Car Rentals in Zürich, CHE

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Zürich

Renting a car in Zürich offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, or those looking to experience city-themed attractions. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans while visiting key attractions such as Bahnhofstrasse, Swiss National Museum, and Zürich Opera House, all conveniently located in the area.

Additionally, having a car allows you to venture into popular neighbourhoods like Old Town Zürich, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, or Zürich Center, featuring the FIFA World Football Museum. Langstrasse is another area worth exploring, providing diverse experiences. With your own vehicle, you can navigate between these destinations without the constraints of public transport schedules. Whether you're heading to a romantic evening at the opera or a family outing to a museum, renting a car makes your journey through Zürich and its captivating surroundings easier and more enjoyable.

Most popular car hires in Zürich

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those travelling in and around Zürich. With the capacity to accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases, it offers an ideal blend of space and manoeuvrability. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking to explore the city at their own pace while managing luggage with ease.
• Economy: The Economy car option is highly favoured for its practicality and efficiency. Similar to the Compact, it can accommodate 5 travellers but has space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it a great option for solo travellers, couples, or small families who are seeking a budget-friendly choice that still provides comfort and flexibility during their stay in Zürich.
• Midsize SUV: For those requiring a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice. It comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and offers ample room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it well-suited for families, couples, or small groups. This option combines versatility with comfort, allowing for a relaxed travel experience as you navigate the beautiful landscapes around Zürich.

Top rated car suppliers in Zürich

• Europcar: With three rental locations in the area of Zürich, Europcar is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. They are known for their reliable service and a diverse fleet. The most booked vehicles from Europcar include the Standard Van and Midsize SUV, making it an excellent option for those needing extra space or comfort during their travels in and around Zürich.
• Hertz: Hertz operates two rental locations in Zürich, providing easy access for car hire. This supplier is favoured for its well-maintained vehicles and customer service. The Midsize SUV and Economy cars are the most popular choices, appealing to those looking for a balance between affordability and space, perfect for exploring the beautiful Swiss landscape.
• Budget: With a single rental location in Zürich, Budget offers an excellent option for those seeking value for money. Known for competitive pricing, Budget's most booked cars include the Economy and Standard SUV AWD. This supplier is ideal for travellers who wish to manage their budget while still enjoying the freedom of driving around Zürich and its stunning surroundings.

Where to stay in and around Zürich

• Old Town Zürich: Old Town Zürich is a vibrant district that offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences for travellers. With attractions such as the famous Bahnhofstrasse, the Swiss National Museum, and the Zürich Opera House all within proximity, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and arts scene. The area is also home to excellent dining options, including charming cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for families and business trips alike.
• Zürich Center: Zürich Center is a bustling neighbourhood ideal for those seeking a lively city atmosphere. Key highlights include the FIFA World Football Museum and the renowned Bahnhofstrasse, which are both excellent for culture enthusiasts. This area features a variety of shopping venues and eateries, including alcohol distilleries and sweet treat shops, ensuring visitors can enjoy a diverse culinary experience while exploring the city.
• Opfikon: Located 7 km away from Zürich, Opfikon is a family-friendly city that combines urban life with outdoor activities. Visitors can explore shopping centres and enjoy access to various sporting facilities. Key points of interest include Bahnhofstrasse and the Swiss National Museum, both of which are also accessible from Zürich. With a range of dining options available, from restaurants to casual eateries, Opfikon provides a pleasant stay for those looking to balance leisure and exploration.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between price, 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 can also apply to renters over the age of 70. 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 often the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience it offers might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It is simple to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Zürich

The best value period to rent a car in and around Zürich is October, when demand is low and prices are moderately low. September and November also offer decent value, as they feature average prices with low demand. However, July tends to be the busiest time, with high demand and average prices. December is typically the most expensive month, with high demand levels, making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	32.7°F (0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	34.5°F (1.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
July	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately Low
September	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
October	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
November	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	34.9°F (1.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately High