souvenirs for those who love to write. Packaged in beautiful boxes, these Swiss-made stationery sets ooze elegance and prestige!

If you have a loved one who loves writing the old-fashioned way, a Caran D’ache stationery set may well be one of the best souvenirs in Switzerland for them! 

20. Kambly Biscuits

With such a wide variety of delicious snacks in Switzerland, it’s understandable that most people would pass by a packet of Kambly biscuits in the supermarket without paying it much attention. And yet, there’s just something about these assorted biscuits that make them simply irresistible! 

These Swiss-made biscuits are available in practically every supermarket and grocery store in the country. But for a more unique experience, visit the Kambly factory in Emmental.

There, you can sample a wide variety of Kambly biscuits and take your time picking out your favorites to bring home as souvenirs from Switzerland for your loved ones. 

21. Swiss skincare and cosmetic products

Switzerland is known for luxurious products and that’s true not just for watches and chocolates but also for beauty products.

Swiss beauty is recognized for expertly blending research and technology with natural ingredients. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and abundant natural resources, most Swiss skincare and cosmetic products focus on innovating natural ingredients and highlighting purity, quality, and science.

It doesn’t hurt that European cosmetic regulations are among the strictest in the world so you can be sure of the quality and sustainability of Swiss-made beauty products.

Some of the most popular Swiss skincare and cosmetic brands that you can everywhere in Switzerland and online are La Prairie, Alchimie Forever of Switzerland, Bellefontaine, Lubex, and Waleda.

22. Rex vegetable peeler

A vegetable peeler for a souvenir? Well, not just any vegetable souvenir but an iconic one!

The Rex peeler, invented in 1947 by Alfred Neweczerzal of Davos, Switzerland, is so iconic that it was even featured in a 2004 Swiss postage stamp!

What makes the Rex peeler special is its ergonomic and lightweight design. It has a one-piece aluminum handle and a movable carbon steel blade with dual edges that lets you peel in two directions. It also has an ‘eye gouger’ beside the blade.

At the time of its invention, it was considered exceptional in its functionality and ease of use. But to this day, this ubiquitous Swiss household item is touted for its reliability.

The Rex Vegetable Peeler can be found in most stores throughout Switzerland, particularly in kitchenware specialty shops or markets. Definitely one of the most useful Swiss souvenirs you can bring home.

23. Zurich postcards

Finally, while gifting postcards and fridge magnets are a bit of an outdated cliche, we simply must make an exception for Zurich postcards. In fact, they’re actually some of the most popular things to buy in Zurich !

Featuring stunning photos of iconic landmarks and vistas from the city, Zurich postcards are incredibly beautiful and certainly elicit a sense of wanderlust in all who lay eyes on them!

So, if you ever find yourself pressed for time and can’t figure out which Swiss souvenir to buy, just pop into one of the souvenir shops in Zurich and pick out the best-looking postcard! 

And voila, your souvenir shopping adventure in Switzerland is complete! Swiss souvenirs are truly some of the best travel gifts you can buy for your loved ones at home. And with this list in hand, you’ll more than just impress your friends and family when you give them their souvenirs from Switzerland!

Ready to continue your global shopping trip? Check out some of the souvenirs you don’t want to miss in London , Berlin , and Paris !

Planning your trip to Switzerland?

• 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com
• 🎡 Discover unique attractions with Tripadvisor
• 🚘 Hire a car on Rentalcars
• ✈️ Buy cheap flight tickets with WayAway

4 thoughts on “23 Souvenirs From Switzerland to Bring Home With You”

Glad to see that you mentioned the Caran D’Ache writing instruments. Surprised that you did not mention the artist’s dream of the colored pencils. The best !

Hi Betsy, Could you provide the name of the brand for the colored pencils, please. It would be a perfect gift for my daughter. Thanks

Caran d’Ache. Same brand.

I think you have written a very informative and comprehensive guide for travelers who want to buy some unique and memorable gifts from Switzerland. You have covered a wide range of products. I liked how you included some photos to show the quality and variety of the souvenirs. Your article has inspired me to visit Switzerland someday and bring home some of these wonderful souvenirs.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Swiss Souvenirs: From Budget-Friendly to Luxurious Options

Switzerland, a picturesque Alpine country, is a popular travel destination known for its stunning landscapes as well as its unparalleled craftsmanship. 

Swiss souvenirs are a great way to remember the country and share it with your loved ones back home. So, if you’re looking for gifts in Switzerland or just want to find something special for yourself to remember your trip, you may wonder which souvenirs to take home that truly capture the essence of your experience. Worry not! Our detailed guide will help you navigate the best souvenirs Switzerland has to offer, whether you’re on a tight budget or seeking high-quality, luxury items. So, join us as we unveil our top picks for Switzerland souvenirs!

Swiss Army Knife

The distinctive red Swiss Army Knife is considered a cultural icon of Switzerland and is often associated with the country’s reputation for producing high-quality, practical products. It has a long history, dating back to the late 19th century when they were first produced for the Swiss military. Their multifunctionality and quality quickly caught the attention of people worldwide, and became an extremely useful tool in various situations, from everyday tasks to outdoor adventures.

The Swiss Army Knife is so famous that it has even become a synonym for versatility and multi-functionality in everyday language. When people refer to something as a “Swiss Army knife,” they usually mean that it’s a tool or item that serves multiple purposes and is highly adaptable in various situations.

Being one of Switzerland’s cultural symbols, it’s a great choice for a small gift or a special keepsake from your trip. Look for Victorinox stores in big cities, as they are THE Swiss Army Knife Brand . But these knives can also be found in souvenir shops and other stores across the country, with similar prices everywhere.

Swiss Chocolate

Swiss chocolate is one of the tastiest souvenirs you can bring back from your trip. Switzerland is famous for its top-quality chocolate makers who create delicious treats like chocolate bars, pralines, truffles, and more unique creations. 

Two major factors contribute to its worldwide reputation:

• Expertise and tradition: Switzerland has a long history of chocolate-making, dating back to the early 19th century. Over the years, Swiss chocolatiers have honed their skills and developed unique techniques that set their chocolate apart from others.
• High-quality ingredients: Swiss chocolatiers use top-notch ingredients, particularly the fresh milk from pasture-grazed cows. This milk plays a crucial role in creating the creamy and rich taste that Swiss chocolate is known for.

Make sure to explore different chocolate shops in the city you’re visiting before deciding what to buy. A fun option is to join a chocolate-making class at a high-end store or factory, where you can learn from the experts and take home your own creations.

Swiss Cheese

If you’re unsure what to get, go for a piece of Swiss cheese. Switzerland is famous for its delicious cheeses, producing some of the finest varieties in Europe.

With its unique flavors and textures, Swiss cheese represents the country’s dedication to using high-quality ingredients, such as unpasteurized milk from pasture-grazed cows.

Making it a delightful souvenir because it allows you to bring home a taste of Switzerland’s rich culinary heritage.

Additionally, with over 450 types of Swiss cheese to choose from, you can find the perfect variety to suit your taste. With options like Gruyere, Tilsiter, Emmentaler, and Raclette, there’s plenty to choose from. 

You can find locally made cheese throughout Switzerland, whether you’re exploring the countryside or staying in a city. You can even visit local cheese factories to see how it’s made!

For the best Swiss cheeses, head to the source. Many Alpine villages are renowned for their cheese production, and you can often sample different types before deciding what to buy. Even while hiking in the mountains, you may find Alpkäse for sale from local farmers. This cheese is typically fresh, local, organic, and quintessentially Swiss!

By choosing Swiss cheese as a souvenir, you can savor and share the authentic flavors of Switzerland, creating a lasting memory of your visit.

You might also like the following article:

Cheese Factories in Switzerland: Ultimate Swiss Cheese Adventures

Swiss Watch

Switzerland is renowned for various aspects, such as its trustworthy banking system, thriving economy, captivating traditions, and delectable cuisine. Among its many treasures, Swiss watches stand out as a prominent symbol of the country’s esteemed heritage. Switzerland has earned a reputation for producing some of the finest timepieces in the world, including renowned brands like Rolex, Swatch, Cartier, and Omega. 

A symbol of luxury and timelessness, they have earned a reputation as some of the finest timepieces in the world. When you invest in a Swiss watch, you’re not just buying a functional accessory, you’re buying a piece of Swiss heritage and expertise. With a wide range of styles and price points, there is a Swiss watch to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re treating yourself or looking for a special gift for someone special, a Swiss watch will be a memento of your trip to Switzerland and a testament to its extraordinary craftsmanship and attention to detail.

You can find authentic Swiss watches throughout the country, but the largest selection of luxury stores can be found in big cities like Basel, Bern, Zurich, or Geneva.

If you’ve traveled to the southern or western regions of Switzerland, you know how much they love their wine. The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a popular destination, and visitors often want to bring home a bottle to remember the experience.

Swiss wine is as iconic as cheese or chocolate and makes a great gift for loved ones. So, think about getting Swiss wine as a souvenir if you’re traveling by land or checking a bag at the airport.

The best place to find Swiss wine is at the source. Visit vineyards and wineries in the southern and western parts of the country, taste the options, and see what you like most. Alternatively, you can buy a bottle or two at the duty-free store, which is the best choice if you’re flying out of the country with just a carry-on.

A Heidi book is a delightful souvenir choice for anyone who wants to bring home a piece of Swiss culture and literature. As one of the most cherished children’s stories set against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps, it captures the essence of Swiss tradition, lifestyle, and the timeless beauty of its landscapes. So it’s no surprise that there are numerous Heidi-themed souvenirs in Switzerland. From Heidi magnets to actual Alphorns, you’ll have plenty of options for Heidi souvenirs.

For example, having a copy of a Heidi book as a souvenir allows you to relive your Swiss adventure and share the magic of the story with friends and family. Additionally, it makes for a thoughtful gift, especially for children, as it introduces them to the enchanting world of Swiss culture and nature.

Kambly Biscuits

With a rich tradition dating back over a century, the brand has become synonymous with exquisite Swiss biscuits. Renowned for their delicate flavors, high-quality ingredients, and exceptional craftsmanship, Kambly biscuits are a popular treat for both locals and tourists alike.

If you’re seeking souvenir ideas for a food enthusiast, Kambly biscuits are a fantastic choice alongside fine Swiss cheese and Laderach chocolates. These biscuits are not only delicious and soft but also pair wonderfully with tea or coffee.

Kambly offers a wide variety of biscuit options, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate in their product range. Opting for an assortment of flavors and textures allows you to sample as many biscuits as possible. However, you also have the option to choose a single type of biscuit if that’s your preference.

You can find these delectable treats in most grocery stores and souvenir shops throughout Switzerland. However, for a truly unique experience, consider visiting the Kambly Factory Store.

Located in Trubschachen, in the picturesque Emmental region, the Kambly Factory Store offers an unforgettable experience for biscuit lovers. At the store, you’ll have the opportunity to sample many of their delicious products before making your purchase.

Visiting the Kambly Factory Store not only allows you to explore the extensive range of biscuits on offer but also gives you a glimpse into the history and heritage of the brand. So, if you happen to be in the Emmental make sure to include a visit to the Kambly Factory Store on your Swiss itinerary and bring home a tasty reminder of your journey to share with loved ones.

Cows play a vital role in Switzerland as they are responsible for the delicious Swiss cheeses and chocolates that the country is famous for. These cows are commonly found in the Alpine regions and are often adorned with bells, making it easier for farmers to locate them on the expansive Alpine pastures.

Cowbells make for wonderful souvenirs if you’re looking for a memento to remember your trip. They are also fantastic gifts, with various sizes, colors, and designs to choose from, and the option to have them engraved. If you happen to be shopping for someone who owns a cow, there is no better present to bring from Switzerland!

If you like the idea of a cowbell but are unsure of what to do with the full-sized version, consider opting for a smaller-scale alternative. A cowbell keyring is a charming souvenir from Switzerland that is both affordable and space-saving, allowing you to bring a piece of Swiss culture back home without breaking the bank or taking up much room.

Cheese Fondue Set

Swiss cheese fondue is a beloved dish that can be found throughout the country, whether you’re visiting a mountaintop cabin or enjoying a boat cruise on Lake Zurich. It has become a quintessential Swiss delicacy, and it’s no wonder they serve it almost everywhere. Who can resist a pot of gooey melted cheese?

When it comes to cheese fondue sets, prices vary depending on the size and what is included. You have the option to purchase just the fondue pot or go for a complete set that includes a burner and utensils. Fondue pots are generally more affordable than sets with burners, and you can easily find them in souvenir shops and cheese stores across Switzerland.

Combine your fondue set with your favorite Swiss cheese, and you can recreate a part of your travel experience in the comfort of your own home. If you happen to visit a cheese shop, don’t forget to ask for tips on how to make the best Swiss fondue. They’ll be more than happy to share their expertise with you!

Rex Vegetable Peeler

The Rex Vegetable Peeler (called “Spahrschäler” in German) is a unique Swiss souvenir that captures the essence of Swiss precision and practicality. While it may be surprising to consider a vegetable peeler as a souvenir, the Rex Vegetable Peeler represents the Swiss commitment to functional and reliable products and its design has remained unchanged since 1947. It stands as a testament to its exceptional quality and functionality.

The popularity of the peeler can be attributed to its efficiency and ease of use. With its movable horizontal blade, the Rex peeler effortlessly handles uneven surfaces of fruits and vegetables and can even be used for shaving hard cheese or chocolate.

With over 50 million units sold globally, the Rex peeler has established itself as a remarkable design object. Its exceptional design has earned it a place of honor in prestigious international exhibitions, including the Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais in Paris and the renowned Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.

The Rex Vegetable Peeler can be found in various stores throughout Switzerland, particularly in kitchenware specialty shops or markets. It’s not only a superb item to bring home, but also a tool you’ll find yourself using frequently, making it a cherished and useful reminder of your Swiss experience.

Wooden Cows

Wooden cows are iconic Swiss souvenirs that capture the essence of the country’s rich agricultural heritage and scenic landscapes. These charming wooden figurines, often handcrafted with intricate details, have become synonymous with Switzerland’s traditional farming culture. 

It is considered the most famous toy invented in Switzerland, captivating both young and old alike. In Switzerland, the cow holds great significance as it represents the source of milk, cheese, and chocolate. The cow’s presence in the Swiss fields, accompanied by the melodic sound of ringing bells, is deeply rooted in the country’s history and traditions. As a pocket-sized version of this cherished symbol, the wooden toy cow has been delighting generations of locals and tourists alike. 

Originally crafted by skilled artisans in the Bernese Oberland using traditional woodcarving techniques, the production of these toys has evolved to include the renowned Trauffer company. The Trauffer cow, made from local linden wood, continues to be meticulously carved, buffed, and painted by hand at their factory in Hofstetten bei Brienz. 

You can find wooden cows in souvenir shops, artisanal craft markets, and even in the gift sections of Swiss farms and rural areas. They are often crafted by skilled artisans who have honed their woodworking techniques over generations.

They are available in various sizes, colors, and designs, allowing you to choose one that captures your heart.

Bringing home a wooden cow souvenir allows you to preserve a piece of Swiss culture and add a touch of rustic charm to your surroundings. Whether displayed on a shelf, mantelpiece, or as part of a collection, these wooden cows serve as a delightful reminder of your Swiss adventures and the country’s enduring agricultural traditions.

Appenzeller Belt

The Appenzeller belt is a unique and traditional Swiss souvenir that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Appenzell region. Crafted with intricate precision and attention to detail, this belt is not only a practical accessory but also a masterpiece of craftsmanship.

The Appenzeller belt is typically made from high-quality leather, adorned with stunning embroidery and decorative metal buckles. Each belt is a work of art, showcasing vibrant colors and traditional patterns that are specific to the Appenzell region. The embroidery often features floral motifs, intricate geometric designs, and sometimes even traditional Appenzell costumes.

This belt is more than just a fashion accessory; it holds historical and cultural significance and is a proud symbol of the Appenzell heritage.

The Appenzeller belt can be found in local boutiques, specialty shops, or even at regional markets in the Appenzell region. It offers a unique way to carry a piece of Swiss culture with you wherever you go. Whether you wear it as a stylish accessory or display it as a decorative piece, the Appenzeller belt serves as a tangible reminder of the beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural traditions of Switzerland.

Where to buy your Souvenirs in Switzerland?

Where can visitors buy their souvenirs in Switzerland? The availability of souvenirs depends on the specific item you’re looking for. In major cities like Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, Bern, and Basel, you will find souvenir shops in downtown areas. Tourist towns such as Grindelwald, Interlaken, and Zermatt also have their fair share of souvenir shops.

For certain items, it is recommended to visit specific stores to find the best souvenirs:

• Swiss army knives can be purchased at Migros, souvenir stores, specialty knife stores, or even Victorinox stores located in some cities and towns.
• Chocolate is sold in most Swiss supermarkets, except for Läderach, which must be purchased in their own stores. Lindt also has specialty stores in certain locations. If you plan to visit a chocolate factory like Lindt’s, it’s best to wait until the tour to buy your chocolate.
• While Swiss cheese can be found in supermarkets, specialty cheese stores offer a wider selection.
• Top-quality Swiss watches are best purchased from professional watch stores, including brand-specific stores like Rolex, IWC, Omega, and Hublot.
• Swatch watches are best bought at Swatch stores.
• Fondue sets can be found in department stores.
• Wine and cookies/biscuits are available at Coop supermarkets (cookies can be found in various stores).

Switzerland Souvenirs FAQ

What are some popular swiss souvenirs.

Popular Swiss souvenirs include Swiss chocolate, Swiss watches, Swiss army knives, Swiss cheese, wooden cow figurines, cowbells, Heidi-themed items, traditional Appenzeller belts, and embroidered textiles like table runners or handkerchiefs.

Are Swiss souvenirs expensive?

