# Switzerland 2023 – Business Trip to Interlaken & Zurich

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/switzerland-where-work-meets-alpine-serenity-interlaken-2023/
- Published: 2024-12-11T22:39:32+01:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/europa/szwajcaria-gdzie-praca-spotyka-alpejski-spokoj-interlaken-2023/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

In September 2023, I had the opportunity to take a business trip to Switzerland –
specifically, to the picturesque Interlaken. At first glance, it seemed like a dream
come true: working amidst alpine landscapes. But as with everything, there’s always
another side to the coin. My girlfriend Jadzia, to put it mildly, was slightly upset
about the whole situation. “You’re traveling the world at the company’s expense,
and what about me?!” she said with her signature bluntness when she found out about
my trip. The reason for her displeasure? Well, she doesn’t work for the same client,
so this trip wasn’t in the cards for her. Thankfully, after cooling down, she looked
at it with some perspective – and I got her blessing to share this story. 😊

So, how do we go about the journey?

## How did I get to Switzerland?

The Swiss International Air Lines flight from Warsaw to [Zurich](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=16462)
went smoothly, with no major surprises. Of course, as is typical with the Swiss,
I was treated to a Swiss chocolate on board – with lactose, naturally. It was the
perfect mix for my stomach, but oh well, I couldn’t really refuse!

After landing in [Zurich](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=16462),
I headed towards the car rental desks. I needed a car because Interlaken and its
surroundings required a bit of mobility, and convenience during business trips is
key. The plan sounded good, but as life goes, it wasn’t without its adventures. 
It turned out that the car rental company I had a reservation with didn’t have an
office at the airport, but rather… at a hotel about 5 kilometers away.

Well, I had no choice but to order a taxi and hit the road. This is where Switzerland
greeted me with its first “charm” – the prices. For someone from Poland, the sight
of the taxi meter was, to put it mildly, painful. 😄

 [ ⌊View of Warsaw Airport runway and terminal buildings through an airplane window⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Swiss plane wing over Zurich, with the Limmat River and city streets below⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Traffic conditions

The first and most important rule when driving on Swiss roads: **don’t exceed the
speed limit**. Seriously. Switzerland’s system for traffic violations is unforgiving,
and the fines can make your head spin – especially for someone from Poland. I’ll
go into more detail about this in another article, but trust me, it hurts. A lot.

As for the road conditions themselves, driving in Switzerland is a real pleasure.
The roads are impeccably maintained, and the signage is so precise that it’s nearly
impossible to get lost. Highways are toll roads, but all you need is a vignette (
which, if you’re renting a car, is usually already included). Traffic is calm, drivers
follow the rules, and there’s a general respect for other road users.

It’s important to keep in mind the specifics of mountain roads – winding turns, 
tunnels, and often narrow sections require focus and caution from the driver. The
weather in the mountains can change in an instant, so it’s wise to be prepared for
anything, from sunshine to rain or even fog.

 [ ⌊Zurich, Switzerland airport check-in corridor with signs for Limousines and transport services.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich street scene in Switzerland with a traffic light, parked cars, and a Trafо Hotel building⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Car rental

After taking care of the car rental formalities, I still had a long way to go. First,
I had to get to Baden, before finally heading towards Interlaken a few days later.
On the same day, I had one more important task – renting camera equipment. Yes, 
I briefly returned to my roots as a camera operator, since the company asked me 
to record a few things on-site.

And that’s exactly why I rented a car, even though the train system in Switzerland
is well-organized. I needed flexibility in getting around, especially with a tight
schedule. Having a car gave me the freedom to move at my own pace, and in situations
like these, that’s invaluable.

