Switzerland is a fascinating blend of cultures, influenced by its German, French, Italian, and Romansh-speaking regions. From breathtaking landscapes to world-famous traditions, it’s what makes Swiss culture so unique.
A holiday in Switzerland promises breathtaking landscapes, charming cities, and unforgettable experiences in every season. When you think of the Alps, pristine lakes, and picturesque villages, you’re thinking of Switzerland.
So, what better way to see this beautiful country, than a road trip in Switzerland?!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission to keep this website going (at no extra cost to you) so its a win-win!
Why Rent a Car in Swizterland?
One of the primary reasons to opt for a rental car is the freedom it offers. Public transportation is undoubtedly efficient throughout Switzerland, but you’re limited to public transportation times and schedules. Having your own set of wheels is a game-changer, I promise!
I personally recommend to book a car through DiscoverCars.com because they have the best deals, customer service and no-hassle fees.
Scenic Drives and Panoramic Views
While you could spend a lifetime hiking around Switzerland, there is so much to see on your road trip. Here are some perfect day trip ideas if you are renting a car while using Zurich as a home base.
Here are 3 epic day trips you can take from Zurich by rental car — each offering stunning landscapes, charming towns, and an unforgettable slice of Swiss culture. These drives are scenic, straightforward, and doable within a day round-trip.
🚗 1. Lucerne & Mount Pilatus
Drive Time: ~1 hour each way
Type: City + Mountain Adventure
Morning:
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Drive to Lucerne, a postcard-perfect lakeside town.
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Stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), visit the Lion Monument, and explore the charming Old Town.
Afternoon:
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Take the world’s steepest cogwheel railway or cable car up to Mount Pilatus.
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Enjoy panoramic alpine views, short hikes, and lunch at the summit.
Evening:
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Drive back to Zurich or enjoy dinner in Lucerne by the lake.
🔹 Why it’s great: Combines culture, lake views, and the Alps all in one easy day.
🚗 2. Lauterbrunnen Valley & Interlaken
Drive Time: ~2 hours each way
Type: Nature + Alpine Villages
Morning:
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Head to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, famous for its waterfalls (72 total!), alpine cliffs, and flower-filled meadows.
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Hike or take the train to Mürren or Wengen — peaceful, car-free villages with unreal views of the Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau.
Afternoon:
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Drive to Interlaken for lunch and a walk along the river or lakes.
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If you’re feeling adventurous: go paragliding, take a lake cruise, or visit Harder Kulm for sunset views.
🔹 Why it’s great: A highlight of the Bernese Oberland with dramatic scenery and classic Swiss mountain vibes.
🚗 3. Appenzell & Ebenalp
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours each way
Type: Hidden Gem + Swiss Tradition
Morning:
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Drive through rolling green hills to Appenzell, a colorful village known for cheese, folk traditions, and hand-painted buildings.
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Explore the town center and sample local Appenzeller cheese.
Afternoon:
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Head up to Ebenalp via cable car. Hike 15–20 minutes to the incredible Aescher Cliff Restaurant and Wildkirchli Caves.
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The views over the Alpstein mountains are mind-blowing.
🔹 Why it’s great: Less touristy, ultra-Swiss, and full of charm — plus that iconic cliffside restaurant phot
Time Efficiency
For those with a limited schedule, time is of the essence. A rental car ensures that you maximize your time exploring rather than waiting for public transport connections. Whether you’re chasing sunrise on the Costa Brava or sunset in the vineyards of Penedès, every moment becomes yours to savor.
When Renting a Car in Switzerland is a Bad Idea
Renting a car in Switzerland may not be ideal for everyone, depending on your preferences and the nature of your trip.
Here are some reasons why renting a car in Zurich might be considered a less favorable option:
Efficient Public Transportation: Switzerland has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes high speed trains, buses, metro lines, and taxis. The train network is efficient, but costly, unless you have a Swiss Half-Fare Card or a Swiss Pass.
Limited Parking: Parking in the city center can be scarce and expensive. Finding a suitable parking spot can be time-consuming, and some accommodations might not offer convenient parking facilities. Additionally, parking fines and speed traps are not uncommon for those unfamiliar with local regulations and posted limits.
