How to find a cheap car hire deal in Zurich (ZRH)
Flight just landed? Pick up a cheap Zurich rental car and hit the road for around R 3,386 a day. From solo getaways to family escapes, we'll match you with a rental that works for you.
Daily rental prices at Zurich start from just R 1,554.
Planning a longer stay in Zurich? Grab a weekly rental from R 10,872 and fit more into your itinerary.
To get the cheapest price, book your ZRH car hire around two weeks in advance.
Alamo, Europcar and Green Motion are some popular providers at Zurich.
The coverage Alamo or another supplier offers for your Zurich car hire can vary, so be sure to check the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra fee.
Booking one-way could score you a discount on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower prices when vehicles need to be moved between sites. Simply click 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in ZRH.
Spend less on fuel by choosing a car hire in Zurich that offers a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up your ride with a full tank and refill it before drop-off, so you're only paying for what you use.
Want to explore more without worrying about the number of miles you clock up? Find rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and go as far as you like without the extra charges.
Best value car hire options right now
You get the best value with this company, with average prices coming in at R 4,133 a day.
Next up is this provider, which offers daily rates of around R 4,635.
The third option also shows up on the list of top-value suppliers. Pick up one of their rentals for roughly R 3,652 a day.
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 car type at ZRH.
Compare car hire types from Zurich (ZRH)
Small: Whether you're navigating busy cities or taking a short trip, this cheap Zurich rental car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to good fuel efficiency and easy handling.
Medium: A smart pick when you want something that's easy to drive but with some added perks. This category includes compact and intermediate models that offer a bit of extra space compared to smaller options.
Large: You've got the suitcases, the kids, the snacks, the everything. Large vehicles have got the space to pack it all in without breaking a sweat. Perfect for long-distance journeys, this ZRH car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are your four-wheel fix for wanderlust. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and scenic routes alike.
Van: If you need a car for rent in Zurich that fits a small crowd (and all their gear), a van will do the job. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid pick for group travel, business use or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something to think about. If your vehicle is damaged, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a hefty excess fee. Different ZRH car hire providers have different insurance policies and coverage levels, so check the terms before booking.
Make travel easier when you rent a car in Zurich by adding some nifty extras. Think things like a navigation system to be your go-everywhere guide, or reverse cameras that'll help you park like a pro.
Good to know
Check each provider's age requirements before booking your rental in Switzerland. Rules can vary, and some restrictions or fees may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to browse your options.
Travelling with kids? Car seat rules vary from one place to another, and the best setup may depend on their weight, height and age. Make sure you add the right one to your ZRH car rental booking.
You'll need to bring a few things when collecting your rental car: an official driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card with enough funds for the security deposit. Debit cards usually aren't accepted. The full set of requirements will be laid out in your booking.
Driving in Switzerland can seem unfamiliar if it's your first time. Don't forget all vehicles travel on the right side of the road.
Make sure you follow the local speed limits. Usually that's around 45kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways, unless road signs indicate differently.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.05% applies in Switzerland. The only sure way to stay legal to drive is to skip the drinks.
You'll be using the Swiss franc (CHF) for everything you buy on your trip. You may find it helpful to carry a mix of cash and cards to cover you in every situation.
Drive smarter from the start
After you've grabbed the keys to your ZRH car hire, the next move is up to you. Central Zurich is about 11 kilometres south and a drive of around 15 minutes if that's where your journey begins.
At peak travel times, expect the drive from Zurich to the centre to take as long as 30 minutes.
Try to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a smoother run in general. 8am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
Don't need a set of wheels as soon as you arrive? Consider picking up a car hire in Zurich instead of at the airport. That way, you won't pay for days you don't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Zurich (ZRH)
Start with some of the leading attractions in Zurich, like Bahnhofstrasse and Cirque du Soleil - Grand Chapiteau. Whether you drive your rental or get there another way, you'll want to check out these highlights before leaving town.
Around 72 kilometres west of ZRH, Basel deserves a spot on your itinerary. Head straight for can't-miss sights like Art Basel and Basel Minster.
Or hop in your Zurich car hire and set off for Bern. Around 105 kilometres southwest of the airport, Old Town Bern and Zytglogge are popular attractions that make the drive more than worth it.
Stretch your journey and road-trip it to Biel/Bienne, about 105 kilometres west of ZRH. Kick things off at Lake Biel, then head to Omega Museum.
