1. Can the hotels accommodate dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan or allergies at dinner?
Yes. The privately run hotels can usually cater to vegetarian or vegan diets and to intolerances such as gluten, lactose or nuts. The key is to flag your requirements when booking, or a few days before arrival, so the kitchen can prepare. Exactly what is possible varies from hotel to hotel, so it is worth confirming directly.
2. Are the hotels wheelchair accessible or step-free?
This varies by property. Many hotels offer accessible areas or ground-floor rooms, while historic buildings in old-town settings may have structural limitations such as stairs or no lift. If step-free access matters to you, ask about lifts, room layout and entrances before booking so the right hotel and offer can be chosen.
3. Which credit cards are accepted, and should I tip?
Most hotels accept the major credit cards, and cashless payment is standard; many also take the Swiss Twint app. Tipping is not obligatory in Switzerland, as service is included, but rounding up or leaving a small amount for good service is appreciated. Carrying a little cash is handy for small extras on the road.
4. Do I need a power adapter and what voltage is used in Switzerland?
Switzerland uses 230 volts and its own type J sockets, which also accept the standard European type C plug. Travellers from the UK, the US and many other countries will need a simple travel adapter. Hotels can sometimes lend one, but bringing your own avoids any inconvenience on arrival.
5. Is travel insurance recommended for a cultural trip in Switzerland and Europe?
Travel insurance is not required to book, but it is sensible, particularly cover for cancellation and medical costs. Switzerland is outside the EU, so EU health cards have limited validity; check what your own policy covers. Cancellation terms depend on the individual offer and booking conditions, so review those before you book.
6. Can I combine a Swiss city stay with destinations in France or Italy in one trip?
Yes. Alongside city breaks, the cultural offering includes multi-day hotel-to-hotel journeys across Switzerland and neighbouring Europe, for example through Burgundy, Provence or northern Italy. This makes it easy to pair a Swiss stay with a wider regional route. The team can help you plan the stages so they connect sensibly.
7. Will I be able to pay and get by in Switzerland with euros?
The official currency is the Swiss franc, and prices are in francs. Many hotels and shops accept euros in cash but usually give change in francs, often at a less favourable rate, so card payment or francs are more economical. There is no need to carry large amounts of cash, as cards are widely accepted.
8. Is a cultural trip suitable for older travellers or those who prefer a relaxed pace?
Yes. Short, well-organised stays that combine an overnight with culture nearby are easy to enjoy at a gentle pace. The flexible programme lets you balance sightseeing with rest or wellness, and centrally located hotels keep walking distances short. The team is glad to help select a hotel and itinerary that suit your preferences.
9. Can I buy a stay as a gift or voucher for someone else?
Yes. A stay with Private Selection Hotels & Tours works well as a gift, for instance as a voucher for a cultural weekend. You can arrange and redeem a voucher through the call centre or customer service. This lets you give a cultural experience without committing the recipient to a fixed date.
10. How far in advance should I book, especially for peak periods?
For popular times such as holidays, long weekends and high season, booking early is advisable, as centrally located hotels fill up quickly. Subject to availability, shorter-notice stays are also possible. If you are flexible you may still find a suitable offer at short notice; if you want a specific hotel or room, securing it in good time is best.
