Car Rental in Zurich Downtown, Switzerland

Discover Zurich with Green Motion's Car Rental – your gateway to effortless exploration in Switzerland's vibrant city! Roam the charming streets and venture to scenic landscapes with our diverse range of vehicles, ensuring you experience Zurich on your terms. Enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace, from the cultural wonders of the Old Town to the breathtaking views of Lake Zurich. With convenient locations, competitive rates, and excellent customer service, Green Motion Car Rental makes your Zurich adventure seamless and memorable. Book your ride today and unlock the wonders of Zurich with ease!

Tips for renting a car in Zurich Downtown

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

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Car rental at Zurich Downtown – Good to know about driving there

 

Driving in Zurich is generally pleasant, thanks to well-maintained roads, organized signage, and disciplined traffic. However, here are some key insights to keep in mind when behind the wheel:

In Switzerland, driving is on the right-hand side, and road rules are strictly enforced. Speed limits vary by location: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways.

Winter tires are strongly recommended from November to April due to possible snow and icy conditions, especially if you're heading into mountain areas. We always make sure that your rental car is equipped with everything that you need, including the winter tires! If your route includes alpine passes, we'll let you know if a toll or vignette (motorway sticker) is required, and if it's included in your rental car.

Parking in downtown Zurich can be tricky. Paid parking zones are color-coded, with white lines for paid spots, blue zones for residential parking (time-limited for tourists), and yellow zones reserved for commercial vehicles. Many tourists prefer to park in Park & Ride facilities and take public transport into the very center.

Roundabouts are common, and you must yield to traffic already in the circle. Also, always watch for pedestrians and cyclists, who have clear right of way in many urban areas.

Fuel stations are easy to find, and most accept credit cards. Self-service is common, and some stations may require pre-payment.

Useful Information about car rental in Zurich Downtown

Where do you pick up your car?

Green Motion Zurich Downtown is located at Hofwisenstrasse 36, 8153 Rumlang. A free shuttle bus is provided from the airport to the location. If you need any further assistance please call +41 076 490 28 81.

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Nearest Gas Station

Kastrati Petrol Station, approximately 1 kilometer from the airport.

Nearest Bus Stop

Rümlang, Hofwisenstrasse, located just a 2-minute walk from the office. This provides local connections within Rümlang and to nearby towns.

Nearest Train Station

Rümlang S-Bahn Station, roughly 10–12 minutes on foot from the rental location. This station connects you quickly to Zurich Airport and Zurich main station (HB).

Average temperatures

-1°C (30°F) – 24°C (75°F)

FAQs – Driving & Renting in Zurich Downtown (Rümlang)

Is it easy to drive in Zurich?

Yes, Zurich’s roads are well-marked and safe, but city-center driving can be slow due to traffic and narrow streets. Parking is the main challenge.

Do I need a motorway vignette in Switzerland?

Yes, but our rental cars usually already include this. Confirm with your rental provider before departure.

Can I drive to other countries from Zurich?

Yes, cross-border travel to Germany, Austria, Italy, and France is usually allowed, but always check this with us before-hand! Additional fees and paperwork may be required.

Is there free parking at the rental location in Rümlang?

Yes, parking is available on-site, and it's much easier to access than central Zurich.

What are the speed limits in Albania?

Speed limits in Albania are 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on secondary roads, and 110 km/h on highways, though these may vary with local signage.

Can I take a road trip through the Alps from Zurich?

Absolutely! Zurich is a perfect gateway to scenic alpine drives and mountain villages.

What are some things to do in and around Zurich with a rental car?

Zurich is the perfect starting point for scenic drives across Switzerland. With a rental car, you can easily explore nearby destinations such as Lucerne (just 45 minutes away), known for its medieval old town and lake views, or head south to Lake Zurich for a relaxing day by the water. For nature lovers, a drive to the Swiss Alps offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. You can also take a day trip to the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, just under an hour’s drive from the city. Renting a car gives you the freedom to move at your own pace and explore Switzerland’s charm beyond the train tracks.