Renting a Car in Switzerland – The Ultimate Guide

Traveling from one location to another will be effortless, regardless of whether you opt for public transportation or charter a vehicle. It is contingent upon your travel arrangements and preferences. Although Switzerland’s public transportation system is among the most exceptional in the world, the advantages of owning a vehicle and organizing a road journey are undeniable.
You have the freedom to explore off the beaten path, pause at your preferred photo location, and take impulsive detours at your leisure.
However, there are distinct factors to consider when renting a vehicle in Switzerland. In this guide, I will provide practical advice for renting a car, a breakdown of the costs you can anticipate, important considerations to bear in mind while driving, the best locations to rent a car, and much more.
Am I prepared to plunge in? Then, secure your seatbelt…
Renting a car vs. travelling by public transport:
The public transportation system in Switzerland is of the highest quality. The majority of destinations can be reached without the need for a personal vehicle, thanks to the availability of well-connected buses, scenic railway routes, and punctual trains. However, does this imply that renting a vehicle is not a worthwhile investment? Not necessarily. It is contingent upon your personal preferences. To assist you in selecting the most suitable option for your journey, the following is a concise comparison.
When renting a car is a better option:
- A vehicle provides the freedom to venture beyond train routes in order to explore remote villages, mountain passes, or less touristy areas.
- A car can be a cost-effective option when splitting expenses in comparison to multiple train tickets if you are organizing a scenic road journey with a group or family.
- For those who prefer a more adaptable schedule, renting a vehicle enables you to visit remote locations, take detours, or stop at viewpoints without being restricted by timetables.
When to choose public transport:
- If you intend to remain in significant cities and tourist hubs such as Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, Interlaken, or Zermatt, public transportation is the optimal choice. Cities are equipped with exceptional tram, bus, and train networks that facilitate transportation. Additionally, the act of traveling and parking in urban areas can be both costly and inconvenient.
- Do not rent a vehicle if you intend to travel on scenic trains such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, or GoldenPass Line. Simply obtain your ticket or travel pass and relish the scenery without concern for traffic.
In the end, both alternatives have their own benefits, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. In either case, I do not believe it is possible to make a mistake. However, given that we are discussing the rental of a vehicle in Switzerland, we will presume that you are selecting a vehicle over public transportation.
Check Also: Traffic Rules in Switzerland – Guide for Safe & Legal Driving
Practical tips for renting a car in Switzerland:
When renting a vehicle in Switzerland, it is important to adhere to a few practical guidelines to guarantee a stress-free experience.
- Reserve your rental car in advance: Rental cars are frequently in high demand, particularly during the summer or during school holidays. Booking a few months in advance frequently results in a more favorable rate.
- Price comparison: Utilize comparison websites to evaluate prices from various companies. This approach frequently results in cost savings. Later, I will provide additional information regarding the utilization of DiscoverCars, which simplifies the process of comparing offers.
- Prepare a credit card: Swiss rental companies necessitate a credit card in the driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards are typically insufficient. It is important to note that the rental agency will place a hold on your card as a deposit, typically ranging from 1000 to 3000 CHF. Therefore, your credit limit must be sufficient to accommodate this.
- Please be advised that age restrictions apply. The driver must be at least 21 years old, or 25 for certain car categories, and possess a legitimate driver’s license. If your license is not from Europe, it is advisable to obtain an International Driving Permit.
- Select the appropriate vehicle for your journey: Switzerland offers a variety of terrain, including high Alpine passes and confined city streets. Therefore, select a vehicle that aligns with your goals. A small compact car is more fuel-efficient and simpler to park when city-hopping. If you are traveling during the winter or entering the highlands, it is advisable to opt for a vehicle with more horsepower or a four-wheel drive (4WD). Snowy regions or steep inclines may benefit from an SUV; however, it is important to consider that larger vehicles may require additional gasoline and may be more challenging to maneuver on narrow mountain roads.
- Automatic versus manual: Manual transmission vehicles are prevalent and frequently less expensive; however, if you exclusively operate automatics, it is advisable to reserve one in advance. On average, they incur an additional 10 CHF per day.
- If applicable, prepare for winter driving: Switzerland has four distinct seasons. Ensure that your rental vehicle is outfitted with winter tires if you are visiting during the winter or early spring. By default, numerous Swiss accommodations include them during the winter. Although winter tires are not legally required in Switzerland, they are strongly advised for safety reasons. If you intend to traverse high mountain passes, it is recommended that you transport snow chains. In the event of significant snowfall, certain roads may display signs mandating the use of chains.
