Zürich Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Zürich

Renting a car in Zürich provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly convenient for families, business travellers, and those seeking a city-themed experience. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key attractions such as Bahnhofstrasse, a renowned shopping street, and the Swiss National Museum, where you can delve into Swiss history and culture. The Zürich Opera House offers a romantic and cultural experience, enhancing your trip.

A rental car also allows you to explore popular neighbourhoods like Old Town Zürich, which features all three of these attractions, and Zürich Center, home to the FIFA World Football Museum. Langstrasse, another vibrant neighbourhood, also includes Bahnhofstrasse and the Swiss National Museum. Having a car makes it simple to travel between these destinations and discover the rich offerings of Zürich, ensuring a comprehensive visit without the constraints of public transport schedules.

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 popular choice for car rentals in Zürich, featuring 2 rental locations throughout the city. Travellers frequently opt for their Compact and Economy vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the urban landscape and surrounding areas. Customers appreciate Hertz for its reliable service and well-maintained fleet, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
• Budget: With 1 rental location in Zürich, Budget provides a convenient option for those looking to rent a car. Most customers choose their Compact and Economy models, which offer a practical solution for exploring the city and its attractions. Budget is known for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious travellers.
• Sixt: Sixt has 1 rental location in Zürich and is well-regarded for its selection of vehicles, particularly its Compact and Midsize SUVs. These vehicles are perfect for those looking for extra space while still being easy to drive around the city. Sixt stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction and the quality of its cars, ensuring a pleasant rental experience for all visitors.

Where to stay in and around Zürich

• Old Town Zürich: Old Town Zürich is a vibrant district that offers a rich blend of history and modernity. It is perfect for city-themed, family, and business experiences. Visitors can explore the famous shopping area, Bahnhofstrasse, as well as cultural gems like the Swiss National Museum and the Zürich Opera House, all within proximity. There are numerous restaurants and cafes nearby to enjoy local cuisine and sweet treats, making it a delightful place to stay while immersing yourself in the city's charm.
• Zürich Center: Zürich Center is a bustling neighborhood central to various attractions and activities, ideal for city-themed, family, and business travellers. The area is home to the FIFA World Football Museum and the renowned Bahnhofstrasse for shopping enthusiasts. Culture seekers will appreciate the nearby Swiss National Museum. With plenty of dining options, including alcohol distilleries and restaurants, Zürich Center ensures a lively stay with easy access to the city's highlights.
• Opfikon: Located 7 km from Zürich, Opfikon is a family-friendly city that offers a mix of outdoor and city-themed experiences. The area features shopping malls and sports facilities, making it suitable for those seeking both leisure and entertainment. Visitors can explore the famous Bahnhofstrasse, the Swiss National Museum, and the Zürich Opera House for cultural immersion. With great dining options available, Opfikon serves as an excellent base for exploring the nearby attractions while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.

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 type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also impact renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the 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 in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Zürich

The best value period to rent a car in and around Zürich is April, when prices are lower and demand is manageable. March and May also offer average prices and demand, making them decent options. However, June through August see higher demand and average prices, while December tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high demand. January and February generally have lower demand but average pricing, with February being the quietest month.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	32.7°F (0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	34.5°F (1.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	34.9°F (1.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High