Swiss Apps Locals Actually Use
- Stefan
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Discover the Swiss apps locals use to travel cheaper, hike smarter, and avoid common mistakes.
The smartest way to explore Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the easiest countries to travel once you know how things work. But many travelers struggle because they use the wrong apps or no apps at all.
After living in Switzerland for years and testing more than 100 websites, apps and tools, I have narrowed this down to the Swiss apps that actually matter. These are the apps I personally use and recommend to friends visiting Switzerland.
At the bottom of this page, you can download my free Swiss Apps Guide with more than 50 handpicked Swiss apps, clearly explained and ready to use.
Why Swiss Apps Are So Important
Switzerland runs on apps more than most countries. Train tickets are digital. Hiking routes are maintained digitally. Weather changes fast and is tracked locally. Even food discounts often only exist inside apps. If you rely on generic travel apps, you will miss out.
With the right Swiss apps installed, you will:
Pay the correct price for public transport and often less
Know exactly which hiking trails are open and safe
Avoid weather surprises in the mountains
Save money on food and everyday expenses
Stay connected without expensive roaming
Here are the top local Apps I Use Myself
SBB Mobile
Perfect for everyday use! This all-in-one public transport app lets you buy tickets, check schedules, and get real-time delay alerts. It's available nationwide.
SwitzerlandMobility
An incredibly underrated app, this essential tool is perfect for all your outdoor activities. It's the ideal companion for hiking, biking, mountain biking, canoeing, and skating in Switzerland. Use it to plan routes, assess trail conditions, and explore the national network of non-motorized paths.
Fairtiq
Included in the SBB app, only download if you choose not to use the SBB app. No more ticket machines. Just tap once to begin your journey and once to end and Fairtiq calculates the most affordable valid fare. Perfect for impromptu travels.
Too Good To Go
Use the App to purchase surplus food from my local bakery and supermarket at significant discounts. Acquire leftover meals from bakeries and restaurants for only a few francs. Tasty, sustainable, and economical.
Komoot
An alternative to Switzerland for mobility, offering off-the-beaten-path trails. Organize picturesque hiking and biking routes with offline maps and elevation profiles. Essential for outdoor enthusiasts.
Airalo
Set up a Swiss eSIM in just a few minutes. Avoid roaming fees and store visits. I use it whenever I travel outside Switzerland and the EU, so if you're leaving your home country to visit Switzerland, I recommend Airalo.
Want the Full List?
The apps above are just the essentials. I have collected 50 plus Swiss apps into one clear, easy to use guide so you do not have to research everything yourself.
The free Swiss Apps Guide includes:
Swiss apps for transport, hiking, food, weather, and data
Short explanations so you know what each app is good for
Local tips you will not find in app store descriptions
Direct links for iOS, Android, and web
Download the free Swiss Apps Guide below and arrive in Switzerland prepared, confident, and informed.
Swiss Apps FAQ
What is the most important Swiss app for travelers?
The most important Swiss app is SBB Mobile. It covers almost all public transport in Switzerland and lets you buy tickets, check connections, and see delays in real time.
Do I really need Swiss specific apps?
Yes. Switzerland relies heavily on local apps for transport, hiking, weather, and discounts. International travel apps usually do not show full route coverage, trail closures, or correct pricing.
What is the best Swiss hiking app?
The best Swiss hiking app is SwitzerlandMobility. It shows official, maintained hiking trails and current route conditions across Switzerland.
Can I use Swiss apps without a Swiss SIM card?
Yes. Most Swiss apps work on WiFi. If you need mobile data, an eSIM like Airalo lets you connect instantly without roaming fees.
How can I save money in Switzerland with apps?
Apps like FAIRTIQ help you avoid overpaying for transport, and Too Good To Go lets you buy meals for much less than normal Swiss prices.
Are these Swiss apps free to use?
Most Swiss apps are free to download. Some offer optional paid features, but you can travel very well in Switzerland using only the free versions.
