How long does it take to drive through Switzerland?

Driving through Switzerland takes approximately 4 to 6 hours for a direct north-south or west-east traverse on major highways (e.g., Basel to Chiasso). However, for a comprehensive experience, the 1,000-mile Grand Tour of Switzerland takes 7 to 14 days, allowing for scenic routes, mountain passes, and city stops.

Can I drive in Switzerland with an UK license?

You need to carry your UK driving licence with you. You do not need an international driving permit ( IDP ) to visit and drive in the EU , Switzerland, Iceland or Liechtenstein. You might need an IDP to drive in some EU countries and Norway if you have: a paper driving licence.

How long is Switzerland from east to west?

Switzerland measures 220km from north to south and 348km from west to east. Standing 4,634m above sea level, the Dufourspitze, part of the Monte Rosa massif, is the highest peak in Switzerland.

Is it possible to drive from the UK to Switzerland?

The quickest option to get to Switzerland by car is to board the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle train from Folkestone to Calais. Then drive south through France towards Reims (there are tolls on this route) and on to the Swiss border. The journey from Calais to Basel, for example, takes around seven hours in total.

Is it difficult driving in Switzerland?

Your driving experience in Switzerland will generally be similar to what you're used to in Britain or the US. That said, there are a few unique Swiss rules and conventions you should be aware of. And one of those concerns your footwear (or lack thereof) when you're driving.

11 ESSENTIAL Driving tips for Tourists in Switzerland

How much does it cost to enter Switzerland by car?

In Switzerland, your car must have a special vignette (sticker or e-vignette) if you want to use certain roads. It costs CHF 40. The 2026 vignette is valid from 1 December 2025 to 31 January 2027. If you are coming to Switzerland from abroad, you can buy the motorway vignette at customs as you enter the country.

What is the best time of year to visit Switzerland?

Switzerland's summer "tourist season" runs roughly from May through September, though in mountainous areas, it doesn't start until sometime in June. High summer (July–August) has its advantages: the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, very long days (light until after 21:00), and the busiest schedule of tourist fun.

What not to do in Switzerland as a tourist?

As a tourist in Switzerland, don't be loud in public, assume everyone speaks English, or be late; instead, be punctual, keep voices down on transport, greet people, respect queues and quiet zones, pack proper hiking gear, buy groceries on weekdays (not Sunday), and be mindful of fire bans and local customs like proper waste disposal and not cutting in line. Avoid planning too much in a short time, and always have correct currency (Swiss Francs) and travel insurance.

How much money do I need for 10 days in Switzerland?

On average, a 7–10-day trip to Switzerland for a couple from India can range between ₹1,50,000 and ₹3,00,000. Costs depend on factors such as travel dates, accommodation choices, and planned activities.

What is the 10 20 rule in Switzerland?

Understanding the 10/20 Non-Bank Rule

The rule is triggered when raising more than CHF 500k through CLAs under either of the following conditions: more than 10 CLA investors with identical conditions, or. more than 20 CLA investors, even if the conditions vary.

How strict is speeding in Switzerland?

Fines for speeding in Switzerland are strict and increase with the severity of the offense. 1-5 km/h over the limit: A small fine of 20 CHF applies. This low fine is intended to discourage drivers from even minor violations. 6-10 km/h over the limit: The fine is 60 CHF.

Where to go first time in Switzerland?

We often recommend the wonderful town of Lucerne or the quiet of the village of Weggis, also on Lake Lucerne and with the mountains just a delightful local journey away. If you would like to stay in the heart of the Jungfrau mountains, look at Grindelwald or go for the picturesque car-free village of Wengen.

Is it cheaper to drive in Switzerland or train?

One thing you need to understand about the Swiss travel pass is that even if you have it, you will have to pay extra to book seats on panoramic trains and pay at least 50% for mountain excursions. So if there are 3-4 of you, then it will be cheaper to hire a car than the railway in Switzerland.

Can I avoid tolls in Switzerland?

The Swiss motorway vignette is required for driving on motorways and semi-motorways, which are marked by green road signs. If you avoid these roads and use only national or cantonal routes, you can drive without a vignette.

What happens if you get flashed by a speed camera in Switzerland?

Just a note for those planning on renting a car in Switzerland: Swiss roads have many traffic cameras, and you can be fined up to hundreds of francs per speeding infraction (fines begin for as little as 1 Km over the speed limit). They take speeding very seriously, and there is no negotiating traffic fines.

Can I drive in Switzerland with a UK licence?

Driving in Europe

You do not need an IDP to drive in the EU , Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein if you have a photocard driving licence issued in the UK.

What is Switzerland's biggest issue?

Switzerland's biggest issues revolve around healthcare costs, environmental concerns, retirement security, and immigration/EU relations, with rising costs of living and geopolitical shifts adding pressure, according to recent surveys like the UBS Worry Barometer. Healthcare premiums are a top concern, closely followed by climate change and pension sustainability, while debates on migration and the country's relationship with the EU significantly impact the national mood. 

Is it worth renting a car in Switzerland?

If you're planning a scenic road trip in a group or as a family, a car can be cost-effective when splitting expenses compared to multiple train tickets. If you prefer a flexible schedule, a rental car allows you to stop at viewpoints, take detours or visit places off the beaten path without being bound by timetables.

What is the best month to go to Switzerland?

The best month to visit Switzerland depends on your priorities: June-August offers peak summer for hiking, festivals, and open attractions but is crowded and expensive; September provides stunning fall colors, fewer tourists, and great hiking; while December-March is ideal for snow sports, with Christmas markets in cities, though mountain areas are busy. For fewer crowds and blooming wildflowers with mild weather, consider May, but be aware some mountain transport might be closed.

Do Swiss drive on left or right?

People in Switzerland drive on the right side of the road, just like in most countries in Europe. All passengers must have their seatbelts fastened whenever the car is moving. Less expected is the fact that you need to turn the headlights on when driving a vehicle, even during daylight hours.