 [ ⌊Car at a bp fuel station in Interlaken, Switzerland, with pumps and mountainous backdrop⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Mini Cooper S in Interlaken Car, Switzerland, parked by a street with mountains in the mist behind it⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-006.jpeg)

## Public transport in Zurich

Traveling on public transport in Zurich, at least when I was there (and I’ve been
twice), turned out to be very convenient. Trams, buses, and trains make it easy 
to get around the city and even reach nearby towns. Tickets are universal, so you
can use different modes of transport without the hassle of buying separate ones.

However, it’s hard to ignore that ticket prices might seem high compared to Polish
standards – but that’s pretty much the norm in Switzerland. The system itself works
smoothly, and the timetables are accurate. There can be crowds, especially during
rush hours, but in my case, it wasn’t much of an issue.

 [ ⌊Zurich Flughafenn ticket machines at Zurich Airport, with fare zone maps and a passenger information display⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Green public bus at a Zurich stop under a covered station entrance, with passengers waiting to board⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-008-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich Flughafen sign board with platforms 10 and 12 at Zurich station area⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich bus terminal with two white buses parked under a large modern station canopy⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-010-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Baden

I spent two days in [Baden](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=76720)–
a small, quiet town that can be easily and conveniently reached by train from Zurich.
It’s peaceful and fairly subdued, making it a great choice for a moment of relaxation
or focus if you need to get some work done.

### Accommodation

During my stay in [Baden](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=76720),
I stayed at [Trafo Hotel](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&hid=9360429),
an interesting place located in a former industrial building. The hotel has a unique,
industrial vibe that gives it character, though the rooms were quite modest.

One downside was the lack of a direct view outside – the windows in my room faced
the interior hall, where various events were held. It was a bit unusual, but for
a short business trip, it was manageable.

On the plus side, I have to mention the breakfasts. They were very tasty, with a
variety of options, which is always a nice touch to start the day. If you’re looking
for accommodation in Baden, Trafo Hotel could be a good choice, as long as you’re
fine with its unique style.

 [ ⌊Baden train station building façade in Switzerland with a Baden sign above the entrance⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-016-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Clock tower on a historic building in Baden, Switzerland, seen from between narrow streets with flags against blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-017-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Overall impressions

Baden is primarily known for its numerous thermal springs, with water temperatures
reaching 47°C, attracting both tourists and locals seeking relaxation.

Baden is primarily known for its numerous thermal springs, with water temperatures
reaching 47°C, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking
relaxation. The town’s soothing waters have earned it a reputation as a wellness
hub, offering visitors a chance to unwind and rejuvenate.

 [ ⌊Switzerland, Baden article photo—overlooking a hillside town with houses, trees, and a cloudy sky from a road bridge.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-018-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Man standing by a riverfront promenade in Baden, Switzerland, with hills, vineyards, and colorful houses behind.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-019.jpeg)

## Interlaken

Time to make my way to Interlaken. The company had a meeting at the [Dorint Blüemlisalp Hotel](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&hid=78939)
in Beatenberg, situated on a picturesque hill overlooking Lake Thun and the Alps.
The route to the hotel involved a winding mountain road – a bit of a challenge, 
but the breathtaking views made it all worthwhile.

The hotel itself is impressive with its location and tranquility – a place perfectly
suited for events like this. Unfortunately, I couldn’t stay overnight, as I had 
to return to Zurich after the meeting to take care of a few more matters.

 [ ⌊Interlaken, Switzerland: mountain train station platform with parked cars and a blue sky with clouds.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-020-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊View from Interlaken, Switzerland, over green alpine hills and a valley under dramatic clouds⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-021-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Overall impressions

The views? As expected in [Interlaken](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=5323)–
there’s no need to exaggerate, they’re stunning. The setting between the lakes and
the Alps speaks for itself. The town itself is charming, though often crowded with
tourists, which adds a certain liveliness but can occasionally bring a bit of noise.
It’s a place that perfectly balances the tranquility of nature with a touch of alpine
bustle.

And if you enjoy active leisure, [Interlaken](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=5323)
is a paradise – from paragliding to hiking in the mountains. For me, even though
my time there was short, the place left a strong impression and a feeling of wanting
more.