The price range for Swiss souvenirs varies depending on the item and its quality. While some souvenirs like postcards or keychains can be affordable, others such as high-end Swiss watches or specialty Swiss chocolates might be more expensive. It’s possible to find souvenirs that suit different budgets, so it’s advisable to explore a range of options and compare prices before making a purchase.

Swiss Souvenirs Conclusion

In conclusion, Swiss souvenirs offer a delightful way to bring a piece of Switzerland back home with you, encapsulating the country’s rich heritage, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. Whether it’s the world-renowned Swiss chocolates, exquisite Swiss watches, traditional Swiss cheese, or charming wooden cow figurines, each souvenir tells a unique story and carries a piece of Swiss culture.

Switzerland’s commitment to precision, quality, and attention to detail is evident in its souvenirs, making them not just simple mementos, but cherished items that hold sentimental value. 

As you embark on your Swiss journey, embrace the opportunity to discover the diverse range of souvenirs, each carrying its own charm and significance. From the exquisite taste of Swiss chocolates to the timeless elegance of Swiss watches, let the treasures of Switzerland become treasured memories that will last a lifetime.

After moving here for studies, I fell deeply in love with this country. Through my articles and photography, I aim to share unique insights and authentic experiences, capturing the beauty of Switzerland from an expat perspective. Let's discover together the diverse and charming aspects of Swiss life.

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Together In Switzerland

All Things Swiss

20 Gifts And Souvenirs From Switzerland

Zoe | General

Are you travelling to Switzerland soon and want to get something unique to take back home, such as some special souvenirs From Switzerland? Or a unique Swiss gift for your loved ones back home? Switzerland is known for its beautiful scenery, delicious chocolates , and high-quality watches and knives. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, you may be wondering what souvenirs to bring back home. You’ve come to the right place! Here are some of the best Swiss souvenirs to consider:

Best Swiss Souvenirs From Switzerland

Here are some of the top souvenirs from Switzerland that you can buy for yourself, for loved ones and to take home with you from your travels:

1. Swiss chocolates

This is perhaps the most famous and popular souvenir from Switzerland. Swiss chocolate is known for its rich and creamy flavour, and there are many renowned chocolate makers in the country, including Lindt , Toblerone, and Ghirardelli. Chocolates in our opinion the best Swiss souvenirs!

Many cities even have a Chocolate museum to visit, where you can make your own chocolate bar and see the chocolate making process with a tour or self guided walk.

Chocolate Museum Tours

Zurich: Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket

Lucerne: Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience

Chocolate Flavors Walking Tour of Geneva

2. Swiss army knife

The Swiss Army knife is a versatile tool that features a variety of blades and tools, making it useful for a wide range of tasks. These knives are made by Victorinox , a company based in the town of Ibach in Switzerland. The Swiss Army knife has become an iconic symbol of Swiss precision, utility, and craftsmanship. It is widely used by outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, campers, military personnel, and everyday users around the world.

It’s origins in the late 19th century when the Swiss Army decided to issue a standard knife to its soldiers. Karl Elsener, founder of Victorinox, developed the first version of the Swiss Army knife in 1891.

While Victorinox is the original manufacturer of Swiss Army knives and is renowned for its quality and craftsmanship, Wenger was another well-known Swiss company that produced Swiss Army knives until 2013 when it was acquired by Victorinox.

3. Swiss clock or watch

Swiss watches are renowned for their precision and quality, and there are many luxury watch brands based in Switzerland, such as Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe. A Swiss watch makes a great souvenir or gift and something you can treasure for a long time.

Contributed by Josh Band of A Backpacker’s World:

There are a number of  reasons why Switzerland is expensive , but the main factor is because the quality of life is so high. This quality is reflected through Swiss watches.

Many of the most famous watch brands in the world are Swiss including Rolex.

I chose to buy a Rolex in Switzerland because it came with the special story of being bought in Switzerland and it was a reminder of my trip on my wrist.

You can buy in lots of different price ranges, but the extra benefit is that Rolex watches generally increase in value over time, so it’s not only a souvenir but also an investment. 

4. Swiss music box

Music boxes are a popular souvenir from Switzerland, and many are made in the town of Sainte-Croix in the Jura Mountains. These music boxes feature intricate mechanisms and beautiful melodies, making them a unique and memorable gift.

5. Swiss chalet or mountain-themed decoration

A Swiss chalet is a type of wooden house or cottage with a sloping roof and large overhanging eaves, typically found in the Swiss Alps. It is known for its traditional and rustic design. A mountain-themed decoration could include items such as paintings, sculptures, or other decorative items that are inspired by the mountain landscape of Switzerland.

6. Swiss flag or pin

The flag of Switzerland is a square flag with a white cross on a red background. It is one of the oldest national flags in the world and is associated with the country’s neutrality and peaceful reputation. A Swiss flag pin is a small pin or brooch featuring the design of the Swiss flag, which can be worn as a symbol of pride or as a souvenir of a visit to Switzerland. Its great to have one of these to pin on your bag, coat or other piece of clothing!

7. Swiss cheese, such as fondue or raclette

Switzerland is known for its delicious cheeses, such as Emmental and Gruyère . These cheeses are often used in traditional Swiss dishes, such as fondue and raclette.

TIP: When in Switzerland, you should definitely try raclette! Raclette cheese is often melted and served over potatoes or other vegetables, or used in dishes such as fondue or croque monsieur.

Contributed by Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop:

During my trip through Switzerland, I fell in love with Swiss cheese, especially Gruyère. Its rich flavour and creamy texture reflect Switzerland’s long heritage of great cheesemaking. 

Chosen as a unique souvenir, this cheese reflects the culinary heritage of Switzerland. Gruyère’s history dates back centuries and is deeply rooted in Swiss culture. As evidence of its handcrafted quality, I paid about 30 CHF for it during my autumn in Switzerland trip. This Gruyère wasn’t just a buy; it was a tangible piece of Switzerland’s history that showed how pristine the country’s nature is and how carefully the cheeses are made.

Cheese Tours In Switzerland

Geneva: Countryside Day Trip with Chocolate & Cheese Tasting

Appenzell: Appenzeller Demonstration Dairy Ticket & Tastings

Lucerne: History Walking Tour With Cheese Tastings

8. Swiss cowbell

A Swiss cowbell is a type of bell that is traditionally used to help locate cows that are grazing in the mountains in Switzerland. It is typically made of metal and has a distinctive sound that can be heard over long distances. Cowbells are often used in Switzerland as decorative items and souvenirs, and are sometimes used in traditional music and dance performances. As a gift, you will see many touristic shops and kiosks selling mini cowbells in the form of a keyring or decoration you can hang up. A fun but one of the noisiest best Swiss souvenirs!

9. Swiss teddy bear

A Swiss teddy bear is a stuffed animal that is designed to look like a teddy bear wearing traditional Swiss clothing, such as lederhosen or a dirndl. A Swiss teddy bear or stuffed animal might be purchased as a souvenir of a visit to Switzerland, or as a gift for someone who is interested in Swiss culture. It’s the perfect gift for those with young children to have a cute toy!

10. Swiss cookbook or recipe book

A Swiss cookbook or recipe book is a collection of recipes that are traditionally prepared in Switzerland, or that are inspired by Swiss cuisine. Swiss cuisine is known for its variety and includes dishes such as fondue, raclette, and rösti, as well as a range of pastries and desserts. A Swiss cookbook or recipe book is a lovely gift and souvenir for someone who is interested in learning more about Swiss cooking or who wants to recreate traditional Swiss dishes at home.

11. St Bernard Plush

I’ve only visited Switzerland once (so far!) and spent that time in Lauterbrunnen with a trip to the top of Jungfraujoch . While there I bought myself an adorable plush St Bernard, since I occasionally collect stuffed animals on my travels that relate to the country I’m visiting.

I chose a St Bernard for Switzerland because the breed originated from the Western Alps of Switzerland and Italy, although they’re mostly associated with Switzerland. They were bred by the hospice of the Great St Bernard Pass to rescue people on the mountains and to this day are known as mountainous rescue dogs – although they never really had barrels of alcohol on their collars!

I can’t actually remember how much I paid for my little guy, although he wasn’t expensive.

Contributed by Kristy of Tassie Devil Abroad

12. Swiss tea or coffee

Swiss tea is typically made from a variety of herbs and plants, and is often served hot or iced. Swiss coffee is a type of coffee that is made using a specific brewing method, which involves boiling water and coffee grounds together in a pot or kettle. The perfect souvenir for someone who enjoys a hot drink every day!

A popular Swiss drink that can be drunk warm is Ovaltine . This is a malted milk hot drink often enjoyed with milk or hot water, providing a rich and chocolatey flavour.

13. Local COld Swiss Drinks

Following on from the tea and coffee, there are other local Swiss drinks that you can consider buying as your souvenirs from Switzerland.

Switzerland does have a variety of local and craft beers, including lagers, ales, and wheat beers, produced by numerous breweries across the country. We are personally not beer drinkers, but if you search and ask in local restaurants, they’ll definitely be able to give you a few suggestions!

A popular cold Swiss drink that we know of is Rivella , a soft drink made from milk whey.

In Lugano where I am based, we also have Gazzosa , which is made with lemon juice, sugar, and carbonated water traditionally. It’s a bit like lemonade (Sprite/7UP) and you can also get it in different flavours!

14. Kambly biscuits

Biscuits are always a good idea, especially if you are British like me and want to take home some new treats.

Dating back to 1910, the Kambly company was founded by a family living in the Bern canton of Switzerland . They have a few famous biscuit which including Bretzeli and Caramels à la Crème d’Emmental.

They have numerous designs, with different combinations of nuts and chocolate, as well as vegan options!

15. Jakob’s Basler Leckerly biscuits

Following on with the Swiss Biscuits, here are more next in the souvenir list!

We love finding original and historic businesses that are unique to an area when we travel, especially when those businesses involve food! 

One of Switzerland’s oldest businesses bakes the country’s beloved sweet treats known as leckerli, and you can visit this historic shop in Basel. The German läckerli biscuit was introduced to Basel in 1753 and instantly became one of the city’s favorite snacks. 

Today, visitors can taste  Basler Leckerli at Jakob’s Basler Leckerly  in Basel’s Old Town. It’s the oldest operational business in Basel, and one of the oldest surviving companies in Switzerland that is still going strong. Take a short tour and learn the history of this delicious honey treat and leave extra room in your suitcase to take some biscuits home in their fun and interactive tins.

Contritbuted by Lori Sorrentino from Travelin Mad

16. Swiss alpenhorn

The Swiss alpenhorn is a long, wooden wind instrument that is played by blowing into one end and cupping the other end with the hands. It is native to the Swiss Alps and is often used to signal the start of a race or as a musical instrument in folk music. You can get small versions as gifts to take home!

17. Swiss hiking or outdoor gear

Swiss hiking or outdoor gear refers to equipment and clothing that is designed for use in outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and camping. This may include items such as backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and waterproof jackets.

Check our Switzerland hiking suggestion posts here!

18. Boccalino Jug (Specifically from Ticino)

One unique suvenier from the Ticino canton specifically is a Boccalino. It is an Italian word that translates to “pitcher” or “jug” in English.

In Italian cuisine and culture, it typically refers to a type of pitcher or jug used for serving beverages like wine, water, or other drinks. The jug can vary in size and material, ranging from traditional ceramic or pottery to glass or metal designs. It’s a common item found in Italian households and restaurants, often used for communal dining or during social gatherings – even my neighbour has one!

19. Swiss snow globe or ornament

A Swiss snow globe is a decorative object that contains a miniature scene inside a glass or plastic dome. The dome is filled with liquid and often contains flakes or glitter that simulate snow. When the globe is shaken, the flakes or glitter move around inside the dome, creating a snowy effect. Swiss snow globes are often made in the shape of Swiss landmarks or scenes, and are popular as souvenirs or decorations.

These are a pretty souvenir to have home, perfect for the snowy winter period as a decoration or to show off in your home all year round.

20. Self Made 3D-Printed Decorations from Etsy

For our final suggestion, we want to share with you our fully self designed and 3D printed decorations for you to buy and hang up in your home. What started as a Christmas decoration for your tree, can also be hung up in a window, with your photos, on a pin board and from a fridge!

Full list to our Etsy shop can be found here !

Summary Souvenirs from Switzerland

Overall, there are many great souvenirs to choose from when visiting Switzerland. Whether you’re looking for delicious chocolate, a practical Swiss Army knife, or a beautiful music box, there’s something for everyone. We hope this list of 20 top souvenirs and gifts guide you with what you may want to buy while visiting Switzerland!

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10 Best Souvenirs from Switzerland to Remember Your Trip By

Of course chocolates and watches are on this list of best souvenirs from Switzerland, but there are many other things you might want to buy as keepsakes from your trip…

Switzerland is one of the most stunning countries in Europe… in the world even!

It’s not exactly your Caribbean or Mediterranean hot beach vibes, but it’s the type of holiday where you’ll feel like you’ve had fresh air, great food and been surrounded by sophistication.

Oh, and it’s got some of the most breathtaking landscapes.

Think lakes, mountains, charming cities, alpine homes, cosy villages, valleys, forests, rivers, nature reserves and more.

Beyond the obvious natural beauty of Switzerland, it’s a really modern country and super stylish too. It’s in the heart of Europe, which no doubt blend together to make it rich in culture. After all, it’s got four official languages; German, French, Italian and Romansh making it a haven for multilinguals. German is the most widely spoken but French is prevalent in the west and Italian in the south. So if you’re looking for a place to speak different languages then Switzerland should be right up your street!

When holidaying in Switzerland you will have a number of unique experiences and culinary delights you will want to remember forever. I’ve put together a list of the best souvenirs from Switzerland to whet your appetite.

From food, jewellery, homeware to tools it’s all on the list.

10 top souvenirs to buy from Switzerland

From watches to cheese, and chocolate to music boxes, there’s so much to choose from when it comes to the best Swiss souvenirs .

1. Swiss watches

Let’s start as we mean to go on shall we? Rolexes!

Now of course there are more watches in Switzerland than just Rolexes but I absolutely had to mention the world’s most famous and sought after luxury brand of watches since they are Swiss. This may be one of the VERY best souvenirs from Switzerland but perhaps only if you were looking for an investment, an art piece or a once in a lifetime gift. I couldn’t not mention it though!

Aside from Rolex, Swiss watches across the board have an unrivalled reputation for quality craftsmanship and precision watchmaking. There are many other brands for you to choose from such as Swatch which are still Swiss, still high quality and elegant and would still be a stunning souvenir from Switzerland.

Certainly one you could be showing off for generations to come, especially as some actually appreciate in value over time!

2. Chocolates

Now, this may be more your taste – chocolate!

I’m sure we’ve all heard that Swiss chocolate is the best in the world and therefore that automatically means it is one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland. Just like their watches, the Swiss have a reputation for making the highest quality chocolate and you’ve probably tried a couple of their most famous brands.

Lindt (OMG so rich and creamy!) are a Swiss brand and not only are their Lindt balls and bunnies to die for but they make an excellent gift to travel with – packable, affordable and delicious what more could you ask for?!

Definitely my favourite chocolate anyways.

Then there’s Toblerone, the ultimate travellers Chocolate! You may see this in airports all over but now you have a chance to actually buy it from the country it’s made in. Also, have you ever noticed the bear in the mountains in their logo?! It was literally only recently I was made aware of this and now I can’t un-see it!

But apart from the most famous brands there are countless artisan bakeries which make the most gorgeous handmade truffles, pralines, bars and even hot chocolate mixes. Whilst gifting a plethora of chocolate to others don’t forget to get some for yourself. Easily one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland. YUM.

3. Swiss cheese

Surely Swiss Cheese is the most famous in the world, even if it is just for its iconic look – I mean who could forget those distinctive holes?

I feel like it is featured in every cartoon growing up – looking at you Tom and Jerry!

Of course there’s more to it than its looks however, its pale yellow and mild, nutty flavour make it a favourite the world over with varieties including Emmental and Gruyere. It’s an important part of Swiss culinary heritage and therefore makes it one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland.

Also, buying Swiss cheese as a gift makes an epic excuse to go to one of the many beautiful farmer’s markets throughout Switzerland. Not only would it be organic but to buy it from source is a gift in itself. Another option is one of the local cheese shops called ‘Fromageries’ which have a huge variety for all you cheese lovers to choose from.

4. Swiss army knife

This souvenir might only be suitable if you’ve got baggage you can put in the hold as I’m not sure a swiss army knife would be allowed in hand luggage – double check with your airline before you travel.

With that being said, a swiss army knife is an iconic piece of kit and, just like their watches, are made of the highest quality making it not only a practical gift but a unique souvenir from Switzerland. They come in various sizes and models too and house a multitude of functions from screwdrivers to bottle openers, so you may very well be using this souvenir for years to come! 

5. Cuckoo clocks

Hear me out – these are one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland; I mean they are so unique, so old-school, and they have a little bit of the history of Switzerland baked into them. With various intricate designs, ornate and elaborate ones or smaller simpler ones they all still have character and ultimately have the one thing we are all looking for: a cuckoo bird that announces the time with its presence and sound.

This is definitely not a run of the mill gift from a holiday you can get in lots of different countries. So if you’re looking for a souvenir that’s charming, idiosyncratic, full of craftsmanship, and a talking piece for your home when you next have friends around, I fully recommend it.

6. Cowbells from Switzerland

Similar to Cuckoo clocks, the Swiss cowbells are not a souvenir that you’re going to find in every other country in the world and therefore makes them unique and one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland. I mean the sound is very much associated with the Swiss Alps and you’re not often going to be in the Swiss Alps, so you can take the vibes home with you!

They make for a traditional and decorative souvenir, come in various sizes and designs and are often adorned with painted Swiss motifs. Charming, funny, cute – what more could you want?

7. St Bernard dog souvenirs 

Known for their historic role as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, St Bernard dogs are widely recognised and associated with the area and therefore there are lots of souvenirs featuring them.

