Switzerland Insider

Welcome to your complete guide to driving in Switzerland! Whether you’re planning a scenic road trip through the Swiss Alps or navigating picturesque villages and towns, driving in Switzerland is an experience like no other. Our guide covers everything you need to know, from essential tips for safe driving on mountain roads to finding the best scenic routes and understanding local regulations. Buckle up and get ready to discover the best of Switzerland at your own pace, with all the information you need to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Preparing for Your Trip

Documents and Requirements
Before hitting the Swiss roads, make sure you have the right documents. You’ll need a valid driver’s license—if you’re from outside the EU, it might be a good idea to carry an International Driving Permit as well. Don’t forget your passport and visa if you’re coming from a country that requires one. It’s always a good idea to check the latest requirements before you travel. 

Driving in Switzerland on a foreign licence (Official Government Site)

Renting a Car
Renting a car in Switzerland is straightforward, but here are a few tips to make the process smoother. Choose a car that fits your needs—if you plan to drive in the mountains, consider a vehicle with good handling and power. In my experience it is best to not pick the largest SUV or the longest sedan as parking spots are sometimes narrow and the roads in the Swiss Alps also! Make sure you understand the insurance options available and choose one that covers you for all eventualities, including theft and damage. After having had numerous talks with rental car agents, I always pick the highest insurance because they “always find one or two damages that were there at time of pick up but not documented in the 50-item long damage log” (my paraphasing). Remember, most rental companies require drivers to be a certain minimum age and to have held a driver’s license for a minimum amount of years.

Swiss Road Signs
Swiss road signs can be a bit different from what you’re used to, so take some time to familiarize yourself with them. For example, green signs are for highways and blue for normal roads (the opposite of the EU) and brown signs usually indicate tourist attractions. Understanding these signs will make your drive safer and more enjoyable.

Road Signs in Switzerland

Navigation on Swiss Roads
Switzerland has a well-maintained network of roads, including highways, local roads and scenic mountain routes. A good GPS or map is essential. Make sure you have one that can help you navigate through both city streets and remote countryside. Also, it would be helpful if you navi is capable of real-time traffic information and road closures (i.e. mountain pass closures in winter).

Road information (in German): www.srf.ch/verkehrsinformationen and www.tcs.ch/verkehrsinfo

Swiss Driving Rules and Regulations

Speed Limits
In Switzerland, speed limits are strictly enforced. On motorways, the limit is generally 120 km/h (about 75 mph), on rural roads, it’s 80 km/h (about 50 mph), and in urban areas, it’s usually 50 km/h (about 30 mph). Also we have an upcoming trend of 30 km/h zones (about 20 mph) in cities.

More on speed limits in Switzerland

Traffic Laws and Regulations
Understanding and following the local traffic laws is crucial. For example, at roundabouts, you must yield to traffic already in the circle. At pedestrian crossings, always stop for people waiting to cross. It’s also mandatory to keep your lights on at all times while driving (daytime running lights work fine during the day).

Seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers. Using a mobile phone while driving is only allowed with a hands-free system. Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited, with the legal blood alcohol limit set at 0.05%.

More of traffic laws in Switzerland

Winter Driving Regulations
If you’re visiting in winter, your car should ideallyjh  be equipped with winter tires. In certain conditions, you might also need snow chains. Also, the majority of the mountain passes are closed so you might either do a deviation or resort to car trains. Driving in the mountains can be challenging, so always check the weather and road conditions before you set out.

Important Road Infrastructure

Swiss Highways (Autobahns)
Swiss highways are marked with green signs and provide fast and efficient routes between major cities and regions.You must purchase a vignette (a type of road tax sticker) to use them. The sticker costs CHF 40 and needs to be placed inside your windshield. You can either purchase it at the border when you enter or online (linked to your license plate).

Car Trains and Tunnels
Switzerland has a number of car trains and tunnels that help you get through the mountains quickly and easily. The car trains are a unique experience and can save you time on your journey. Make sure to check the schedules and plan accordingly.

The use of tunnels is free, while car trains costs on average CHF 30 per journey for a normal car.