When it comes to getting there, Interlaken is very well-connected. You can easily
reach it by train. Direct connections from Zurich or Lucerne make the journey convenient
and fast, with the scenery outside the window often just as beautiful as the destination
itself.

 [ ⌊Interlaken, Switzerland: Victoria building dome and lawns with mountainside backdrop in the distance⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-022-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Returning to Zurich

Work-related matters required an early return to Zurich. Once back, I managed to
carve out some time for a walk through the city center. Zurich has an organized 
and calm atmosphere, though I must admit – the city center can feel a bit bustling,
especially during rush hours.

During my walk, I decided to stop by Starbucks to buy a souvenir mug. It quickly
turned out to be the most expensive mug of my life. I thought Finland had set the
bar high in terms of pricing, but Switzerland clearly said, “Hold my beer”. 😄 Still,
I have my mug, and I can say it’s a little keepsake that will stay with me for a
long time.

It might not have been a grand adventure, but it’s always nice to step away from
the hustle of work for a moment and feel the rhythm of the city.

 [ ⌊Zurich, Switzerland night view of historic buildings along the river with lit church tower reflections⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-zurich-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich night street scene with tram tracks, pedestrians, and historic buildings in Zurich, Switzerland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-zurich-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Accommodation

During my stay in [Zurich](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=16462),
I stayed at the [Swiss Night Hotel](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&hid=802848).
The rooms? Well, they weren’t particularly spacious, but manageable for a one-night
stay. The biggest plus was finding a parking spot for my car – quite an achievement
in Zurich, where space is at a premium.

An interesting detail was the check-in process – done through a machine outside 
the building. I have to admit, it surprised me, but fortunately, everything went
smoothly.

Breakfast, to put it mildly, did not impress. Just the simplest products, without
much revelation. If someone appreciates decent morning meals, he will be rather 
disappointed here.

For a short business visit, it will be enough, but if I were to go privately, I 
would rather look for something else. And the price? Definitely too high in relation
to what the facility offers. But, well, Switzerland.

### Overall impressions

[Zurich](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=16462)
is a city that combines order and cleanliness with the typical traffic of a metropolis,
especially during rush hours. Even so, the rail infrastructure is top-notch, making
it easy to get around the city and its surroundings.

Strolling through Zurich, you can come across many fascinating spots. The Old Town(
Altstadt) enchants with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, creating
a unique atmosphere. Lindenhof Square, situated on a hill, offers picturesque views
of the Limmat River and the city’s skyline.

It’s also worth visiting Bahnhofstrasse – one of the most expensive shopping streets
in the world, where luxury boutiques are interspersed with elegant cafes.

However, Zurich does have its downsides. The high prices can be a surprise for tourists,
and traffic during rush hours can get quite intense. Even so, the city offers plenty
of attractions and is very pedestrian-friendly, making it an interesting place to
visit.

 [ ⌊Zurich street with Swiss flags hanging between historic buildings at night⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-zurich-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich, Switzerland: historic government building at night with Swiss and Zurich flags and arched façade⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-zurich-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## SIM card

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, a word of caution – using your Polish 
SIM card might not be the best idea. Although Switzerland is part of the Schengen
area, it’s not in the European Union, so roaming here is a different story. In short,
the costs can escalate to unpleasant levels quite quickly.

This time, instead of dealing with local operators, I opted for a simpler solution–
an eSIM from Airalo. The entire purchase and activation process is done online, 
saving a lot of time. A few clicks, and I had internet access. It’s not the cheapest
option, but the convenience is definitely a major plus.

## Food

In Switzerland, you’ll find a wide variety of food – from local specialties to more“
everyday” options. Personally, I’ll admit I went for a kebab more than once. Surprisingly,
it’s quite a popular choice in Switzerland, and I must say, it was tasty, filling,
and relatively affordable (by Swiss standards, of course).

