SaasFee

Saas-Fee is often called the "Pearl of the Alps," a title it holds with good reason. This picturesque resort is nestled at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level in the sunny canton of Valais. The town is surrounded by thirteen majestic four-thousand-meter peaks, creating a natural amphitheater of incredible beauty. Here, in the heart of Switzerland, glaciers descend almost to the doorsteps of the houses, and the air is exceptionally clean and fresh.

A unique feature of Saas-Fee is its status as a car-free zone. The movement of vehicles with internal combustion engines is prohibited here, so people move through the streets only on foot or in silent electric cars. This helps preserve the pristine silence and ecology. Despite a small population of about 1,700 people, the resort offers a well-developed infrastructure and the atmosphere of a hospitable Alpine village where every traveler feels at home.

Walking past traditional wooden chalets, you can feel the spirit of the past. The fascinating history of Saas-Fee has transformed it from a remote settlement in the Saas Valley into a magnet for tourists from all over the world, while maintaining its authentic charm. Traditions are carefully honored here, and on narrow streets, you can still encounter local residents in national costumes during holidays.

The town attracts guests year-round thanks to its opportunities for active recreation and relaxation. In winter, it is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, while in summer, it is an ideal place for hiking and enjoying views of blooming meadows against the backdrop of eternal snows. Saas-Fee is a place where nature and comfort merge into one, inviting you to spend an unforgettable holiday surrounded by Alpine splendor.

The climate of this high-altitude resort fully corresponds to its Alpine status and altitude of 1,800 meters. Winter here is harsh but incredibly picturesque, creating ideal conditions for winter sports. The coldest month is traditionally January, with an average temperature of -9.1°C, and at night, the thermometer often drops to -13.0°C. Even during the day in winter, the air rarely warms above -1.6°C...-5.0°C.

The summer season brings a pleasant freshness, offering an escape from the heat characteristic of the lowlands. In July and August, average temperatures stay around +11.2°C...+11.8°C, with maximum temperatures reaching a comfortable +16.7°C. However, it is worth considering high humidity during transitional periods: May and June have the highest number of days with precipitation (up to 22 days per month), although their intensity is usually low.

Overall, expect a cool summer with occasional precipitation and cold winters with a stable snow cover. Since conditions in the mountains can change rapidly, we recommend studying the detailed weather in Saas-Fee by month before packing your bags so that your holiday is as comfortable as possible.

In addition to its main attractions, Saas-Fee holds many fascinating secrets that make it unique even by the standards of the beauty-rich Valais region. Here are a few facts that will help you see this "Pearl of the Alps" in a new light:

• Unique Surroundings. The resort is located in the center of a natural amphitheater formed by thirteen four-thousand-meter peaks. Among them stands out Mount Dom (4,545 m) — the highest peak entirely located within the country's territory, unlike other Alpine giants that sit on borders.

• Ecological Silence. Saas-Fee is one of the few villages where the movement of cars with internal combustion engines is completely prohibited. All transport here consists exclusively of electric cars and electric taxis, which creates an amazing atmosphere of peace and keeps the air crystal clear.

• A View from Inside a Glacier. The resort is home to the world's highest Ice Pavilion. Located at an altitude of 3,500 meters, it allows tourists to safely descend into the depths of the thousand-year-old Fee Glacier to see its structure and specially created ice sculptures.

• "The Free Republic of Holidays." The town maintains an unusual tradition, calling itself a separate "republic." Tourists here are issued a "Citizen Pass," which is not just a souvenir but a real pass for free cable cars and buses during the summer season.

• A Musical Legend. Local residents are proud of a legend that the famous composer Felix Mendelssohn was so enchanted by the beauty of the Saas Valley that he found inspiration here for one of his Alpine works.

The journey to the "Pearl of the Alps" is the start of your adventure. Since the resort is a car-free zone, you can get here via scenic mountain roads, leaving your personal vehicle in the parking lot at the entrance, or by using public transport. You can study all ways to get to the city in detail to plan your perfect route.

There is no airport in the town of Saas-Fee itself, but you can fly into one of the nearby transport hubs. A convenient option for international travelers is often Milan Malpensa Airport (IATA: MXP) in Milan. It is located about 81 km from the resort, and the journey by taxi or transfer takes about 2.5 hours. It is a major international hub with huge passenger traffic, receiving flights from all over the world.