Teddies with miniature barrels around their necks, figurines to decorate your home, mugs emblazoned with their gorgeous faces are all available to take home with you; as are prints, shirts and magnets and probably many more things are available with the famous, gentle, loveable dogs likeness on.

So if you’re a dog lover and want to combine your love of Switzerland and canines then St Bernard merch is definitely for you!

8. Fondue sets from Switzerland

Swiss cheese fondue has its origins in the Swiss Alpine region initially as a hearty meal for farmers but now is loved and eaten the world over. One of the things people love about fondue nowadays is its very communal nature; it can be a very social eating experience which at the end of the day is the best way to eat – with friends, family and lots of laughter.

Take home a traditional Swiss cheese fondue set from your travels and it will automatically be one of the best souvenirs from Switzerland you could have. It’s the gift that keeps giving, putting that Swiss cheese to use and entertaining friends with a fondue set from its birthplace. They are widely available all over Switzerland, though may be a little more expensive in tourist shops.

If you’re looking to save money, perhaps look for one in a larger general retailer.

However if you love to haggle with a local than try a traditional Swiss market, they may even have unique designs to choose from there.

9. Heidi-related merchandise

‘Heidi’ is a classic Swiss novel by Johanna Spyri and has played a significant role in Swiss culture. You can find ‘Heidi’ books, dolls, and merchandise featuring the beloved character and her story. These items are great for literature enthusiasts and collectors.

10. Music boxes

A really enchanting gift you could buy whilst in Switzerland is a music box. They are such beautiful pieces, so romantic and also full of artisan craftsmanship – like many other things in Switzerland. They are lovingly made with such skill and care and come in a variety of designs.

Some of them have hand-painted scenes, intricate woodwork, and play multiple classical melodies. You can even get compact ones which would certainly be cheaper and easier to get home safely in your suitcase.

Popular tourist destinations like Lucerne have a number of souvenir shops that sell Swiss music boxes, with Lucerne being particularly well known for speciality music box stores – although these will be more expensive.

If you’re really intent on bagging an extra special music box then check out the antique shops, fairs and flea markets as Switzerland has a rich history of music box making.

What are the best souvenirs from Switzerland?

Ten of the absolute best souvenirs from Switzerland there for you. I hope that has set your imagination on fire!

There is so much artsy and wonderful handmade things to be found in Switzerland which is no surprise due their fame for quality, detail and craftsmanship in everything from jewellery, through homeware to culinary delights. Will it be watches, clocks, chocolate, cheese, or music boxes?

The choice is yours!

Quicklist of souvenirs from Switzerland to buy

• Swiss watches
• Swiss cheese
• Swiss army knife
• Cuckoo clocks
• St Bernard dog souvenirs 
• Fondue sets
• Heidi-related merchandise
• Music boxes

What is Switzerland famous for selling?

Brands like Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe have set the gold standard in watch-making. Additionally, Swiss chocolate is legendary, with its rich flavours and superior quality delighting connoisseurs worldwide. Swiss cheese, particularly varieties like Gruyère and Emmental, is also highly sought after.

What can you buy cheap in Switzerland?

Truth be told, Switzerland is not typically associated with ‘cheap’ purchases, given its reputation for high living costs and premium quality goods. However, relative bargains can be found in certain areas. For instance, Swiss chocolate can be more affordable when bought in larger supermarkets as opposed to tourist shops. Similarly, local markets may offer competitive prices on fresh produce and regional specialties. It’s also worth exploring factory outlets for Swiss watches, where you might snag a deal on last season’s models.

What are good small gifts from Switzerland to take back with you?

When considering small gifts to bring back from Switzerland, you might want to think about Swiss chocolates in beautifully packaged boxes, miniature Swiss Army knives, which are not only iconic but also practical keepsakes, or small cheese assortments, particularly of hard-to-find local varieties. Don’t overlook the charming range of Swiss cowbell souvenirs – they really encapsulate the Alpine spirit and you can’t find them elsewhere.

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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What To Buy In Zurich: 10 Souvenirs To Bring Home From Your Trip

A trip to Zurich is something you’ll want to remember for years to come, and probably even commemorate with a souvenir or two. If you don’t want to buy magnets, aprons, and other items that are just mass-produced with the same images everywhere, I’ve got a few other options for souvenirs to bring home from Zurich.

I’ve included all the most authentically Swiss souvenirs that will forever remind you of Zurich at a glance. There are even a few perishables that might not remind you of your travels for too long, but which will awaken all those memories once they interact with your taste buds. So, here’s my take on what to buy in Zurich to bring home!

Table of Contents

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is probably the best souvenir you can take home and the only one you won’t be able to buy in big enough quantities. Sure, you could fill a suitcase full of Swiss cheese, but it’s unlikely you’ll be able to eat it all before it’s out of date.

If you’re going to buy cheese in Zurich to bring home, then look for specialized shops and local sellers. You can find some delicious cheese at the supermarket, but it’s much better to buy it from local sellers.

Gruyere cheese, Emmentaler, Raclette cheese, Appenzeller, Vacherin Fribourgeois, and many others are all options worth considering, so make sure you taste test as many types of cheese as possible, before deciding on a single wheel to bring back home.

Swiss Army Knife

Swiss Army Knives are some of the best souvenirs to take home, although it’s logistically not possible for everyone to buy these souvenirs. The one thing you need to consider is that you won’t be able to board a plane with a Victorinox Swiss Army Knife in your carry-on, so consider purchasing this souvenir only if you’ve traveled to Zurich with a checked suitcase.

Head to the Victorinox Flagship Store in Zurich; it’s the Swiss Army Knife source with the largest selection of authentic products.

A SAM is a Swiss icon that you will most likely use for many things. The product variety is almost endless – there’s everything from a basic Swiss Army Knife to a powerful multi-tool with dozens of different functions, including wire cutters and nail clippers. Swiss Army Knives also make for great presents, and buying them in Switzerland ensures you’re getting the original Swiss Army Knife and not a flimsy knockoff.

Traditional Swiss Wear

Traditional Swiss Wear is a really good idea for a souvenir, and I don’t mean what you see people wearing on the streets of Zurich. I mean those outfits that are worn during festivals and parades in the Alpine regions of Switzerland, and which you certainly won’t wear in your daily life.

You can use them for Halloween to flex your recent trip to Switzerland, or you could frame them and hang them on a wall like a piece of art. You could even wear individual pieces in daily life if you wanted – with some styling, they wouldn’t look that out of place.

WiesnShop in Zurich has the widest selection of high-quality traditional Swiss outfits, but they’re not cheap. You might find some poor-quality versions at souvenir and costume shops, but I recommend springing for the real thing if you want to buy clothes that will actually last you for years to come and that you can wear without looking like you’ve forgotten how to read a calendar.

Swiss Watch

An authentic Swiss watch is the dream souvenir to buy in Zurich, but it’s definitely not something everyone can afford. Especially if we’re talking about luxury Swiss brands, which are everywhere in Zurich.

But this is the one souvenir that will fondly remind you of your travels through Zurich every time you look down at your wrist. In terms of budget-friendly authentic Swiss watches, I’m afraid Swatch is your only option. I think this is the only brand with made-in-Switzerland watches that retail for less than 500 CHF; all other brands will be significantly more expensive, but also offer superior quality and a wider variety.

If you’re looking for the absolute best Swiss watches, you want Tag Hauer, Patek Philippe, Tissot, Omega, Breitling, etc., and you’ll find them all along Bahnhofstrasse.

Swiss Music Box

Music boxes are an important part of Swiss tradition and culture and they make for excellent souvenirs if you want to buy something authentically Swiss. The first factories that produced Swiss music boxes were opened in the early 19th century, and there was even a period in history when this industry was more lucrative than the watchmaking industry.

The most common melody in the music boxes is Edelweiss, but you can usually find multiple available options including iconic melodies like La Vie en Rose, Little Night Music, The Waltz of Flowers, and others.

You’ll find Swiss music boxes at any souvenir shop that sells handmade wooden items. Teddy’s souvenir shop in Zurich is a goldmine for music boxes, as is Schweizer Heimatwerk.

Both shops stock music boxes produced by Switzerland’s best-known manufacturers from all over the country, and the souvenir could cost you anywhere from some 50 CHF to thousands of Swiss Francs, depending on the intricacy of design, materials used, and size of the box.

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Swiss Chocolate

I genuinely don’t think there’s a better souvenir to bring home than Swiss chocolate. The only thing is, I doubt the chocolate would actually make it to the airport because I have zero self-control when it comes to sweets.

Swiss chocolate is highly regarded as some of the best in the world, and it’s easy to find everywhere in Zurich. You can buy luxury pralines at Lindt or Laderach, or you can stock up on Toblerone and Milka chocolates at your local supermarkets. That’s another great thing about Swiss chocolate – you can buy it for as little as a couple of Swiss Francs, and you could just as easily spend 100+ CHF on pralines.

One thing I will say is that it might not be worth it to spend a lot of money on Swiss chocolates if you’re traveling in the summer. It’s possible that it will all melt if it’s too hot outside, and then you’ll be left with a very expensive block of chocolatey gunk. It will taste just as good though.

Handmade Wooden Toys

Handmade wooden toys are very popular in Switzerland and you can find them in most souvenir shops throughout the country. They’re not just toys – many handmade wooden items are replicas of iconic Swiss landmarks, so they make for beautiful decorations to keep in your home.

Sure, there are wooden toy cars and planes, but there are also tiny wooden cable cars, Postauto buses, and even tiny Swiss people dressed in traditional clothing. Whether you’re looking to buy gifts for children or just want something authentically Swiss to take home, wooden toys are an excellent option.

One thing to note is that the more complicated wooden toys can be very expensive because of the incredible level of detail. It takes a lot of time and effort to carve out a miniature Swiss human from a block of wood, and the complexity of the job is absolutely reflected in the prices.

Cuckoo Clock

If you want a souvenir that will forever have a special place in your home and remind you of your trip to Switzerland whenever you look at it, there’s no better option than a Swiss cuckoo clock. It is one of the priciest and most delicate souvenirs you can buy, but also one of the best options.

Head to Teddy’s Souvenir Shop near Grossmunster for the widest selection of cuckoo clocks in Zurich. Teddy’s has everything from super affordable cuckoo clocks to large and detailed ones that are more than 1,000 CHF, so there’s something for everyone’s budget.

Another great shop for cuckoo clocks is Schweizer Heimatwerk . It is a pricier store with handmade wooden clocks, but they’re all gorgeous and fantastically detailed.

Cheese Fondue Set

If you’re a foodie, the fondue is what you’ll miss the most from your trip to Switzerland. You can attempt to replicate the experience at home by buying delicious Swiss cheeses, but also a fondue set so you can melt the cheese at home properly and try to recreate the popular traditional Swiss dish.

Fondue has a longstanding history in Switzerland, and what started off as a way to get people to use stale bread and cheese during a food shortage has now become an iconic part of the country’s culture. Fondue sets can be found in most souvenir shops in Zurich, but also in stores that sell cutlery and other kitchenwares.

You can even find a fondue set at Migros, and I would highly recommend checking what’s available at the local supermarkets because you’ll get the best deals. The sets at souvenir shops are likely to be more expensive because of the “tourist tax”, and there’s no reason to believe that the quality is better.

Cowbells are specific for the Appenzell region of Switzerland, and they’re sort of iconic in the area. They make for a great souvenir partly because there’s no other place in the world they can remind you of, but also because they make for beautiful and unique decorations.

Although cowbells are still widely in use in the Alpine regions of Switzerland, the ones that are sold as souvenirs are more about the decor than the actual function. They’ll often be painted in Swiss colors, and more often than not, they’ll have the white Swiss cross somewhere on the body.

Cowbells can be found in most souvenir shops in Zurich, and they’re not even too expensive. You can find smaller bells for around 10 CHF, but the more noticeable pieces will usually cost 30-80 CHF.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can i buy affordable souvenirs in zurich.

The most affordable souvenirs in Zurich can be found in supermarkets. 

What souvenirs can I buy in Zurich supermarkets?

You can buy loads of souvenirs at Zurich supermarkets, including cheese, chocolate, fondue sets, Swiss Army Knives, and many others. 

What souvenirs can I buy at Zurich airport? 

You can buy virtually all Swiss souvenirs at the Zurich airport, but not always after you’ve passed security because many shops are before the security checkpoint. Once you’re past security, you’ll have access to (duty-free) shops that sell various Swiss memorabilia, including keychains, magnets, model planes, chocolates, cosmetics, and others. 

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10 souvenirs to buy during travel to Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the hottest travel destinations in people’s bucket lists. From geographical wonders like picturesque mountains to fantastic boutique stores, there are a lot of sights to feast your eyes on. If you are traveling to Switzerland, you must be wondering what you can buy for your loved ones and yourself when you are vacationing there. You must keep in mind that shopping in Switzerland is not cheap. But, if you want to splurge on yourself with luxurious items, then this is the best place.

1) Swiss Cheese If you love cheese, then you will fall in love with the world-famous cheese that is produced in this country. The cattle reared here provide high-quality creamy milk that makes Swiss cheese so good. There are almost 450 grades of Swiss cheese that you can choose. It is made from unpasteurized milk, which is known for its health benefits. Depending upon the grade of the cheese, the price will be fixed. You can expect to get 7.5 ounces of gruyere cheese for about 10.5 dollars.

2) Swiss Watches It is the dream of many people to own a real Swiss watch. The art and craft of making the perfect watch have been in the country from the 16th century. Watch collectors and enthusiasts hail Swiss watches as one of the best in the world. These watches are known for their beautiful design and quality. These watches can be kept in the house as heirlooms. You can get watches for all ages, and anybody will appreciate receiving one. If you are looking for the best Swiss watchmaker, you can head over to  Maurice de Mauriac .

3) Swiss Chocolate Many people enjoy the rich aroma and taste of Swiss Chocolate. Even if you are the rare soul who does not enjoy chocolate, you can take it for your loved ones back at home. The grass feed dairy cows of Switzerland are the secret behind their fame. It is not just the quality of chocolate. This Swiss chocolate has been perfected over the centuries, and there are thousands of flavors to choose from. Do not forget to pick a bar or two along with a box of chocolates that will resemble some of the most dazzling jewelry that you will ever see. You will find  Lindt chocolates  in every corner, and the prices are also affordable.

4) Swiss Knife Not only collectors, but you will also find that survivalists and trekkers will vouch that a Swiss knife is an essential survival tool. It is one of best selling item in the country and even the world. There are many models, and you will be able to find one within your budget. This is also another heirloom that can be passed down to the next generation. Pick one that will fit in your pocket without burning a hole in it with the price tag.

5) Traditional Swiss Clothes The traditional Swiss attire will be one of the most exciting and unique souvenirs that you can take home. The cloth that is used to make the dress is eco friendly and extremely comfortable. Take home a colorful traditional Swiss dress as it one of the unique souvenirs that you can purchase for your loved ones.

6) Swiss Cuckoo Clock Unlike the German ones, the Cuckoo clocks made in Switzerland resemble a traditional Swiss chalet. These clocks are wooden and hand-made. The price can range from 400 to 950 dollars. These clocks are adorable and can add a nice touch to your house.

7) Wooden Toys For Children You will also find wooden toys for children. These  hand-made wooden  toys can be purchased as a showpiece as well. You can get small figurines of farmers, cattle, farming tools, etc. For a little top, you would have to pay around 8.5 dollars while a train set is going to cost you around 76 dollars. The price will depend not only upon the size of the toy but also the craftsmanship.

8) Stamps, Postcards, Fridge Magnets, And Key Chains These are some everyday items that people are going to advise you to purchase. Of course, you should get these as they are not only inexpensive but will also be good gifts that you can give to your loved ones. Get the ones that capture the natural beauty of the country. You can get small keychains for 20 dollars, which can have a little cowbell. Postcards capturing the beauty of the city of Zurich are also available. Fridge magnets with the picturesque Alps can be a nice addition to the decor of your kitchen.

9) Swiss Cow Bells These bells are iconic, and you must have seen them in movies. The cows are a vital part of the culture of the country, and these bells are sold in numerous shops for tourists. The ringing sound produced by these bells is regarded as the music of the Alps and is made up of a pressed sheet metal called Trychel. It is because of this pressed sheet metal that these bells produce its characteristic ringing sound. Depending upon the size of the bell, the price can range from 16 dollars to 440 dollars.

10) Music Box Music boxes are trendy in Switzerland. These boxes are made with a lot of care, and if you are willing to spend a bit more money, then you can get an intricately designed one. These music boxes play soothing tunes and will be the perfect gift for any occasion. Most common music boxes play the melody of Edelweiss or Happy Wanderer, and these traditional music boxes have not changed their design since it was invented.

Tips To Do And Not Do When Searching And Buying For Souvenirs

• Make a proper budget if you do not want to spend a lot of money to prioritize the things that you want to buy.
• Get a list of people you would have to buy gifts for.
• Explore the streets as there are many options. Do not confine yourself to the list given above. You never know what gem you will stumble upon.
• Do not fall prey to scammers. Make sure to do proper research about the places where you will get a quality product. For the sake of saving a few bucks, do not buy from a shady shop that will cheat you into purchasing an inferior product. Look for certified stores to get the best, and the internet will be your best friend.

How To Stay Away From Fake Stuff? While traveling, it is common for people to face certain situations in which they might find themselves quite helpless. The most common problems they face include buying stuff from fake places. When the fake sellers in Switzerland observe the tourists, they apply full effort on making them buy their fake souvenirs by melting them with sweet vows and over-respectful behavior. It is best not to fall for such sweet words and fake heart-warming greetings, as you might face problems later after buying things from them at much higher prices.

How To Avoid Illegal Sellers? People should have minimum knowledge about all the illegal materials of Switzerland. Some things might be legal in your country but not in Switzerland, but several illegal sellers are setting up their business in Switzerland day after day. They sell unlawful products which not only harm the tourists financially but also the place itself. It might drain natural resources and animals too. If you stay well-aware of all the illegalities in Switzerland, you might end up avoiding such traps.

