Swiss Apéro: An Expat’s Guide to Switzerland’s Favorite Pre-Dinner Ritual

You’ve just moved to Switzerland and you get invited to an “apéro.”
Is it dinner? Drinks? A business networking thing? Do you bring something? How long do you stay? And why is everyone making such earnest eye contact when they clink glasses?

This guide breaks down Swiss apéro culture (and yes—people also search “Swiss apero”), so you can show up relaxed, confident, and culturally fluent—whether it’s a neighbor’s balcony in Zürich, a work event in Geneva, or a lake-side gathering in Lugano.

Quick definition: A Swiss apéro is a social get-together for drinks and small bites—often before dinner, sometimes instead of dinner—built around conversation, light snacking, and a warm-but-low-key Swiss style of hospitality.

What is a Swiss apéro (and why it matters)?

In Switzerland, apéro isn’t just “having a drink.” It’s a widely shared ritual used to:

• welcome newcomers and colleagues
• celebrate milestones (new job, birthday, moving apartments, a sunny Thursday)
• start an evening gently, without the formality of a full sit-down meal
• bring people together across languages and regions

You’ll encounter apéros in three common contexts:

1. At someone’s home (classic: drinks + nibbles, standing around the kitchen or balcony)
2. At work (project wrap, farewell, team celebration, holiday apéro)
3. Out at a bar/restaurant (apéro platters + cocktails or wine)

Apéro vs. apéritif vs. tapas vs. aperitivo (simple comparison)

Many expats try to map apéro to something they already know. Here’s the cleanest way to think about it:

Swiss apéro overlaps with all of them—yet stays its own thing: flexible, practical, and very “Swiss” in how it values good conversation, punctuality, and not overdoing it.

What’s typically served at a Swiss apéro?

A Swiss apéro is snack-forward—small bites you can eat while standing and chatting. Expect a mix of salty, crunchy, creamy, and “one-hand-friendly.”

Common apéro foods (the usual suspects)

You’ll often see:

• Cheese (local favorites are common; cubes, slices, or a full board)
• Cured meats (salami, ham, dried meats)
• Bread + crackers (baguette, rustic bread, grissini)
• Olives, pickles, nuts (the “always disappearing first” bowl)
• Chips & pretzels (yes, they count—especially at casual home apéros)
• Spreads & dips (hummus, herb quark, tapenade)
• Seasonal extras (cherry tomatoes, grapes, radishes, fruit)

In Swiss-German regions you might hear “Apéro Plättli” or “Apéroplatte”—basically an apéro platter/board.

Drinks: alcoholic and non-alcoholic (both are normal)

Alcohol is common, but not drinking is totally acceptable. Typical options include:

• White wine (very common)
• Prosecco / sparkling wine
• Beer
• Aperitif cocktails (think Spritz-style drinks, Hugo, etc.)
• Mineral water (still and sparkling)
• Juice, soft drinks, sometimes mocktails at larger gatherings

If you’re unsure, you can safely ask: “What will people be drinking—should I bring anything?”

Apéro riche explained (and how to know if it’s basically dinner)

You’ll quickly run into the term apéro riche. This is the one to understand—because it changes how hungry you should arrive.

Apéro riche meaning

An apéro riche is a more substantial apéro—with enough variety and quantity that it can replace a full meal (often dinner). It’s still more “mingling + bites” than “sit-down dinner,” but you should expect real food.

Typical apéro riche additions can include:

• mini sandwiches, wraps, or open-faced bites
• warm finger foods (quiches, pastries, skewers)
• more robust platters (bigger cheese/meat selections)
• dessert bites (mini pastries, fruit, chocolates)

How to tell what you’re walking into

• If the invite says “apéro riche”, treat it as dinner.
• If it starts around 18:00–19:00 and there’s no mention of dinner after, it may be dinner.
• If it’s a work event with a longer time window and lots of catering, it’s often apéro riche.

If you’re still unsure, eat a small snack beforehand—but don’t arrive full and uninterested in the food. (The apéro table is part of the social experience.)

Swiss apéro etiquette: the expat checklist (Do/Don’t)

Swiss culture can feel “quiet” at first—until you realize it’s actually very warm, just structured. Apéro is where that warmth shows up, especially when you follow the unspoken rules.

Do: show up on time (or just a touch late at home)

• Work apéro: aim to arrive on time.
• Home apéro: arriving 5–10 minutes after the stated time is usually safe, unless it’s a small gathering.

Switzerland runs on schedules. Punctuality reads as respect—not rigidity.