Urban Congestion: Zurich is a bustling city with a well-developed public transportation system. Navigating the city streets, which can be crowded and congested, may be challenging and stressful for drivers, especially those unfamiliar with local traffic patterns.
International Drivers Permit: Many do not know this but you need an International Driver’s Permit to legally drive a car in Europe.
Read More: International Driver’s Permit- What is it and How do I get it?
What Does it Cost to Rent a Car in Switzerland
Renting a car in Switzerland can range widely based on season, vehicle type, and rental location, but here’s a realistic breakdown to help you budget:
🚗 Average Cost to Rent a Car in Switzerland (2025)
| Type | Low Season (Nov–Mar) | High Season (Jun–Sep) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy (e.g., VW Polo) | CHF 45–75/day | CHF 75–110/day |
| Mid-size (e.g., VW Golf) | CHF 60–90/day | CHF 90–130/day |
| SUV/Automatic | CHF 90–140/day | CHF 130–180/day |
| Premium/Luxury | CHF 150–300/day | CHF 200–400/day |
💡 Tip: Prices are usually lower at airports than train stations, and week-long rentals are cheaper per day than 2- or 3-day rentals.
💸 Additional Costs to Watch For
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Mandatory insurance (LDW/CDW): Usually included, but always double-check.
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Winter tires/snow chains: Often included in winter but may be an extra ~CHF 10–20/day.
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GPS: Add ~CHF 10–15/day (use your phone with offline maps to save).
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One-way fees: CHF 50–150 if returning to a different city.
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Extra driver fee: CHF 5–15/day per driver.
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Fuel: Around CHF 1.80–2.10/liter (~USD $7.20–8.50/gallon).
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Vignette (highway toll sticker): Usually included, but ask to confirm.
🧠 Money-Saving Tips
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Book early — especially for summer and holidays.
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Use comparison sites like Discover Cars, Rentalcars.com, or Auto Europe.
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Consider manual transmission — it’s cheaper than automatic.
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Check if your credit card or travel insurance already covers collision protection.
I would recommend the following companies: Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget.
How to Rent a Car in Zurich, Switzerland
Documents Needed For Renting a Car in Switzerland
To rent a car and drive legally in Switzerland, you typically need the following documents for your road trip in Switzerland:
Driving License: You must have a valid driver’s license. International visitors usually can use their national driving license, provided it’s in Roman characters. If your license is not in Roman characters, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended as well.
Proof of Identity: Carry a valid passport or national ID card.
Credit Card: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards may not be accepted or may come with additional conditions. You should always travel with at least one travel rewards credit cards. Here are my favorite travel credit cards.
Age Requirement: The minimum age to rent a car in Switzerland is typically 21, and drivers under 25 might incur a young drivers surcharge.
Rental Voucher/Booking Confirmation: Have the rental voucher or booking confirmation from the rental company. This includes details of your reservation.
Insurance Documents: Verify the insurance coverage provided by the rental company. It’s common to have basic insurance included, but additional coverage might be advisable. If you have a Chase Sapphire Travel Rewards credit card, primary insurance is included (a HUGE perk that will save you a lot of money!).
Vignette Sticker: A Vignette Sticker is used for highway tolls. Ensure the vignette sticker is on the windshield.
International Driving Permit (IDP): While not always mandatory, an IDP is recommended, especially if your driver’s license is not in Roman characters. It translates the details of your national license into multiple languages.
Related: What’s an International Driving Permit?
Traffic Violation Payment: Ensure you have a way to pay for any potential traffic violations. Some rental companies charge administrative fees for handling traffic fines. Speeding fines in Switzerland are very high, don’t speed.
Proof of Accommodation: Some rental companies might ask for proof of your accommodation in Swizterland.
Always check the specific requirements of the rental company you choose, as there can be variations.
It’s also essential to familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and regulations in Switzerland, including speed limits, parking rules, and any specific driving conditions. Additionally, consider purchasing adequate insurance coverage to ensure you’re protected during your travels.
Tips for Renting a Car in Zurich, Swizterland
1. Book in Advance: Secure your rental car online before arriving in Zurich for better deals and availability.
2. Understand Local Traffic Rules: Familiarize yourself with local road regulations to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
3. Choose the Right Size: Opt for a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering both passenger comfort and luggage space.