How To Avoid Scams In Switzerland?   In all the tourist zones, including Switzerland, there happen to be several scams running throughout the year. The most common scam you should avoid is the ones of the drivers. The drivers of the place might take you to individual particular souvenirs shops only. The shop owners, as well as the drivers, run scams, are selling souvenirs at high prices.

Conclusion Budgeting will be challenging for you when you are going to shop on the streets of Switzerland. It is still advisable that you keep a rough estimate on your hand. Get ready to be charmed by the beauty of Switzerland. And marvel at the craftsmanship of the various Swiss items that the world so much raves about. Enjoy your shopping experience in Switzerland and explore the country to its fullest.

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Unique Swiss Gifts: 7 Uncommon Souvenirs from Switzerland

• December 21, 2023 December 20, 2023
• General Information

If you’re seeking something beyond the usual Swiss gifts like red Swiss Army Knives and Lindt chocolates, this article’s for you. Here, we’ll explore unique gifts or souvenirs from Switzerland that stand out from the typical choices.

Without further ado, here are 7 of the best unique gifts from Switzerland :

1. Artisanal Chocolate Bars

While lots of lists suggest chocolates like Lindt or Läderach, why not explore artisanal chocolates? Artisanal chocolates come in a range of flavors and are crafted with top-notch cocoa beans by skilled craftsmen or small independent chocolatiers. These artisanal treats are made by independent chocolatiers using traditional methods, resulting in unique and mouthwatering flavors.

Here are some of the artisanal chocolate brands for you to discover:

• Chocolatier Clément – https://www.chocolatier-clement.ch/
• Max Chocolatier – https://en.maxchocolatier.com/
• Raffael’s 1989 – https://raffaels1989.com/
• Guillaume Bichet – https://www.guillaume-bichet.ch/
• Charlie Ganache – https://charlieganache.com/
• Canonica Chocolaterie – https://canonica.com/

2. Customized Watches from Swatch X You

A personalized Swatch watch is more than just a timepiece; it’s a canvas for your creativity. With the Swatch X You collection, you will have the unique opportunity to craft a watch that suits you or your loved ones. Right now, you can personalize one online and use designs from Peanuts, Street Stories, Nature, European Space Agency, and more.

If you’re after a Swiss watch that’s not the usual one everyone gets, this might be for you. It’s a unique and fun Swiss gift for sure.

You can find unique Swatch watches here: https://www.swatch.com/de-ch/swatch-x-you.html .

3. Unique Bags from Freitag

Freitag Bags aren’t just bags; they’re one-of-a-kind companions on your journey. Crafted from repurposed truck tarps, each Freitag bag is a unique piece, bearing its own story and character. Lots of folks love their messenger bags, but this company also offers backpacks, totes, laptop bags, and travel bags for different needs.

Purchasing a Freitag bag means more than just owning something special. It’s about supporting sustainability and expressing your individuality with a bag that’s distinctive while carrying all your necessities.

You can find unique Freitag bags here: https://www.freitag.ch/en .

4. Swiss Mountain Carafes from Alpinte

Why settle for a plain glass carafe when you could have one with a mountain inside? It’s a unique Swiss gift, especially for mountain lovers or those who’ve visited iconic peaks like the Matterhorn, Dent Blanche, or Jungfrau. These carafes feature the essential silhouettes of famous mountains like the Dents du Midi, Titlis, and Eiger.

Holding up to one liter, they’re tough against shocks and temperature changes while staying surprisingly light. Fill them with water, wine, or a fruity cocktail to see the colorful mountain reflections dance in your drink.

You can find unique Alpinte Carafes here: https://www.alpinte.ch/carafes .

5. Engraved Swiss Army Knives from Victorinox

Swiss Army Knives are iconic Swiss gifts loved by many for their durability and usefulness in various activities like camping or everyday tasks. While they’re a common choice, you can make them stand out by personalizing them with engraving.

Adding a name or a short message on the front or back of the scales elevates the gift, making it a one-of-a-kind keepsake. You can choose from a variety of sizes and designs, making them suitable for a wide range of activities, from camping and hiking to everyday use. This is a practical and unique Swiss gift that is sure to be appreciated.

You can find unique Victorinox Pocket Knives here: https://www.victorinox.com/ch/en/Create-your-Personalized-Pocket-Knife/cms/personalize-your-pocket-knife .

6. Personalized Drink Bottles from Sigg

Sigg, a renowned Swiss drink bottle brand, offers a perfect canvas for a unique and personalized gift. Sigg water bottles are sleek, durable, and a staple in Swiss design. Crafted from high-quality materials, they come in various sizes, colors, and designs to suit different tastes.

With “Sigg Unique,” you can customize your bottle by selecting the size and color that suits you best. Add a personal touch by imprinting a picture or text onto the bottle, creating a one-of-a-kind Sigg bottle that stands out. Choose your style, make it yours, and gift something truly special with Sigg Unique.

You can find unique Sigg bottles here: https://sigg.com/ch/sigg-unique-bottle/ .

7. Unique Panorama Knife Kitchen Products

Panorama Knife kitchen products stand out uniquely among kitchen essentials as they beautifully showcase Swiss panoramas or mountains, setting them apart from conventional kitchen items. These specialized knives cater to various cutting tasks in the kitchen, making them indispensable for slicing meat, vegetables, or bread. Specifically designed for different cutting needs, each knife boasts a distinct blade length, tailored for bread or meat-cutting purposes.

The hallmark of the Panorama Knife lies in its blade, depicting various mountain ranges or regions in Switzerland, presenting a distinctive and functional souvenir for your kitchen. Crafted with Palisander wood handles, these knives exude elegance while providing a comfortable grip. The stainless steel blades ensure durability and precision, featuring recognizable peaks such as Matterhorn, Dufourspitze, and more.

In addition to the knives, Panorama Knife offers corresponding cutting boards in various sizes, crafted from sturdy wood. You can find a diverse range of Panorama Knife products online at the Globus Shop. The products are not limited to kitchen knives but also encompass chopping boards, knife holders, and salt and pepper grinders.

You can find unique kitchen products here: https://www.globus.ch/kueche-tisch/marken/panoramaknife/alle-produkte .

Final Thoughts: Unique Swiss Gifts

Switzerland has an abundance of unique gifts waiting to be explored. From exquisite chocolates by Chocolatier Clément or Max Chocolatier to crafting your unique watch with Swatch X You, there’s a personalized gift for everyone. Freitag’s bags made from repurposed truck tarps share fascinating stories, while Alpinte’s Mountain Carafes bring a touch of the Swiss Alps into your home.

Enhance a Victorinox Swiss Army Knife with a special engraving or create a standout drink bottle with Sigg’s “Sigg Unique.” And let’s not forget Swiss wine and spirits—a delightful way to capture Switzerland’s essence in a gift. Your pursuit of unique and personal gifts is commendable—it speaks volumes about your effort and thoughtfulness.

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• 8 Best Things to Buy in Switzerland’s Supermarkets
• Famous Things To Buy In Switzerland

Darla is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country. Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

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• Switzerland

What to buy in Switzerland? — Top +10 best things to buy in Switzerland

As one of the top destinations in Europe, Switzerland attracts millions of tourists to visit every year with its majestic, spectacular natural scenery, quaint and tranquil cities, many interesting experiences. Whether you are on a vacation or on a business trip, your trip will not be complete without a shopping experience. Deciding what to buy in Switzerland can be quite difficult because Switzerland has a lot of meaningful, beautiful and good quality souvenirs and gifts, especially when visiting big cities like Zurich, Geneva, Bern or Lucerne. So, what to buy in Switzerland and what should I buy in Switzerland? Let’s check out our suggested top 10 things to buy in Switzerland including best Switzerland souvenirs, best souvenirs from Switzerland, best things to buy in Switzerland, must buy in Switzerland and best gifts from Switzerland as well as best places to buy them to clear the answer!

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Best gifts from Switzerland: Chocolate

Coming to Switzerland, you will enjoy the sweet taste of delicious chocolate bars. Swiss chocolate has been produced since the 18th century. Switzerland is one of the world’s leading chocolate exporters, you will be surprised by the variety and diversity of different types of chocolate, with many rich and varied flavors. Today, with modern technologies, chocolate products have higher quality. Swiss Chocolate is not only one of the most loved and famous foods in the world, but it is also one of the best gifts from Switzerland, best things to buy in Switzerland, must buy in Switzerland for both relatives and friends. Because of the attractiveness and popularity of chocolate, a chocolate association was established in Switzerland called CHOCOSUISSE (the Association of Swiss Chocolate Manufacturers) with the aim of managing the production and export of chocolate.

The Swiss people love chocolate just as much as they love and are proud of their country, so their chocolate production is also special compared to the rest of the world, to bring out the best flavor, the most delicious and attractive taste for customers. Switzerland has some of the best and most famous chocolates in the world, such as Lindt and Nestle. In the center of large cities such as Geneva and Zurich are home to the most prestigious and quality chocolate shops with rich and diverse designs and many attractive and wonderful flavors. You can freely choose your favorite chocolate flavors such as milk chocolate, sugar coated chocolate, chocolate nuggets, almond chocolate, candy chocolate… with famous chocolate brands around the world such as Lindt, Sprungli, Teuscher, Suchard. Coming here, visitors can also see and enjoy handmade chocolates with great and unforgettable flavors. Besides, the people here also transform these chocolate bars into different desserts, very delectable.

Chocolate shops are present all over streets throughout Switzerland, so you can easily buy these delicious and attractive chocolate bars, related-chocolate products as gifts. Lucerne is also a place where visitors can freely choose for themselves excellent chocolate types. However, when you buy chocolate, you should also note, if you buy to enjoy directly, you should choose handmade chocolates that will be more delicious. If you want to buy as a gift, you should buy packaged products available at supermarkets, shops, the price is both cheaper and convenient. You should not buy handmade chocolate as a gift, although this type of chocolate is delicious, it is very easy to melt and does not keep for long.

This is a great gift for your loved ones because chocolate not only brings great taste, but it also helps release Dopamine, making people happy, comfortable and happy. Chocolate deserves to be the first choice when you want to best souvenirs from Switzerland.

Where to buy

• Negozio Lindt Chocolate : (Address: Pilgerweg 58, 8802 Kilchberg, Switzerland/Hours: 10AM–6PM; Sunday: Closed).
• The Sprungli store is located at Zurich’s Central Station and at locations 21 and 67 in Bahnhoffstrasse street, Zurich, Switzerland. Opening hours from 6:45am to 9pm.
• Merkur Chocolaterie (Swiss Chocolate): (Address: Bahnhofstrasse 106, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 9AM–8PM).
• Confiserie Teuscher store (Address: Storchengasse 9, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 10AM–6:30PM; Sunday: 12–6PM) in the Old Town and Confiserie Teuscher (Address: Bahnhofstrasse 46, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 10AM–6:30PM; Sunday: Closed). Each store will have different opening hours, but the earliest is 9am and closes at 8pm at the latest.

What to buy in Switzerland: Alta Terra Alpine Herb Food Products

A family business from Bern, Switzerland, Alta Terra produces oils, vinegar, salt, honey and organic food products with regional flavors, seasoned with herbs, flowers and spices of the Alps. Furthermore, all products are made using hand-crafted organic ingredients from small family farms with no pesticides, fungicides and herbicides…so this is sure to be these are extremely meaningful and nutritious Swiss souvenirs for your loved ones.

Revealing some of the gifts that you can buy are: Honey tea bags, Alta Terra salt blended with herbs, Dried marigold flowers, Alpine Herbs Vinegar and aromatic oils…

Schweizer Heimatwerk Department Store (Address: Uraniastrasse 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 10AM–6PM; Sunday: Closed)

Best Switzerland souvenirs: Watches & Jewelry

Swiss watch is an item that is so famous all over the world and is one of the items that visitors can not help but buying as a gift. Switzerland is famous as a place to produce best watches with many designs of sophisticated, luxurious, ingenious, exquisite and elaborate and expensive, which are a wonderful combination of trendy aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. Swiss watches are considered the benchmark and measure of quality in watchmaking. Typically, famous Swiss watch brands such as Patek Philippe, Tag Heuer, Rolex, Tissot, Omega, Longines…

Although the price of Swiss watches is quite expensive, you will definitely be extremely pleased, impressived and satisfied with what you get. A Swiss watch brand that many tourists choose is the affordable watch maker Swatch and this is also one of the best-selling watch brands in Switzerland. With spend just 80 USD to a few hundred USD, you can own a great Swatch watch. Because this is a well-known item, visitors can easily find and choose watches at shops along the streets, supermarkets or shopping malls in big cities.

Another iconic Swiss souvenir is watch. You may be surprised to find that most of the world’s famous watch brands are originated from Switzerland. Besides that, exceptional jewelry designers seem to flock to Switzerland making the country full of gorgeous bracelets, cufflinks, brooches and earrings, chain… that make women must be fascinated with. So if you are wondering what to buy in Switzerland and find the best souvenirs from Switzerland for your grandmother, mother, wife or girlfriend, jewelry is not a bad choice.

• Maurice de Mauriac Zurich Watches (Address: Tödistrasse 48, 8002 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 9AM–6PM; Saturday: 11AM–2PM; Sunday: Closed).
• FREITAG Flagship Store Zürich (Address: Geroldstrasse 17, 8005 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 11AM–7PM).
• Les Ambassadeurs AG (Address: Bahnhofstrasse 64, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 11AM–6PM/Sunday: Closed), or Patek Philippe Boutique at Beyer Uhren und Juwelen (Beyer Chronometrie AG) (Address: Bahnhofstrasse 31, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 10AM–6:30PM).
• MANOR department store is located (Address: 75 Bahnhofstrassee, Zurich, Switzerland/Hours: 9am–8pm).

Best things to buy in Switzerland & must buy in Switzerland: Cheese

Swiss cheese is also one of the delectable foods of Swiss cuisine. Even, Swiss cheese has surpassed French cheese and is known as the “King of cheeses”, is a food not to be missed of any diner when coming to Switzerland. The production of cheese in Switzerland is an artistic labor process with many complicated processes and stages. In particular, cheese production in Switzerland is mainly used by people using manual tools and methods. Cheese production goes through many different stages, extremely careful and meticulous to be able to create the greasy, bright yellow flavor of this unique food.

Not only France, but Switzerland is also home to some of the best cheeses in Europe. You can eat Swiss cheese with a sandwich, or as a snack. It is also the main ingredient of the famous Swiss cheese hot pot fondue. The rich, beautiful cheeses with bright yellow color, fancy holes are the result of an enthusiastic artistic labor process. Therefore, this is an attractive gift for your friends and relatives to bring back after your trip to Switzerland. However, cheese is not easy to bring home because it also involves freezing, taste and customs. If you want to buy cheese as a gift, you should buy hard cheese rather than soft cheese. You can find Swiss cheese at any market, department store, convenience store, local shop in any Swiss city.

Best switzerland Souvenirs: Wine

As a country famous for its wine because it grows a lot of types of grapes with suitable natural conditions in terms of soil, altitude, air and light in famous wine-growing regions such as Valais, Vaud, Geneva and Ticino, Lavaux, Zurich… One of the wine brands that visitors can choose to buy is Pinot Noir made from berry black grapes or white wine made from white grapes originating from the famous Lavaux vineyard region.

What should I buy in Switzerland? Yes, Swiss wine is a great gift that you should buy for your relatives and friends. Swiss wines are also of the same premium quality as wines in some other European countries. If you are a wine connoisseur, you will definitely love Swiss wines. Almost premium and fine wines in Switzerland are made by locals. You won’t be disappointed when visit vineyards near Geneva, Zermatt Valley or other parts of Switzerland. However, Swiss wine is mainly produced for domestic consumption. Among them, the wine near the Zermatt valley is also worth trying.

• Le Caveau de Bacchus (Address: Cr de Rive 5, 1204 Genève, Switzerland/Hours: 9:30AM–7PM; Saturday: 9AM–6PM/Sunday: Closed).
• Wine shop near the entrance to the Zermatt Valley (Visper Tiguren), Geneva, Switzerland.

Top 10 things to buy in Switzerland: Swiss Army Knife

The pocket Swiss Army Knife multi-purpose knife was derived from the climbing and camping interests of the indigenous people. This is also an item that you can choose to buy as a gift because this is a personal knife with many favorite utilities in the world. It is compact, smooth, sharp, convenient and extremely useful: Used to open wine, open cans, use as scissors, pliers, magnifying glass, tweezers and even toothpicks, cutting bread,… bearing the characteristic of Switzerland.

This product has been copied in many forms in many European countries such as Germany, Spain, France, etc., but their quality is still not comparable to the real Swiss Army Knife knife made in Switzerland. The price of these multi-purpose knives is also quite cheap, only about 20CHF (CHF is the currency of Switzerland) to 100CHF, depending on the size of the knife you want to buy, the price is different. You can buy it at shops in the city or at the souvenir stalls at the airport.

Of course you can buy Swiss army knives everywhere in Europe, but it’s nice to be able to buy this in switzerland, isn’t it? This compact, pocketable knife has been around since the 1800s and it includes a variety of tools. These tools come in different sizes and functions. In particular, you can easily put this knife in your wallet.

The Swiss Army multi-purpose knife seems to have become a unique souvenir and is sure to cause interest in those who receive it. This is a great gift for those who love outdoor activities, and those who love camping. Revealing, the two most famous brands of Swiss Army Knives that you can refer to are Wenger and Victorinox.

• Dolmetsch Store branch 1 in Zurich Railway Station, open Monday to Friday: 8 am to 9 pm and from 9 am to 20 pm on Saturdays.
• Dolmetsch Store branch 2 (Address: Limmatquai 126, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 9AM–9PM; 11AM–8PM).
• Rue du Marché Shopping Mall , Geneva, Switzerland.

