Must-have apps for expats in Switzerland can make everyday life much easier, especially when you are adjusting to new routines and responsibilities. Life as an expat in Switzerland brings a host of new routines and unexpected challenges. Having the right apps on your phone can simplify everyday tasks and make navigating expat life feel more manageable. Here are seven essentials to help you do just that:
1. SBB Mobile
SBB Mobile makes travelling around Switzerland simple. You can plan trips on trains, buses, and trams, buy tickets digitally, and check live updates. The app also provides platform information, estimated travel times, and connection suggestions. For those who commute regularly or like exploring new cities, it can save a lot of time and stress. Tip: Enable notifications for delays or platform changes so you’re never caught off guard, and explore supersaver tickets for off-peak travel.
2. Twint
Twint is the go-to app for payments in Switzerland, whether at cafés, shops, or parking meters. You can also send money or split bills with friends effortlessly. The app offers features such as QR code payments, online shopping integration, and the ability to store digital loyalty cards, which is especially handy in Switzerland where cash is often not used. Tip: Link it to your bank account and set up recurring transfers for shared expenses to save time.
3. MeteoSwiss
MeteoSwiss provides reliable weather forecasts and alerts. It covers temperature, precipitation, and avalanche warnings, helping you plan your day, commute safely, and enjoy weekend trips. This app is among the must-have apps for expats in Switzerland who enjoy outdoor activities. Tip: Set up alerts for severe weather, especially if you like hiking or cycling. This makes MeteoSwiss one of the must-have apps for expats in Switzerland, especially for those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
4. Migros and Coop
Migros and Coop are Switzerland’s biggest supermarket chains, and their apps make grocery shopping easier. You can check weekly deals, collect loyalty points, get digital receipts, and discover local specialties. Both apps also offer recipe ideas and allow you to create shopping lists that can be synced across devices. These apps are among the best apps for living in Switzerland if you want to save time and shop smart. Tip: Use the shopping list feature and plan trips around promotions. Both Migros and Coop apps are truly must-have apps for expats in Switzerland who want to save time and shop more efficiently.
5. Babbel
Babbel makes learning German, French, or Italian manageable, even with a busy schedule. Even a few phrases can make daily interactions much easier and help you feel confident in everyday situations like shopping or commuting. This is a must-have app for expats in Switzerland who want to adapt to local life quickly.
Tip: Explore the app’s interactive exercises and speech recognition features to make learning phrases easier and more natural.
6. Homegate
Homegate is essential for finding housing in Switzerland. You can search for apartments or houses to rent or buy, filter by location, price, and amenities, and contact landlords directly. This app is invaluable for expats navigating the Swiss rental market, which can be competitive and complex. Tip: Set up alerts for new listings that match your criteria so you can act quickly. Homegate is easily among the must-have apps for expats in Switzerland, particularly when navigating the competitive housing market.
7. SwitzerlandMobility
SwitzerlandMobility helps you explore walking, hiking, and cycling routes with maps, difficulty levels, time estimates, and tips. It also provides information on public transport connections along the route. This is one of the essential apps for expats in Switzerland who want to discover the country safely and enjoyably. Tip: Check reviews and route updates from other users and combine it with MeteoSwiss.
Staying organised and connected is half the battle when moving somewhere new. These apps give you that extra bit of support so you can spend less time figuring things out and more time enjoying what life here has to offer. By using these must-have apps for expats in Switzerland, you can stay organised and make your transition into Swiss life much smoother.
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