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Driving is on the right side of the road.

All Basel Mulhouse Freiburg Airport rental cars are automatic transmission.

Your local drivers' licence is required.

An International Drivers' Permit (or IDP) may be required, especially if your local drivers' licence is in a language other than the local language (you may inquire when you pick up your car).

Basel Driving Stress Level: 5/10

 

Driving in Switzerland

Drivers in Switzerland drive on the right-hand side of the road and, because of the winter darkness, most people keep their headlights on dim even during the day. Drivers wishing to use motorways in Switzerland are obliged to purchase a small sticker or vignette which is displayed on the windscreen to indicate to the Swiss traffic authorities that the appropriate poll has been paid. If you are caught without a vignette there is a mandatory fine of 100 Swiss Francs.

Swiss road systems are generally good and extend across the length and breadth of the country. Driving enthusiasts will be able to enjoy many scenic routes around Switzerland taking in the towering snow-capped Swiss mountains and refreshing Swiss meadows along the way. However, those intending to drive in Switzerland in winter months should be aware of the heavy snowfall and make preparations accordingly.

All cars in Switzerland are fitted with snow tires or snow chains for obvious safety reasons. Because of the Swiss government’s ecologically minded policies, driving in Switzerland is not a cheap experience with drivers having to pay comparatively high prices for road tax and parking, especially in Switzerland’s main towns and cities.

Driving in France

French signposting is very good once you understand it, with place names rather than road numbers being prominent. If reading a road map of France, you can assume that anything shown in bold capitals will be signposted from a great distance.

France has a network of autoroutes, so congestion is rarely a problem. However, this comes at a price, and there is a charge for using these roads, payable by cash or credit card at the frequent tollgates (péages). This may seem expensive, but if you are intent on covering large distances as quickly as possible, it is the only realistic way.

If you are not in a hurry, France's older main roads are in very good condition and it is often possible to travel on these in very light traffic. The countryside is beautiful and so, if you have time on your hands these slower roads are certainly worth the effort.

Car Rental Protection
Learn how to protect yourself when renting a car at Basel Mulhouse Freiburg Airport.