5 Best VPNs for Switzerland in 2023 — Fast, Safe, and Reliable

When visiting Switzerland, you might face geo-restrictions on your international accounts (including YouTube TV and BBC iPlayer). On top of that, data retention laws in the country are very strict, with telecom providers keeping your metadata for up to 6 months.

My team and I tested more than 70 VPNs and found the best ones for Switzerland. All of them have excellent unblocking capabilities and fast speeds. Swiss residents can also get a Switzerland IP address to access local content (like SRF and Zattoo) abroad. Plus, a no-logs policy, leak protection, and best-in-class encryption protect you from online surveillance and hackers.

My top recommendation for Switzerland is ExpressVPN. It offers a high-speed global server network to stream your favorite Swiss and international shows buffer-free. Plus, its robust security features keep you safe online. It’s also backed by the 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free and get a refund if you’re not 100% happy with it.

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The Best VPNs for Switzerland — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)

All VPNs on my list provide fast global server networks and offer you a Swiss IP address. This lets you view geo-restricted content or access Swiss websites and apps outside the country. What’s more, top privacy and security features keep your data safe from prying eyes.

Additionally, apps are beginner-friendly, compatible with all major operating systems, and you can connect multiple devices simultaneously. It’s even possible to try them out without risk because they all have a money-back guarantee.

1. ExpressVPN — Worldwide Network to Bypass Geoblocks in and Outside Switzerland

Accessing your favorite streaming platforms is effortless with ExpressVPN’s extensive network. Servers are spread across the globe in 94 countries, with Swiss servers letting you unblock local content like Zattoo. I tested a couple of ExpressVPN’s US and Swiss servers and had no trouble accessing my Netflix US and Switzerland accounts.

Speeds are super-fast, which is excellent for UHD streaming without buffering. During my tests, speeds never went below 43.5 Mbps, so you can watch your favorite shows on YouTube TV right away. Its Smart Location feature automatically connects you to the fastest server nearby to ensure the best possible speeds. It’s also a great option for quick torrenting in Switzerland, as ExpressVPN is P2P-friendly and doesn’t restrict bandwidth.

Your online activity is protected from snoops and hackers thanks to AES 256-bit encryption and highly-advanced security protocol (including OpenVPN and Lightway), making your data unreadable. The VPN also follows a strict no-logs policy and is based in the British Virgin Islands (outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance). This means your data won’t be collected or shared with third parties, even if requested by a government. You can purchase ExpressVPN using Bitcoin and a burner email address for an extra layer of privacy.

Additionally, its automatic kill switch prevents your data from being exposed accidentally when your connection suddenly drops. I ran DNS/IPV6/WebRTC leak tests and didn’t detect any. On top of that, ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer Technology wipes your data clean after every server reboot.

Apps are easy to use — I installed ExpressVPN and connected to a Swiss server in under 5 minutes. It also provides multiple language options, including French and German. Nevertheless, customer support is available 24/7 via live chat and email.

The VPN is slightly more expensive, with plans starting at $6.67/month. However, ExpressVPN regularly offers significant discounts to help you save. I got 3 months of service for free and 49% off my 12-month subscription. I find its long-term option the best value for money as its short-term plans cost more without offering any additional benefits.

You can try ExpressVPN for Switzerland with confidence as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. It’s straightforward to get a refund if you're not satisfied. I just signed into my account on its website and clicked the ‘cancel subscription’ button. The money was transferred back to my credit card 3 days later.

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2. CyberGhost — Many Servers in Switzerland to Access Local Content

CyberGhost has 150+ servers in Switzerland to access local content, such as TeleZüri, while overseas. I tested 7 Swiss CyberGhost servers and unblocked ZDF and Arte without issues. Its extensive network also includes servers in 91 other countries to unblock geo-restricted websites from Switzerland and abroad. It even has servers specifically optimized for streaming. All you have to do is click “For Streaming” on the left-side panel drop-down and select your country/platform combination, like the UK for BBC iPlayer. I unblocked my US Hulu account from Switzerland in less than 10 seconds.

Speeds are very fast, too. When I tested the VPN's speeds, I found it fast enough for high-bandwidth activities like torrenting and gaming. You can stream your favorite shows without interruptions from anywhere. Plus, like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost comes with unlimited bandwidth so that you can file share as much as you want.

Your connection is protected by CyberGhost's AES 256-bit encryption, automatic kill-switch, and multiple tunneling protocols (like OpenVPN and WireGuard). So, your actual location and online activity remain private. There's also DNS/IPv6 leak protection and a strict no-logs policy. Additionally, the VPN blocks ads and trackers — CyberGhost forces websites to deliver their safest HTTPS versions, if available. These features let you browse Swiss and international content with peace of mind.