- Verify the weather: Prior to entering the Alps, it is imperative to verify the weather. Do not be deceived by the appearance of the surroundings you are currently in. In the course of a brief journey, a sunny valley can transform into a snowy mountain.
- Be aware of the contents (and the absence of them): Additionally, verify the rental rate’s inclusions prior to departing. The majority of rentals come with standard mandatory liability insurance and unlimited mileage. Collision damage waiver (CDW) coverage may be included as an add-on or may be subject to a deductible (excess). Be aware of your coverage to prevent any unexpected events. Furthermore, examine the vehicle for any extant scratches or dents and ensure that they are recorded in the contract to prevent any disputes upon its return.
Cost breakdown: Rental prices, fuel, insurance and fees
Renting a car in Switzerland is not the cheapest way to get around, but if you budget wisely, it can be worth every buck for the freedom it provides. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs you should account for.
Rental rates:
The daily cost of the vehicle will likely be your largest expenditure. The cost of a vehicle is contingent upon its size, location, and season. For a small economy vehicle, the base rental rate may range from 30 to 65 CHF per day, while a midsize sedan may cost between 70 and 120 CHF per day. In peak season, the cost of luxury vehicles or SUVs can vary from 150 CHF to 200+ CHF per day. The greatest prices are observed during the peak summer months of July and August, while rates may be 20 to 30% lower during the off-season.
An additional fee is frequently charged for one-way rentals, which involve the collection of the vehicle in one location and its return in another. Occasionally, the amount is between 50 and 100 CHF within Switzerland, and it may be higher if it is transacted across borders. Additionally, it is important to consider that airport rentals may incur a nominal surcharge, typically between 10 and 15 CHF, in order to provide additional convenience.
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Fuel
In Switzerland, fuel is priced per liter and is relatively expensive in comparison to other countries. Prices fluctuate; however, one can anticipate paying between 1.60 CHF and 2.10 CHF per liter. Diesel is typically priced slightly higher than “regular” petroleum. It is important to consider the fuel consumption of your vehicle and the number of kilometers you will be driving when organizing a road journey.
Diesel engines, which are prevalent in Europe, are particularly fuel-efficient in the majority of rental cars in Switzerland. Additionally, it is important to mention that the majority of rentals are equipped with a full-to-full fuel policy. In order to prevent exorbitant refueling fees, it is imperative that you return the vehicle with a full capacity.
Tips for reducing petroleum expenses:
- Avoid gas stations located on highways or pass roads, as they are considerably more expensive.
- Additionally, fueling at stations that lack a shop, or those that are not services, results in reduced rates. You may stock up at major supermarkets or in areas outside of urban areas, where prices are generally more affordable.
Insurance
Swiss rental prices are legally required to include basic liability insurance, which provides protection against damage to third parties. Nevertheless, collision and larceny coverage typically include a deductible. For instance, you may be accountable for the initial 1000 to 2000 CHF of the damage, with the insurance company covering the remaining amount.
There are several alternatives available to you in order to mitigate your liability:
- Purchase the rental company’s Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or an enhanced CDW that reduces your deductible to zero.
- Employ a third-party insurance provider.
- Alternatively, utilize the car rental coverage provided by a credit card (if applicable).
In order to reduce your excess, it is possible to purchase CDW from the rental company for an additional 15 to 30 CHF per day.
Please be advised that this is subject to change based on the automobile class. Occasionally, the cost of full coverage will result in a substantial increase in your daily rate. It is worthwhile to perform the calculations: in certain instances, an independent policy or the coverage provided by a booking platform may be significantly less expensive.
For instance, DiscoverCars provides a comprehensive insurance option for approximately 7 CHF per day, which is a bargain in comparison to the price you would pay at the counter.
Regardless of the path you select, ensure that you are satisfied with the extent of coverage. Insurance can prevent a significant amount of stress, as repairs in Switzerland are costly.
However, it is prudent to maintain adequate insurance coverage in the event that this occurs.
Additional fees and extras:
Ensure that you allocate funds for any additional expenses that may arise. Additional fees that are frequently encountered include:
- GPS navigation unit
- child car seats
- additional driver fees
- young driver surcharges
A GPS or infant seat may incur an additional fee of CHF 10 to 15 per day. You can frequently bring your own child seat to save money, and using your smartphone for navigation is a free alternative to renting a GPS.