The closest option is Sion (IATA: SIR), located in the city of Sion just 48 km from Saas-Fee. This is a small regional airport, and travel time from it is about 1 hour 30 minutes. You can also consider flying through Lugano Airport (IATA: LUG) in the city of Lugano, which is 77 km from the resort.

For clarity, here is summary information on the main airports:

The Swiss rail network is famous for its punctuality and comfort. There is no train station in Saas-Fee itself, but you can arrive at the Sion Railway Station in the city of Sion, which is about 46 km from Saas-Fee. From there, travelers usually transfer to a postal bus or taxi to cover the final mountain stretch, which takes about 1.5 hours.

Another important hub is Bern Station in the city of Bern. It is located about 100 km from the resort and handles a huge flow of passengers, serving as a key point for transfers when traveling from the northern part of the country.

Below is information about the nearest train stations:

Saas-Fee offers travelers more than just beautiful views; it offers real records and unique natural phenomena. It is home to attractions that allow you to peer deep into glaciers, ascend to incredible heights, and touch the history of Alpine life. Here is a list of places that are definitely worth including in your itinerary.

Mittelallalin. This is perhaps the main point of attraction at the resort, located at an altitude of 3,500 meters. People come here not only for the breathtaking panoramas of mountain peaks but also to visit the world's highest revolving restaurant — "Threes!xty." In one hour, the restaurant makes a full revolution around its axis, allowing guests to enjoy a 360-degree view of endless snow peaks and glaciers over lunch or a cup of coffee.

Ice Pavilion. Right at the Mittelallalin station is the entrance to the mysterious world of permafrost. This grotto, carved into the depths of the Fee Glacier, is considered one of the largest in the world — its volume exceeds 5,500 cubic meters. Tourists can walk through safe tunnels inside ice that is thousands of years old and see amazing ice sculptures illuminated by mystical light. This is a unique opportunity to see a glacier from the inside, not just the outside.

Metro Alpin. The path to the summits is an adventure in itself. To reach Mittelallalin, tourists take the highest underground funicular in the world. The "Metro Alpin" connects the Felskinn station to the glacier, passing through solid rock. This engineering landmark was built back in 1984 and still impresses with its boldness and reliability, delivering guests to a vast altitude in just a few minutes.

Spielboden. If you are traveling in summer, this place will be a real hit, especially for families with children. Spielboden is famous for its population of wild but very friendly marmots. The local animals are so used to people that they allow themselves to be fed carrots or nuts right from your hands. A walk here offers not only the joy of interacting with animals but also beautiful views of the valley and waterfalls, making hiking as engaging as possible.

Saaser Museum. For those who want to learn more about the cultural heritage of the region, it's worth stopping by this museum, located in the historic building of a former priest's house built in 1732. The exhibition across four floors tells the story of the Saas Valley's development: from humble farming life to its transformation into a fashionable resort. Here you can see traditional costumes, household items, minerals, and even a recreated room of the famous writer Carl Zuckmayer, who lived in these parts.

The gastronomic scene in Saas-Fee can surprise even seasoned gourmets. The local cuisine is based on the culinary traditions of the Valais canton, where preference is given to high-quality natural farm products. The hallmark of the region is certainly cheese dishes. Be sure to order a classic Valais cheese fondue, which is traditionally served here with pieces of crusty bread. Another gastronomic hit is raclette: melted hot cheese served with boiled potatoes, pickled cucumbers, and pearl onions.

Meat delicacies occupy an equally important place at the table. Travelers should try the famous Valais platter with thin slices of cured meat (Walliser Trockenfleisch) and aromatic homemade sausages, which are perfect for a hearty snack after an active day in the mountains. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy traditional pastries, especially the hearty cakes with walnuts and honey, baked according to old family recipes.

As for drinks, it is customary here to accompany a meal with wines from local vineyards located lower in the valley; white wine is particularly valued as it perfectly complements the taste of cheese. During the cold season, people warm up on the streets and in cafes with spiced mulled wine, and as a digestive, they often offer strong herbal liqueurs infused with Alpine plants. Also noteworthy is the exceptional quality of the local mineral water from mountain springs.

