Switzerland has splendid traffic infrastructure, so whether you're planning to drive in Zurich or the Geneva area or getting away to Germany, France or Italy - Switzerland will offer you the best opportunity to get in touch with nature and the Swiss way of living.
Because it's a small country, car renters will find the driving mission especially easy and getting from one place to another is quick and enjoyable. Ofran operates in the airports via several major car rental companies, which also enable renting a car in other major locations in the cities. The convenient locations and efficient roadside assistance offers Ofran's clients the ability to plan their trip in Switzerland optimally.
Swiss authorities collect 40sfr from each car using its motorways system (autobans). Make sure you pay the toll while picking up the car. If you enter Switzerland from other countries, you must pay at the border crossing. The sticker you'll receive is called Vignette and it has to be attached to your front windscreen
Switzerland is a mountainous country. In many cases you'll find yourself driving in twisting roads where visibility is limited. Therefore it is customary to honk when approaching a sharp curve. At night it is customary to flash the headlights as well. In narrow and gradient roads, the car climbing up has right of way. In the winter, don't assume that all roads are open. Some mountain passes, such as Furka and Grimsel, are closed for the season, so check your course in advance.
Switzerland has standard legal speed limits which may be varied by signs. In bad weather, driving with snow chains or when the visibility is - speed is limited to 50kmph. Fastening seat belts is mandatory in the front are rear seats. Use of dipped headlights during the day is recommended for all vehicles. When driving in a tunnel - dipped headlights are a must.
Fuel - Unleaded petrol (95 and 98 octane) and Diesel (Gasoil) is available. No
leaded petrol (lead substitute additive available). There is limited LPG availability.
Winter tires and snow chains - winter season starts on the 1st of November and ends on March 31st . Winter tires are mandatory and all cars are equipped with them.. Snow chains are mandatory in snowy and frosty areas and must be booked and confirmed in advance. Notice the traffic signs regarding the usage of the chains.
As mentioned before, Switzerland is a mountainous country. If you plan to visit the country in winter, take all the necessary precautions especially when it comes to winter tires and snow chains. Book them in advance. Please note that some high elevation towns such as Wengen, Murren, Braunwald and Zermatt are unreachable during this time of the year. Getting there can be done only via public transportation.
When driving in cities - parking in blue or red zones requires a special badge which can be purchased at gas stations, kiosks or postal offices. Parking in white zones is done with regular parking meters.