Unless you secure a package that includes spouses or one extra driver, the cost of adding an additional driver can range from 5 to 10 CHF per day. Drivers under the age of 25 may be subject to a juvenile driver fee or restricted to specific car categories.
Additionally, it is advisable to consult with the rental company in advance if you intend to operate the vehicle outside of Switzerland. Some may impose cross-border fees or limitations on the entry of the vehicle into specific countries.
Finally, your wallet will be affected by traffic violations, speeding penalties, and parking tickets. The rental company will typically charge you an additional administrative fee in addition to any penalties. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution while driving to prevent these additional expenses.
Always review the fine print of the rental agreement to ensure that you are informed of all potential fees. Switzerland also imposes an 8.1% VAT, which is typically included in the specified price. However, certain locations may impose surcharges. Taxes and location fees can increase the basic rate by approximately 15 to 25%. Therefore, the initial price you observe may increase after all fees have been computed.
You will be able to more effectively budget for your excursion by being aware of all of these costs in advance.
Important things to keep in mind:
In general, driving in Switzerland is a delightful experience. The landscape is breathtaking, and the roads are in exceptional condition. However, it is crucial to be aware of the local traffic regulations and customs. When traversing Swiss highways, it is crucial to bear in mind the following:
Drive on the right
Driving on the right-hand side of the road is the norm in Switzerland, as well as in the majority of continental Europe. Take the necessary time to adjust if you are relocating from the United Kingdom, Australia, or other countries that rely on left-handed driving. The driver’s position is situated on the left side of the vehicle.
It may appear straightforward, but it is crucial to remember to remain on the right during periods of distraction. Additionally, it is mandatory for all passengers to wear seat belts, and children must be secured in suitable car restraints.
Speed limits & traffic cameras
Speed limits are strictly enforced. The typical speed limits are 120 km/h on highways, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas, unless otherwise indicated by signs.. There are even zones with a speed limit of 30 km/h or 20 km/h in numerous residential areas.
The penalties for driving in Switzerland are substantial, and the country maintains an extensive network of speed cameras, both fixed and mobile.
In urban areas, the cost of driving at 56 km/h instead of 50 km/h is 120 CHF. It constitutes more than mere reprimand. Extreme racing may result in legal consequences.
So, while you are driving, be mindful of the speed signs.
Traffic rules & etiquette
The traffic regulations in Switzerland are comparable to those in the rest of Western Europe. Yield to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections or roundabouts, unless a stop/yield sign or traffic light specifies otherwise.
It is more difficult to regain momentum uphill, which is why vehicles traveling uphill on mountain roads have the right of way over those traveling down. It is customary and occasionally necessary for the downhill car to stop at a wider location to allow the uphill car to pass, as a result of the narrow roads.
Additionally, it is crucial to adhere to the following regulation: no right turns on red. In contrast to the United States, it is necessary to wait for the green light.
Drinking and driving
A cordial recommendation: refrain from executing the action. It is not worthwhile.
Switzerland maintains a minimal blood alcohol content. The legal limit is 0.05% BAC, which is equivalent to approximately one small beer or a glass of wine, depending on one’s personal weight. It is even more stringent for novice drivers with less than three years of driving experience, at 0.01%. DUI penalties are severe, and there are frequent inspections. It is advisable to exercise caution and either designate a driver or abstain from alcohol wholly if you will be operating a vehicle.
Highway vignette (toll sticker)
In contrast to France and Italy, Switzerland does not have toll facilities on its highways. Rather, it implements a vignette system. A vignette, which is a decal that is placed on the windshield of any vehicle that is operating on Swiss motorways, is required to verify that the annual highway fee has been paid..
The vignette is applicable for the calendar year and costs CHF 40. In reality, it encompasses the period from December of the preceding year to January of the subsequent year. The good news is that all Swiss rental cars are mandated to have a valid vignette on the windshield. However, it is advisable to verify the information once you have collected your vehicle. Locate a small decal on the windshield, typically located in the vicinity of the rear-view mirror or corner. It displays the final two digits of the current year. Therefore, at the time of the composition of this article, the age was twenty-five.
In order to operate on Swiss highways, it is necessary to possess a Swiss Vignette.
But Swiss rental cars typically already have one, and they cost 40 CHF.
In the event that your rental vehicle lacks one, you may acquire one at fueling stations, post offices, or border crossings. If you are found driving on a highway without a vignette, you will be subject to a substantial fine.