Do: greet everyone (yes, everyone)

In smaller groups, it’s common to greet each person individually when you arrive—and sometimes again when you leave.

• In professional settings: a friendly handshake is common (though norms vary by company and person).
• In private settings: you may see cheek kisses (often three in parts of Switzerland), or a more relaxed hello.

If you’re unsure, let the host lead, and mirror their greeting style.

Do: make eye contact when you toast

One of the easiest “Swiss apéro etiquette” wins: when clinking glasses, make eye contact and smile. It’s a small gesture, but it’s noticed.

Do: try a bit of everything—but don’t attack the platter

At casual apéros, people often nibble slowly. A good rhythm:

• take a small plate portion
• chat
• go back later

Going back for seconds is normal, especially later, once everyone has had a chance.

Don’t: get noticeably drunk (even if the vibe is fun)

Apéro is social, not chaotic. Enjoy the drinks—just stay in control, especially at work events.

Do: help yourself—but don’t “host-hop” the kitchen

If it’s a home apéro, your host may say “help yourself.” That’s genuine. Still:

• don’t open every cupboard
• don’t rearrange platters
• don’t act like you’re catering the event unless asked

Do: leave politely (and don’t be the last person accidentally)

If it’s a home apéro, watch for cues: people start saying they “should head off,” the host begins clearing, or the conversation winds down.

A simple, warm goodbye goes a long way:

• thank the host
• say goodbye to a few people nearby
• don’t vanish without a word

What to bring to an apéro (host gift guide)

Wondering what to bring to an apéro at someone’s home? You’re not alone—this is one of the most searched questions for newcomers.

The safest rule: bring something small (unless told not to)

A modest host gift is common and appreciated. Great options:

• A bottle of wine (or alcohol-free bubbly if you know the host doesn’t drink)
• Flowers (simple bouquet—avoid overly romantic styles unless appropriate)
• Chocolate (Switzerland makes this easy)
• A small specialty item (nice nuts, olives, a local jam, fancy crackers)

If you want to be extra aligned with Swiss practicality: bring something that can be put on the table right away.

What not to bring (unless you know it’s welcome)

• an elaborate homemade dish that requires plating/heating
• something very messy or hard to serve
• anything that forces the host to “perform” (e.g., complicated cocktails without asking)

One sentence that works in every language

If you’re unsure, ask early:

• “Would you like me to bring anything for the apéro?”

It signals thoughtfulness and saves everyone stress.

Hosting your first Swiss apéro (simple menu + shopping list)

Hosting is one of the fastest ways to build a social circle in Switzerland—especially if you’re new, remote-working, or trying to meet people beyond your workplace.

You don’t need to be a chef. You need: a tidy space, a few good bites, and enough glasses.

A foolproof apéro menu (for 6–8 people)

Aim for 3–5 savory items + 1 sweet, plus drinks.

Savory

• 2 cheeses (one mild, one stronger)
• 1–2 cured meats
• bread + crackers
• olives + nuts
• a dip/spread (hummus or herb quark)

Optional upgrades

• grapes, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers
• smoked salmon or a vegetarian spread
• mini pastries or savory puff bites

Sweet

• chocolate squares or mini biscuits
• berries or fruit

Shopping list (easy mode)

• cheese + charcuterie
• bread + crackers
• olives + nuts
• dip/spread
• fruit/veg
• sparkling + still water
• white wine/beer (optional)
• napkins + toothpicks

Setup tips Swiss hosts appreciate

• Label anything important (especially if there are allergies)
• Put water out early (very Swiss, very helpful)
• Use small plates and napkins (people will mingle)
• Keep food accessible—no one wants to “interrupt the kitchen” to eat

What does a Swiss apéro cost? Realistic price expectations

Costs vary massively—from casual “bring a bottle” home gatherings to catered corporate apéro riche events. Here are grounded, Switzerland-specific reference points to help you plan.

Budget-friendly (grocery/pre-made platters)

If you’re short on time, pre-made platters are common. For example, a ready apéro platter can be around CHF 7.50 for 180g at Swiss retail (pricing varies by product and location).
This works well when you combine a couple of platters with bread, fruit, and a dip.

Mid-range (farm/producer platters or simple catering)

Producer/farmshop-style apéro offerings often price per person. Example ranges you may see:

• around CHF 12.50 per person for an apéro platter
• CHF 17.50–25 per person for larger buffet/grazing-table style options (delivery/service can affect price)

Corporate catering (apéro packages)

For larger groups, Swiss caterers often offer standardized bundles. Example package pricing (often with minimum guest counts) can be around:

• CHF 16.30 pp (standard)
• CHF 24.00 pp (apéro riche)
• CHF 35.50 pp (deluxe tiers)

Premium (bars/hotels and high-end platters)

In central city venues, a platter for a small group can be CHF 40+ depending on the venue and ingredients.