Beyond that, you can find cuisine from all over the world – from Italian to Asian.
For those who don’t want to spend a fortune on meals, quick food options from supermarkets
like Migros or Coop are a good alternative. Let’s be honest, they’re nothing exceptional,
but they are budget-friendly.

 [ ⌊Spaghetti with pancetta and cherry tomato garnish at Baden Food, Switzerland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich Food plate of mixed Swiss cuisine with meat, vegetables, and dumplings on a restaurant table⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-011-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich Food in Switzerland: wooden board with grilled steak and fries, plus small dipping sauces and drinks on a table⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-013-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich Food in Switzerland: a flatbread pizza with pulled pork and onions on a plate, with drinks on the table⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-015-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Coop supermarket checkout area in Zurich Food, Switzerland, with shoppers and product counters⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-014-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Exchange office or ATM?

In Switzerland, I prefer using ATMs – it’s a more convenient and faster option than
searching for Swiss francs at a Polish currency exchange. During this visit, I didn’t
need to withdraw cash since I handled most payments with a card.

From my experience, Switzerland has a well-developed network of ATMs, both in large
cities and smaller towns. However, it’s worth watching out for additional fees –
these are often displayed on the screen before confirming the transaction, so it’s
a good idea to check carefully.

## Climate and weather conditions

Switzerland, located in the heart of Europe and characterized by its alpine landscape,
offers a diverse climate that varies by region and altitude. Overall, the climate
can be described as temperate continental, with four distinct seasons.

 * **Spring and Summer:** From May to September, temperatures are mild, reaching
   up to 25–30°C in valleys and cities like Zurich or Interlaken. This is the perfect
   time for hiking or other outdoor activities. In the mountains, it tends to be
   cooler, and nights can remain crisp even during the summer.
 * **Autumn: ** From October to November, temperatures gradually drop, and the landscapes
   take on golden hues. It’s a beautiful time of year, though slightly more prone
   to rain.
 * **Winter:** From December to March, winter brings chilly temperatures – typically
   ranging from -2 to 5°C in the valleys, and much colder in the mountains. It’s
   a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, with alpine resorts offering excellent
   conditions for skiing and snowboarding.

 [ ⌊View over Aaerschlucht Article photo in Switzerland with a turquoise river, green valleys, and lakeside villages.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-aaerschlucht-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Aaerschlucht in Switzerland with a footbridge over a narrow gorge and misty river below⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-aaerschlucht-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊View of Aaerschlucht in Switzerland with a river, winding road, and green valley village beneath mountains⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-aaerschlucht-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Swiss train at Aaerschlucht station, passing along the tracks with mountains and greenery in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-aaerschlucht-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Safety

Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world, with a very low crime rate.
During my stay, I didn’t feel any sense of danger. However, as with any destination,
it’s wise to take basic precautions, especially in busy urban or tourist areas.

### Insurance

Although Switzerland has an excellent healthcare system, the cost of medical treatment
can be high. It’s recommended to have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) along
with additional travel insurance to cover any potential medical expenses.

 [ ⌊Zurich indoor hall with gold-and-blue mascot sculpture suspended above the walkway⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-zurich-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Zurich, Switzerland lakeside view with sailboats on the blue water under a clear sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/switzerland-zurich-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Summary

I definitely have to take Jadzia here sometime, because if I go to Switzerland without
her again, I’m not sure I’ll make it back in one piece. 😄 I’m sure she’d love it
here – both the views and the overall vibe of the country are truly special.

As for the costs, even with a more expensive flight to Switzerland, you can consider
an alternative – flying cheaply to Milan and then taking a train from there. Swiss
trains are an attraction in themselves, so the journey would be an experience in
its own right.

In conclusion, I think Switzerland definitely deserves a return visit, this time
for a personal trip. There’s still so much left to see, and I already know this 
place has something special that draws you in.