Upon obtaining the vignette, all highways are accessible without additional fees, with the exception of a few tunnels that are highly specific (such as the Great St. Bernard Tunnel to Italy) and require separate tolls. However, for the majority of travelers who adhere to Swiss roads, there is no additional fee beyond the vignette.
Parking
At first, the parking regulations in Swiss cities may appear perplexing; however, they are easily navigated once one becomes acquainted with the system. A color-coded zone system is implemented in numerous regions.
City centers are frequently characterized by blue zones. These permit free parking for a brief period, typically up to one hour, throughout the day. However, it is mandatory to place a blue parking disc on your dashboard that indicates your expected arrival time.
When renting a vehicle, inquire whether a parking disc is included or obtain one at a reasonable price from a fueling station or tourist office.
The blue zone operates during business hours, typically from 8:00 a.m. to 19:00, Monday through Saturday. Outside of those hours, it may be possible to park for an extended period, or even overnight, at no cost. Consistently verify the indicators.
Blue zones are denoted by the blue P-sign depicted in the image.
In urban habitation areas, they are exceedingly prevalent.
Paid parking is typically indicated by white zones. A pay-and-display ticket dispenser or a meter will be situated in close proximity. Pay for the time you require and prominently display the ticket on the dashboard.
A parking meter is always present in white zones.
The EasyPark app allows you to pay with your phone or with currency.
Yellow zones are generally reserved or private. Yellow zones are reserved for permit holders, such as residents or businesses. Unauthorized vehicles will be subject to fines or towing. Please refrain from parking in these sections.
Yellow zones are restricted due to their private nature.
At times, they are located adjacent to white zones.
Parking garages are present in all cities and significant towns, in addition to street parking. Seek signs that feature a white “P” on a blue background. These garages are frequently the most convenient alternative, despite their high cost. In urban areas, rates may range from 2 to 4 CHF per hour or higher.
There are numerous parking garages in every metropolis.
Some even feature dynamic displays that indicate the number of available spaces or whether they are currently full.
Ensure that you are not parking in a reserved or permit-required area. Via the rental company, you will receive fines for unlawful parking, in addition to an additional administrative fee.
Fueling up & gas stations:
Especially in cities and along highways, fuel stations are abundant. Highways are equipped with rest stations that offer restrooms, gas, and restaurants at regular intervals.
The majority of stations are self-service. The initial step is to pump the gas, followed by payment at the cashier or card dispenser. There are numerous automatic outlets that are accessible 24 hours a day and accept payment via credit card. Ensure that your credit card has a PIN, as automated machines may occasionally request it.
Unleaded petrol is typically labeled as “95” or “98” octane, while diesel is typically labeled as “Diesel” or occasionally “Gazole.”
In Switzerland, Sundays can be characterized by the perception that all businesses are closed. However, larger gas stations, particularly those located on highways, are frequently open and feature mini-marts that offer snacks and basic supplies. In the event that all supermarkets are closed and you require a supermarket, petrol stations are the preferred option.
Gas stations are ubiquitous.
Non-serviced units are less expensive than serviced units.
Navigation & road signs:
The road signage in Switzerland is exceedingly explicit. Major destinations are indicated in green for highways (Autobahn) and blue for main or secondary roads. Brown signage may be employed to indicate tourist destinations.
A GPS or map application will be beneficial; however, it is also important to observe road signs. It is advisable to have an offline map as a backup in the event that you lose signal in the highlands.
Furthermore, it is important to consider that the default GPS route may be the most efficient option, which may involve traveling through costly tunnels or car-train tunnels, where you transfer your vehicle to a train to traverse a mountain. It is typically acceptable; however, if you are seeking to circumvent additional expenses or desire a more picturesque above-ground route, it is advisable to verify the recommended route.
Emergency and safety:
The Swiss emergency number for police is 117, ambulance is 144, and fire is 118 in the event of an emergency. Additionally, 112 functions as a general European emergency number.
The rental company is responsible for providing a warning triangle that must be carried in the vehicle. In the event of a breakdown on the interstate, it is recommended that you don a high-visibility safety vest (commonly located in the glovebox of many vehicles) and establish the warning triangle behind the vehicle.
TCS (Touring organization Schweiz) is the primary automobile organization in Switzerland. If you possess AAA (USA) or CAA (Canada) or a comparable organization, verify whether they have reciprocal agreements for roadside assistance in Switzerland. In general, rentals will furnish you with a telephone number to contact in the event that they require roadside assistance.