Best Switzerland souvenirs: Traditional crafts

If you are looking for a souvenir other than food and watches, herbs… you should consider choosing traditional Swiss crafts. Some famous Swiss handicraft items are Cuckoo Clocks, Cowbells, etc. The cuckoo clocks are very famous in Switzerland. Although the first cuckoo clock was made in Germany, this type of clock has its origins in Switzerland.

Inside the cuckoo clocks are colorful flowers, dancing people in traditional costumes or Bernard dogs… with high quality handcrafted designs and exciting music like “Edelweiss” and “Happy Wanderer”… through metal pegs and posts, make everyone delights.

Making cowbells are a traditional craft in Switzerland. They come in different sizes, forged or cast from metal. Beer mugs are another classic Central European souvenir. They also come in many varieties and are designed in different styles.

In addition, you can also buy other souvenirs such as wooden toys, glassware, chess board sets, music boxes… When traveling to Switzerland, you should visit shops and flea markets to buy unique souvenirs.

• Limited Stock Store (Address: Spiegelgasse 22, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 11AM–6:30PM; Saturday: 10AM–5PM; Monday, Sunday: Closed).
• Harrison Spirit store (Address: Spiegelgasse 22, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 11AM–6:30PM; Saturday: 10AM–5PM; Monday, Sunday: Closed).
• Schweizer Heimatwerk store (Address: Uraniastrasse 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 10AM–7PM/Sunday: Closed).
• Teddy’s Souvenir Shop AG (Address: Limmatquai 34, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland/Hours: 10AM–8PM; Saturday: 10AM–7PM; Sunday: 11AM–5PM).

What to buy in Switzerland: The Heidis Book Series

Introduced as a series for children and those who love children, the Heidi book series is a meaningful gift not to be missed when coming to Switzerland. The image of a little girl wearing a milkmaid dress, with two pigtails with a kind heart has become a Swiss figure that is known and loved all over the world.

Must buy in Switzerland: Traditional dress for girls

A pair of scarlet, cat-print shoes are the traditional shoe of almost all girls in Switzerland. This is a shoe that has been passed down through the generations, it is said that almost all Swiss girls take their first steps in a pair of Tiger-Finkli shoes. Why don’t you buy a pair of these cute little shoes for your special girl? And you can even dress her up in a traditional Heidi style.

Best souvenirs from Switzerland: Dog collars

Made of premium leather, dog collars are now designed in both traditional and modern versions of the original design. For more than 250 years, dogs in Switzerland have been wearing Appenzeller dog collars. Currently, this unique culture has been introduced to a number of countries across Europe. Buy this wonderful souvenir for dog lovers.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in Switzerland you can refer to

• 4G WiFi (SG Pick Up) for Europe
• 4G Portable WiFi for Europe from Uroaming
• 3G/4G SIM Card for Multiple European Countries (HK Airport Pick Up)
• Half Day Trip to Mount Titlis with Cable Car from Lucerne
• Jungfraujoch Day Tour from Lucerne
• Day Trip to Mount Titlis with Cable Car (Zurich Departure)
• Swiss Travel Pass

Are you looking for more Switzerland travel guide and top things to do in Switzerland: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Switzerland itinerary 8 days — What to do & How to spend 8 days in Switzerland by train perfectly? And here .

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What to bring from Switzerland – 10 best gift ideas

Chocolate, cheese and watches are the first things that come to mind as gifts to bring from Switzerland .

However this is not all that tourists fill their bags with when returning from Switzerland.

This article contains detailed information about everything that can be brought from this country as souvenirs and gifts .

Table of Contents

1. swiss chocolate, 2. swiss gingerbread cookies, 3. swiss cheese, 3. swiss alcoholic drinks, 4. swiss penknives and manicure sets, 5. swiss watches, 6. swiss jewelry and bijouterie, 7. swiss cosmetics & perfumes, 8. swiss medication, 9. swiss cow bells, 10. swiss music boxes, 11. swiss wall plates, 12. trinkets, lighters, magnets.

Swiss chocolate is considered one of the best in the world. It gained this reputation thanks to original, centuries-old proven manufacturing techniques and high quality milk of local cows. If you need to bring something inexpensive for your friends from Switzerland, then chocolate will be the most suitable gift.

One can buy chocolate in Switzerland in supermarkets and in branded chocolate shops of numerous manufacturers such as Frey, Callier, Suchard, Teuscher and others. Here you can find different types of chocolates with all kinds of fillings. They range from Toblerone triangles to Easter rabbits and handmade chocolates. As souvenirs, tourists are offered sets of chocolates in wrappers with views of Switzerland , which can be bought for 5 francs.

It is most profitable to buy chocolate for shares in large supermarkets, where discounts on it can reach 50%.

Another opportunity to buy sweet gifts at an inexpensive price is excursions to chocolate factories. One can learn the secrets of making traditional chocolate, taste sweet products and buy them without trade margins.

Another sweet gift that one can bring from Switzerland is Basler Läckerli (gingerbread from Basel). It is produced according to a special recipe passed from generation to generation. They have an unusual refined taste, not similar to the taste of other gingerbread cookies. Confectioners, and indeed all residents of Basel, are rightly proud of this sweet symbol of their city.

You can buy Basel gingerbread in Läckerli Huus brand stores, which are in all major cities in Switzerland, but it is more profitable to buy them in supermarkets, especially at discounts.

The cost of gingerbread depends on the weight of the package and starts from 5-7 francs. It is better to stock these sweet gifts before the end of the trip, as the Swiss gingerbread cookies have a limited shelf life. After opening the packaging, they dry quickly, so it is better to take them in small packaging.

Cheese lovers usually do not care about the question: what to buy for a tourist in Switzerland, as a rule, a lot of free space is left in their suitcases for this famous product. Just keep in mind that odorous cheeses without vacuum packaging can soak the entire suitcase with their stench and in some extreme cases you might not be allowed to board a flight.

As gifts from Switzerland, it is better to bring hard and semi-hard cheeses with long shelf life:

• Emmental (Emmentaler)
• Gruyère (read about visiting Gruyeres )
• Schabziger (Schabziger)
• Appenzeller (Appenzeller) and many others

The price for 1 kg of cheese ranges from 20 francs and above. Tasting sets of cheeses of different varieties that can be bought in supermarkets are very popular among tourists. In specialized cheese stores, such a purchase will cost more, especially if it is an assortment of delicious cheeses in wooden boxes.

If you need to bring small cheese souvenirs, then the best choice would be sets of cheeses in which thin cheese plates are rolled into rolls. They have a weight of about 100 g and a price not exceeding 5 francs.

Gourmets and connoisseurs of everything authentic can buy exclusive home-made cheeses from farmers and peasants at the fair in Zurich , which is held weekly on Wednesdays in the premises of the railway station. There are interesting excursions to the cheese dairies, where you can participate in the process of making cheeses, have plenty of fun tasting and buy your favorite varieties without trade margins.

The country generally does not export a lot of alcoholic drinks although they are worthy of being brought as a gift from Switzerland. Some popular Swiss white wines are:

• Petit Arvine
• Johannisberg

Fans of red wine are advised to pay attention to Pinot Noir, especially non-tailoring production. A bottle of 0.7 liter of wine costs on average 10 to 30 CHF.

People who are fans of strong drinks can consider bringing:

• Kirschwasser – brandy made from black cherry with pits.
• Welsh pear vodka – Williams, apricot – Apricotine, and plum – “Pflumli” are also popular.

In specialty stores you can find Williams gift bottles with a pear inside. The price of strong drinks in bottles of 0.7 liter is not more than 30 CHF.

Penknives are perhaps the most useful souvenirs that you can bring from Switzerland. Swiss knives showcase  unsurpassed quality and durability. Their blades are made of special steel, they remain razor sharp for decades without requiring sharpening.

High quality is typical for all Swiss knives – both for hunting, army folding models with up to 30 items, and for small key chains. The most popular products are the famous brands Victorinox and Wenger. Trinket prices start at 10 CHF, and knives start at 30-80 CHF.

Upon purchase, you can engrave the name of the owner on the handle or a gift inscription. Manicure sets, scissors, tweezers are also very popular. All steel cutting items made in Switzerland are must buys while visiting the country.

Please note that sharp objects must not be carried in cabin baggage on airplanes. And if you forgot to hand over even a small keychain knife with a bunch of keys, then before boarding the plane you will have to dispose the package altogether.

Swiss watches have long been synonymous with quality, reliability and accuracy. This is the best gift for yourself or a loved one that can be brought from Switzerland. Cuckoo clocks which are considered one of the symbols of this country are also popular with tourists.

In Switzerland, you can buy watches everywhere – from specialized departments of jewelry stores and large department stores, to watch stores and boutiques. They can be found even in small towns. A large assortment of watches includes relatively inexpensive Swatch models. Some of the best Swiss brands include:

Swiss watches can be made of precious metals or ordinary stainless steel, but high quality and reliability are unchanged for all models. When buying a watch, a certificate confirming their authenticity must be checked.

The prices of Swiss watches are from 70-100 to several thousand francs. In any case, bringing watches from Switzerland is much more profitable than buying them in any other country.

It is also worth looking at famous Swiss jewelry for the wealthier tourists. Some of the most famous Swiss brands are Chopard, de Grisogono, Boghossian and Vainard. The Swiss skillfully combine centuries-old traditions of jewelry art with bold designer finds in their work.

Jewelry lovers are advised to pay attention to the author’s jewelry designers ’products, which can be found in small shops and gift shops. Such a gift must be selected in accordance with the taste of the person to whom it is intended. Particularly noteworthy are bracelets, pendants, rings made of natural materials – valuable wood species, gems, amber, mother of pearl. Cost of jewelry – from 15 francs and above.

The prices for cosmetics are higher in Switzerland than in other European countries. But the natural composition of cosmetics, their rejuvenating and healing effect on the skin and high-quality makes up for this.

Some of the best Swiss cosmetic products are:

• Louis Widmer,
• Chambo et al.

Most of these products are sold in cosmetic departments of pharmacies. The cost of cosmetics is very different, but always high, as is the quality. For example, a moisturizing face cream costs between 50-60 francs per jar of 50 ml.

When preparing for a tourist trip, you need to know what you can buy at a pharmacy in Switzerland. Indeed, in an unfamiliar country, problems may arise with the acquisition of necessary pharmacy products.

Keep in mind that all pharmacies and shops are closed on Sundays in Switzerland. The only places where you can buy something are gas stations and station stores.

In pharmacies, only herbal teas, skincare cosmetics, vitamins, baby food, and the required minimum amount of medications are available for sale. The drugs that can be brought are painkillers, antipyretics, cough syrups and drops from a cold. There are also first aid measures for injuries. The rest of the medicines can only be bought by prescription.

The cost of simple medicines is from 5 to 15 francs. Given the high price of drugs and the inaccessibility to a lot of them without a prescription, it is recommended to bring all medicines that may be needed with you on a trip to Switzerland . They don’t take up much space, and on occasion they can help out well.

As a souvenir from Switzerland, many tourists bring herbal teas. They can be bought both in pharmacies and in stores and supermarkets. Herbs for herbal teas are harvested in the mountains and in ecologically clean alpine meadows, their collections are made according to traditional healing recipes, so herbal teas are excellent in the treatment and prevention of various ailments. Fragrant alpine teas will be a good gift to friends and relatives. The average packaging price is about 5 francs.

Not a single trip abroad can do without buying souvenirs for memory. Most often, gifts such as bells, music boxes, soft toy cows, wall plates, magnets, postcards are brought from Switzerland.

The traditional bell on the neck of cows grazing in alpine meadows has become a peculiar symbol of Switzerland. This traditional souvenir has another symbolic meaning – its ringing drives away evil spirits.

You can buy a bell as a souvenir along with a soft toy – a cow, which is considered the main animal of this country. After all, without it, there would not have been famous Swiss cheeses and milk chocolate, which every Swiss is proud of.

Music boxes in Switzerland often have a characteristic shape – they are made in the form of national houses. When opening the box, beautiful music sounds that can be accompanied by traditional dances performed by tiny figures of Swiss in national clothes. The main manufacturer of these gifts is Reuge Music, prices from 60 francs and above.

If you need to bring something inexpensive as a gift from Switzerland, you should pay attention to the wall plates with views of cities and alpine landscapes , interesting mugs and cups and saucers decorated with images of cows. Prices – from 10 francs.

In large quantities, tourists are buying magnets with views of Switzerland, key rings and lighters with national symbols. If you do not know what to buy in Switzerland, bring postcards and magnets with unique views of the mountains and castles that this part is rich in.

What to bring from Switzerland? The choice is yours. There are many attractive things here that will please you, your friends and relatives. But the most important thing that you bring with you is vivid impressions and memories of the time spent in this beautiful country.

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13 Best Gifts for Someone Going to Switzerland

Last Updated Mar 16, 2024

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Are you looking for the best gift for your friend or family member who is going to Switzerland? We’ve got you covered with this list of the most popular and best gifts for people traveling to Switzerland. Whether they’re traveling to Zurich, Geneva, Bern, Basel, Lausanne, or anywhere else in Switzerland, these gifts will be sure to please.

Traveling abroad can be an exciting and fun experience, but it also can be stressful and overwhelming. Whether they are going on an adventure , a romantic getaway , a business trip , or an education program , they’ll need to be prepared for all sorts of situations.

So what kind of gift would be perfect for someone who is traveling to Switzerland? You may want to give them something that will help them on their adventures , but you also want to stay within a budget .

The best gift for a traveler is something they will use and enjoy. These gifts should be small and lightweight , easy to pack in a suitcase or backpack. They should also be practical and useful when traveling. You don’t want to get them something that sits in their closet, collecting dust.

In this article, we’ve put together a list of the best travel gifts for anyone who is traveling to Switzerland. Each one is a useful , affordable , and thoughtful travel gift that any traveler will love and use. Whether it’s a gift for their  next trip  or for a  birthday ,  graduation , Mother’s Day , Father’s Day , Valentine’s Day , or Christmas , you’ll be sure to find something on this list that they’ll love.

Best Gifts for Someone Going to Switzerland

1. portable power bank.

A portable power bank can be an essential tool for any frequent traveler .

There’s nothing more frustrating than running out of battery in the middle of nowhere and not being able to call for help or take photos. A portable power bank can be a lifesaver in these situations.

Whether they’re going on an international trip or just taking a weekend getaway , a power bank can be used to keep their phone, tablet, and other devices charged.

If you have a friend or family member who’s traveling a lot, it might be a good idea to get them a portable power bank as a gift.

Most power banks are small and lightweight and can be carried in a backpack or even a pocket. And, they’re extremely affordable —making them a perfect gift for anyone who travels a lot.

There are many types of portable power banks available for purchase on Amazon, including power banks with multiple ports and even ones that can be recharged using solar energy .

We recommend the Anker 325 Power Bank for its high cell capacity, fast-charging capabilities, and affordability. You can also find many other types of portable power banks on Amazon that will meet the needs of the adult who is always on the go.

For more information and reviews, check out the Anker 325 Power Bank on Amazon .

2. World Travel Adapter

A world travel adapter is a thoughtful gift for someone who is often traveling.

People often forget to bring an adapter when they pack for a trip because it’s not something that is necessary (unlike money and plane tickets).

However, it’s one of those things that can make or break a trip. For example, it can be a lifesaver when they travel to countries that have different voltage or outlet configurations.

So this time, why not surprise them with a world travel adapter? It’s small enough to fit in their carry-on bag but will be very useful when they need it.

You can find a variety of travel adapters on Amazon . These small, lightweight adapters are perfect for travelers who want to stay organized and avoid extra weight in their bags.

If you’re not sure which adapter is right for them, we recommend the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter , which can be used in more than 150 countries.

For more information, see what other people are saying about the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter on Amazon .

3. Sleep Eye Mask

A sleep eye mask is a thoughtful gift for someone who travels a lot and needs to catch some z’s during their flights or while in transit.

There is nothing more frustrating than trying to get some rest on an overnight flight or in a hotel room when the lights are too bright and there is no way to block them out. A sleep eye mask can be a lifesaver for anyone who struggles to sleep in a bright environment.

Whether they are trying to get some quality shut-eye on an overnight flight or trying to catch a nap during their lunch break at work, a sleep eye mask can be a useful gift.

There are many different styles of sleep eye masks available on Amazon , so you can easily find one that is suitable for the person you are buying it for.

If you’re looking for a comfortable eye mask that’s well-suited to travel, we recommend the MZOO Sleep Eye Mask . This sleep mask has a contoured design that makes it comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

For more information, read customer reviews about the MZOO Sleep Eye Mask on Amazon.

4. Inflatable Travel Pillow

One of the most overlooked items in any adventurer’s bag is the travel pillow. It can be the difference between sleeping comfortably or waking up with a stiff neck.

For the person who travels frequently , an inflatable travel pillow is a thoughtful and practical gift.

Because of their small , portable size and weightlessness when deflated, inflatable neck pillows are ideal for stowing in a carry-on bag.

They are the perfect companions for long flights , road trips , and camping expeditions . They are also great to use on overnight train journeys and airport layovers .

There are dozens of types of inflatable travel pillows available on Amazon . You can find pillows to meet any need, from lightweight pillows for easier carrying to ergonomic pillows that reduce neck strain.

If you are not sure which type of travel pillow is best for them, we recommend the UROPHYLLA Inflatable Neck Pillow for Travel . This pillow is an excellent choice for napping on the go and would make a great gift for them.

For more information and reviews, check out the UROPHYLLA Inflatable Neck Pillow for Travel on Amazon .

5. Laundry Bag

A laundry bag is a practical gift for the frequent traveler . It can be used to store dirty clothes and keep them separate from clean clothes.

It’s especially helpful for business travelers who are staying in hotels , where they may not have access to laundry facilities.

Most laundry bags are made from lightweight , durable fabrics like nylon and polyester. A laundry bag can be a worthwhile investment since it will last for many years.

There are dozens of types and brands of laundry bags available on Amazon , so you can easily find one that fits your last-minute shopping.

