8 most important apps in Switzerland

In today's society, we can't really imagine a world without the use of smartphones, and apps are used for everything from ordering food to learning a new language. While some apps are useful the world over, sometimes you need to know the local favourites to make the most out of a new country. Here are the best apps to have when visiting or living in Switzerland. 

The best apps to have in Switzerland

Switzerland is a stunning place to visit, and an amazing place to move and live as a resident. Here are some Swiss apps that can make navigating your new life a little easier.

1. Smood

Smood is a great food and grocery delivery app, so if you’re in the mood for fresh food, but don't want to cook or shop, then this is the app for you. It offers the widest selection of options in Switzerland, that can be delivered to many Swiss cities in under 45 minutes. Additionally, keep an eye out for the frequent promo codes or gift cards to redeem a discount. Other food apps to consider are JustEat and Uber Eats.

2. SBB

SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) is the country's biggest public transport operator, so it should come as no surprise that SBB Mobile is the most popular app for public transport in Switzerland. You can buy tickets and day passes directly in the app, and create personalised timetables for all of your trips. The app also provides exclusive ticket offers to help you save money. Another app that is convenient for transportation is Google Maps.

3. SwitzerlandMobility

Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes, and what better way to explore them than through the SwitzerlandMobility app? This free app and website are great for anyone who is looking to get out and about in Switzerland since it provides maps of the country with detailed routes, including the complete network of signposted hiking trails, cycle routes, and various routes for winter activities. There is also information about points of interest, overnight accommodation, and public transportation options. 

4. PlaySuisse

PlaySuisse is the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR’s streaming platform, and it is a great way to watch Swiss entertainment. On this app, you can find films, series, and documentaries from all Swiss linguistic regions with subtitles in German, French, and Italian. The app now features English subtitles, so it is a great way to practice your German language skills. PlaySuisse is a fantastic way to explore the diversity within Switzerland, and all the linguistic dialects that exist within the beautiful country.

5. N26

One of the most important things you will need to do in Switzerland as a new resident is to get a bank account. Opening a new account can be a hassle if you're new to Switzerland, as you often need to provide paperwork and attend a meeting in person. N26 is Europe’s first 100 percent mobile bank, allowing you to open an account in just a few minutes on your phone. Apps that are also like this are bunq and Chime.

6. Comparis Property

For expats, finding housing in Switzerland can be very challenging. An app that can help greatly is Comparis Property Switzerland. This app contains all of the listings from all of the major property portals, lets you narrow down by location, and checks whether the pricing is fair, to help you find your new home. Other great places to find housing are IamExpat Housing to find rentals in Switzerland or Homegate. 

7. Migros

Migros is one of Switzerland’s largest retail and supermarket chains, making it very likely that you'll be shopping here, but did you know that you can save money by using coupons and vouchers from the app? This fantastic digital shopping assistant lets you see all of the discounts on offer right on your phone. You can also use the subitoGo feature to make grocery shopping quicker: simply scan your products, pay on the app, and then you’re done!

8. MeteoSwiss

For a country so packed with natural wonders, the weather is an important factor in life in Switzerland. The MeteoSwiss app provides weather forecasts, accurate measurements, and weather animations. The app has a unique feature to see how the weather could be affecting your health with readings on air quality, pollen forecast, and a UV index. The app is available across Switzerland and you can set your favourite places to get your forecast in good time. Another great app like this is AccuWeather. 

Get these apps today!

There are many useful apps that are advantageous to visitors and residents in Switzerland, but these are the ones we would recommend starting off with. Have you got any more to add? Let us know in the comments below!