Border crossings:
Switzerland is a member of the Schengen zone, not the EU. Generally, it is permissible to drive into neighboring countries such as France, Italy, Germany, Austria, or Liechtenstein. However, notify the rental company at the time of reservation. While the majority of rentals permit it, certain high-end vehicles may be excluded.
The toll of each neighboring country is unique. Foreign highways are not included in the Swiss vignette, and the reverse is also true. Please anticipate paying tolls at the kiosks when traveling to Italy or France by car. Even for a brief visit to Austria, it is necessary to purchase an Austrian vignette.
Border crossings are typically straightforward. Frequently, there is no halt at all; only a sign is present. However, it is possible that spot inspections may occur; therefore, it is advisable to carry your rental documents and passport. Additionally, it is imperative that you adhere to the traffic regulations of the country into which you are traveling.
Cross-border excursions from Switzerland are effortless and an excellent method of broadening one’s travel experience, provided that one makes adequate preparations. Please ensure that you acquire any necessary vignettes and remain vigilant for various road signs.
Best places to rent a car in Switzerland:
There are numerous convenient locations in Switzerland to take up a rental car. The following are some of the most exceptional locations and methods for renting a car in the country:
Zurich Airport
Switzerland’s busiest airport is Zurich’s international airport. Additionally, it is one of the most convenient locations to rent a vehicle. At Zurich Airport, there are desks for all of the main rental companies, including Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Avis, and Budget.
Upon clearing customs, you can follow the signs to the car rental center and typically be on the road within minutes. If you are arriving in Switzerland and wish to commence your road journey immediately, renting a vehicle at the airport is an ideal solution.
Please be advised that certain airports impose a nominal premium fee for on-site rentals; however, the convenience of retrieving the vehicle immediately following a flight frequently outweighs this. You are directly connected to highways that can transport you to Zurich city, north to Germany, or south to Lucerne and the Alps from Zurich Airport.
Airports are an extremely convenient location to retrieve your rental.
Zurich Airport is the largest airport in Switzerland and offers a wide variety of rental options.
Geneva Airport
Another popular pick-up location is Geneva Airport, particularly for travelers who are investigating the French-speaking region of Switzerland or traveling to France.
Geneva Airport is distinguished by its dual façade, which comprises Swiss and French sections. You have the option of renting a vehicle from either location; however, if your itinerary is primarily focused on Switzerland, it is advisable to rent from the Swiss side. Typically, a vehicle rented on the Swiss side will be equipped with the necessary equipment for Swiss roads, such as winter tires, and the Swiss highway vignette.
Occasionally, individuals attempt to rent on the French side due to the reduced prices. However, this necessitates the immediate purchase of a Swiss vignette and the assurance that they can access Swiss roads without accidentally taking a vignette-required route. It can be more trouble than it is worth unless you have a specific plan.
The rental desks at Geneva Airport are well-organized, and it is a simple matter to drive into Geneva city (15 minutes) or to travel east along Lake Geneva toward Montreux or south into the Alps.
Basel Airport (EuroAirport)
Basel’s EuroAirport is intriguing due to its proximity to Germany and its shared status between Switzerland and France. It is similar to Geneva in that it has a Swiss sector and a French sector. If you are predominantly visiting Switzerland, it is recommended that you rent from the Swiss sector. If you are planning a trip that includes France or Germany, you may want to compare prices. However, it is important to consider the vignette issue if you are traveling on Swiss highways.
If you intend to explore northern Switzerland or travel into the Black Forest region of Germany or Alsace in France, Basel is an excellent starting point. Major rental companies are also present in this region.
Additionally, Basel Airport is an excellent location for vehicle pickups.
It is an ideal choice for your journey to Germany, France, or Switzerland.
Bern Airport and other regional airports
A limited number of auto rental options are available at Bern’s small regional airport. Additionally, auto rental services are available at St. Gallen-Altenrhein in the northeast and Lugano Airport (Ticino). Nevertheless, these airports are significantly smaller and are not as frequently utilized by international travelers.
You can absolutely rent from a regional airport or arrive by private aviation; however, the selection may be more restricted and potentially more expensive due to the lack of competition.
City centre locations
If you are already in a city and determine that you require a vehicle, you may rent one from downtown locations. All significant cities, including Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, Lucerne, and Lausanne, have rental offices, which are frequently located near the main train stations. For instance, Zurich Hauptbahnhof, the primary railway station, is home to numerous downtown rental branches.
