Zürich Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Zürich

Renting a car in Zürich offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily navigate to key attractions such as Bahnhofstrasse, a renowned shopping street, or the Swiss National Museum, which provides rich insights into Swiss culture. For those looking to indulge in a romantic evening, the Zürich Opera House is also conveniently accessible. Traveling with family? A rental car simplifies luggage management, allowing you to pack everything you need without the hassle of public transport. You can also venture into popular neighbourhoods like Old Town Zürich, which features a blend of historical sites and modern amenities, or Zürich Center, home to the intriguing FIFA World Football Museum. Langstrasse offers a vibrant atmosphere, making it perfect for both business and leisure activities. Overall, having a car at your disposal not only enhances your sightseeing experience but also accommodates various travel styles, making it an ideal choice for your trip in and around Zürich.

Most popular car rentals in Zürich

• Compact: This car type is a popular choice among travellers in Zürich, accommodating up to 5 individuals with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. It's ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking to explore the city at their own pace. The compact size makes it easy to navigate through Zürich's streets while providing sufficient room for luggage management, ensuring a comfortable journey.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This option offers a blend of comfort and space, making it suitable for those who require extra room for luggage or simply prefer a higher driving position. It is an excellent choice for travellers who desire both versatility and the ability to tackle various road conditions during their trip around Zürich.
• Economy: The economy car type is a fantastic option for those prioritising affordability and efficiency. It can comfortably accommodate up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it suitable for solo travellers, couples, and families seeking a budget-friendly vehicle that still provides the freedom to explore Zürich and its surroundings. With its compact design, it is easy to park and manoeuvre within the city, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Zürich

• Hertz: Hertz is a leading choice for many travellers in Zürich, offering two convenient rental locations in the area. Known for its reliable service, the most booked vehicles with Hertz are Compact and Economy models, making it an excellent option for those seeking efficient and economical transportation. With a reputation for well-maintained cars and seamless pickups, Hertz ensures a smooth rental experience, allowing you to explore Zürich and its surroundings comfortably.
• Budget: Budget provides a straightforward and user-friendly car rental experience with one rental location in Zürich. It's particularly favoured for its Compact and Economy cars, which are ideal for navigating the city and managing luggage with ease. Budget is recognized for its competitive pricing, making it a smart choice for cost-conscious travellers looking to enjoy the flexibility of having their own vehicle while exploring Zürich.
• Sixt: Sixt is another popular car rental supplier with one location in Zürich, known for its diverse fleet that includes Compact and Midsize SUV vehicles. This supplier stands out for those who may require a bit more space or prefer a higher driving position. Sixt is appreciated for its excellent customer service and quality vehicles, making it a reliable option for visitors who want to enjoy comfort and style during their travels in and around Zürich.

Where to stay in and around Zürich

• Old Town Zürich: Immerse yourself in the charm of Old Town Zürich, a district that offers a delightful mix of city, family, and business-themed experiences. With its proximity to key attractions like Bahnhofstrasse, the Swiss National Museum, and the Zürich Opera House, you'll find plenty to explore. Enjoy shopping at the local mall centers and indulge in delightful sweet treats at nearby cafes and restaurants. This area is perfect for those who appreciate historic sites and cultural landmarks, making it a vibrant spot for your stay.
• Zürich Center: Located in the heart of Zürich, the Zürich Center neighborhood is ideal for travellers seeking city-themed, family, and business experiences. With attractions such as the FIFA World Football Museum and the Swiss National Museum nearby, there's much to discover. The bustling shopping areas offer famous shops and a variety of dining options, including sweet treats and local distilleries. This central location ensures you're never far from the action, making it a convenient choice for visitors to the city.
• Opfikon: A short distance from Zürich, Opfikon is perfect for families and those who enjoy outdoor activities. This city features shopping mall centers and famous shops, along with local dining options for delicious meals and sweet treats. Explore nearby attractions like the stadium and the majestic mountains that surround the area. Opfikon provides a lovely blend of urban conveniences and outdoor experiences, making it an excellent base for your travels in and around Zürich.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Zürich

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for added space, a convertible for those summer days, or an economical car to keep costs down, leverage Expedia's filters to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary greatly depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Zürich

The best time to rent a car in and around Zürich is April, when prices are at their lowest and demand remains steady. You may also find good value during October and November, which see slightly lower prices and average demand. June through August typically experience high demand, with prices that can be slightly elevated. December stands out as the most expensive month, accompanied by low demand, making it a busy period for rentals.