Planning takeaway:

• Home apéro can be very affordable if you keep it simple.
• Apéro riche/catered events scale quickly—especially when staffing, rentals, and drinks are added.

Mini phrasebook for apéro (DE/FR/IT)

Switzerland is multilingual—and apéro is a great place to practice small phrases that make a big impression.

Arriving / greeting

German (CH-DE)

• Hoi! (Hi!)
• Danke für d’Yladig. (Thanks for the invitation.)

French

• Salut ! / Bonsoir !
• Merci pour l’invitation.

Italian

• Ciao! / Buonasera!
• Grazie per l’invito.

Toasting (with eye contact)

German

• Prost! / Zum Wohl!

French

• Santé !

Italian

• Salute !

Leaving politely

German

• Danke, es isch sehr schön gsi. (Thanks, it was really nice.)
• Ich mache mi uf de Wäg. (I’m heading off.)

French

• Merci, c’était super.
• Je vais y aller.

Italian

• Grazie, è stato bellissimo.
• Io vado.

Don’t worry about perfection—effort matters more than flawless grammar.

Swiss work apéro etiquette (networking without awkwardness)

Work apéros can feel confusing because they’re social—but still professional. A few simple rules keep you safe:

Keep it light and inclusive

• Ask easy questions: “How do you know the team?” “How was your week?”
• Avoid heavy personal topics unless the other person opens that door.

Don’t turn it into a job interview (but be present)

You don’t need to “perform.” You do need to show you can socialize comfortably:

• introduce yourself to a few people
• avoid clinging to one colleague all evening
• keep your drink pace moderate

Leaving is allowed

Swiss work culture often respects efficient time boundaries. Say goodbye to:

• the organizer/manager
• a couple of key colleagues you spoke with

A clean exit is better than staying too long out of uncertainty.

FAQ: Swiss apéro questions expats always ask

What is a Swiss apéro exactly?

A Swiss apéro is a social gathering with drinks and small snacks—often before dinner, sometimes as a stand-alone evening when it’s an apéro riche.

What time does an apéro start?

Common start times:

• Home apéro: late afternoon to early evening (often around 17:00–19:00)
• Work apéro: often right after work (around 17:00–18:30)

How long does an apéro last?

Typical range: 1–3 hours, depending on context. Apéro riche or big celebrations can go longer.

Is apéro the same as dinner?

Not always. A standard apéro is snacks. Apéro riche often replaces dinner because the food is substantial.

What should I bring to an apéro at someone’s home?

A small host gift is ideal: wine, flowers, or chocolate are classic. If unsure, ask the host if you should bring something.

Do I have to drink alcohol?

No. Non-alcoholic options are normal, and choosing water or soft drinks is socially acceptable.

Do you sit down or stand?

Many apéros are mostly standing with casual seating. Work apéros and home apéros often prioritize mingling.

Do I greet everyone individually?

In small groups, yes—greeting each person is common and polite. In bigger events, greet the host and the people you naturally meet.

What’s the deal with eye contact when clinking glasses?

It’s a widely observed toast custom. Make brief eye contact and smile—it signals warmth and attention.

Can I bring kids?

Depends on the invitation and setting. Home apéros may be family-friendly; work apéros are usually adults-only. When in doubt, ask.

A quick note on the 404 issue (so you don’t lose the article in search)

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This protects rankings for queries like “Swiss apéro,” “apéro etiquette Switzerland,” and “apéro riche meaning.”

Ready to enjoy your first Swiss apéro (and actually feel like you belong)?

Swiss apéro is one of the easiest, most enjoyable ways to build real connections in Switzerland—without needing perfect German, French, or Italian. Show up on time, greet people warmly, nibble slowly, bring a small gift when appropriate, and don’t overthink it.

If you want more Switzerland-made culture and food guides (including what to buy, what to bring, and what locals actually do), explore more articles on the blog—and share this guide with the next newcomer who asks: “Wait… what is an apéro?”

CTA:
Planning your own apéro night? Use this article as your checklist—and if you’re building a Swiss-style platter, make it easy on yourself: start with great cheese, something crunchy, something salty, and a bottle of bubbly (or mineral water). The rest is conversation.