If you are not sure which one to choose, we recommend Wash Me Travel Laundry Bag . This bag is made with a high-quality fabric that is durable, washable, and easy to carry around.

Read more about the Wash Me Travel Laundry Bag on Amazon to find out what people are saying about this product.

6. Luggage Scale

If you are looking for a last-minute gift, luggage scale makes an excellent gift.

This is a great gift for travelers who tend to overpack and worry about exceeding the weight limit on luggage.

A luggage scale will help them avoid overpacking by ensuring that their bags meet airline weight restrictions.

There are a variety of luggage scales available on Amazon , but we recommend the FREETOO Portable Travel Scale for its affordability and reliability.

For more information and reviews, check out the FREETOO Portable Travel Scale on Amazon .

7. Luggage Strap

For the frequent traveler , luggage straps make a smart gift.

Luggage straps can help secure suitcases and keep them closed, making it easier to transport several pieces of luggage at once. They can also help keep the contents of bags from being lost or stolen.

There is a wide selection of luggage straps available on Amazon , so it’s likely that you’ll be able to find one as a gift that is both useful and affordable.

If you are looking for the best luggage strap, we recommend the Untethered 4-Pack Luggage Straps . This strap is the perfect solution for traveling with multiple pieces of luggage or keeping bags closed while transporting them. Plus, it also makes for a good present.

To find out what other customers are saying and to see current pricing, check out the Untethered 4-Pack Luggage Straps on Amazon .

8. Personal Safety Alarm

For the solo traveler , a personal safety alarm is a must-have.

A personal safety alarm is a small device that can be worn on a keychain or attached to one’s purse or backpack. When activated, it emits a high-pitched noise that is designed to draw attention and scare off potential attackers.

Personal safety alarms can make a great gift for travelers who love to explore on their own , especially if they plan on traveling outside of the country.

There are many different types of personal security alarms available on Amazon . Some personal security alarms especially appeal to female travelers. Other personal security alarms are designed for use by anyone—men, women, children, and elderly people alike.

If you are considering buying a personal security alarm for them, we recommend the KOSIN Safe Sound Personal Alarm . It is small but powerful , so they can wear it on a keychain or attach it to a handbag or backpack. Plus, it makes an ideal gift for female travelers, especially if they are headed to a country where they will be going out alone at night or spending time in unfamiliar places.

Check out the Amazon reviews for the KOSIN Safe Sound Personal Alarm to see what others are saying about this product.

9. Emergency Whistle

For the outdoorsy person in your life, an emergency whistle is a must-have item.

This small tool can be used to signal for help if lost or stranded. It’s also useful for calling attention during emergencies that occur in the wilderness.

An emergency whistle is a small , lightweight item that can easily be attached to a keychain or backpack.

If you are shopping for someone who loves to hike , backcountry ski , or camp , an emergency whistle is a great choice.

There are many different styles of emergency whistles available on Amazon , but our favorite is LuxoGear Emergency Whistle . This emergency whistle is made from durable plastic and has a lanyard for easy carrying. It’s also very loud, which is an important feature of any emergency whistle.

For additional information, reviews and pricing, check out the LuxoGear Emergency Whistle on Amazon .

10. Waterproof Phone Case

If he or she loves to go swimming or is always near the water , you may want to consider purchasing a waterproof phone case.

A waterproof phone case will protect the device from water damage and can provide a protective layer from scratches and scuffs as well.

It is important to note that not all waterproof phone cases are equally effective at protecting the phone from water damage. There are many different brands of waterproof phone cases , so it is important to do your research before purchasing one.

If you are looking for a great waterproof phone case that is affordable, highly rated, and easy to use, we recommend the JOTO Waterproof Phone Pouch Universal Waterproof Case . This case is designed to be compatible with most smartphones, including the iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and more.

Check out the Amazon reviews for the JOTO Waterproof Phone Pouch Universal Waterproof Case to see what others are saying about this product.

11. Electronics Organizer

If he or she is always losing their sim cards, phone chargers, and power cords, you might want to consider getting them an electronics organizer.

An electronics organizer is a useful gift for the man or woman who has a lot of tech accessories and needs help keeping them organized.

For travelers and business peopl e, an electronics organizer can be a lifesaver — it keeps all their travel accessories together and ready to go.

So if you’re planning on giving a gift to someone this time, why not get them something that will help them stay organized?

You can find a large selection of electronics organizers on Amazon , so there’s sure to be one that will suit the needs of anyone on your gift list.

If you’re not sure what kind of electronic organizer might be best for him or her, we recommend the BAGSMART Electronic Organizer . This organizer is ideal for people who travel frequently, as it has plenty of room for all their tech accessories.

For more information and customer reviews, see the BAGSMART Electronic Organizer on Amazon .

12. RFID-Blocking Wallet

If you’re looking for something practical , an RFID wallet is the perfect travel gift.

For those who travel frequently or enjoy seeing new places , the worst-case scenario is having their credit card information stolen while out and about. RFID-blocking wallets can help prevent this from happening.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a type of technology that allows objects to transmit information via radio waves. RFID-blocking wallets are designed to protect people from identity theft by preventing (RFID) signals from being transmitted.

If you have a girlfriend who travels frequently, an RFID-blocking wallet would make a great gift for them.

There are many types of RFID-blocking wallets on Amazon , so you can easily find one that fits your budget and the needs of the person you’re buying for.

If you’re not sure what kind of RFID wallet is best for him or her, we recommend the FurArt Credit Card Wallet . This wallet features 13 card slots, 2 cash pockets, and an RFID blocking lining — a great gift for the man or woman on the go!

Check out the Amazon reviews for the FurArt Credit Card Wallet to see what others are saying about this product.

13. TSA-Approved Luggage Lock

TSA-approved luggage locks are designed to be opened by TSA agents, so they can inspect the luggage without damaging it.

You can find several different types of TSA-approved locks on Amazon , so it’s easy to find one that fits your needs and budget.

If you don’t have time to find out what type of lock they need, we recommend the Fosmon TSA Approved Luggage Lock . It’s one of the most popular and highly rated locks available. It is made with a durable material that has been approved by the TSA for use in airports.

Check out the Amazon reviews for the Fosmon TSA Approved Luggage Lock to see what others are saying about this product.

We hope this list helps you find the perfect gift for your traveling friend or family member!

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Europe Diaries

Fun gift ideas for people who love Switzerland: unique Swiss souvenirs

It’s that time of the year again when you might be looking for fun gift ideas! Whether you are participating in ‘Secret Santa’, wondering what to gift someone living in Switzerland, or perhaps just scouting for a Switzerland themed gift in general, here are some fun and engaging gift ideas beyond the regular Swiss souvenirs.  Check out these unique gifts from Switzerland and comment with your favourite option to gift and receive!

What to gift a cheese lover

If you have a cheese or fondue lover in your life, surprise them with this brilliant collection of not 5 or 10, but 52 curated Swiss fondue recipes! As a huge Fondue lover myself, I was elated to come across this and try some of the recipes from the collection. The authors are a part of a Fondue organisation (cheese is a serious business, you guys) and they tried out 80 recipes before compiling their favourites in this book. Isn’t that mind-blowing?

Gift this amazing collection of Fondue recipes to a fondue or food lover!

Delivery would be free in Switzerland and would cost 10 CHF for international orders. If you get a copy, let me know how you like it. Say Cheese.

You can also gift a Fondue se t to someone who would love to make Fondue at home, of course. Or perhaps some Raclette cheese , other Swiss cheese or a cheese board could be more appealing to you?

Want to experience more of cheese in Switzerland? Why not plan a trip to a Cheese Factory? Here’s how to combine a trip to a Cheese and a chocolate factory in the same day!

Some more cheese-themed activities for you:

2. What to gift an outdoor enthusiast in Switzerland

Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise. If you know someone who loves being outdoors, hiking or running, here is a super interesting gift with ideas for 30 trail runs in the Alps.

Ideal gift for an outdoor and hiking enthusiast-30 Must-Do Trail Runs

Help your friend plan more hikes in the new year with this book! Are you more of an adventure junkie or like taking it slow? If the recipient is fond of camping and hiking, you could also gift them a camping table or a  monkey swing.

Go a step beyond and plan an overnight stay for them in the Alps!  Here are ideas for where to go in Switzerland in the winter and best skiing spots in Switzerland. 

Check availability here:

3. Games for beer or music-loving friends

Know someone who loves pub quizzes? Perhaps a friend who loves experimenting with beer or someone obsessed with music? These BEERIQ and MUSICIQ gifts are Swiss-made and the latter is in fact, a collaboration with the Montreaux Jazz Festival. Fun with a group of friends or family guaranteed.

4. What to gift a travel lover in Switzerland: Some unique Swiss souvenirs

For travel lovers: Grand Tour of Switzerland board game

A grand tour of Switzerland could be on your friend’s wishlist! Inspire them by gifting this ‘Grand Tour of Switzerland’ board game.   Perhaps you might get some new travel ideas too while playing.

For the story lovers (both: kids and adults), here are two of my absolute favourite books about Switzerland: The Monster Book of Switzerland and Basel’s Hidden Stories. These are collectables and I cannot tell you how much I fangirled on meeting the author herself! If you are travelling out of Switzerland, these would be great souvenirs to take back home. 

Get 10% off on using the code ‘europediaries’ at bergli.ch .

The book all kids and adults will absolutely love.

I absolutely love travel maps and feel that others might love receiving them too! Check out and order a variety of travel maps here. 

Excellent choice for a travel lover- Scratch maps.

Besides, a  travel adapter is always a useful gift as are packing cubes and  travel pillow s. Here are some useful travel accessories you might like.

5. Games and vintage Switzerland

Gift a fun puzzle for anyone familiar with or new to Switzerland!

Know someone moving to Switzerland or a new expat? This fun puzzle might make it easier for them to familiarize with or learn more about the country. it could be an engaging gift for kids too.  Order it here.

Test your Swiss knowledge with the SWISSIQ game !

The ultimate Swiss quiz!

Love vintage? Here’s a vintage poster to adorn the walls of your house. That’s a great Swiss souvenir too, isn’t it?

Know someone who loves vintage? Gift them this vintage poster of Luzern

So, these were some fun ideas for Switzerland themed gifts and also some unique souvenirs to buy from Switzerland. Which ones would YOU love receiving? Tell me in the comments below and share the post with your friends and family this holiday season.

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Buy Now, Book Later

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Switzerland Experience Gifts

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Every Tinggly gift box comes stuffed with literally hundreds of amazing experiences for the recipient to choose the one that suits their personality and their travel itinerary. Wherever they go there’s sure to be an incredible new experience waiting for them to be enjoyed and remembered forever.

Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect wedding gift , birthday gift , anniversary gift, or for any other special occasion, a Tinggly experience gift collection ticks all the boxes. For those who love to Travel Tinggly also offers a world of inspiration, a world of ideas, a world of plans to be made, and a world of excitement. How about a de-luxe artisanal chocolate and sweets experience in Zurich, or a culinary tour of the same magical city using a Tuk Tuk as transport? If Switzerland’s delectable scenery is your thing, you can try the incredible Mt. Pilatus by cable car and cogwheel train followed by a lake cruise for two. The Tinggly gift recipient might prefer to choose a private tour of Bern for two with a local guide, or a visit to Europe’s biggest waterfall, the choice is theirs. And for real adventure lovers, Tinggly gives the choice of bungee jumping, paragliding, whitewater rafting, a private scenic flight over the stunning Jungfraujoch mountain pass, or the fantastic Zurich to Grindelwald activity tour.

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10 Souvenirs From Switzerland You Absolutely NEED To Take Home

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7 Most Walkable Cities In The World

One of california's most scenic hikes is also one of its most dangerous, america's deadliest lake is also one of its most beautiful.

Switzerland is on just about every tourist’s bucket list. It’s a country full of mountains, lakes, and villages, and is famously known for the Swiss Alps. Additionally, tourists recognize the country as the biggest European-eCommerce center in the world, which explains why everything is so insanely expensive.

Price pretty much goes out the window, though, when it comes to Swiss craftsmanship. It’s on another level of beauty and perfection. Switzerland provides carefully crafted items that will dazzle and intrigue tourists, much like the country itself. So, forget the price tag and take home these 10 awesome Swiss souvenirs now! Trust us, they will be no regrets!

RELATED: 10 Most Unique Souvenirs From Around the World

10 Jewels Are Their Specialty

Since the country is known as a banking and finance giant, it’s no wonder they specialize in bringing Americans the best jewelry brands, especially watches . Time liberality rules Switzerland as watches are a prime symbol of accuracy and supreme design. This country is the mad scientist behind some of the biggest watch manufactures in the world, such as Rolex, Omega, Swatch and Cartier. Now that’s a collaboration no one saw coming! Additionally, Switzerland makes jewelry pieces like no bodies business. Next to theirs, American jewels look like a Walmart knock-off! Their designers put on the most spectacular display of bracelets, brooches, earrings and cuff-links ever seen! Who wouldn’t want to take home this Swiss jewel?

9 Buy Photographs Of Zurich

Watches and diamonds make a great birthday gift or a holiday present, but photographs last a lifetime. There’s no jewel on earth that can replace a memory. When traveling to Switzerland, tourists should make a stop at Zurich and visit the Zurichfoto shop . There they’ll find prints and photographs of beautiful landscapes and cityscapes of Zurich. Some even include black and white photos of landmarks, such as the St. Peter Church. Who knows, a single photograph could even complete the entire redesign of the living room. Definitely stop into a photography shop and purchase some cool picks to take back home. One photo can take us right back to Switzerland in a flash.

RELATED: 10 Souvenirs You NEED To Bring Back From Paris

8 Their Toys Are Made With Love

Time may be a big deal in Switzerland, but so is quality. Their products are made with care and carry a wholesome essence. When it comes crafts, the Swiss make everything from scratch. Nothing compares to the real deal. Their handmade craft toys are one-of-kind. Americans are used to their kids playing with Legos, Barbies and toy cars. Even so, only a handful of stores in the U.S. sell hand-made toys. The opposite is true for Swiss stores, as most shops feature everything from wooden farm cows to people. These traditional toys could make a timeless gift to someone who understands Swiss craftsmanship.

7 Switzerland Has The Best Chocolate In Town

Obviously, Switzerland has many things to be proud of. They make the best watches in town and will put any American toy shop to shame. The list continues with their ability to produce the greatest tasting chocolate ever. Switzerland’s biggest kept secret isn’t the chocolate alone though, it’s the milk! Farmers raise their cows grass-feed, meaning there’s no traces of steroids or fertilizers. Everything is produced naturally, thus bringing us the best chocolate ever! Don’t believe us? Just check out the awesome Funky Chocolate Club shop and take a few pieces for the plane ride back home.

RELATED: 10 Souvenirs You NEED To Bring Back From Japan

6 Take A Piece Of Cheese On The Flight Back Home

Chocolate truffles aren’t the only foodies Switzerland is known for. Like Chocolate, Cheese is another famous staple of the country, and it rightfully has earned that title, given the 450 grades to choose from! So why is Switzerland’s Cheese the best? Again, it all comes down to the main ingredient, milk. Switzerland’s unpasteurized milk has more flavor than the regular milk consumed here in America. While the thought of eating raw-milk cheese sounds down-right gross, it’s a healthier option. It protects against heart diseases, while also producing healthy fatty acids that are good for us. In addition to the few pieces of chocolate, take a few slices of Swiss cheese and snack on them during the plane ride. It’ll be life changing!

5 A Family Tradition

By being the very mammals responsible for producing the freshest dairy milk ever, it’s only right they deserve recognition. The Dairy Cows of Fribourg, Switzerland wear the Cowbells or as some German farmers call them Kuhglocke , as an important tradition of Swiss farming culture that has lasted 900 years. These bells all come in decorative styles that’ll make for a great holiday gift. Though, they’re used for more than just decoration. Farmers usually adorn their favorite cow with a decorative bell displaying significant dates and family memories. As a souvenir, tourists can take their own ornately decorative cowbell home to share with their loved ones.

RELATED: 25 Ridiculous Souvenirs Travelers Take Home With Them

4 A Tradition That Never Dies

Another traditional item hailing from Switzerland are music boxes . Spectators have traced their origins back to different parts of Europe, though, the most concrete evidence shows that the music box originated from 17 th Century Switzerland. The design of a music box has evolved over time, from the traditional 96-teeth and interchangeable brass cylinder of the early 1800’s to the discs, which offered more music variety in the late 1890s. Now in the 21th Century, music boxes come in a variety of shapes, colors and components. While some boxes come in ornate designs others resemble snow globes or come in transparent glass that allows the owner to see the inner workings of a music box! Who wouldn’t want to take home a music box for Christmas?

3 Like To Journal? Write With Swiss Pens!

Swiss engineers are not only the mad scientists behind jewelry, watchmakers and music boxes, but they also specialize in Pens . It seems cliché to buy a writing utensil as a souvenir, but tourists won’t just be buying any ol’ pen. Swiss-owned companies, such as Prodir and Caran d’Ache, are the kings of the writing world. If travelers are looking for a really good pen, then check out Prodir’s DS9 pen that came out in 2016. It comes in a spectrum of colors, such as cement grey, denim blue and sunset orange, just to name a few. Caran d’ Ache takes things a step further by creating pencils that carry pleasant aromas. Whether a plain or colored pencil, their utensils carry the distinctive scent of the dark Swiss wood from which they are made. Try journaling about your trip to Switzerland with these fun pencils!

RELATED: 10 Things You Didn't Know About The Devil's Bridge In Germany

2 Swiss Army Knives Are The Best

Many of the items on this list play an important part in Swiss culture. The Swiss Army Knife doesn’t seem all that special at first glance but it carries Switzerland’s name for a reason and should be recognized as such. Since the 1800’s, they have been one of the top-selling items in the country. Some buy a swiss army knife to add to their collection, while others simply enjoy all the tool combinations that come with it. They even come in a range of sizes; some are even small enough to fit inside your pocket! Tourists even can take a tour of the Victorinox location where late 1890s Swiss inventor Karl Elsener invented the tool! Thanks to him, tourists can enjoy this Swiss treasure and pass it along to their children.

