Thrifty – Zurich: 20% Promo offer

Most rental companies in Zurich require a credit card for the security deposit. Some smaller or local companies may accept debit cards, but this often comes with additional requirements such as proof of a return flight. We recommend checking the payment policy when booking to avoid issues at the counter.

For the best rates, we recommend booking your rental car in Zurich at least 3–6 weeks ahead. During peak season (June–September) or major events, booking 2–3 months in advance is advisable. Early booking not only guarantees availability but also unlocks lower prices and a wider choice of vehicles.

This depends on the fuel policy you selected:

• Full-to-full — the most common and economical option. You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full.
• Full-to-empty — you pay for a full tank upfront and can return it empty, but this is usually more expensive.

Always check your rental agreement. Returning a “full-to-full“ car without refuelling results in a costly per-litre surcharge.

The security deposit is typically released within 7–14 business days after you return the car, provided there is no damage. Some banks may take up to 30 days to process the refund. The deposit is a temporary hold on your credit card — the actual amount blocked depends on the vehicle class and insurance coverage chosen.

If you receive a traffic fine while driving in Switzerland, the rental company will typically forward it to you along with an administration fee (€20–50). Pay the fine promptly to avoid escalation. If you disagree, you can appeal through the issuing authority. Always photograph any unclear signage as evidence. Keep your rental agreement handy for reference.

Many rentals in Zurich come with unlimited mileage, especially for weekly bookings. However, some economy deals may include a daily cap (e.g. 200–300 km/day) with extra charges per kilometre beyond the limit. Always check the mileage policy in your booking confirmation — unlimited mileage offers the best value for longer trips.

Most major rental companies at airports in Switzerland have extended operating hours or 24-hour counters. If your flight is delayed, contact the rental company as soon as possible. Many offer a grace period of 1–2 hours. If the delay is significant, they can usually reschedule your pick-up to the next day without penalty — just call ahead.

Airport rental offices in Zurich often charge a premium of 10–20% due to airport surcharges. City-centre locations may offer better base rates but factor in the cost of getting there. Compare both options on Cars Scanner — sometimes free shuttle services from the airport make city pickups worthwhile.

Parking options in Zurich include:

• Street parking — metered zones, typically €1–3/hour
• Public car parks — €5–20/day depending on location
• Hotel parking — often available for guests at €10–25/night

Always check signage carefully. Blue zones require a parking disc, and illegally parked cars may be towed. Many city centres have restricted access zones.