Located on the stunning shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is more than just a city—it’s an experience. From its historic Old Town and Olympic Museum to the scenic vineyards of Lavaux, Lausanne has something for everyone. And to explore it all on your own terms, there’s no better option than renting a car. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about car rental in Lausanne, featuring trusted local provider Auto Access.
Why Rent a Car in Lausanne?
While Switzerland boasts one of the best public transportation systems in Europe, renting a car in Lausanne offers a level of freedom, comfort, and convenience that buses and trains simply can’t match.
- Explore at your own pace
- Take day trips without fixed schedules
- Easily access mountain towns, vineyards, and lakeside resorts
- Perfect for families, business travelers, and weekend explorers
Lausanne is also ideally positioned between Geneva, Bern, and the Alps — making it a great hub for scenic drives and regional travel.
Types of Cars Available for Rent
At Auto Access, the fleet is curated to meet a variety of travel needs. Whether you’re navigating city streets or alpine passes, there’s a vehicle suited for your journey.
- Compact Cars – Ideal for city driving and short commutes
- Sedans – Comfortable and fuel-efficient for longer drives
- SUVs – Great for mountain roads or winter weather
- Luxury Models – Perfect for business travel or a stylish weekend
- Electric Vehicles – For eco-conscious travelers
Fleet & Pricing Table
Here’s an overview of some vehicle options offered by Auto Access along with average daily pricing:
| Vehicle Type | Seats | Transmission | Ideal For | Starting Price (CHF/day) |
| Fiat 500 (Compact) | 4 | Manual | Solo travelers, city use | 55 |
| VW Golf (Sedan) | 5 | Automatic | Couples, mid-range travel | 75 |
| Skoda Octavia Wagon | 5 | Automatic | Families, countryside drives | 90 |
| Audi Q5 (SUV) | 5 | Automatic | Mountain trips, winter travel | 130 |
| Tesla Model 3 (EV) | 5 | Automatic | Eco-luxury travel, city + tours | 120 |
Note: Prices may vary by season, booking date, and availability. Insurance, GPS, or extras may incur additional charges.
Key Requirements for Renting a Car in Lausanne
Before you book with Auto Access or any provider, make sure you meet the following rental conditions:
- Minimum Age: 21 years (may vary by vehicle type)
- Driver’s License: Valid national license (IDP required for non-EU visitors)
- Credit Card: Required for security deposit
- Insurance: Third-party liability included; full coverage optional
Where to Rent: Why Choose Auto Access?
Auto Access is a trusted local provider for car rental in Lausanne, known for transparent pricing, a wide selection of vehicles, and excellent customer support.
You can rent from:
- City Center Office – Convenient for downtown hotels
- Lausanne Train Station – Ideal for arrivals via public transport
- Delivery Service – Optional delivery to hotels or residences within the city
Booking can be done online, by phone, or in-person — with early reservations recommended during summer and ski seasons.
Tips for Driving in Lausanne and Surroundings
Switzerland is known for its safe roads and well-maintained highways, but here are a few tips:
- Speed Limits: 50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on rural roads, 120 km/h on motorways
- Vignette Required: A motorway sticker is needed for highways (usually included in rentals)
- Winter Tires: Check if your vehicle is equipped during colder months
- Parking: Use blue zones for free short-term parking; white lines for paid zones
- Fuel: Most stations are self-service and accept cards
Best Day Trips From Lausanne by Car
Renting a car unlocks access to some of the most scenic locations nearby:
- Lavaux Vineyards – UNESCO heritage wine region
- Montreux – A lakeside town famous for jazz and Château de Chillon
- Gruyères – Home of cheese, chocolate, and a fairy-tale castle
- Glacier 3000 – Snow activities just a couple of hours away
- Geneva – Less than an hour via motorway
Eco-Friendly Travel: Go Electric with Auto Access
Concerned about your carbon footprint? Auto Access offers electric and hybrid cars, including Tesla and Toyota models. With a growing network of EV charging stations in and around Lausanne, going green has never been easier.
Final Thoughts: Is Car Rental in Lausanne Worth It?
Absolutely. Renting a car in Lausanne gives you the flexibility to travel on your own terms, explore hidden gems, and experience the true beauty of Switzerland — from quiet vineyards to majestic peaks. Auto Access makes this easy with its customer-friendly service, well-maintained fleet, and local expertise.
If you value independence, comfort, and the joy of discovering Switzerland at your own speed, then renting a car is not just an option — it’s the smart choice.
FAQs About Car Rental in Lausanne
1. Do I need an international driving permit to rent a car in Lausanne?
If your license is not in English, French, or German, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
2. Can I return the car to another city?
Yes, Auto Access offers one-way rentals to other Swiss cities, subject to availability and extra fees.
3. Is insurance included in the rental price?
Basic third-party insurance is usually included. Full coverage can be added during booking for extra protection.
4. What if I’m arriving by train—can I pick up the car near the station?
Yes, Auto Access has a pick-up point near Lausanne Train Station, perfect for travelers arriving by rail.
5. Are winter tires or snow chains provided during winter?
Yes, cars are equipped with winter tires during snowy months. Snow chains may be provided upon request.
