Car Rentals in Bern, CHE

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Bern

Renting a car in Bern offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly advantageous for those looking to manage luggage easily and maintain flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Federal Palace and Berner Munster, both located in the historic Old City of Bern, or take a leisurely drive to the Bern Rose Garden for a delightful outdoor experience.

The car hire option also allows you to explore various neighbourhoods like Kirchenfeld-Schosshalde, home to the Paul Klee Museum and the Bern Natural History Museum. Families will find a rental car especially useful, as it provides ample space for strollers and luggage, keeping everyone together during outings. Furthermore, having your own vehicle makes it easy to venture out for day trips, ensuring that you can visit multiple sites without the constraints of public transport schedules. Navigating Bern’s roads is straightforward, allowing you to maximise your sightseeing opportunities while enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

Most popular car hires in Bern

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for travellers in Bern, comfortably accommodating up to 5 people along with 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a manageable yet spacious vehicle. Its size makes it perfect for navigating the charming streets of Bern while providing ample room for your luggage, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace with ease.
• Economy: The Economy car is another top choice for those renting in Bern. This option also seats 5 travellers but has the capacity for up to 2 medium suitcases. It’s an excellent selection for solo adventurers, couples, or small families who appreciate efficient and economical travel. The Economy car offers a balance of comfort and practicality, making it a sensible option for exploring Bern’s attractions while keeping costs down.
• Standard: The Standard car option is perfect for couples or families needing a bit more space. It accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those with more luggage or larger items to transport. The Standard car provides a comfortable driving experience, allowing you to enjoy your travels around Bern without feeling cramped, all while ensuring you have enough room for your belongings.

Top rated car suppliers in Bern

• Budget: With a rental location in the area of Bern, Budget is a popular choice for travellers seeking value for money. Most bookings with this supplier are for Compact and Economy vehicles, making it an excellent option for those looking to navigate the city and surrounding areas efficiently and affordably.
• Avis: Avis is another top supplier in Bern, featuring a rental location in the city. Known for its selection of Economy and Compact SUV vehicles, Avis provides travellers with the flexibility to explore the region comfortably. This supplier is ideal for those who desire a bit more space while enjoying the convenience of a rental car.
• Hertz: Hertz boasts a rental location in Bern, making it a convenient option for visitors. The supplier's most booked car is the Economy model, which suits those who appreciate simplicity and efficiency in their travels. With Hertz, you can enjoy a reliable vehicle to help you make the most of your time in and around Bern.

Where to stay in Bern

• Old City of Bern: The Old City of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With proximity to scenic lakes and mountains, it is ideal for those seeking adventure or leisurely exploration. Notable attractions include the historic Federal Palace and the stunning Berner Munster cathedral, both contributing to the area's cultural richness. You will find a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, making it a great spot for dining after a day of sightseeing.
• Mattenhof-Weissenbühl: This charming village is perfect for families and couples looking for a romantic getaway. Mattenhof-Weissenbühl provides access to theatres and entertainment venues, as well as ski opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Key highlights include the Federal Palace and Berner Munster, ensuring a culturally enriching experience. The Bern Rose Garden is also nearby, offering a beautiful outdoor space for relaxation and family fun.
• Breitenrain-Lorraine: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Breitenrain-Lorraine combines outdoor activities with shopping opportunities. The area is home to shopping centres and resorts, catering to various interests. Visitors can explore the iconic Federal Palace and Berner Munster, both significant cultural landmarks. Additionally, the Bern Rose Garden provides a picturesque setting for families to enjoy the beauty of nature, making it a wonderful destination for those seeking both leisure and exploration.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Bern

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often leads to lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is a straightforward process when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bern

The best value time to rent a car in and around Bern is October, when prices are lower and demand is moderate. September and November also offer good options, with slightly lower prices and average demand. June through August, however, see increased demand and slightly higher prices, making them the busiest and most expensive months for rentals. July tends to be the peak in pricing and demand, creating a more challenging environment for securing a rental vehicle.