Switzerland is landlocked surrounded by Italy, France, Germany and Austria. This is a reason why its road network is excellent making road trips very comfortable. The roads sweep through the Alps and Switzerland is an awesome place to explore by car. Exploring the area’s breathtaking mountains, valleys and lakes is more convenient when you rent a car during your visit.
Being a mountainous country, it has a handful of tunnels making your drive an exciting adventure. It’s a breeze to drive through them but caution must be taken on winding roads. The country also boasts of medieval villages, exotic flower gardens and vineyards. Prepare to witness heavy traffic during the peak tourist seasons.
The best time to take a road trip across Switzerland is June to September. Many mountain passes tend to be closed during winter. Hence if you are travelling during winter, clarify the details in advance. There would be drastic changes in weather once you reach the top of any mountain and prepare yourself to drive through snow and rain. Read more hiring car tips in Switzerland.
Ask quotes for weekly rentals. Renting it for a longer time would reduce the cost per day. If you have a fixed itinerary, pay up front rather than at the agency counter which would help in cutting costs.
Car rental requirements:
U.S and Canadian license is valid but if you are over 20 and travelling to Switzerland it is advisable to carry an international license. Though it isn’t absolutely necessary to be equipped with one, it is like an added security blanket. Your intentional license wouldn’t be valid if you don’t carry your provincial driver’s license. You would be required to have an international insurance certificate while driving through European countries. It would be provided by your car rental agency.
Hiring for one-way:
Domestic one-way rentals are available and come with additional charges. There is extra charge for international one-way rentals and some vehicles aren’t permitted.
Driving Regulations:
- Though the minimum legal age to drive is 18, certain car rental companies fix the minimum age limit to 20 or 21. There is no specific maximum age limit.
- Always drive on the right and follow the speed limit – 120kmph on super highways; 80kmph on other highways; 50kmph in other cities and towns. Failing to observe the speed limit would cost you a hefty fine. Do not overtake from the right.
- While driving through tunnels, dim your headlights.
- You ought to be cautious while taking the steep mountain roads. Drive carefully on the slopes making sure that your engine and break doesn’t overheat. Uphill drivers have an upper hand over downhill traffic.
- Check if your rented car has a toll sticker. Driving in a car without a toll sticker is punishable.
Which rental company?
If your preferred car rental company at your home state is available here, go for it. While going through the different agencies online, avoid comparing the initial quotes stated. You would have to see which company offers a decent rate when combining all other extra rates. A larger company would offer to pick up and drop off from a wider range of locations. The 2 major Europe-based car rental agencies are Europcar and Sixt. When choosing any of these companies, you have more chances of getting a replacement car if situation calls for it.
You could also consider booking through a consolidator like Auto Europe. Consolidator companies compare the prices from various companies and presents you details about the best deal. These companies do the job of middle-man. After you pay them you get a voucher to be used in Europe. In case of any dispute, they would help you sort it out.
Car rental insurance varies for every company. Get to know about it before making a reservation.
