Rent a Car in Zurich, Switzerland With Competitive Prices and Clear Guidance
Compare airport and downtown pickup options, understand insurance and fees, and choose the right vehicle for Swiss highways, mountain drives, and day trips—backed by a practical, step-by-step guide.
De quoi avez-vous besoin pour louer une voiture à Zurich ?
Louer une voiture à Zurich est assez pratique, mais il peut y avoir certaines exigences spécifiques, notamment pour les conducteurs étrangers.
- Forme d'identité : A valid physical New Zealand or Switzerland national photo ID is required for the main driver (and any additional drivers).
- Permis de conduire : The main and any additional drivers must present a full physical New Zealand or Switzerland driver’s license with no major endorsements. In most offers the license must have been held for at least 1 year, though some vehicles may require up to 3 years.
Remarques : For some vehicles a longer holding period (up to 3 years) may apply. Self‑drive rentals must comply with local transport law; additional documentation may be requested by the rental desk.
- Cartes acceptées : Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required in most cases. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted; some locations also accept AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Discover and UnionPay. Debit cards (mainly Visa/Master) are accepted only at some locations and often only as a deposit card. A second credit card may be required for high‑value vehicles. E‑voucher or printed voucher may be required depending on the offer. If you use external Collision/Theft coverage, you may have to present printed proof from your bank or insurer at the counter.
- Exigences d'âge : Most offers allow rentals from 18–99 years, with common ranges such as 21–80/99 and some Swiss rentals capped at 75–80. Younger drivers incur additional fees when within the specified young driver ranges, for example: 18–20 in NZD rentals (about $11.65 per day, sometimes capped for the rental), 19–21 in CHF rentals (around $22.98 per day), and 21–24 in both NZD and CHF rentals (typical surcharges between about $2.91 and $30.64 per day, sometimes capped or charged for a maximum of 10 days). In some Swiss rentals, drivers 75–80 may also pay a surcharge. Exact age limits and fees depend on the specific offer.
- Permis de conduire : Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (IDP is a translation only; the original license must be shown and copies are not accepted) or
• Original driving licence + NZTA Translation (for New Zealand rentals; NZTA provides official translations for self‑drive rentals) or
• Full driver’s license issued in New Zealand (for foreign residents renting in NZ) or
• Original South Korea Driving License (English version with English translation on the back) or
• Original Driver's License in Latin/Roman alphabet (English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, etc.) which may be accepted without an IDP, while licenses in non‑Roman alphabets (Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Cyrillic, etc.) must be accompanied by an IDP or
• EU/EEA Driving License (valid across EU/EEA, Switzerland and the UK). The license must be full, physical, with no major endorsements. Most offers require at least 1 year holding; some require up to 3 years.Remarques : Notarized English translations are not allowed for rentals in New Zealand. For some vehicle groups a longer license holding period (up to 3 years) may apply. All documents must be original and physical; scans or photocopies are not accepted.
- Forme d'identité : A valid passport is required for the main driver (and any additional drivers).
- Cartes acceptées : Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required for most rentals. Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted; some offers also accept AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Discover and UnionPay. Debit cards (mainly Visa/Master) may be accepted as deposit cards in some locations; they are not available everywhere. A second credit card can be required for certain vehicle categories. In some offers an E‑voucher or printed voucher must be presented. If you rely on external Collision/Theft coverage, you may need to show printed proof of coverage at the rental desk.
- Exigences d'âge : Most offers allow rentals from 18–99 years, with common ranges such as 21–80/99 and some Swiss rentals capped at 75–80. Younger drivers incur additional fees when within the specified young driver ranges, for example: 18–20 in NZD rentals (about $11.65 per day, sometimes capped for the rental), 19–21 in CHF rentals (around $22.98 per day), and 21–24 in both NZD and CHF rentals (typical surcharges between about $2.91 and $30.64 per day, sometimes capped or charged for a maximum of 10 days). In some Swiss rentals, drivers 75–80 may also pay a surcharge. Exact age limits and fees depend on the specific offer.
Best Car Rentals for Exploring Zurich & the Swiss Alps
Find the perfect ride for your Swiss adventure from compact city cars to powerful Alpine cruisers, all available for pickup right in Zurich.
Alpine & Mountain
SUV
5
3
AutoSwitzerland's alpine passes demand a vehicle built for elevation and variable conditions. An SUV provides the ground clearance needed for mountain roads that may still hold snow even in early summer. The elevated driving position gives you better visibility on narrow, winding switchbacks. Swiss mountain routes like the Grimsel Pass and Susten Pass reward drivers with breathtaking views, and an SUV handles the gradients and occasional hairpin turns with ease. For Americans unaccustomed to steep mountain driving, the extra power and stability of an SUV makes all the difference.
