Rent a Car in Switzerland

In Switzerland, you must be at least 18 years old to rent a car, and your driver's license should be at least one year old. While this is the national standard, many rental companies have their own rules, especially when it comes to age. For example, drivers under 25 may need to pay a young driver surcharge, around 25 USD per day. It's also important to check the car category—some models like SUVS or luxury vehicles might only be available to drivers aged 25 and up.

Most rental cars in Switzerland can be driven across borders into nearby countries like France, Germany, Austria, and Italy without issue. However, if you plan to travel to Eastern European destinations such as Hungary or Greece, in that case, you might need to pay an additional cross-border fee, which can cost approximately 40 USD per day. Always inform your rental agency in advance so they can prepare any necessary documents or EU-specific number plates.

A vignette (toll sticker) is required to drive on Switzerland's motorways. This annual pass costs around 40 USD and is usually included with rental vehicles. If your rental doesn't have one, you must purchase it yourself at gas stations, post offices, or near the border. Without it, you risk a hefty fine. The vignette covers all Swiss highways, so there’s no need to pay at every toll booth—just stick it on your windshield and you're good to go.

Driving through the Swiss Alps can be breathtaking but requires focus and awareness, especially in winter. Roads like the St. Gotthard Pass or the Great St. Bernard Pass offer stunning views but come with narrow lanes and sharp turns. If you're uncomfortable driving mountain roads, an alternative is the vehicle transport train service—load your car onto a rail carrier at locations like Furka or Simplon and relax. At the same time, you're carried through the mountain tunnel safely.

Swiss law requires children under seven years old to be seated in an age-appropriate child or booster seat. Rental companies offer these, but reserving them in advance is best, especially during the busy summer season. The cost is generally around 77 USD per rental period. If you're travelling with kids, this is an essential safety step to ensure compliance with local regulations.

If your driver's license is written in English or uses Latin characters, you can typically drive in Switzerland without any issues. However, if your license is in a language such as Arabic, Chinese, or Cyrillic script, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP). This document translates your license into multiple languages and must be carried alongside your original license at all times.

Rental prices in Switzerland vary based on the car type, season, and duration. On average, compact cars can be found for as low as 51 USD per day if booked in advance. During peak seasons, prices can rise, especially in popular cities like Zurich or Geneva. Finalrentals offers competitive rates at airport and railway terminals across the country, helping you lock in better prices with early bookings.

Driving in cities like Zurich, Geneva, or Basel is generally safe and well-regulated, but it can be tricky during peak hours due to traffic and limited parking. Swiss roads are well-marked and drivers are disciplined, which helps ease navigation. If you're mainly staying in cities, a smaller vehicle is a smart choice as it's easier to park and maneuver. Remember, parking zones are often colour-coded and may require a disc or payment meter.

Yes, rental cars in Switzerland are typically well-equipped for seasonal conditions. During winter months, vehicles usually come fitted with winter tires, and snow chains may be provided if you're heading into mountainous regions. This is essential if you're traveling to ski resorts or alpine towns like Zermatt or Davos. Always confirm with your rental provider before your trip to ensure your vehicle meets local weather requirements.

Driving in alpine regions requires careful planning. Some roads, like the Furka Pass or Susten Pass, are closed in winter due to snow. Check local road conditions before heading out. You may also encounter vehicle transport tunnels where your car is loaded onto a train to bypass difficult routes. These services are available at places like Albula or Lötschberg and offer a safer option during bad weather or for less experienced drivers.

Zurich is by far the top spot for renting a car in Switzerland, with over half of all rental searches starting there. Geneva is the second most popular location, followed by Basel. These cities serve as major travel hubs and provide access to both city attractions and scenic countryside routes. Renting from airports or main rail stations in these cities ensures convenience and better car availability.

If you’re planning to visit Switzerland during high seasons, like ski holidays in winter or hiking season in summer, booking your rental car early is crucial. Rates tend to climb closer to the travel date, and availability can be limited, especially for family-sized vehicles or SUVS. Finalrentals allows you to book ahead with just a small upfront payment, giving you flexibility while locking in better prices before the rush.