4. Check Insurance Coverage: Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage, including collision and comprehensive, for peace of mind during your travels.
5. Duration Discounts: Rental companies often offer lower daily rates for longer rental durations. Weekly rentals might provide a better daily rate compared to daily rentals.
Common Words and Phrases on the Road in Switzerland
Here are some common road signs, words, and phrases you might encounter while driving in Switzerland, especially useful if you’re renting a car or taking a road trip through the Alps:
🇨🇭 Common Swiss Road Signs & Meanings
(Languages: mostly in German, some French, Italian, and Romansh depending on the region)
| Sign | Swiss Term | Meaning in English |
|---|---|---|
| Einfahrt verboten | Einfahrt verboten | No entry |
| Ausfahrt | Ausfahrt | Exit (from highway or parking) |
| Parkplatz | Parkplatz | Parking lot |
| Maut / Péage | Maut (DE), Péage (FR) | Toll road / toll booth |
| Umleitung | Umleitung | Detour |
| Geschwindigkeit | Geschwindigkeit | Speed |
| Raststätte | Raststätte | Rest stop |
| Autobahn | Autobahn | Highway (motorway) |
| Langsam fahren | Langsam fahren | Drive slowly |
| Achtung! | Achtung! | Attention! / Watch out! |
| Schnee Ketten | Schneeketten | Snow chains required |
| Fahrverbot | Fahrverbot | No vehicles allowed |
🚗 Speed & Driving Words
| German Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Höchstgeschwindigkeit | Maximum speed |
| Tempo | Speed |
| Blitzer | Speed camera |
| Kreisverkehr | Roundabout |
| Links/Rechts abbiegen | Turn left/right |
🅿️ Parking Terms
| German Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Blaue Zone | Blue parking zone (disc required) |
| Parkhaus | Parking garage |
| Parkscheibe | Parking disc |
| Parkverbot | No parking |
🔧 Emergency & Safety Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pannenhilfe | Roadside assistance |
| Notruf | Emergency call |
| Feuerwehr | Fire department (dial 118) |
| Polizei | Police (dial 117) |
| Krankenwagen | Ambulance (dial 144) |
| Unfall | Accident |
📱 Helpful Phrases for Driving
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Wo ist der nächste Parkplatz? — Where is the nearest parking?
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Wie komme ich zur Autobahn? — How do I get to the highway?
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Ist das eine gebührenpflichtige Straße? — Is this a toll road?
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Brauche ich eine Vignette? — Do I need a toll sticker?
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Ich habe eine Panne. — I have a breakdown.
Conclusion
Renting a car to explore Switzerland isn’t just a transportation choice – it’s key to unlocking the full richness of the country.
But ,while renting a car can be advantageous for exploring more remote areas or specific itineraries, it’s essential to weigh the convenience of public transportation against the potential challenges of driving in a busy city like Zurich.
Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences, travel plans, and the desired level of convenience.
In my opinion, the best way to explore Switzerland is by car. So, grab the keys, hit the road, and let the adventure unfold!
Book Your Trip Now!
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- eSIM – Traveling abroad? You need cell phone coverage. Here’s 15% Off with code “NICK4202” when you sign up.
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- My Favorite Travel Credit Card – Chase Sapphire Prefered. This is by far the best way to book travel and earn miles/points while doing so. Use the Chase Sapphire Prefered for booking 3x travel, 3x dining and 3x on streaming services.
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- Rental Cars – Search, compare and save on the best rental car company brands all in one place using DiscoverCars.
- Booking.com – Booking has the widest selection of budget accommodation in the world. In our studies, they constantly found the cheapest rooms. I also like their easy-to-use interface and no-money-down policy.
- Hotels.com – Hotels.com is my second choice for finding hotels. I love their selection and easy to navigate website. Use it often for free hotel stays with OneKeyCash.
- VRBO – The most popular vacation rental site in the US. ✓+2 million rentals worldwide ✓19+ million reviews ✓Secure online payment
- Selina Hostel – This is the best hostel accommodation in the world. Their unique CoLive stays, artwork and location are the best. Not to mention, they are a great value travel brand!
For companies, check out my favorite travel companies section that includes even more of my favorite travel companies that will help you value travel!
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