Zürich Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Zürich

Renting a car in Zürich offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those travelling with family or managing luggage, as it allows for easy transport without the hassle of public transport schedules. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as Bahnhofstrasse, known for its vibrant city experiences, or immerse yourself in culture at the Swiss National Museum. The romantic and cultural atmosphere of the Zürich Opera House is also easily accessible by car.

Additionally, having a vehicle allows you to explore popular neighbourhoods like Old Town Zürich, which includes Bahnhofstrasse and the Swiss National Museum, or the Zürich Centre, home to the FIFA World Football Museum. Langstrasse is another area worth visiting, featuring the same notable attractions. A rental car makes it simple to navigate these destinations, ensuring a seamless travel experience whether your trip is family-oriented, business-related, or focused on city sightseeing.

Most popular car rentals in Zürich

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. With its spacious interior, a midsize SUV offers comfort for longer journeys and provides the versatility needed for various travel plans around Zürich. Enjoy the freedom to explore the region with ample room for both passengers and luggage.
• Compact: The compact car option is perfect for up to 5 travellers and can accommodate up to 3 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo adventurers, couples, or families. This car type offers a balance of space and manoeuvrability, which is especially beneficial for navigating Zürich's city streets and parking in tighter spots. It's a great choice for those seeking efficiency without sacrificing comfort.
• Economy: An economical choice that fits up to 5 travellers and allows for 2 medium suitcases, the economy car is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families. This option is perfect for those looking to save on rental costs while still providing a reliable vehicle for exploring Zürich and its surroundings. It's a smart choice for budget-conscious travellers who want to enjoy the freedom of driving.

Top rated car suppliers in Zürich

• Europcar: With 3 rental locations throughout Zürich, Europcar provides excellent accessibility for travellers. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize and Standard SUV AWD vehicles, which are perfect for both city driving and excursions into the picturesque Swiss countryside. Europcar’s commitment to customer service ensures a smooth and enjoyable rental experience, allowing you to explore Zürich and its surrounding attractions at your own leisure.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 convenient rental location in Zürich, making it an ideal choice for those seeking affordable car rental options. Known for its great value, Budget offers a selection of Premium and Midsize vehicles, catering to a range of preferences and needs. With Budget, you can confidently navigate the city and surrounding areas while enjoying the flexibility of having your own transport.
• Sixt: Sixt has established a presence with 1 rental location in Zürich, offering a reliable choice for travellers. This supplier is well-regarded for its Midsize SUV and Economy vehicles, which are suitable for a variety of adventures. Sixt is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring a seamless rental process for those wishing to explore the vibrant city and its scenic surroundings.

Where to stay in and around Zürich

• Old Town Zürich: Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Old Town Zürich, a district renowned for its cultural and family-friendly experiences. Key attractions include the elegant Bahnhofstrasse, perfect for shopping, and the Swiss National Museum, ideal for history enthusiasts. The Zürich Opera House offers a romantic backdrop for an evening out. With an array of nearby restaurants and cafes, you can enjoy delightful meals and sweet treats. This area is particularly vibrant, making it suitable for visits throughout the year.
• Zürich Center: Centrally located, Zürich Center is a bustling neighbourhood that caters to both families and business travellers. Highlights include the FIFA World Football Museum and the renowned Bahnhofstrasse for shopping. The Swiss National Museum also adds a cultural touch to your stay. You will find numerous dining options, including restaurants and local distilleries, offering a taste of the region's culinary scene. The dynamic atmosphere of Zürich Center makes it an appealing choice year-round.
• Opfikon: Situated 7 km from Zürich, Opfikon offers a family-friendly experience with a blend of outdoor activities and shopping options. Explore the local shopping areas or visit nearby sports facilities. The Bahnhofstrasse, Swiss National Museum, and Zürich Opera House are also within reach, providing ample opportunities for exploration. With a variety of dining options available, including sweet treat spots and restaurants, Opfikon is a convenient choice for those seeking a quieter yet accessible base.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good equilibrium 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 available. 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 operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car 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 this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be worthwhile for the extra convenience it offers.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Zürich

The best value period to rent a car in and around Zürich is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. This month offers a quiet escape with excellent rates. Following March, June presents a good opportunity as prices remain slightly low, although demand tends to peak. Conversely, July is the most expensive month for rentals, often accompanied by average demand, making it a busy time for car hire in the region.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	32.7°F (0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
February	34.5°F (1.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
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	Slightly Low
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	Average	Average
September	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
November	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	34.9°F (1.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average