Switzerland is set to celebrate its National Day on August 1, bringing with it a nationwide public holiday that will see most businesses, shops and offices shut for the day.
While essential services will continue to operate, residents and visitors are being advised to plan ahead as many everyday conveniences will be unavailable.
This year’s celebration falls on a Saturday, meaning many businesses would have been closed regardless, but the public holiday still affects retail, healthcare, transportation and other services.
A Holiday Honored for More Than Three Decades
Swiss National Day has officially been recognized as a public holiday since 1994, following a nationwide referendum approved by voters the previous year.
The day is generally treated much like a typical Sunday, with commercial activity kept to a minimum while communities across the country host outdoor celebrations, fireworks and cultural events.
Most Shops Will Shut Their Doors
Anyone planning to go shopping on August 1 should expect most supermarkets, department stores and retail outlets to remain closed.
However, a few exceptions will be available for last-minute purchases.
Convenience stores attached to petrol stations, including Coop Pronto and Migrolino, are expected to remain open, along with many shops located inside airports and major railway stations.
Dining Options Will Be Limited but Available
Although many restaurants traditionally close on public holidays, diners will still have options, particularly in larger cities.
Restaurants, cafés and bars that normally operate on Sundays are likely to welcome customers on National Day, though individual businesses may choose to close depending on local demand.
Visitors are encouraged to check opening hours in advance if they plan to dine out.
Medical Clinics Will Close While Emergency Care Continues
Most doctor’s offices and dental clinics will not operate during the holiday.
Patients contacting their healthcare provider will typically hear a recorded message or find instructions directing them to emergency or on-call medical services if treatment is required.
Hospitals and emergency departments, however, will continue operating around the clock, providing care for serious medical emergencies throughout the holiday.
What to Do During a Medical Emergency
People experiencing life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, severe breathing difficulties, major injuries or heavy bleeding should head directly to the nearest emergency room or call an ambulance by dialing 144 if immediate transport is necessary.
For non-life-threatening health concerns that still require medical attention, residents can contact their canton’s medical referral service to locate the doctor or dentist on duty.
Each canton operates its own referral number, allowing patients to determine whether they should visit an emergency physician or proceed directly to hospital.
Only On-Call Pharmacies Will Be Open
As with medical practices, only designated duty pharmacies will remain open during the National Day holiday.
Residents can obtain information about the nearest available pharmacy by contacting the same medical referral services used to locate on-call doctors.
Public Transport Will Continue Operating
Despite widespread business closures, Switzerland’s transport network will continue running throughout the holiday.
Trains, buses, trams and ferries will operate according to the standard Sunday and public holiday timetable, meaning passengers should expect reduced service frequencies compared to weekdays.
Travelers are advised to check schedules before setting out.
Emergency Services Remain Available Around the Clock
Essential emergency services will continue operating without interruption during the holiday.
Authorities remind the public to use the appropriate emergency numbers when assistance is required:
- Ambulance: 144
- Police: 117
- Fire Service: 118
- SBB Transport Police: 0800 117 117
- Poison Information Centre: 145
While National Day celebrations are expected to bring communities together across Switzerland, officials are encouraging residents to prepare in advance by completing shopping, banking and other errands before the holiday begins.
