SWISS Miles & More World Mastercard Classic

The Mastercard half of SWISS Classic. 0.6 miles per CHF 1, universal acceptance for Amex gaps.

This World Mastercard comes bundled with the SWISS Miles & More Classic Amex. At 0.6 miles per CHF 1 (versus 0.75 on Amex), it earns slightly less but works everywhere. The dual-card approach maximizes coverage: Amex for better earning where accepted, Mastercard for universal backup.

What's Its Role?

Backup for Amex gaps. The 0.6 miles per CHF 1 is lower than the Amex (0.75), but Mastercard acceptance is universal. When Amex is rejected, you continue earning miles on this card. Both cards share the 17,000 welcome bonus and the CHF 120 annual fee.

The strategy: use Amex wherever possible for 25% more miles; use Mastercard where needed.

What Actually Stands Out

The universal acceptance is the feature. Mastercard works at 99%+ of Swiss merchants. When the Amex is rejected, you have instant backup that still earns miles. Miles accumulate in your shared Miles & More account regardless of which card you use.

Apple Pay and Google Pay work. The World Mastercard tier includes some Priceless experiences.

What Most Reviews Miss

The earning rate difference matters. CHF 10,000 on Amex = 7,500 miles. Same amount on Mastercard = 6,000 miles. Over time, prioritizing Amex usage generates meaningfully more miles.

Insurance remains basic. CHF 150 flight delay coverage. No medical coverage. The Mastercard doesn't add protection beyond the Amex. The 2.5% FX fee applies to both cards.

The Bottom Line

Essential backup for the SWISS Miles & More Classic Amex. Use both cards strategically: Amex for earning, Mastercard for acceptance gaps. Compare alternatives in our best travel credit cards in Switzerland guide.

Verdict: Necessary half of the duo. Maximize Amex usage; use Mastercard when needed.