I recommend switching on CyberGhost's automatic WiFi protection if you plan to use public WiFi in Switzerland. This launches the VPN as soon as it detects a new WiFi network so that even if you forget to turn it on, your devices are kept safe.

CyberGhost is one of the most user-friendly VPNs I tested. Downloading and installing apps takes only a couple of minutes. There are also German and French language options.

I found its 1-month plans very expensive, but if you sign up for a long-term subscription, you can get CyberGhost for as low as $2.19/month. Additionally, its 6-month and 2-year options come with an extended money-back guarantee, so I recommend going for them.

You can try CyberGhost in Switzerland for free using its 45-day money-back guarantee. After using the VPN for a whole month, I tested its refund policy and found it uncomplicated. I requested a refund via 24/7 live chat and got the money back returned to my bank account after 4 days.

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3. Private Internet Access — P2P-Friendly Servers for Fast and Secure Torrenting in Switzerland

PIA allows P2P sharing on all its servers, making it a good option for torrenting. The VPN also comes with a SOCKS5 proxy which gives you a speed boost for file-sharing. On top of that, it doesn’t limit bandwidth. I tested PIA’s Swiss servers and downloaded a 1 GB file in less than 5 minutes.

Connections are consistently fast on local and international servers. There are many locations to choose from — a vast network covers 84 countries. I tested many of them (including Swiss, Belgian, and US servers), and PIA let me stream shows in UHD on all of them. Finding a server for browsing and streaming without interruptions won't be a problem.

A strict no-logs policy and DNS/IP leak protection keep your data private. I found no leaks during my tests. You're also safe from domains affiliated with malicious content — PIA has a built-in malware blocker (called MACE) that protects your privacy by blocking trackers and annoying pop-ups.

You’re well protected from cyberattacks, too. An automatic kill switch keeps your data from accidental exposure. PIA even allows you to customize your security settings according to your needs. You can choose between AES 128-bit (slightly faster) or AES 256-bit (more secure) encryption, and various tunneling protocols, like OpenVPN and WireGuard.

All these customization options make using the apps a bit more complicated. Luckily, its pre-configured settings allow you to get started right away without having to change anything.

You can get PIA’s long-term plan for only $2.03/month. I recommend its 3-year subscription as it’s the most affordable and offers all the same features as its more costly short-term options.

PIA also has a 30-day money-back guarantee. I chatted with an online representative through 24/7 live chat to cancel my subscription and only had to answer a few questions. The refund process was simple, and the money reached my credit card within 5 days.

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4. IPVanish — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Conveniently Connect All Your Devices in Switzerland

With IPVanish, you can connect an Unlimited number of devices simultaneously. I tested IPVanish by streaming shows on 12 devices at once (including various smartphones, Windows PC, and iPad). My connections were fast and stable on all of them.

A global server network covers 75 countries and allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and unblock the most popular streaming platforms. I easily accessed my Netflix US and ESPN accounts from Zurich. You can also use the Swiss servers while abroad and access SRF trouble-free.

Robust privacy features protect your data. IPVanish has a proven zero-logs policy and owns its server network, ensuring your data is in safe hands. Additionally, thanks to the IP/DNS leak protection, I detected no leaks.

Thanks to the strong VPN security, no one can intercept your personal information. IPVanish provides AES 256-bit encryption and a kill switch. Moreover, the VPN lets you choose your security protocol like WireGuard or OpenVPN. Hackers in Switzerland won't be a problem for you.

The applications are easy to navigate and utilize. Additionally, you can reach out to the VPN's 24/7 live chat support for assistance if needed. I received prompt and helpful responses to all my inquiries.

Even though IPVanish doesn't accept cryptocurrency payments, like ExpressVPN, you can use all major credit cards or PayPal to purchase a subscription. IPVanish offers a long-term plan for just $2.49/month. I found its yearly subscription to be the most budget-friendly option.

If you aren’t impressed with the service, it’s easy to get a refund as IPVanish comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Getting a refund is simple; I canceled via my dashboard on the website and received the money in my PayPal account 5 days later.

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5. PrivateVPN — Strong Security Features to Protect Your Online Activity in Switzerland

PrivateVPN’s security features protect your data in Switzerland. AES 256-bit encryption, together with robust protocols (such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2), ensures your devices are safe from snoops and hackers. What’s more, PrivateVPN passed all my leak tests. An automatic kill switch provides additional security. Your personal information is safe from third parties as the VPN also follows a no-logs policy.

Boasting a user-friendly interface, this application serves as an outstanding choice for individuals new to VPNs. Additionally, it offers support for various languages, such as German and French. Should you encounter any difficulties, you can depend on 22-hour live chat support and even request complimentary remote installation aid.

