How to find a cheap car hire deal in Zurich
Pick up a cheap rental car in Zurich and start your adventure for around R 1,308 a day. From solo rides to family outings, we'll find the right wheels for whatever you have planned.
R 998 is the cheapest daily price you'll find for a rental in Zurich.
Staying a while and want to explore beyond the usual highlights? R 1,509 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
Here's your inside scoop on when to book. Around two weeks in advance gives you the best window to grab the best price on a Zurich car hire.
Get behind the wheel with Alamo, Europcar or Explore Holidays AG. They're some of the most trusted providers in the city.
The coverage Alamo or another company offers for your Zurich car hire can differ, so be sure to read the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra charge.
Choosing a one-way car hire can be your secret weapon for cheaper deals. Select 'Return car to a different location.' Providers sometimes have to move vehicles from one site to another, which means you can snag some awesome one-way prices on a car for rent in Zurich.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car with a full tank, so you pay only for what you use. No surprise refueling fees tacked on at the end either.
Hit the road without counting the miles and racking up additional fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and choose 'Unlimited mileage' to find a car that lets you explore further.
Best value car hire options right now
Taking first place for value is this company, with average prices of R 2,903 a day.
Next up is [this provider](this provider](https://www.skyscanner.co.za/car-hire/car-hire-with-provider/budget/686)), offering daily rates of around R 2,852.
The third option also keeps costs reasonable. Expect to pay roughly R 2,803 a day for one of their rentals.
If you're not quite sure what kind of wheels you need, choose something from the Compact rental category. It's the most widely booked vehicle type in Zurich.
Flying to Zurich? Think about an airport pick-up
Take the hassle out of arrival day by booking a car hire at Zurich Airport. If you're flying to Zurich through this hub, simply pick up your wheels after landing and get moving. The drive to the city centre is about 11 kilometres and takes around 15 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Zurich
Small: These cheap rental cars in Zurich may be small in size, but they're big on practicality. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're nimble, great on mileage, and a match made in heaven for city driving.
Medium: A top choice when you want something that's easy to drive but doesn't skimp on features. This category includes compact and intermediate models that offer a little extra leg space compared to smaller options.
Large: You've got the kids, the toys, the bags, the lot. Large vehicles have got the capacity to fit it all in without a hassle. Ideal for longer drives, this Zurich car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are made for plans that change mid-journey. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and rugged backroads alike.
Van: Select this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Zurich that can handle the big jobs. Featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're made to carry more, whether that's equipment, suitcases or big groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers your out-of-pocket costs if your Zurich car hire is damaged or stolen. While not compulsory, it helps cover you in a tough spot. Just remember that not all insurance policies are equal, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
From GPS units to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can make every mile feel easier. Think about which extras will suit your needs when you rent a car in Zurich.
Good to know
Rental age requirements generally aren't a one-size-fits-all. Providers can set their own policies, and if you're under the minimum age, you could pay extra and face some limits. Check the specific rules for each supplier before booking your car hire in Switzerland.
Add a car seat to your Zurich car hire reservation if you're travelling with small kids. Regulations change from one location to another, but using a child seat suited to their size, age and weight is always the safest way to travel.
Bring the right documents to keep the pick-up process smooth. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (no electronic copies) plus another photo ID. Also bring a credit card that can cover the deposit. If anything else is expected, it'll be listed in your booking.
If you're new to driving in Switzerland, keep in mind that traffic here keeps to the right side of the road.
Local speed limits are often about 45kph through urban areas and around 110kph on highways. Check the road signs, as limits may vary.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Switzerland is 0.05%. Since alcohol's effects vary from person to person, the only way to be certain you're safe to drive is to skip the drinks.
One of the busiest times for traffic in this destination is around 8am. Make things easy by driving outside rush hours in general.
The Swiss franc (CHF) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day expenses and activities. Pay with your card when it's convenient, but have some cash handy when electronic payments aren't accepted.
Best hotels in Zurich for drivers
Pull in and get ready to relax at Moxy Zurich. Offering accessible parking as well as a bar and luggage storage, this hotel is around 3 kilometres from central Zurich.
Or take advantage of the parking at Amanthos Living Zürich Airport (Self Check In). The city centre is roughly 6 kilometres from this stay, which also features tour services and express check-out.
Browse the lineup of hotels in Zurich for even more choices. Use the 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' and 'Valet parking' filters to tailor your results to your trip. You can even select the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to limit results to EV-friendly stays.
After you've locked in a car hire deal in Zurich and the right hotel, all that's left is deciding where to explore first. Get things started with popular attractions such as Bahnhofstrasse, Cirque du Soleil - Grand Chapiteau and Zurich Opera.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Zurich
Basel should be on your to-do list if you're eager to visit Art Basel and Basel Minster. This city is about 72 kilometres west of central Zurich.
You'll be well taken care of at B&B Hotel Basel and Novotel Basel City, two comfortable accommodation options with parking in Basel.
Or pick up your cheap car hire in Zurich and then head for Bern. Roughly 97 kilometres southwest of Zurich, Old Town Bern and Zytglogge are standout attractions that are worth going out of your way for.
Relax after a day out and about in Bern at Novotel Bern Expo or Prize by Radisson, Bern City. These hotels are a good choice for guests bringing their own car.
Up for a bonus adventure? Biel/Bienne is a popular road trip destination that's about 105 kilometres west of Zurich. Plan to make a few pit stops at Lake Biel and Omega Museum.
Rest your head in Biel/Bienne at either Mercure Plaza Biel or GLANDON Rooms Elite. They have a room waiting for you and parking availability too.
