Background

Swiss Downtime

The Swiss are well known for working hard, but they also enjoy their time off and are enthusiastic about their recreational activities. They often enjoy taking part in challenging sports, and afterwards savour relaxing with family and friends. Many people also devote part of their leisure time to volunteer work.

Public holidays vary from canton to canton, but there are around eight or nine per year, lower than many other European countries. Full-time employees receive 20 vacation days per year, and 25 days for those under age 20.

Meeting with friends and reading are the top Swiss pastimes, followed by walking, taking in a movie or attending a cultural event. Participating in sports is quite popular as well, with about two out of three people regularly participating in a sport.

The tourism division of the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) is responsible for Swiss tourism policy and promotion. The Swiss National Tourist Office web site provides information on all aspects of travel in Switzerland.