Geneva has offices in the vicinity of the central station, Gare Cornavin, as well as in other parts of the city.
If you are not planning to use a vehicle for the duration of your journey, renting in the city may be desirable. For example, you could utilize public transportation to traverse Zurich for a few days before renting a vehicle in the city to explore the countryside.
One factor to take into account is that downtown locations may have shorter operating hours than airports, which frequently offer 24/7 or late-night service. Ensure that the office is open on Sundays and that the transport and drop-off times are verified. In Switzerland, numerous establishments are either closed on Sundays or have extremely restricted operating hours.
Train station pick-ups
Train stations are frequently utilized by rental agencies, as previously mentioned. Rental kiosks or offices are frequently located within the station or a brief walk from it, including Zurich main station, Geneva Cornavin, Basel SBB, and Lausanne. This is extremely advantageous if you are arriving by train from a different country or city in Switzerland and wish to transition to driving. It is frequently feasible to arrange a one-way rental between airports and train stations.
There are numerous car rental locations in the vicinity of cities such as Zurich.
If you arrive in a city via public transportation, they are easily accessible.
One-way rentals within Switzerland
It is important to mention that numerous organizations permit rentals that are one-way within Switzerland. This is an excellent choice for itineraries that involve arriving in Zurich, traveling through the country by road, and departing from Geneva. Typically, an additional fee is charged for this service; however, it may not be prohibitively expensive within the same country.
It is imperative to inquire about or verify the parameters of the reservation. High fees may be incurred for one-way international rentals, which involve returning the vehicle to a different country. It is frequently more cost-effective to maintain your rental in Switzerland and return it there.
Local agencies
Switzerland has a number of local car rental companies or dealers that rent vehicles, in addition to the major international brands. Occasionally, these may offer more favorable prices for specific requirements, such as a prestige vehicle or a camper van. Nevertheless, the majority of travelers find it easier to use well-known agencies or a comparison site, and they will have the support of a larger company in the event of an unforeseen incident.
Using DiscoverCars for your Switzerland car rental:
DiscoverCars is a resource that numerous travelers to Switzerland swear by when it comes to simplifying the rental procedure and finding a great deal.
DiscoverCars is an online platform that compares rental vehicle prices from a variety of companies. Consider it to be the equivalent of Booking.com for rental vehicles. DiscoverCars allows you to input your dates and locations, and it will then display all available rental options from major international brands (such as Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, and Budget) and smaller local agencies in a single search. This eliminates the need to manually check each agency for availability.
DiscoverCars assists you in locating the most advantageous offer for your journey through Switzerland.
Why consider using DiscoverCars for renting a car in Switzerland?
- First and foremost, it frequently assists in locating a more affordable rate than reserving directly. The platform negotiates bulk rates and attractive deals for its consumers.
- The site also simplifies the process of filtering results: you have the option to specify whether the vehicle is automatic or manual, select the size or type of vehicle, and include features such as an additional driver or GPS to determine the actual cost in advance. DiscoverCars provides a comprehensive breakdown of the price, which includes estimated taxes and fees, to ensure that you are aware of the total cost.
- DiscoverCars offers an additional benefit in the form of customer service and flexibility. The majority of reservations made through them are eligible for free cancellation up to 48 hours prior to pick-up, which provides you with reassurance in the event that your plans alter.
- DiscoverCars provides a complete coverage insurance option during the checkout process. As previously stated, the cost of comprehensive coverage is approximately 7 CHF per day, which is frequently significantly less expensive than the insurance price at the rental desk.. DiscoverCars’ insurance will reimburse any charges for damage or larceny, despite the fact that the rental company will still retain a deposit on your credit card if you choose this option.
That concludes the matter.
If you have read this far, you are undoubtedly prepared for your journey through Switzerland.
Please inform me in the comments section below if you have any additional information to contribute to this guide. Additionally, please do not hesitate to share any experiences you have encountered while operating a vehicle in Switzerland. I am eager to receive your correspondence.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What do I need to rent a car in Switzerland?
You’ll need a valid driver’s license, a credit card, and be at least 20–25 years old (age requirements vary by rental company). Non-EU drivers may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Can I drive a rental car from Switzerland to other countries?
Yes, most rental cars can be driven to neighboring countries like France, Italy, Germany, and Austria, but check with your rental company and confirm border-crossing rules.
Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) required?
If your license is not in English, German, French, or Italian, an IDP is strongly recommended. Some rental companies may require it regardless of language.