Switzerland Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Switzerland

Renting a car in Switzerland provides the freedom to explore the country at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for sightseeing and adventure. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your interests. This is especially beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the stunning scenery and adventure opportunities that Switzerland has to offer.

With a vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Matterhorn, perfect for outdoor activities, or Lake Brienz, which is great for romantic outings and enjoying beautiful landscapes. You can also explore cities like Zürich, known for its vibrant culture, or Lucerne, home to the Swiss Transportation Museum and picturesque sites like Chapel Bridge. Interlaken is another great destination where you can discover scenic spots like Lake Thun and Hoeheweg. Renting a car allows you to discover these popular destinations and hidden gems on your own schedule, making your trip to Switzerland more enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car rentals in Switzerland

• Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families, compact cars accommodate up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes them a practical choice for navigating Switzerland's charming cities and scenic routes, offering a perfect balance of space and efficiency for your luggage needs.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, midsize SUVs accommodate up to 5 travelers and provide ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. Their larger size offers additional comfort and versatility, making them a great option for those planning to explore the diverse landscapes of Switzerland while ensuring that everyone has enough room to enjoy the journey.
• Economy: A fantastic choice for solo travelers, couples, or families, economy cars can accommodate up to 5 travelers and hold up to 2 medium suitcases. These vehicles are not only budget-friendly but also easy to maneuver, making them ideal for city driving and longer scenic drives, ensuring you can travel comfortably without breaking the bank.

Where to stay in Switzerland

• Zürich: A vibrant city, Zürich offers a mix of family-friendly activities and business opportunities. Key attractions include the famous Bahnhofstrasse street for shopping and the Swiss National Museum for cultural exploration. For entertainment, the Zürich Opera House adds a touch of romance. Enjoy local cuisine at nearby restaurants and sweet treats, all within proximity to stunning mountain views and sports facilities.
• Lucerne: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Lucerne boasts breathtaking scenery with its nearby mountains and lake. Visitors can explore the Swiss Transportation Museum for a family-friendly experience or stroll across the historic Chapel Bridge. For adventure seekers, Burgenstock mountain offers thrilling outdoor activities. The area is also home to delightful restaurants and sweet treat options, making it a perfect destination for a scenic retreat.
• Geneva: Known for its outdoor activities, Geneva is a great base for skiing adventures. With attractions like the historic United Nations European Headquarters and the stunning Jet d'Eau Fountain, culture lovers will find plenty to explore. Visitors can also appreciate the local winery scene and sweet treats nearby. The beautiful lake adds to the charm of the city, making it an excellent choice for an adventurous getaway.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Switzerland

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain car types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most cost-effective option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can shield you from unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Switzerland

The best value period to rent a car in Switzerland is November, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. October offers slightly low prices with moderately low demand, making it another good option. Following this, December tends to be the most expensive month, with average demand. Summer months like July and August also see higher prices and moderately high demand, as many travelers flock to the region during this time.