City & Lake
Small
52AutoZurich's compact medieval streets and tight parking spots are far easier to navigate in a small car. A compact vehicle fits into the narrow garage spaces that frustrate larger rentals and slips through traffic with ease. When you're exploring lakeside promenades or parking near Bahnhofstrasse, every inch matters. Americans visiting from car-centric cities will appreciate how a small car transforms city driving from stressful to manageable. Add in Switzerland's excellent public transit inside the city, and a small car becomes the perfect tool for quick trips beyond the city center.
Grand Touring
Premium
53AutoCovering Switzerland's legendary scenic routes like the William IV Express circuit from Zurich to Lucerne and beyond deserves a vehicle that matches the experience. A premium car delivers the refined driving dynamics, comfortable seating, and advanced safety features that make long days on mountain roads feel effortless. The suspension soaks up rough patches on older alpine roads while keeping passengers comfortable. For visitors planning to traverse multiple cantons and enjoy Swiss hospitality at mountain lodges, premium elevation and refinement complete the journey.
Choisissez votre véhicule
Trouvez le véhicule parfait pour votre voyage. Comparez les options ci-dessous.
Best for Immediate Road Trips and Maximum Vehicle Choice
Zurich Airport pickup is ideal if you’re heading straight to the mountains or neighboring countries, arriving with luggage, or needing longer hours for pickup/return. Availability is usually best here, including larger vehicles, automatics, and winter-ready options. Keep in mind airport surcharges and potentially higher base rates—booking early and comparing inclusions (mileage, insurance, fuel policy) can improve value.
Volkswagen up!
41
2AutoVolkswagen up!
412Auto
Renault Clio
514Auto
Honda Civic Estate
534Auto
Ford Focus Estate
534
Manual
Ford Focus Estate
534Manual
Ford Puma
524AutoFord Puma
524Auto
Volkswagen Taigo
514ManualCar Rental Ratings at Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Browse verified scores and honest reviews from travelers who picked up rental cars at Zurich Airport (ZRH) to choose a reliable company with confidence.
| Agence de location | Évaluation | Tarif moyen par jour | Méthode / distance de prise en charge | Dépôt de garantie | Accepte les cartes de débit | Avantages clés |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | 4.2 300+ reviews | $59 | In terminal, Walk to counter | $585 - $1,062 |
| |
 | 3.2 2 reviews | $89 | Free shuttle bus | $639 - $958 |
| |
 | 2.8 1500+ reviews | $79 | 4 mi | - |
| |
 | 1.9 71 reviews | $78 | In terminal, Walk to counter | $648 - $932 |
| |
| 1.8 14 reviews | $63 | Free shuttle bus | - |
| |
| 1.8 14 reviews | $52 | In terminal, Walk to counter | $482 - $605 |
| |
| 1.4 36 reviews | $46 | In terminal, Walk to counter | $2,553 - $3,830 |
| |
 | 1.2 131 reviews | $51 | In terminal, Walk to counter | $2,553 - $3,830 |
| |
| 1.2 5500+ reviews | $47 | In terminal, Walk to counter | $450 - $570 |
|
*Les évaluations et les avis proviennent de Trustpilot. Les détails de la police peuvent varier selon le lieu et le type de véhicule. Veuillez confirmer au moment de la réservation.
Aperçu de la plateforme
Car Rental Expert Advice
By QEEQ Platform Expert Team
Indicateurs d’expertise
Reconnaissance de la plateforme
Meilleur site de réservation de location de voiture d’Asie 2023 & 2024
Volume de réservations
Qualité des avis
Plus de 10 000 avis vérifiés 5 étoiles
Expérience sur le marché
Autorité des données
Vérification d’expertise
Données QEEQ vérifiées auprès des sources de données officielles locales
Informations clés d’expert
Analyse de la plateforme
"Zurich Airport dominates car rentals with 42% market share, followed by HB Station at 32% and downtown at 26%. Business travelers drive 58% of airport demand."
Modèles de réservation
"Economy cars lead at 52%, SUV demand surged 20% in 2023. Summer peak sees 45% demand surge. Average rental 4.2 days, 58% book 7+ days ahead."
Points de douleur des clients
"47-52% of renters experience insurance confusion with CDW excess amounts unclear and cross-border coverage issues being the primary complaint."
Sources de données
- Base de données interne de réservation QEEQ
- Zurich Airport Authority - Ground Transportation Report
- Swiss Federal Statistical Office - Tourism Statistics
- Hertz Europe Annual Market Insights
- Switzerland Tourism Annual Report
- Statista - Switzerland Car Rental Market
- Swiss Consumer Protection Agency - Rental Vehicle Complaints Report
- European Car Rental Association - Customer Satisfaction Survey
Road trips
One-way rental routes starting from Zurich
Plan your ultimate road trip with these popular one-way routes departing from Zurich
Popular Routes And Road Trips From Zurich
Scenic Driving Routes:
Zurich → Lucerne → Mount Pilatus / Lake Lucerne Loop
An easy, classic Swiss route that pairs Lucerne’s old town with Lake Lucerne viewpoints and optional mountain excursions (Pilatus or Rigi). Drive times are short, parking is straightforward in Lucerne, and the scenery ramps up quickly once you’re on the lake roads.