Tips for Drivers

Parking in Switzerland
Parking in Swiss cities can be tricky. Look for blue zones, where you can park for free for a limited time, and white zones, which are usually metered. Always check for signs to avoid fines. Using parking apps can make finding a spot easier.

In Switzerland, official parking spaces are clearly marked and are usually subject to fees. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of parking zones:

1. Blue Zones:

  • Free Parking: Use a blue parking disc (or EU disc) to park for free for one hour.
  • Time Restrictions: Valid from Monday to Saturday between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
  • Extended Free Periods: Parking is free during nights (7:00 PM to 7:00 AM) and on Sundays and public holidays.

2. Yellow Zones:

  • Reserved Parking: Designated for private use or businesses.
  • Usage: Only accessible to authorized individuals, customers, or guests.

3. White Zones:

  • Paid Parking: Requires payment and often includes numbered spaces with a nearby parking meter.
  • Location: Usually found in urban areas with easy access to payment facilities.

4. No Parking and No Stopping Zones:

  • Yellow Crosses: Indicate areas where parking is strictly prohibited.
  • Yellow Lines: Along the curb indicate no stopping zones.
  • Main Roads: Parking on main roads outside city limits is forbidden.
 

Traffic and Rush Hours
To avoid traffic, plan your driving outside of peak times, typically 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM on weekdays. Swiss cities can get congested during these hours, so consider alternative routes or public transport for short trips.

Cheap Fuel and Gas Stations
Fuel can be expensive in Switzerland, especially on motorways. To save money, fill up at gas stations in rural areas or small towns.

How to use a gas station in Switzerland

Road Conditions
Switzerland’s road conditions can vary greatly, especially in mountainous regions. Check for road closures and construction updates before setting out.

Road information (in German): www.srf.ch/verkehrsinformationen and www.tcs.ch/verkehrsinfo

 

Emergency Information and Roadside Assistance

Emergency Contacts
In case of emergency, dial 112 for general emergencies or 117 for police. For medical emergencies, call 144.

Dealing with Accidents
If you’re involved in an accident, stay calm and ensure everyone’s safety. Contact the police and your insurance company immediately. Exchange information with the other driver and document the scene with photos if possible.

Roadside Assistance
Most car rental companies provide roadside assistance. You can also contact TCS (Touring Club Suisse) for help. They are the the standard “yellow road asstistance”. Make sure you have the contact details for roadside assistance with you at all times.

FAQ:

Can I drive in Switzerland with my foreign driver’s license?

Yes, you can drive in Switzerland with a valid foreign driver’s license. If your license is not in English, German, French, or Italian, it’s recommended to carry an International Driving Licence for translation purposes.

Do I need a vignette to drive on Swiss highways?

Yes, a vignette is mandatory for driving on Swiss highways. The annual sticker costs CHF 40 and can be purchased at border crossings, post offices, gas stations or online. Ensure it’s placed inside your windshield where it is clearly visible.

What are the speed limits in Switzerland?

Speed limits in Switzerland are strictly enforced and vary by road type:

  • Motorways: 120 km/h (75 mph)
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)
  • Urban areas: 50 km/h (30 mph)
  • Some city areas have zones with a 30 km/h (20 mph) limit.

What do I need to know about for driving in the Swiss Alps?

Driving in the Swiss Alps require caution due to steep inclines, narrow roads and changing weather conditions. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires if traveling in winter and carry snow chains if necessary. Check weather and road conditions beforehand, especially for mountain pass closures.

Is parking free in Switzerland?

Parking regulations vary by zone:

  • Blue Zones: Free for up to one hour with a parking disc from Monday to Saturday between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Free during evenings, nights, Sundays, and public holidays.
  • Yellow Zones: Reserved for private use or businesses and not available for public parking.
  • White Zones: Paid parking areas often requiring payment via nearby meters.
  • No Parking Zones: Marked with yellow crosses or lines, indicating areas where parking is prohibited.

How can I find cheaper fuel in Switzerland?

Fuel is typically more expensive at highwaway service stations. For cheaper fuel, fill up at gas stations in rural areas or small towns.

Do I need winter tires for driving in Switzerland?

If driving in winter, it’s recommended to equip your car with winter tires. Snow chains might be required in certain conditions, especially in mountainous areas. Always check for weather updates and road conditions before your journey.

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