Zurich car rental prices are among the highest in Europe — Switzerland is expensive, and car hire reflects that. A compact car starts around €30-50/day when booked in advance. Walk-up rates can be €70+/day. The upside: Swiss rental cars are typically well-maintained, and the roads are among Europe’s best.
Why Rent a Car in Zurich?
Zurich Airport is Switzerland’s largest, with flights from across Europe and intercontinental routes. If you’re planning to explore Switzerland beyond the main cities — the mountain passes, the remote valleys, the smaller lakes — a car gives you freedom that trains can’t match.
The rental market is dominated by international brands (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget). Swiss companies (Edel & Stark, others) sometimes offer luxury rentals at competitive rates. Budget options exist but expect older cars and stricter terms.
One-way rentals work well for Switzerland’s geography. Zurich to Geneva (across the country), Zurich to Milan (south through the Alps), or Zurich to Munich (north to Germany) — all popular routes. Cross-border fees vary (€50-200).
What to Expect When You Pick Up
Zurich Airport has rental desks in the Airside Centre (after security) and landside arrivals. The process is efficient, typically 15-20 minutes. Swiss service is polite and professional.
Documentation:
- Driving licence (IDP for non-EU/UK licences)
- Passport
- Credit card for deposit (CHF 1500-3000, higher than average)
- Age 21+ for compact, 25+ for premium
Insurance excess is higher in Switzerland than most countries — expect CHF 2000-4000 (€2000-4000) for excess. This reflects Swiss repair costs. Excess reduction at the counter is expensive (€25-40/day). Third-party excess insurance is cheaper but requires you to pay claims first.
Most rental cars have the motorway vignette already. If not, buy one at the first petrol station (CHF 40, valid for the calendar year).
Top Routes and Day Trips
Lake Zurich loop (half day): Drive around the lake through towns like Rapperswil (medieval castle) and return via the A3. About 100km round trip.
Appenzell (1.5 hours): Traditional Swiss region with rolling hills, wooden chalets, and strong local culture. The drive east through the Rhine Valley is scenic.
Engelberg and Titlis (1.5 hours): Mountain resort with cable car to the Titlis glacier. The drive south from Zurich passes through forested hills.
Konstanz and Lake Constance (1 hour): Cross into Germany for a lakeside town. The A1 then local roads take you there. The lake crosses three countries (Germany, Switzerland, Austria).
Ticino and Lugano (2.5 hours): Drive south through the Gotthard Base Tunnel to Italian-speaking Switzerland. The change in scenery is dramatic — from Alpine to Mediterranean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included in Swiss rentals? Base rates typically include unlimited mileage, CDW with high excess, and taxes. They exclude: vignette (if not included), fuel, excess reduction, additional driver. Some Swiss companies include the vignette — check at pickup.
Are automatics available? Yes, more common than in southern Europe. Expect €10-20/day extra for automatic transmission.
What about winter driving? Winter tyres are mandatory from November to April. All rental cars should have them. For mountain passes, ask about snow chains — some high-altitude roads require them.
Related: Car Hire Switzerland | Car Hire Zurich Airport | Car Hire Geneva | Car Hire Basel | Car Hire Lucerne