Food culture in Saas-Fee goes beyond cozy restaurants and wooden chalets. Fans of authenticity can visit farmers' markets where the freshest cheeses, honey, and mountain herbs are sold. Street stalls tempt with the aromas of hot waffles and fresh pastries, creating a festive atmosphere right during your walk. In addition, the town is known for its gastronomic festivals, where you can not only taste the best products of the region but also learn the secrets of their preparation directly from the chefs.

Preparing for a trip to Saas-Fee requires attention to detail, as it is a high-altitude resort with a unique car-free concept. We have gathered key recommendations for you that will help make your stay in the canton of Valais as comfortable, safe, and filled with pleasant emotions as possible.

1. Clothing and Equipment. Mountain weather is changeable, so the layering principle is your best friend. Even in summer, a warm jacket, hat, and gloves are mandatory for ascending the glacier or visiting the ice grotto. The sun at an altitude of 1,800 meters is very active, so sunglasses and sunscreen with high SPF are necessary in any season. Since the town is entirely pedestrian, bring comfortable waterproof flat-soled shoes, leaving high heels behind.
2. Transport Logistics. Saas-Fee is a car-free zone. Personal cars must be left in the covered parking garage or open parking lot at the entrance to the village. Within the resort, people move on foot or by electric taxis, which can be easily called through the hotel or terminals at the parking lot. In summer, be sure to use the Citizen Pass guest card, which is often provided by hotels and grants free travel on postal buses and many lifts.
3. Money and Budget. The official currency is the Swiss franc (CHF). Although Switzerland is known for high prices, bank cards are accepted almost everywhere. However, it's worth having some cash for small souvenirs or tips, which are usually left by simply rounding up the bill. ATMs are located in the village center and near the post office.
4. Health and Acclimatization. The resort is located at a significant altitude, so you may experience slight shortness of breath or fatigue in the first few days. Drink more water, avoid heavy food and alcohol on the day of arrival to help your body adapt faster. Pharmacies in Saas-Fee operate on standard schedules (usually until 18:30); there are no 24-hour points, so it's better to bring a basic first-aid kit with you.
5. Communication and Language. In this region, a dialect of German is spoken, but the staff in hotels, restaurants, and shops speak excellent English and often French. Wi-Fi is available in most establishments and hotels. For convenience in navigation and route planning, we recommend downloading the SBB Mobile app (train and bus schedules) and the resort's local app for checking slope status.
6. Local Etiquette. In Swiss villages, there is an atmosphere of friendliness: it is customary to greet passers-by on walking trails (the universal "Grüezi" works well). Local residents highly value peace and order, so loud parties on balconies after 10:00 PM may cause dissatisfaction among neighbors and even a visit from the police.
7. What to Avoid. It is categorically not recommended to ignore warning signs on the slopes or go off-piste without a guide — avalanche danger in the mountains is real. Also, do not attempt to drive a car beyond the luggage unloading terminal: entry into the pedestrian zone is strictly prohibited and punishable by a hefty fine.
8. Insider Tip. If you come in summer, be sure to grab some unsalted peanuts or carrots before walking up Spielboden. The local marmots here are so used to tourists that they are not afraid of people at all and will eagerly eat treats right from your hands — this will give you the best photos and memories.

Saas-Fee is a place where you can truly disconnect from the city bustle and enjoy the majesty of nature. By following these simple tips, you will avoid minor troubles and be able to focus entirely on your holiday surrounded by Alpine peaks.

Nightlife in Saas-Fee is a legendary part of the holiday, just as important for many tourists as skiing. Despite the size of a small Alpine village, the resort is famous for its vibrant "après-ski" culture. The fun starts long before sunset: as soon as the lifts close, skiers and snowboarders head to the base of the slopes, where open-air bars are already blasting music. The epicenter of events is usually the areas at the end of the ski runs and the main pedestrian street, where an atmosphere of general celebration and casual fun prevails.

Among the most popular spots, Black Bull stands out — a classic snow bar where music doesn't stop until evening, and dancing on tables in ski boots is considered the norm. To continue the night, younger crowds often choose the Popcorn club. This unique venue operates as a stylish clothing and gear shop by day and transforms into one of the resort's liveliest bars by night, with excellent cocktails and DJ sets. If you prefer live music and a cozy atmosphere, check out the Old Cinema Pub. Don't let the name confuse you: it's not a cinema with screenings, but a characterful music pub that has become a favorite meeting spot for those who appreciate quality sound and a pint of good beer after a day in the mountains.

For those planning to dive into the nightlife, it's useful to know the local schedule. Après-ski starts around 3:00 PM and lasts until dinner, while nightclubs and bars fill up closer to 11:00 PM and stay open until early morning. The dress code in Saas-Fee is as relaxed as it gets: in most places, you'll feel comfortable in jeans, a sweater, or even sportswear. Drink prices match the standards of Switzerland, so be prepared for a bill higher than the European average. On weekends and during high season, popular clubs may have an entry fee.

Safety is hardly an issue in Saas-Fee — it is one of the calmest places in Europe. Night walks here are perfectly safe, the streets are well-lit, and the absence of cars creates a cozy environment. The only difficulty is getting to your hotel after a party if you live on the outskirts. Since there are no regular cars, the only form of transport is small electric taxis. We recommend saving the number of a local taxi service in your phone in advance or asking a bartender to call a car, as catching a free vehicle on the street at night can be tricky.

If you're looking for daytime entertainment besides sports, Saas-Fee offers excellent opportunities for relaxation and culture. You can visit the Aqua Allalin wellness center with pools and saunas overlooking the mountains. For curious travelers, the Baker's Museum doors are open, where you can learn the secrets of traditional Swiss baking, or you can simply enjoy the tranquility in one of the many hotel spas.

In Saas-Fee, the boundaries between the urban environment and wild nature are virtually blurred. Since this resort in Switzerland is completely pedestrianized, the village itself resembles a huge, well-kept park surrounded by majestic mountains. There is no need to look for enclosed squares — just step outside your hotel to find yourself among Alpine meadows and centuries-old forests.

Natural Areas and Alpine Gardens

Instead of traditional city parks, Saas-Fee offers tourists unique nature trails. One of the most picturesque is the Alpine Flower Trail. In summer, the slopes around the village turn into a real open-air botanical garden, where you can see more than a hundred species of rare mountain plants, including the famous edelweiss and gentians. A walk here does not require serious physical preparation and allows you to enjoy the silence and the scents of herbs against the backdrop of glaciers.

Another important "green" zone is the forest at the foot of the mountain that edges the village. It is an ideal place for meditative walks (so-called "shinrin-yoku" or forest bathing). Centuries-old larches and firs create natural shade and saturate the air with phytoncides. There are convenient paths here where you can often encounter squirrels and forest birds, making this area popular for families with children looking for a peaceful rest away from the ski slopes.

Museums and Cultural Spaces

The main guardian of the region's history is the Saaser Museum. It is located in an old presbytery building built back in 1732, which in itself makes it an architectural monument. The museum's exhibition occupies four floors and immerses visitors in the life of the valley's residents in past centuries. Traditional kitchens are recreated here, and folk costumes, liturgical items, and a rich collection of minerals are presented. Of special interest is the study of the famous writer Carl Zuckmayer, who spent his last years in Saas-Fee. This place is a must-visit for those who want to understand the soul of this harsh but beautiful land.

Another curious site is the Baker's Museum (Bäckereimuseum). This small but very atmospheric space is located in the Hotel Imseng. The museum is dedicated to the history of bread baking in the region and the Imseng family, who played a significant role in the development of tourism in Saas-Fee (it was Lukas Imseng who was the first to ski here). Visitors can see antique baking tools and learn how the famous Valais rye bread, which could be stored for months, was prepared.

Architectural Heritage

Walking through the streets, it's impossible not to notice the unique historic buildings — Speichers and Stadels (granaries and barns). These wooden structures, blackened by the sun, stand on special stone piles with flat discs ("mouse stones") that protected stocks of grain and meat from rodents. Saas-Fee has managed to preserve a large number of these authentic structures, which create the village's unique historical look.

Also worth noting is the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, rising in the center of the settlement. Built in Neo-Romanesque style, it attracts with its austere beauty and fits harmoniously into the mountain landscape. Inside, you can enjoy the silence and examine the stained glass windows reflecting the religious traditions of the local residents.

Insider Tip: If you want to combine a walk with cultural immersion, head to the Chapel Trail (Kapellenweg). This route connects Saas-Fee with the neighboring village of Saas-Grund and passes by 15 small white chapels built in the early 18th century. It is not just a historical monument but also a place of power, offering stunning views of the gorge that not all tourists know about.

