Switzerland Car Hire

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Top destinations to hire a car in Switzerland

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Geneva

Geneva

What you need to know for your Switzerland car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in Switzerland

Renting a car in Switzerland is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the country's stunning landscapes and attractions at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit iconic sites such as the Matterhorn, known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. You can also enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Brienz, perfect for romantic outings and relaxation by the water. For families, the Swiss Transportation Museum in Lucerne offers cultural experiences that appeal to all ages.

The convenience of a rental car allows you to explore vibrant cities like Zürich, home to attractions such as Bahnhofstrasse and the Swiss National Museum. Lucerne, with its picturesque Chapel Bridge and the nearby Burgenstock, is another must-visit destination. Additionally, Interlaken provides access to both Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, enhancing your outdoor adventure options. The ability to manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans makes renting a car a practical and enjoyable way to discover the diverse experiences Switzerland has to offer.

Most popular car hires in Switzerland

  • Compact: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and has space for up to 3 medium suitcases. It is an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking an efficient and practical vehicle for exploring Switzerland. The compact size makes it easy to navigate through narrow streets and find parking in urban areas.
  • Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, this SUV comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. The extra space and higher driving position provide a more comfortable ride, making it suitable for longer journeys across the beautiful Swiss countryside. This option combines versatility with comfort, enhancing your travel experience.
  • Economy: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families, the economy car type fits 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those looking to save on rental costs while still enjoying a reliable vehicle. Its smaller size makes it easy to manoeuvre in both city environments and scenic routes, ensuring a stress-free journey.

Where to stay in Switzerland

  • Zürich: Known for its vibrant city-themed atmosphere, Zürich offers a variety of accommodation options. Stay near Bahnhofstrasse, a renowned shopping street, perfect for indulging in retail therapy. The Swiss National Museum and Zürich Opera House are cultural highlights nearby, providing enriching experiences. With numerous restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, you can enjoy delightful meals and sweet treats. This city is ideal for family, business, and culture holidays, making it a versatile choice for all travellers.
  • Lucerne: Nestled amidst stunning scenery, Lucerne is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures. Consider staying close to the Swiss Transportation Museum, which is family-friendly, or the historic Chapel Bridge, both significant cultural landmarks. The Burgenstock mountain offers breathtaking views and adventure opportunities, while nearby parks provide a serene escape. Lucerne is especially popular during the ski season, attracting those keen on winter sports and scenic landscapes.
  • Geneva: As a bustling metropolis, Geneva is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. Stay near the iconic Jet d'Eau Fountain and the historic United Nations European Headquarters, both central to the city's cultural charm. The area around the lake features various restaurants and wineries, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. With ski fields and resorts accessible, Geneva is particularly appealing in winter, catering to those looking for adventure and outdoor activities.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Switzerland

  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 drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle 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. Booking in advance often ensures lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars 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 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can 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 often the most beneficial option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is frequently applied when collecting your rental car at airports, although this may be worthwhile for the added convenience it offers.
  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 should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 Switzerland

The best value period to rent a car in Switzerland is November, when prices are lower and demand is at its quietest. October also offers slightly low prices with moderately low demand, making it a good option for those looking to save. March and April can be decent choices as well, with average prices and demand. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and steady demand, while winter months like January and February also see higher demand levels.

Renting a car in Switzerland will give you the freedom to really get to the heart of this incredible part of the world. Use your hire car to discover the best that Switzerland has to offer, from its natural beauty to its bustling towns and cities.

With Expedia, booking you Switzerland car hire is easy. Each hire car in Switzerland option offers you competitive rates and a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations around the country to make your life easier. Book your rental car in in Switzerland with confidence through Expedia.

At Expedia, our goal is to offer you a great variety of Switzerland car rental discounts at the best price. When hiring a car in Switzerland with Expedia, you can compare a massive range of vehicles, from compact economy cars with low fuel consumption to luxury or off-road solutions, depending on your preference. Every Switzerland hire car we feature will come fully equipped with the latest amenities and safety features to ensure your trips will be safe and comfortable.

It has never been easier to find a rental car in Switzerland. We offer you competitive prices and up-to-date information, ensuring quality and efficiency for all our visitors, at all times. Rent a car in Switzerland today and enjoy your holiday, or get anywhere in time for your business meetings. At Expedia, we understand that travelling can be a hassle if you are not well organized, which is why we provide a variety of car types to compare and choose from for all types of travellers. In just a few clicks you can hire a car in Switzerland with Expedia.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Switzerland car reservation?
We're aware that things change at short notice. That's why a large number of prepaid bookings allow for your money back if you cancel six hours in advance of the scheduled collection time. Your cancellation policy should contain all the specifics you need. If you can't locate the answer there, our Customer Service Portal is available 24/7.
What types of cars can I rent in Switzerland?
Not too small and not too big, compact vehicles are the top pick for many hire customers in Switzerland. With excellent fuel mileage and easy manoeuvrability and parking, they're perfect for zipping around the city. A compact has more space than an economy vehicle, which means you can cruise around in a little extra comfort and convenience. Want something bigger? Check out our intermediate, standard or full-size range.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Switzerland with Expedia?
Finding the best deal on your Switzerland rental car is a cinch with Expedia. Choose your preferred car type, add in a few more details and compare the offers from top suppliers. Why not add hotels and flights to your booking? You'll unlock even bigger savings when you combine your bookings into a package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Switzerland?
The youngest age you can rent a vehicle in Switzerland is 21. A surcharge for young drivers typically applies, so check before you book and budget for any extra costs. There may also be restrictions on the types of vehicles available to young drivers. For example, some outlets will only hire out economy, compact and medium-sized cars to young motorists. Rules may be different between outlets, so look over the fine print.
What do you need to rent a car in Switzerland?
While requirements can differ between hire car outlets, the essentials are a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. You don't need to take out the company's insurance plan. However, proof of alternative coverage may be required.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Switzerland?
Yes, and you can find your ideal ride among our long-term car rental deals. Simply enter your trip information and we'll list awesome options from various reliable providers.
Where can I find a Switzerland hire car if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to investigate the age policy of the Switzerland hire suppliers you're interested in. If you're under the age of 25, be aware that some will charge additional costs. It's ideal to know about this in advance so you can tailor your budget accordingly. Every car hire company has its own rules for younger drivers, so do your research.
Why should I rent a Switzerland car with Expedia?
From member exclusive discounts to our affordable package deals, there are plenty of reasons to book a car with Expedia. Road tripping around Switzerland? There are multiple suppliers to take your pick of, with vehicles to suit every budget and style. If you'd love to save more, bundle your rental car with your hotel and flights. Ready to hit the road? We're ready to get you on your way. Plus, when you're a member of our free One Key™ loyalty programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and use it on eligible hotels, flights, car rentals and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation