How to find a cheap car hire deal in Bern (BRN)
Just stepped off your flight? Grab a cheap Bern rental car and be on your way for around $383 a day. From city stays to far-flung escapes, we'll help you find the right rental for your plans.
The cheapest daily rental price at Bern is $158.
Thinking of staying longer? Grab a weekly rental from $1,105 and take the time to discover more of Bern.
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding a cheap BRN car hire. Book about two weeks before your departure date to land the best price.
Find your perfect ride with Sixt, Hertz or Europcar, some of the most well-known providers at Bern.
Always check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Bern car hire policy, whether with Sixt or another supplier. Some may leave it out of the standard package and offer it as an extra.
Booking one-way could snag you a cheaper rate on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved around. Simply select 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in BRN.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Bern with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. You'll also skip the costly refueling charges rental agencies tack on.
Want to explore without worrying about the number of miles you clock up? Find rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and travel as far as you like without the extra charges.
Best value car hire options right now
Topping the list for value is this company, with prices averaging $259 a day.
Sitting in second place is this provider, which offers daily rates of around $357.
The third option also makes the list of budget-friendly suppliers. Drive off in one of their rentals for roughly $378 a day.
If you're having trouble deciding which ride is right for you, consider something from the Large rental category. It's the most widely booked type of vehicle at BRN.
Compare car hire types from Bern (BRN)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Bern rental car gets you moving without breaking the bank. These compact, fuel-efficient rides are perfect for city driving and short trips.
Medium: A top choice when you need something that's easy to drive but with a few more features. This category includes compact and intermediate models that come with a little extra leg room compared to smaller cars.
Large: You've got the suitcases, the kids, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the space to handle it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance journeys, this BRN car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: Enjoy a higher driving position and a commanding view of the journey ahead in an SUV. Whether you're weaving through remote countryside or cruising along uninterrupted highways, many offer all-wheel drive to help you take on any road.
Van: Choose this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Bern that can handle the big jobs. Usually featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're made to carry more, whether that's supplies, suitcases or large groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your BRN car hire is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, it can be a real lifesaver if something goes wrong. Just remember that not all insurance policies are the same, so make sure you understand exactly what's offered.
Make your trip smoother when you rent a car in Bern by adding some handy extras. Think things like a navigation system to be your go-everywhere guide, or reverse cameras that give you confidence when parking.
Good to know
Age requirements for rentals often vary by supplier (and even car type), so know the rules before you book. Some suppliers in Switzerland may rent to younger drivers for an extra fee. If you're outside the typical age range, simply uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to browse your options.
Planning a trip with the kids? Car seat rules vary from one location to another, and the right setup may depend on their weight, age and height. Make sure you add the right one to your BRN car rental booking.
Come prepared and save time at pick-up. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (no copies) and a second photo ID. Also keep a credit card handy to cover the required excess. If anything extra is required, you'll find it in your booking.
Get familiar with your rental. Set up your seat and mirrors, test the lights and blinkers, and get a feel for its handling before you set off. And remember to stick to the right side of the road in Switzerland.
Stay within the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 45kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways, unless road signs indicate differently.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Switzerland is 0.05%. Because alcohol affects each person differently, the only way to be sure you're safe to drive is to avoid drinking.
The Swiss franc (CHF) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and excursions. Pay by card when you can, but carry a little cash when electronic payments aren't possible.
Drive smarter from the start
Set off for anywhere you choose in your BRN car hire. If central Bern is your first stop, you'll find it around 5 kilometres northwest of the airport.
Around 8am is one of the busiest times for traffic in this destination. Try to avoid peak times generally for a smoother trip.
You can also get the keys to a car hire in Bern. If you don't need a ride as soon as you arrive, hold off until you're in the city and avoid paying for unused rental days.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Bern (BRN)
Before you move on, sightsee around Bern first. Well-known attractions like Old Town Bern and Zytglogge set the tone for your whole journey.
Shift gears and make tracks to Zurich. Around 97 kilometres northeast of BRN, you'll find must-sees like Bahnhofstrasse and Cirque du Soleil - Grand Chapiteau.
Or pick up your Bern car hire and set off for Basel. Around 72 kilometres north of the airport, Art Basel and Basel Minster are popular attractions that make the extra drive worth it.