The transport system in Saas-Fee is unique and is one of the resort's main features: it is a completely pedestrian zone, closed to regular automobile traffic. The entire town is free of cars with internal combustion engines, so familiar taxis, car sharing, or personal cars do not circulate here. Upon arrival, tourists leave their cars in a large covered parking garage or an open parking lot at the entrance to the village, after which they transfer to eco-friendly types of transport or continue on foot.

The primary means of transport within the resort are electric cars (Elektrotaxis) and electric buses. These small, silent vehicles serve as taxis and hotel shuttles. You can call an electric taxi using free phone terminals located at the parking lot and station, or ask at reception. The cost of a trip depends on the distance and amount of luggage, but be prepared for prices to be higher than average, as there are virtually no alternatives for transporting heavy suitcases.

During the winter season and partially in summer, free ski buses circulate through the village. They connect the main residential areas with the lower cable car stations. This is a very convenient way to reach the slopes with gear without spending on taxis. Routes and schedules are usually posted at stops and available in hotel tourist brochures. The buses run regularly during lift operating hours, but their service stops in the evening.

When speaking of "metro" in Saas-Fee, it is important to understand that this refers not to urban underground transport, but to the famous "Metro Alpin." This is the highest underground funicular in the world, connecting the Felskinn station (3,000 m) with the Mittelallalin station (3,500 m). It is used exclusively for tourist purposes to ascend to the glacier and revolving restaurant, not for moving around the town itself. Tickets for it are purchased at the lift counters or are included in the ski pass.

For trips outside the village, for example, to the neighboring villages of Saas-Grund or Saas-Almagell, the famous yellow postal buses (PostAuto) are used. The bus station is located directly at the entrance to Saas-Fee. Tickets can be bought from the driver (cash or card), at machines, or most conveniently via the SBB Mobile app. This app is an indispensable assistant for a tourist: it shows exact schedules, connections, and allows you to buy tickets in a few clicks, eliminating the need to validate them.

Special attention should be paid to the SaastalCard guest card (formerly known as the Citizen Pass). It is issued by most hotels and apartments upon check-in (check the terms with your accommodation). In summer, this card grants free unlimited use of postal buses in the Saas Valley and most cable cars (except the Metro Alpin), allowing for significant savings on travel. In winter, it also provides discounts on various services.

Given the compactness of Saas-Fee, the most popular and pleasant way to get around remains walking. All infrastructure is within walking distance, and the lack of cars makes walking safe and relaxing. For bike rentals (in summer), you can visit sports shops in the center, though due to the terrain, many tourists prefer e-bikes, which help to easily overcome the inclines.

Accommodation in Saas-Fee is characterized by a special Alpine charm: there are virtually no featureless concrete blocks here, and the housing stock consists primarily of traditional dark wood and stone chalets. A wide range of options is available to tourists: from luxurious five-star wellness hotels and cozy mid-range family inns to budget hostels and youth bases. However, the most popular format of stay at the resort remains renting apartments or entire floors in chalets, which is ideal for families and groups of friends who value home comfort and independence.

Since Saas-Fee is a pedestrian zone, the concept of a "convenient neighborhood" is closely linked to logistics. Conventionally, the resort can be divided into three zones. The area at the entrance and parking is convenient for those who do not want to spend time and money on long luggage transfers by electric taxi; from here, it is also easy to get to the bus station. The village center is an ideal choice for lovers of nightlife, restaurants, and shops, though it can be a bit noisier. The zone by the lifts (especially Alpin Express) is most in demand by skiers who want to minimize morning walks with equipment, although many hotels offer their own shuttles to the slopes.

The price range in Saas-Fee matches the high standards and cost of living for which Switzerland is known. A holiday here cannot be called cheap, but the quality of service justifies the costs. Budget options exist (hostels, guesthouses), but their number is limited. The mid-segment and luxury class are widely represented, and the price often includes access to spa complexes, which are found in almost every good hotel. It is recommended to book accommodation through large online platforms or directly on hotel websites, where you can sometimes find special package deals including ski passes.