The VPN has a small network of only 200 servers. However, it’s easy to bypass geoblocks thanks to the servers spanning 63 countries (including Switzerland). I could access Swiss TV channels and my Amazon Prime Video account without trouble. Plus, the servers are fast and come with unlimited bandwidth, which means you can stream as much as you want.

You can get PrivateVPN for just $2/month if you choose a long-term subscription. There are short-term plans available, but they're less economical and don't offer additional features.

You can use PrivateVPN in Switzerland free for 30-days with its money-back guarantee. Applying for a refund is easy by completing the contact form on the VPN’s website. I got the money back in my bank account within a week.

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Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Switzerland

The criteria mentioned below helped me find the best VPNs for Switzerland. All VPNs on my list can easily bypass geo-restrictions and keep your online activity hidden from prying eyes. However, if you prefer to run your own tests, you can use this as your checklist:

• Global server network — A reliable VPN comes with an extensive server network to access your streaming and banking accounts wherever you are.
• Reliable local servers — Look for a VPN with servers in Switzerland to get a Swiss IP address and access local websites and apps when outside the country.
• Strong privacy and security features — To protect your data, choose a VPN that at least has a strict no-logs policy, AES 256-bit encryption, and a kill switch.
• Fast speeds — Fast and steady connections are necessary for buffer-free streaming and uninterrupted downloading.
• Trustworthy money-back guarantee — A proven money-back guarantee ensures you get a full refund (during the guarantee period) if you don’t like the service.

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FAQs on Using a VPN for Switzerland

Why do I need a VPN for Switzerland?

A VPN for Switzerland can help you access international and Swiss content. Choose a VPN with an extensive network (including servers in Switzerland) to access your streaming accounts, like Netflix US and ZDF. However, a VPN’s primary purpose is to protect you against security threats.

Switzerland has data retention laws (BÜPF and VÜPF) that monitor your telecommunications — Internet service providers (ISPs) retain your data for up to 6 months. Public WiFi networks also present a prime opportunity for hackers to intercept your data and steal sensitive information. A VPN protects your privacy and keeps you safe online using military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch.

What is the best free VPN for Switzerland?

It’s best to avoid using a free VPN for Switzerland. Free services often use outdated security features, leaving you vulnerable to data theft. A premium VPN with a money-back guarantee is a safer alternative.

Free VPNs also restrict server locations, so you might not be able to get a Swiss IP address or unblock your international accounts. On top of that, bandwidth and speeds are limited to force you to upgrade to their paid plans. But, what’s most concerning is that many free services track and share your online activity with third parties for a profit.

Are VPNs legal in Switzerland?

Yes, VPNs are legal in Switzerland. Many residents use them to access content from their home country when traveling or living abroad. ExpressVPN can unblock anything, from Youtube TV to Netflix Switzerland while safeguarding your data.

Can a VPN give me a Swiss IP address?

Yes, a VPN with servers in Switzerland can give you a Swiss IP address. This enables you to access your local accounts (including Telebasel, SRF, TVM3, Rouge TV, and ZDF) anywhere. First, launch your VPN and connect to a server in Switzerland. Your traffic will be routed through a private server in Switzerland, providing you with a Swiss IP address. You can now unblock Swiss websites and services wherever you are.

Is torrenting in Switzerland legal?

Torrenting is legal in Switzerland. Thanks to a P2P-friendly network, lightning-fast speeds, and advanced security features, ExpressVPN is the best for fast and safe torrenting in Switzerland. Surprisingly, downloading copyrighted content for personal use in Switzerland is legal too. However, downloading copyrighted material via torrenting is illegal in most countries, and we at vpnMentor don't condone it.

How do I access my Netflix library from Switzerland?

Open your VPN and connect to a server located in the country that hosts your Netflix library. For example, connect to a server in the US to access your Netflix US library from Switzerland. Choose a VPN with servers in many countries to get the IP address you need and enjoy your favorite shows anywhere.

How can I access YouTube TV from Switzerland?

You need a VPN with a large selection of US servers to access YouTube TV from Switzerland. ExpressVPN can easily unblock YouTube TV anywhere with 24 secure servers in the US.

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The Bottom Line

Using a VPN gives you access to the content you need and keeps your online activity private. When visiting Switzerland, you can safely access your international streaming accounts, such as Netflix US. Additionally, Swiss residents overseas can use a VPN with servers in Switzerland to get a Swiss IP address to access local bank accounts and TV channels.

I recommend ExpressVPN for Switzerland. It has a massive global network (including Swiss servers) to watch anything from SRF to ESPN. Plus, excellent security features (like military-grade encryption and a no-logs policy) prevent your data from being shared with anyone. Best of all, you can try ExpressVPN’s Switzerland servers risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Switzerland