Zurich → Rhine Falls → Stein am Rhein → Schaffhausen
A family-friendly drive to Europe’s largest waterfall by volume, followed by a postcard-pretty riverside town known for frescoed facades. It’s a low-stress itinerary with short segments, good dining options, and multiple viewpoints around the falls.
Zurich → Einsiedeln → Sihlsee → Rapperswil (Upper Lake Zurich Loop)
A relaxed loop through rolling pre-Alps landscapes: visit the famed Einsiedeln Abbey, circle the Sihlsee reservoir for wide-open views, then end in Rapperswil’s lakeside old town and castle before returning to Zurich along Lake Zurich.
Popular Day Trips By Car:
Bern Old Town (UNESCO) Day Trip
Drive to Switzerland’s capital for arcaded streets, the Zytglogge clock tower, and river views from the Aare. Park once and explore on foot, then return to Zurich in the evening.
Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen Valley Sampler
A big-scenery day: lakes near Interlaken and the dramatic Lauterbrunnen Valley. Start early for the best chance at clear views and manageable parking.
Appenzell & Ebenalp / Äscher Viewpoints
Head east for traditional villages, green hills, and some of Switzerland’s most iconic Alpstein panoramas. Perfect for a scenic drive with optional hikes or cable car access depending on season.
Ticino Taste: Lugano & Lake Lugano
Cross into the Italian-speaking south for a different vibe—palms, lakeside promenades, and espresso culture. Best on weekdays or off-peak to avoid Gotthard tunnel congestion.
Car Rental Planning Tips For Zurich
Bring the right documents: Carry your driver’s license, passport/ID, and the payment card used for the booking. If your license isn’t in Latin characters, consider an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a backup.
Understand the motorway vignette: Switzerland requires a motorway vignette for using highways. Many rentals include it, but confirm at pickup; if it’s missing, buy one before entering the motorway network.
Plan parking in cities and old towns: Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern can be tight for street parking. Use signed parking garages (Parkhaus) and expect higher fees in central areas; avoid driving into restricted old-town zones.
Know fuel types and after-hours fueling: Most rentals are gasoline (Benzin) or diesel; verify the fuel type before leaving. Many Swiss stations are self-service and allow card payment 24/7, which is useful outside cities.
Prepare for mountain and winter conditions: Weather can change quickly near passes and lake regions. In colder months, ensure your car has appropriate winter tires; carry warm layers and allow extra braking distance on descents.
Avoid peak traffic windows: Commuter traffic around Zurich is heaviest on weekday mornings and late afternoons. For longer trips (especially toward the Gotthard), start early and check live traffic before departing.
Budget for tolls, parking, and higher fuel prices: Even with the vignette, add parking and city-center garage costs to your budget. Fuel is typically more expensive than in many neighboring countries, so refuel strategically.
Drive Through Zurich: Swiss Alps Adventure
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Switzerland with a rental car from Zurich - your gateway to scenic routes through the Alps, charming villages, and pristine lakes
LANGUES
German, French, Italian, Romansh
DEVISE
CHF
ROULEZ
Right-hand side
CODE PAYS
+41
PRIX MOYEN DE LOCATION DE VOITURE
$65-75 per day
DURÉE MOYENNE DE LOCATION DE VOITURE
7 days
LIMITATION DE VITESSE EN AGGLOMÉRATION
50 km/h
LIMITATION DE VITESSE HORS AGGLOMÉRATION
80-120 km/h
TAUX D’ALCOOLÉMIE LÉGALEMENT AUTORISÉ
0.05%
PRIX MOYEN DU CARBURANT
$1.95/L
PRIX DU CARBURANT LE PLUS BAS / LE PLUS ÉLEVÉ
$1.70/L - $2.20/L
Zurich Car Rental Guide
Essential driving tips and FAQs for renting a car and exploring Zurich and Switzerland
Prix de la plateforme QEEQ
Reconnue mondialement pour l’excellence de ses services de réservation de location de voiture et la satisfaction de sa clientèle.
Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2025
Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures en Asie 2024
Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2023
Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2022
Meilleur Prix Partenaire Commercial d'ABG 2023 & 2024
Prix d’Excellence en Affaires 2024
Les Magellan Awards dans la catégorie des services de location de voiture
Les Travolution Awards du Meilleur Service sur la Route
Recommandé par nos clients
Plébiscité par des clients du monde entier, et nous travaillons en permanence à nous améliorer.