The main booking tip is to plan your trip in advance. During peak periods (Christmas, New Year, February school holidays), the best value-for-money options are sold out six months ahead. Additionally, for apartment bookings, a minimum stay rule often applies (usually starting from 7 nights, with arrivals on Saturdays). Don't forget that upon check-in, you pay a tourist tax (Kurtaxe), which is mandatory in Saas-Fee, but in return, you receive a SaastalCard guest card with many free transport options.

For those who want to explore the surroundings, Saas-Fee serves as an excellent starting point for day trips to several interesting nearby places. The Valais Valley is rich in history and culture, and just an hour or an hour and a half away, you can find cities that are drastically different from the high-altitude village.

Sion is the capital of the Valais canton, easily recognizable by the two castles on its hilltops: Tourbillon and Valère. It is considered the sunniest city in the country. Here you can stroll through the medieval center, visit historical museums, and enjoy a glass of local wine in one of the many cafes.

Brig-Glis is located very close by and is an important historical hub. Its main jewel is the Stockalper Palace, a majestic Baroque building with three towers and a beautiful courtyard. The city also serves as the gateway to the Simplon Pass and is known for its nearby thermal baths (Brigerbad).

Martigny is situated in a bend of the Rhône and is famous for its Gallo-Roman heritage. Here you can see a restored ancient amphitheater. Additionally, the city is known for the Pierre Gianadda Foundation — a world-class museum that regularly hosts major art exhibitions and classical music concerts.

These nearby destinations provide insight into the diverse culture and landscapes of the region, harmoniously complementing an active holiday in the mountains.

Shopping in Saas-Fee is not a marathon through huge malls but a leisurely pleasure that perfectly complements the Alpine holiday atmosphere. Since the resort is a pedestrian zone, shopping here turns into a pleasant walk in the fresh air. The range of goods fully corresponds to the status of a ski resort: the main focus is on high-quality sports equipment, warm clothing, exclusive watches, and, of course, local gastronomic delicacies. Quality is valued over quantity here, so instead of mass-market brands, you will find cozy boutiques and specialized shops.

Main Shopping Streets

All commercial life is concentrated along the village's main street, which stretches from the city entrance to the central square. Here, among traditional chalets, are the windows of sports brands, jewelry stores, and souvenir shops. Walking this route, tourists can find everything they need: from the latest ski models to elegant clothing for a restaurant dinner. The absence of cars makes this promenade especially comfortable, allowing you to move from one shop to another without haste.

Shopping Centers

There are no large malls or multi-story department stores typical of megacities in Saas-Fee. The retail format here is intimate and boutique-style. The only exceptions are the large supermarkets (such as Coop and Migros) located closer to the center and parking, where you can buy groceries and essentials. Otherwise, shopping is represented by stand-alone stores, each with its own unique character and often managed by local families for generations.

Markets

Although there are no permanent large markets in the town, the region's gastronomic culture thrives in small specialized shops. You can find farmers' corners selling the freshest products from the Valais Valley. Particular attention should be paid to local bakeries, which offer not only bread but also sweet souvenirs. During holiday periods, temporary stalls with mulled wine and handicrafts may appear on the streets, creating a fair-like atmosphere.

Souvenirs

It is impossible to leave Saas-Fee without gastronomic gifts. First and foremost, you should buy the famous Mutschli cheese and other Alpine varieties produced on local farms. Another mandatory item is Valais-style cured meat (Walliser Trockenfleisch), which makes an excellent accompaniment to wine. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy Swiss chocolate and traditional nut cakes. If you are looking for something more durable, look for Swiss army knives, watches from famous brands, or high-quality sports gear that will last for years.

Opening Hours and Payment

Shops in Saas-Fee typically open Monday to Friday from 08:00 or 09:00 until 18:30, often with a lunch break from 12:00 to 14:00. During the high tourist season (winter and summer), many souvenir and sports shops switch to a seven-day schedule and may stay open longer, including on Sundays. Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) and Swiss francs are accepted almost everywhere. In some tourist spots, euros might be accepted, but change will likely be given in francs at a less favorable exchange rate.

Tax Free

As in all of Switzerland, tourists residing outside the country can benefit from the VAT refund system (Tax Free). The minimum purchase amount in one store must be 300 Swiss francs (including VAT). Be sure to ask the seller for a Tax Free Form and present your passport. The tax refund can be processed when leaving the country at the airport or at customs if you are traveling by train or car.