1 Traditional Swiss Wear Is In Season

Purchasing Swiss clothing is also a souvenir worth taking back home. Not many know that the country prides itself on being the “cleanest in all the land.” Their clothes are eco-friendly, made entirely from material that not only protects their bodies but the environment as well. Additionally, tourists can treat themselves to stores that still sale traditional Swiss wear, such as traditional tights. Though predominantly a male clothing, some tights were made for babies and girls. Another popular clothing item was embroidery, which back in the day, was stitched onto hats, scarves and shirt cuffs. However, the accessory has been limited to a tourist attraction, making it unique. People can take home the traditional wear of early Alpine farmers!

NEXT: Economy Passengers Can Now Be Treated To A Cheese Fondue On Swiss Air Flights

Olliechinny

• European Travels
• Swiss Travels
• Swiss Expat Life

WHAT TO BUY FROM SWITZERLAND? 10 UNIQUE IDEAS FOR SWISS SOUVENIRS

• October 17, 2022

You’re done with your tour of Switzerland, seen all the jaw-dropping sceneries of the Alps, tasted all the Swiss cheese and chocolate and about to head home. But we’re all too familiar with that stressed out feeling when there are only few days left of your vacation, and yet you haven’t bought souvenirs for your family and friends!

Far too often I’ve visiting friends asking me about what EXACTLY are worth buying in Switzerland, because they aren’t too sure about the local brands and options available.

But don’t worry. I am here to help!

In this post, I’ve rounded up 10 Swiss brands, all originally made in Switzerland!

No tacky fridge magnets, no noisy cowbells…instead I have sought to curate items that are either PRACTICAL, USEFUL or EDIBLE, that doesn’t add to the clutter.

From artisan Swiss chocolates, soft wool slippers, all-natural skincare, down to your humble vegetable peeler: this blogpost features some of the best and most authentic Swiss brands you can find!

WATCH THE VLOG:

About Swissmade Direct

Swiss products have always been renowned worldwide for being the gold standard of quality. Did you know? Switzerland was even voted the most innovative economy in 2022 ! Swissmade Direct is the #1 online store for Swiss products, founded with the mission to connect authentic, original Swiss brands and producers to customers worldwide.

I was pleasantly surprised by the wide categories of products and selections: from your usual cheese and chocolates, to wooden toys, paper crafts, skincare, swiss watches and more! All products sold at Swissmade Direct are authentic local products reflective of the famous Swiss quality, tradition, and exclusivity. No matter where you reside, you can order Swiss products and have them delivered direct to you door at flat rates.

Here are the items I’d picked out from Swissmade Direct which would make perfect choices for a gift or a souvenir.

1. Favarger Chocolates

Swiss chocolates come in TOP in every Swiss tourist’s shopping list. In my earlier post on Swiss snacks , I shared about two popular local chocolate brand: Cailler and Lindt. These two brands are very good chocolates, and are widely available at major Swiss supermarkets. But if you are looking for more exquisite, local artisanal Swiss chocolates, then my recommendation would hands down be chocolates from Favarger !

Founded since 1876, Favarger is a highly established Genevois chocolate-making institution with over 200 years of history. All their products are free from palm oil, GMOs and soy lecithin. and are made with freshest milk and ingredients.

(Confession: I actually prefer their chocolates over the ones at Laderach, which I find abit overly commercialised nowadays!)

TIP:If you have a stop in your itinerary in Geneva, be sure to visit their l ocal boutique at Rive and sample their pralines. You can pick and choose and they will come wrapped beautifully in a box of 9.

2. Favarger Chocolate Fondue Pot

This chocolate fondue pot (also from Favarger) lets you enjoy chocolate…but fancier! Jut melt your dark chocolate inside the pot over a lit candle, and dip your fruit or marshmallows in these chocolatey gooey goodness!

I think this would be a super fun apéro idea with friends or as an easy after-meal dessert.

3. Wollbetten Swiss slippers

Back in hot and humid Singapore, I never had the habit of wearing indoor slippers. However, ever since moving to Switzerland, especially during autumn and winter season, I’d started wearing slippers to keep my feet warm.

Made from merino wool and cashmere, this pair of handmade slippers from Wollbetten (A Swiss family company since 2001) are a real treat to your feet. It has excellent, insulating properties and breathes well, so my feet stay warm and toasty without being sweaty.

I also love the intricate embroideries of the Eidelweiss flowers prints! In my opinion, this is a great souvenir with a bit of traditional touch but still practical for the colder months.

4. Mondaine Watch or Clock

On first glance, this Mondaine watch , powered by an automatic movement, might simply strike off as a eye-catching design. But understanding the backstory of this watch will allow you see it in a whole new light!

This watch is in fact a condensed version of the Swiss Federal Railways’ station clock, and it is not farfetched at all to say that this is the national icon of Switzerland.

With its bright red seconds hand, contrasted with thick stark black hours and minutes hands, ticking against a snow-white dial, not only does it reflect the national colours of Switzerland, it further embodies Swiss hallmark traits of clockwork efficiency and precision.

For anyone who’s into watches OR trains, or any minimalist with an appreciation for simple lines, basic colors and bold look, this wristwatch would be the ultimate keepsake.

Items 5-7 are skincare items, partly beause i’m a skincare junkie, but more because I realised that most Swiss skincare are still not as well known globally. Most people have probably heard of a few Swiss skincare brands like La Prairie, or Valmont …but in fact there are many more local Swiss brands that might be less well-known and not from luxury labels, but produce equally AMAZING high quality products with alpine ingredients. They deserve more attention!

5. Emeo Body Butter

The Emeo Calm Body Butter is in fact my favourite item in this list. I have tried other body butters before, but often they come with artificial fragrances which can be quite strong.

This body butter however is a natural blend of shea butter, coconut oil, lavender and tea tree essential oils and it just smells DIVINE. I heave the scent in and it instantly calms my mood down.

I enjoy pamper myself every night by slathering a delicious dollop of the body butter before heading to bed. It helps especially with the rough edges on my elbows knees and fingers. It is also suitable for my eczema-prone skin, and helps to hydrate deeply, without feeling oily or greasy.

If you are shopping for a girlfriend or a skincare junkie, this is a good Swiss choice!

6. Bex les Bains Pine and Juniper Oil Body Peel

This skincare brand, Bex les Bains is named after a Swiss region of the same name, which is famous for its salt mines and “white gold”. For over two centuries, visitors flock to the salt baths in Bex, believed for its healing properties that could cure over 50 diseases.

I use the Pine And Juniper Oil Body Peel during my shower. It helps to exfoliate dead skin cells and my skin has never felt more supple, plump and glowing.

7. Swissforce Anti-Wrinkle and Age spot Set

I turn 30 this year…and have started investing more into anti-aging skincare products to help reverse the clock. This 3-piece set from Swissforce comes with a sunscreen lotion, as well as an anti-wrinkle and age spot serum.

I then apply the two serums twice daily to help with reduction lines on my forehead, and dark or brown spots and uneven skin tone. As for the sunscreen, it is very lightweight, and I apply it every morning as my makeup base.

8. Rex Vegetable Peeler

This small, humble vegetable peeler was invented by just after the Second World War by Alfred Neweczerzal born in Davos, Switzerland in 1899  more than half a century ago.

Today, it is an ubiquitous Swiss household item, used by amateur home-cooks and professional chefs alike, and has since been sold 60 million times worldwide!

With its simple but ergonomic handle design, It offers ease and comfort for both right and left-handers.

The blade is ultra sharp, and also with two cutting faces, so you can peel either way up.

I use it most often for potatoes, carrots, asparagus and kiwi fruits, and since it peels so thinly close to the skin of the vegetable or fruit, it reserves the inherent vitamins within! Some people even say that you can even use it to descale fish if you use peel in the reverse directions.

Priced at 7.95CHF, it is the cheapest but possibly the most hardy souvenir on the list. You could past it down through generations like a Patek Philippe watch… Just don’t put it in the dishwasher!

9. Khun Rikon Pots

If you ask any Swiss grandma or mother-in-law which pots to get for cooking, chances are they will tell you “Khun Rikon”. The name didn’t struck me initially as Swiss, but they are certainly as strong and durable as any other product marked proudly with the Made in Switzerland seal.

Vince got one of the all round Stainless Steel pot while it was on sale, and there’s NOTHING not to love about it!

It’s oven-safe, suitable for induction, and comes with handles that stay cool even while cooking. The glass lid with the spout also makes it easy for draining out water, while keeping my food nice and warm in the pot afterwards without any transfer.

We use it nearly everyday for cooking, from western pasta to beef stews to our typical asian beehoon or herbal soups.

Khun Rikon products might be more expensive (the one we got is 114CHF at normal retail prices), but believe me, they are WORTH IT, because they are guaranteed to outlast your cheaper IKEA pots for 10 or more years.

Definitely a superb house-warming gift or a great investment for the kitchen, especially if you are a heavy-duty cook!

10. Caran d’Ache Pens

Caran d’Ache is a Swiss company with a long history in making writing instrumennts since 1924. The name Caran d’Ache in fact comes from the Russian word “karandash”, which roughly translates to “pencil”.

These Caran d’Ache pens are nothing like any other ordinary G2 pens or your 50 cent Red Leaf pens back in your primary school days.

I have one of the ballpoint pen and it just writes…like a dream. It is lightweight and the hexagonal shape gives you the perfect grip. It glides beautifully along the pages and the ink flows smoothly.

Who knew Switzerland produces such excellent stationeries?

I hope this post has helped given you better ideas on what local brands to consider and buy in Switzerland as a gift or a souvenir!

Let me know in the comments which is your favourite item! Feel free to share too if you have any other Swiss suggestions.

Love, Ollie

This post is made in collaboration with Swiss Made Direct, and all opinions are my own.

This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. This helps to support the channel so I can continue to produce content for y ou all!

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A Weekend Guide to the Italian-Swiss Region of Ticino

Known as Switzerland’s “Little Italy,” Ticino exudes la dolce vita.

Switzerland is known for its natural beauty and sweeping vistas, with picturesque small villages dotted throughout the country making it one big outdoor playground. Situated between the Swiss Alps and Lake Maggiore, Ticino is a breathtaking canton (or state) in the south, oozing with charm as it blends beautiful landscapes with an Italian flair. 

Ticino is Switzerland’s sunniest region, with over 2,170 hours of sunshine per year. That translates to a near-perfect Mediterranean climate , farm fresh food and locally-produced wine, and lush gardens. 

Known as Switzerland’s “Little Italy,” Ticino is an Italian-speaking area and has a decidedly Italian atmosphere—but without all the tourist crowds and over-the-top villas. The Swiss Riviera exudes la dolce vita , and it’s the kind of destination that makes you want to stay a while. Luckily, there’s plenty to see and do.

In Lugano, a city in Ticino often compared to Lake Como, you can stroll along the elegant promenades, visit world-class museums such as the Museo d'arte della Svizzera Italiana , and enjoy gourmet dining with lakeside views. In Bellinzona, the capital of the canton of Ticino, you’ll be transported to a historic town while exploring three UNESCO World Heritage-listed castles (Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro). Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure, arts and culture or epicurean delights, Ticino has something for every type of traveler. 

Here’s your ultimate travel guide to help you navigate this slice of Swiss paradise.

The Ultimate Ticino, Switzerland Travel Guide

Grand hotel villa castagnola, hotel eden roc, ascona, hotel splendide royal, ristorante della torre, ristorante arté al lago, ristorante le bucce di gandria, brissago islands, parco ciani, corte del vino ticino, parco scherrer, swissminiatur, museo d'arte della svizzera italiana, getting to ticino.

The best way to get to Ticino is through the Swiss Federal Railways (or SBB). The national transportation operator runs several trains and buses around the clock within Switzerland and Italy to the Ticino region. 

For a more scenic but slightly longer route to Ticino, opt for one of the transportation options (a combination of trains, buses and boats) that not only connect from major Swiss cities, but also offer panoramic views: Bernina Express, Palm Express, Gotthard Panorama Express, or Lötschberg-Centovalli Express which includes Lago Maggiore Express. Panoramic train rides are a unique experience in Switzerland and should be on your itinerary. We recommend the Bernina Express, the highest railway line in the Alps, which means exceptional views and a short stop at Alp Grüm train station for photos. The train passes through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges including the Rhaetian Railway, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Every Swiss canton is unique, and with a seamless and sophisticated public transportation network of trains, buses, funiculars and boats, it’s easy to get around and do day trips. If you’re traveling throughout Switzerland for more than a few days, the Swiss Travel Pass is a must (starting at 244 CHF for a 3-day pass). The all-in-one pass, available only to visitors, grants unlimited access to premium trains, buses and boats throughout the country. It also gives you complimentary admission to over 500 museums.

Where to Stay

• Viale Castagnola 31, 6906 Lugano, Switzerland

The 19th-century villa turned family-owned boutique hotel is an enchanting escape, heavy on the charm and warm hospitality. The property boasts 72 sun-kissed rooms and suites, with select accommodations featuring balcony doors overlooking the hotel’s grounds, bronze art sculptures and San Salvatore mountain in the distance. You’ll be tempted to burn off your breakfast with a game of tennis on the clay courts or swim laps in the heated indoor swimming pool, but a dip in Lake Lugano is more likely. The Lido Club, a private sundeck terrace overlooking the Gulf of Lugano, is furnished with comfortable lounge chairs so you can work on your tan while ordering light bites and sandwiches from Le Relais, the hotel’s on-site restaurant. Cars are no longer allowed on property in order to offer a more exclusive and quaint guest experience.

• Via Albarelle 16, Ascona, Switzerland

This five-star palm tree-lined hotel is tucked away at the end of the cafe-lined  promenade in Ascona, a small town on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Home to La Brezza, a two Michelin-star restaurant, and four other dining outlets that all have vegetarian menus, Hotel Eden Roc is a serene lakefront property that offers multiple pools, a spa that uses only organic or certified natural products, and a private beach and marina with plenty of water activities including wakesurfing, water skiing, paddleboarding and banana boats to explore the lake. The accommodations at this property, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, are a quiet respite from the crowds that flock to the promenade, but if you crave more action you can visit the hotel’s bee hive and harvest liquid gold, go paragliding from Locarno’s mountains, or embark on a bicycle tour around Ticino with the help of the hotel’s concierge. 

• Via Guidino 29, 6900, Lugano, Switzerland

Soak in the views from this aptly-named modern boutique hotel on the shores of Lake Lugano. Surrounded by mountains, this five-star retreat is designed to resemble a giant yacht, and epitomizes sophistication with its sleek interiors and attention to detail. Various types of wood materials, including teak finishes, and earth-toned colors are used in the 18 guestrooms to bring elements of the outdoors inside. Elevate your sleep with a customized selection from the pillow menu, which includes feather-free, memory or thermoregulatory options. And when you are ready for a daytime adventure, take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary electric Smart car or bike and explore nearby towns such as Gandria or Bellinzona.

• Riva Antonio Caccia, 7 - 6900 Lugano, Switzerland

Located in the heart of Lugano, this 19th-century historic gem exudes timeless elegance with classic guest rooms that offer excellent views of the lake and nearby mountains. I Due Sud, the hotel’s one Michelin-star fine dining restaurant, captures the essence of Italian-Swiss gastronomy using ingredients such as lemon from Sorrento and alpine butter and chestnuts from Lugano to create a menu that celebrates the Amalfi Coast and Swiss Riviera. The prime location in the city center means high-end designer stores, boutique shops, and vibrant cafes are all within walking distance of the hotel. The nearby Funicolare Monte San Salvatore takes you to the top of the mountain for stunning 360-degree views of the town and lake.

Where to Eat

• Riva da la Tor 1, 6922 Morcote, Switzerland

Nestled in the quaint village of Morcote, Ristorante della Torre offers picturesque vistas overlooking Lake Lugano. You can take a bus or taxi from Lugano to this charming lakeside restaurant, but we prefer the ferry, for a more scenic route. Enjoy a cozy meal indoors or reserve a seat on the covered terrace for prime views. The seasonal menu is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, with a selection of pasta, seafood and meat options. Save room for the decadent warm chocolate cake.

• Rivetta Alfonsina Storni 1, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland

This award-winning, adults-only restaurant is a unique gastronomic experience for both art and food enthusiasts, with works by internationally renowned artists adorning the walls. Helmed by chef Frank Oerthle , the menu primarily centers around local fish, paired with an extensive wine list featuring regional and international selections. Dishes are beautifully presented with an artistic quality and impeccable service to match, with staff who are highly attentive to patrons’ needs and the possibility of a tableside greeting from the chef. The direct view of the lake sets the stage for a romantic evening.

• Via Cantonale, 6978 Gandria, Switzerland

This restaurant is known for its rustic Mediterranean and Ticinese cuisine, highlighting what’s fresh and in season. The rotating five-course tasting menu (CHF 70) showcases the chef’s recommendations, or you can savor a variety of à la carte dishes, from pasta to freshly caught lake fish, all complemented by a curated selection of regional, small production wines meant to be enjoyed on the terrace. The owners take pride in making everything in-house, from the bread to the dessert.

• Casella postale 714, 6612 Ascona, Switzerland

Spend a day in Ascona, just 30 minutes from Lugano by ferry. After a spritz-filled lunch at one of the bustling cafes, take a 20-minute boat ride to the nondescript Brissago Islands, comprised of two islands: Isola Piccola and Isola Grande (only the latter is open to the public). The Botanical Garden of the Canton Ticino, located on Isola Grande, is an exquisite six-acre garden that dates back to the 19th century with over 2,000 exotic flora from around the world. Take a stroll around the garden—it’s easy to linger here for hours—listening to the soundtrack of nature: birds chirping and water flowing, all while soaking in the scent of lemon trees that perfumes the air. Every corner leads you to another surprise, including Roman baths, a bamboo garden, a lily pond filled with croaking frogs and a mini-greenhouse overflowing with lush tropical plants.  The neoclassical Villa Emden, the crown jewel of Isola Grande, is a historic villa that was converted into a hotel and restaurant filled with pure-white Carrara marble and Florentine flooring. Visitors can book one of the 10 rooms or have a leisurely meal at the restaurant surrounded by the garden—a must for lunch or dinner.

