Car Rentals in Lausanne, CHE

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Lausanne

Renting a car in Lausanne provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for tourists. You can visit key attractions such as the stunning Ouchy Port, perfect for enjoying beautiful scenery, and the impressive Lausanne Cathedral, which offers rich cultural experiences. The renowned Olympic Museum is also readily accessible, showcasing sports culture in the area.

Having a car allows you to explore popular destinations like Lausanne Centre, where you can find all three attractions, or venture to the nearby city of Pully, located just 3 km away, which features Ouchy Port and the Olympic Museum. For travellers seeking outdoor adventures or romantic experiences, a rental car makes it convenient to reach various scenic spots around Lausanne. With so much to see and do, hiring a car ensures you make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Switzerland.

Most popular car hires in Lausanne

• Compact: The Compact car is a favourite among travellers in Lausanne. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 passengers and offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for an economical and versatile vehicle. With a Compact, you can navigate the scenic routes and city streets of Lausanne with ease and convenience.
• Economy: The Economy car is another popular choice for visitors in Lausanne. Similar to the Compact, it can hold up to 5 passengers but has room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re travelling solo or with a partner, the Economy car allows you to explore Lausanne and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Premium SUV: For business travellers or those desiring a bit more luxury, the Premium SUV is an excellent option in Lausanne. It accommodates up to 5 travellers and has space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type offers a comfortable and elevated driving experience, making it perfect for those who want to combine both practicality and style during their stay. Enjoy the flexibility of travelling around Lausanne while enjoying the spaciousness of a Premium SUV.

Top rated car suppliers in Lausanne

• Budget: Known for its value, Budget operates with 1 rental location in the area of Lausanne. This supplier is particularly popular among travellers seeking compact and economy vehicles, making it an ideal choice for those wanting an affordable car hire option to explore the city and surrounding attractions at their leisure.
• Europcar: With a single rental location in Lausanne, Europcar is a preferred choice for those looking for a mix of comfort and style. Most booked cars from Europcar include midsize and luxury sports cars with all-wheel drive, catering to travellers who wish to enjoy a more premium driving experience while exploring the scenic beauty of the region.
• Sixt: Sixt also boasts 1 rental location in the Lausanne area, offering a selection that appeals to a variety of preferences. The most popular choices with Sixt include economy and premium vehicles, providing flexibility for travellers who want to balance affordability with quality as they navigate through Lausanne and beyond.

Where to stay in and around Lausanne

• Lausanne Center: Located in the heart of Lausanne, this vibrant neighbourhood offers a thrilling mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing at nearby resorts, while the stunning backdrop of the lake and marina adds to the charm. Key attractions include the magnificent Lausanne Cathedral, the scenic Ouchy Port, and the impressive Olympic Museum, all within easy reach. Food and drink options abound, with local wineries and cafes ready to welcome guests.
• Ouchy: This picturesque neighbourhood is famed for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful waterfront. Ouchy provides a variety of outdoor activities, including access to an urban park and a cable car gondola. Visitors can explore the Olympic Museum, marvel at the architecture of the Lausanne Cathedral, and appreciate the historic Hôtel de Ville. With a selection of nearby bars and wineries, Ouchy is an ideal spot for those looking to relax and enjoy the local scenery.
• Morges: Situated just 10 km from Lausanne, Morges is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. The stunning lake views and marina create a serene atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a scenic getaway. Key highlights include the renowned Ouchy Port, the Olympic Museum, and the impressive Lausanne Cathedral. Morges also offers an array of dining options, with local wineries providing a delightful taste of the region's flavours.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer adventures, or an economy car to keep costs down, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and have access to a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 might encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also impact renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
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 favourable option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but it may be worth it for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can prevent unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra 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 Lausanne

The best value time to rent a car in and around Lausanne is January, when both prices and demand tend to be low. This period is followed closely by October and November, which also see moderately low prices and low demand. From April to June, prices can be moderately high, and demand typically rises, especially in April. The most expensive period arrives in July, when demand peaks and rental prices are higher than usual.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	33.8°F (1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	34.9°F (1.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	41.0°F (5.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
April	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
May	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
August	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
November	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
December	36.7°F (2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average