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Explore the Scenic Route from Geneva to Lugano

Discover the best of Switzerland with your one-way car rental journey, combining convenience and flexibility.

Can I rent a car from Geneva to Lugano?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Geneva to Lugano. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for CH residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical national photo ID is required.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, and Discover.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 18.09 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version)
    • Original driving licence + NAATI Translation
  • Form of ID: A valid passport is required.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, and Discover.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 18.09 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Geneva to Lugano cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 51/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 55/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 83-US$ 132US$ 0-US$ 108US$ 151-US$ 272Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 97-US$ 197US$ 0-US$ 108US$ 211-US$ 321Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 97-US$ 981US$ 0-US$ 108US$ 187-US$ 2,142Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 95-US$ 147US$ 0-US$ 108US$ 165-US$ 304Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 149-US$ 538US$ 0-US$ 312US$ 282-US$ 1,088Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 112-US$ 335US$ 0-US$ 125US$ 213-US$ 561Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Rental Fees: Some rental companies may charge an additional fee for returning the car to a different location. Research and include this in your budget.
  • Cross-Border Restrictions: If your trip involves crossing national borders, ensure that your rental agreement permits this and check for any additional requirements.
  • Vehicle Drop-Off Flexibility: Confirm the drop-off location and timings to avoid confusion and additional charges.
  • Insurance Coverage Considerations: Verify the insurance coverage offered for one-way trips and ensure it meets your needs during the trip.
  • Vehicle Type and Availability: Choose a vehicle that suits the journey length and terrain, and confirm availability for one-way rental routes.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Your Route Early: Identify key attractions or stops along the way, and ensure enough time to enjoy the journey.
  • Check Fuel Policy: Understand whether the rental requires a full tank upon return or has alternative fuel policies.
  • Keep Documentation Ready: Prepare all necessary documents such as driving licenses and identification well in advance.
  • Book In Advance: Reserve your car rental early to ensure availability and better deals.
  • Consider Road Conditions: Research the route for possible challenges like mountain roads, and ensure the vehicle is suitable.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the vehicle to the same fuel level as when you picked it up to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last refueling receipt as proof for the rental company.

Use nearby gas stations to the drop-off location for the most convenient refueling.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price in the region is approximately 1.80 CHF per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed on highways to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to save fuel.

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Geneva Parking

Geneva offers multiple parking garages such as Parking Cornavin near the main station.

Street parking is available but often limited and time-restricted.

Consider using parking apps to find available spots in advance.

Lugano Parking

Lugano has convenient parking options like Parking Centro and Parking Motta.

Some parking areas near the city center may charge higher rates.

Look for free parking zones outside the city center if staying longer.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia: Provides detailed parking information and availability.

EasyPark: Allows for easy payment and parking spot reservations.

MyParking: Offers search and booking for parking spaces in advance.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes Between Geneva and Lugano:
Swiss Scenic Route
Scenic Drive 6 hours

A picturesque route passing through charming Swiss towns and countryside.

Lausanne , Bern , Lucerne
Mountain Adventure Route
Mountain Pass Drive 7 hours

An adventurous drive through alpine mountain passes offering breathtaking views.

Interlaken , Grindelwald , Andermatt
Express Highway Route
Highway Drive 4.5 hours

A fast and efficient route along major highways for quicker travel.

Fribourg , Zurich , Bellinzona
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the right vehicle: Select a car suitable for the terrain and check for additional options like GPS or child seats.

Plan for refueling: Identify gas stations along the route to avoid running low on fuel in remote areas.

Prepare for tolls: Be aware of tolls on Swiss roads and consider purchasing a motorway vignette if required.

Check the weather: Monitor weather forecasts, especially in mountain regions, and be prepared for changing conditions.

Budget for expenses: Calculate costs for fuel, food, and any paid attractions to plan your trip within budget.

Safety first: Carry an emergency kit including a first aid box, flashlight, and spare tire for unforeseen circumstances.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$$HighExcellent Large network , Wide range of vehicles , 24/7 customer support
Avis$$ModerateGood Competitive pricing , Flexible drop-off options , Regular discounts for members
Europcar$$HighWide Customizable rental periods , Good customer service , Eco-friendly vehicle options
Budget Car Rental$ModerateGood Affordable rates , Easy booking process , Options for additional equipment like GPS
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Car Rental Centers in Geneva and Lugano

Operating Hours:

Most rental offices operate from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. For exact details, please verify with the company.

Location of Rental Car Centers:

In Geneva, rental centers are located near the airport terminal; in Lugano, they are found within the main transport hubs.

Shuttle Frequency:

Shuttles to rental car pickup points in Geneva operate every 20 minutes; schedules may vary during weekends.

Rental Car Return in Lugano:

Drop-off locations are clearly signposted; some rentals include curbside return services depending on the company.

Pro Tips for Geneva Airport(Swiss Side)(GVA) Car Rentals

Make reservations ahead of your trip to secure a vehicle and potentially reduce one-way fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drop off the rental car at Lugano after picking it up in Geneva?

Yes, most car rental companies allow for one-way rentals between Geneva and Lugano. Be sure to specify this option when booking your vehicle, as availability and fees may vary.

Are there additional fees for one-way rentals?

Typically, a one-way rental incurs a drop-off fee. This is because the rental company needs to arrange for the car to be returned to its original location. These fees vary by agency but are usually presented upfront during booking.

What documents do I need for a car rental in Switzerland?

You will usually need a valid driver's license, a credit card under the renter's name, and an additional form of identification, such as a passport. Some companies may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if your license is not in Roman script.

Is unlimited mileage included in Swiss car rentals?

Many rental agreements in Switzerland offer unlimited mileage, but it's always a good idea to confirm this at the time of reservation to avoid unexpected charges.

Can I drive from Switzerland into neighboring countries with a rental car?

Yes, but you'll need to verify cross-border policies with your rental provider. Rental companies often allow driving into nearby countries like France or Italy but may apply additional cross-border fees or require special permissions.

Ready to Book Your Geneva to Lugano Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