• Riva Albertolli, Lungolago, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland

This beautiful park is an urban oasis in the heart of the city, with over 15 acres of lush greenery, sculptures and fountains scattered throughout. Take a stroll or go for a jog on the scenic pathway adorned with colorful flower beds, and look out for the mysterious but idyllic iron gate. Afterward, reward yourself with a scoop (or two) of gelato at the stand stationed at the park entrance and enjoy it on a park bench overlooking the lake.

• 6834 Morbio Inferiore, Via Ghitello 3, Mendrisio, Switzerland

Mendrisio, the southernmost tip of Ticino, is a winemaking region perfect for hiking and vino tasting. This area is known as the Tuscany of Switzerland due to its high concentration of wineries and rolling green hills. Merlot is the predominant grape grown here, but look out for white merlot, a common pale wine found on aperitif menus across the region. The best way to experience the area is a guided bike tour, where you’ll cycle through the vineyards, small villages and colorful homes. If you prefer to go at your own pace, stop by Corte del vino Ticino, inside an old mill, for a guided tasting that will take you through four unique wines accompanied by small bites, and then enjoy a farm fresh lunch paired with wine from the region at the winery’s restaurant. If you’ve had one too many glasses, check into Conca Bella Boutique Hotel, the region’s first wine hotel.

• Riva di Pilastri 20, 6922 Morcote, Switzerland

This mystical and under-the-radar garden in Morcote, known as the Garden of Wanders, transports visitors around the world through horticultural artistry. Founded by world traveler and gardener Arturo Scherrer in the early 20th century, Parco Scherrer overlooks Lake Ceresio and is filled with miniature sculptures and gardens modeled after famous landmarks around the world. As you stroll through the garden on a moderately steep path, you’ll be rewarded with small scale figures such as the second temple of the Acropolis of Athens, the Alhambra gardens in Granada, the Arab house modeled after Palazzo Salò di Brugine near Padua, and a Lombard-Ticino house from the 1300s, an ode to the surrounding region. The hypnotizing scent and colors of exotic plants and flora including eucalyptus, lemon trees, bamboo and camellias will keep your senses awake as you catch your breath to the top.

• 6815 Melide, Switzerland

This three-acre open-air museum in Melide, a village in Lugano, replicates over 120 prominent buildings and landmarks in Switzerland, but in a miniature 1:25 scale version. Spot the grand castles of Rapperswil, the Piazza Grande in Locarno and the Federal Parliament in Bern. The family-friendly theme park is a meticulously designed replica that also showcases Switzerland’s renowned transportation system with 18 railways, cable cars and boats that run through the park. The theme park also includes a picnic area so you can bring your own food or purchase sandwiches and snacks from the purveyor.

• Via Canova 10, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland

Founded in 2015, Museo d’arte della Svizzera Italiana (MASI) is one the most visited museums in Switzerland, and for good reason. It is made up of two venues, the LAC Cultural Center and the historic Palazzo Reali. Both spots showcase a collection of 14,000 pieces of art that span from Renaissance to contemporary. Exhibits are constantly rotating, but the focus is always on local artists from Ticino and greater Switzerland, to emphasize the museum’s commitment to preserve the artistic heritage of the region.

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50 Best Baby Shower Gifts, According to a New Mom

Celebrate your favorite mom to be and her little bundle of joy with a gift that's thoughtful and unique.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

My top tip as a new mom: don't be afraid to buy things that aren't super cute but are considered necessities. Everyone wants to give moms to be cute baby clothes or a personalized blanket, but parents rarely need any more clothes for babies — after all, they grow out of them so fast! There are tons of baby essentials that Mom and Dad need that aren't as adorable as that monogrammed baby blanket but are far more useful, like a diaper pail, changing pad, and sound machine. These gifts may not get the "oohs and ahhs" from fellow shower attendees, but you'll definitely get a well-deserved and genuine "thank you" from the parents.

Of course, if the expecting couple has a baby registry, then that should be your first stop when shopping for a shower. If you're doubting what they want, there's no better resource than the list of needs they compiled on their own.

Finally, don't be afraid to get something special for Mom or Dad. So much focus will be on the baby during those first few months, so anything that reminds the new parents to give a little extra love to themselves will be appreciated.

More ways to spoil your favorite new mom:

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Evolur Eva Baby Changing Pad

I don't know why fabric changing pads ever became popular. I can't imagine how many times we would've had to throw our changing pad cover in the wash if it was made of fabric. A wipeable one like this is an absolute game changer, especially in those early days when things are especially...messy.

The Honest Company Diaper Cake

There's one thing all new parents need more of: diapers...and maybe sleep. We can't help with the latter, but Mom and Dad will be stocked on diapers with this cute cake.

Maison Rue Stacking Cup Toys

My daughter is thoroughly obsessed with these stacking cups. They've become a go-to toy for us because there are so many ways to play with them. You can stack them like a tower, nestle them inside one another, and even use them with sensory water play thanks to the drain holes in the bottom. When she's older, I'll use them to help her learn colors and numbers, too. I especially love that they're dishwasher safe, making them great for travel.

Munchkin Hanging Bath Toy Storage

Here's one thing all parents know for a fact: the toys start piling up quickly . Help Mom and Dad wrangle the mess fast with this bath toy storage system. The handle allows parents to quickly scoop toys out of the water and the quick dry mesh makes sure no mildew begins to form.

Petunia Pickle Bottom Sync Backpack

A functional diaper bag that both Mom and Dad will love to carry around is worth the investment! After nearly a year of frequent use, I've found that this bag has more than enough storage that's efficiently laid out in a way that keeps me organized while on the go.

Babylist Pacifier Box

Paci and bottle preference is so specific to individual infants, so there's no reason to stock up on one brand too early. This pacifier box includes seven of the best-selling pacis on the market so baby can find a favorite without Mom and Dad spending a fortune. They make a bottle box , too!

Tinyhood Infant CPR & Choking Class

While we hope that no parent ever has to use CPR on their infant, it's best to be prepared for the chance. This inexpensive online class is taught by a Registered Nurse and Certified CPR instructor on the basics of choking safety and infant CPR. It's not a traditional gift idea, but it's one the expecting parents will be so thankful for.

Newton Baby Crib Mattress

The days when baby transitions to their own crib will be here soon enough, and Mom and Dad will thank you for how easily they sleep knowing their bundle of joy is resting on this totally breathable mattress. The core is made of a woven material that's designed to significantly reduce suffocation risk. Bonus: that woven core is also 100% washable.

Lansinoh Postpartum Kit

Birthing an actual human takes a toll on your body, and many mothers forget/aren't able to prioritize their recovery along with caring for their newborn. Prepping her with a postpartum kit like this is a great way to take a little bit off Mom's plate and feeling back to normal.

Pearhead Wooden Monthly Milestone Photo Cards

It's hard to imagine that the tiny baby parents take home from the hospital will one day be a one-year-old that's nearly three times as big, but time flies with an infant! That's why parents will appreciate the chance to record how their little one looks every month with these milestone cards.

KeaBabies Baby Hand and Footprint Kit

Babies don't keep, which is why new parents will definitely want to record how tiny those footprints and handprints once were.

Frida Baby Grooming Kit

New parents will be amazed at the outrageous hairdos those little ones can rock! Mom and Dad can smooth out that bedhead quick and easy with this set, and it comes with fingernail clippers and a gum/toothbrush to seal the deal.

DUNCAN & STONE PAPER CO. Baby First Year Book

It's easy to think before baby is born that you could never forget the day they took their first step or what their first word was, but, as any parent will tell you, time passes and memories fade. This in-depth baby book gives parents a place to record all the milestones, from pregnancy through baby's first birthday, as well as those precious everyday moments they don't want to forget.

Mom's One Line a Day: A Five-Year Memory Book

Speaking of those everyday moments, as years pass it can be hard to remember the little things, like what an average day looked like or how much you once loved rubbing your baby's back while they fell asleep. This simple journal has Mom write a sentence or two every day — the good and the bad — so she can look back in years to come and see just how much life has changed, and remember all those little moments that felt so big at the time.

Graco SmartSense™ Soothing Baby Bassinet

Smart bassinets can easily cost over $1000, but Graco recently released their version for under $400 and it's changing the game for parents. The bassinet automatically senses when baby cries or gets upsets and rocks to soothe them back to sleep, so Mom and Dad won't even wake up.

Boppy Pillow

The Boppy might be listed as a nursing support pillow, but any parent knows that it serves so many more functions than that. I've used it as a tummy time helper, an independent sitting support, a feeding pillow, and so much more.

Frida Baby 4-in-1 Grow-with-Me Baby Bathtub

Babies grow fast, so any product that can adjust to accommodate their rapid change is a winner. This bathtub is suitable starting when baby is a newborn through two years old. I love how quickly it transitions and that the sling is machine washable.

Dekor Plus Hands-Free Diaper Pail

It's not cute, but it's necessary — much like changing those diapers. This pail has a hands-free disposal thanks to the foot pedal and two lids to double seal odors inside. Personally, I love that the waste bag system comes in the form of a ring rather than individual bags, so I can tie off the trash bag before the pail is full if things are starting to get a little smelly.

Upseat Baby Floor Seat

This is one of our most-used purchases for our daughter, hands down. As soon as I started transitioning her out of the swing I swapped in the Upseat and I don't think it's gone unused for a single day since she was six months old. I opted for the Upseat over cheaper baby seats because it was developed by physical therapists and is designed for longer use than most seats. I use the Upseat as a booster seat, a secure spot for contained play, and even a bath seat (in desperate times!). It is, without a doubt, one of the best purchases I've ever made.

Tiny Twinkle Mess-Proof Easy Bib

New parents are flooded with cute bibs and burp cloths at baby showers, but no one ever thinks about baby needing a more full-coverage bib once Mom and Dad introduce real food (it gets MESSY). These full-coverage bibs are easy to wipe clean and have a pocket to catch any food that falls — a lifesaver when out to eat.

Hannah Jones is the Commerce Editor for Country Living. Her eye is always on the next up-and-coming products to include in gift guides and she's ready to test everything from dog beds to garden tools for product reviews. When she’s not scoping out the latest and greatest items on the market, you can find her hanging with her two rescue dogs.

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Whether he's traveling for business or leisure, these are the gadgets, gear and luxury items he needs.

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I have spent the better part of this year traveling to make my book, Street Cats and Where to Find Them. I have packed and repacked, repeatedly squeezing two weeks' worth of clothes, cables, sneakers and devices into a backpack more times than I can remember. I flew to Tokyo, Lima, Cairo, Istanbul and Reykjavík, to name just five of the amazing cities I’ve visited recently. By this point, I know what makes a great travel gift for men , from breathable clothes that roll up nicely to a zippered caddy that’ll neatly store all his cables wires, and plugs.

• Best travel accessory: RFID Blocking Travel Wallet , $20
• Best travel tech gadget: AirFly Pro Bluetooth Audio Transmitter , $55
• Best travel gift for young men: Atlas & Green Scratch-Off World Map , $15
• Most unique travel gift : Travel Stub Diary , $15
• Viral travel gift: Maelstrom Travel Backpack , $45

In addition to my own travel experiences and the things I never leave home without, I tapped into the travel expertise at the Good Housekeeping Institute to find the best gifts for men who love to travel . Whether you're looking for a gift for Dad , for a brother , for a boyfriend or for a travel-loving teen , he'll love products like a Bluetooth transmitter that lets him use his AirPods to hear in-flight movies, an RFID-blocking wallet to keep his financial data protected and the most essential travel item ever, a compact inverted umbrella that will keep him and his backpack dry in the wind and the rain.

AirFly Pro Bluetooth Audio Transmitter

With this simple transmitter, he’ll never again board a plane and find out that he can’t use his Bluetooth earbuds or headphones to listen to the movies in flight! Amazon users say it makes traveling more pleasant because you don't have to worry about cords while using the in-flight entertainment system.

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

If the guy in your life is like me, he packs light and carries on. But if he prefers to have more than just one pair of jeans and sneakers while traveling, and maybe even buy something for himself or his family while on the road, these space-age looking compression packing cubes will magically create more space in his luggage. Good Housekeeping Institute testers say these work well for the price, are a good size and compress a lot.

RELATED: The Best Packing Cubes

RFID Blocking Travel Wallet

Help your traveling man stay one step ahead of the scammers with this zippered, RFID-blocking, pocket-sized wallet. It’ll safely store his passport, credit cards, cash, train tickets and other important travel documents while on the road.

RELATED: Best Smart Wallets

The Adventure Challenge: Travel Edition

With games, scratch-off challenges, prompts and reminders, this ingenious interactive book will help him be more present and in each moment, making traveling as a couple much more rewarding.

Steripod Clip-On Toothbrush Protector

My wife thinks it is gross that I just throw my toothbrush into my backpack without thinking about what it’s touching before it enters my mouth. And she’s right, which is why every traveling man needs this toothbrush bristle protector with natural peppermint essential oils, which leave behind a refreshing minty scent.

Travel Backpack

If he's on TikTok, he's likely seen this backpack everywhere. It's gone viral because it has so many compartments, and even a detachable crossbody we can wear.

RELATED: Best TikTok Gifts for Everyone on Your List

Atlas & Green Scratch-Off World Map

We guys are a competitive bunch, and if he’s counting countries visited like I am, this awesome scratch-off map will let him chart his progress and show off to his friends when they come over to his man cave for the big game.

Watch Travel Case

The majority of packing for travel, for a guy, is making sure that all his important things are stashed away securely. This handsome travel case will keep up to two of his watches, cufflinks, bracelets, rings and so on tidy, so that when he unpacks, everything is still perfectly in place.

Anker Portable Charger

Simply put, no one should ever travel without a fully charged power bank. He cannot have his phone dying on him while on the road or in the air. This slim and portable bank charges phones twice completely, and it itself charges fast to be ready in a pinch all over again. Amazon users appreciate size and the battery life.

Larq Filtered Water Bottle

As I’ve learned recently, the water in many cities is sadly not safe to drink. Enter this brilliant reusable water bottle with a replaceable filter. Its activated carbon traps contaminants and will keep him hydrated no matter where he’s traveling. And yet, Good Housekeeping Institute testers say that it's still easy to drink through, which is a problem with other filtered water bottles.

RELATED: The Best Filtered Water Bottles

In-Flight Phone Holder

This phone holder is a must-have for any man who cannot bear the thought of a long plane ride without watching his downloaded shows and movies. It simply clips onto his tray table in the seat in front and lets him lean back, relax and rewatch episodes of The Office , GoT or The Wire . Amazon users say it's got a great grip.

Twelve South BookBook CaddySack

Twelve South is a family-owned small business based in Charleston making handsome leather travel organizers for guys to store their critical electronic cables, plugs and wires.

Scotch Porter Conditioning Beard Balm

It must be the altitude or the changes in the moisture in the air from place to place, but traveling can wreak havoc on a guy’s beard! With beard balm from Scotch Porter, he’ll get instant conditioning and a moisture boost that’ll make his beautiful face glisten again.

Samsonite Windguard Umbrella

This travel umbrella is compact enough to fit into a travel backpack. It's also sturdy enough, according to our Textiles Lab, to withstand plenty of rain and wind.

RELATED: Best Travel Umbrellas

Picnic Backpack

For romantic fellas, this is one of the travel gifts for men that will make his partner melt. It’s a retro brown-striped picnic backpack that’s got a blanket on one side and a wine bottle holder on the other. Inside he’ll have all the cutlery, plates, glasses and linen napkins needed to turn a normal day in the park into a scene right out of a Jane Austen novel.

Conair Power Steam Handheld Travel Garment Steamer

I'm out there in jeans and a hoodie every single day, but if your man is traveling to seal a big business deal, he’ll need his dress shirt, slacks and sport coat looking mint. This travel steamer will keep the creases at bay and help him feel confident heading into an important meeting with clients. It works so well, it earned a Good Housekeeping Best Cleaning and Organizing Award .

RELATED: The Best Clothes Steamers

Sea to Summit Lite Travel Clothesline

When it comes to camping and hiking, this clever little travel gift for men that fits into any crevice of his backpack will ensure his swimming trunks (and the rest of his attire) are line-dried and ready to wear again no matter where he is.

Universal Travel Adapter

If he travels internationally, this is the travel gift he’ll be most thankful for! It’s one adapter with every single variation of electrical outlet on it, so that whether he’s in London, Paris, Santiago, or Melbourne, Australia, he will be able to plug in and charge up.

Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

His gritty soaps, beard balms, shampoos, Manscaped razors and all the components of his nightly face care routine will live happily together in this organized toiletry bag that can hang from the back of any hotel door.

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press Kit

Full disclosure, I’ve never had a coffee. I am a natural Energizer Bunny up and at ‘em every single day of my life, but I understand how odd this is. If your guy needs his morning cup of Joe, give him this travel gift of a travel coffee press that’ll guarantee he’ll always have his morning pick-me-up no matter if he’s in a hotel, Airbnb, or way off the grid camping and hiking in the mountains. This one earned a Good Housekeeping Coffee and Tea Award because it was so easy to use.

RELATED: The Best Coffee and Espresso Makers

Jeff is a dad of two daughters, an avid traveler, a photographer, an author and a freelance writer who lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia with his wife and their cats. In addition to Good Housekeeping , he's written for Parents , Fodor's , Food and Wine , Real Simple and Reader’s Digest , among other print and online publications. Jeff is the publisher of the quarterly literary magazine, Stanchion , and his book, Streets Cats and Where to Find Them , will be published by Running Press in the Summer of 2025.

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