Driving in Switzerland: right-hand driving

Short summary – read this first

A traveler from India, Schroffchetan, is unsure about adapting from driving on the left side to the right while visiting Switzerland for 8 days. They're seeking advice on whether it's easy to make the switch, as they feel hesitant about renting a car during their trip.

Key takeaways:
  • It may take a few hours to a few days to adapt to driving on the right side, depending on the person.
  • Renting a car is not essential in Switzerland since public transport is highly efficient and can reach many places that cars can't.
  • If you do decide to rent a car, consider opting for an automatic vehicle, as many find it easier to drive than a manual one.
  • Using the Swiss Travel Pass can be a convenient option for seamless travel on trains and buses across the country.
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InfoAI-generated summary
  • Shroffchetan
    Participant
    256 posts
    20 September 2021 at 11:38:03 #826117

    Hi

    I am from India where you drive car on left hand (like UK). I am asking a generic question and not specific to Switzerland ” How easy to adapt from left hand drive to right hand drive when you visit for a short duration of travel like 8 days”

    If you are from India, or UK or any country which drives on left hand, your inputs can be very useful. I could not rent a car since I am not confident whether I will be able to adapt and your inputs will be highly appreciated

    Thank you in advance

  • Anna
    Moderator
    7727 posts
    Reply 1 of 3 • 20 September 2021 at 11:55:16 #936621

    Hi Schroffchetan,

    Some people take a few days to adapt, others just hours. I was previously used to left-hand driving. When I moved to Switzerland, it took me some time to get used to driving on the right side. I’m not sure if it would make a difference driving automatic or stick cars but it’s certainly easier for me with an auto.

    You can find useful and practical information about driving in Switzerland here: http://www.myswissalps.com/car

    Regards,

    Anna

    Switzerland trip planning, the easy way

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    Arno
    Moderator
    15730 posts
    Reply 2 of 3 • 20 September 2021 at 12:44:31 #936622

    Hello Schroffchetan,

    As Anna says, it’s really different for each individual. Personally I avoid driving in left lane countries as I’m used to the right, and don’t find it worth the hassle and risk for a few days. As you probably know, a car isn’t essential in Switzerland as nearly everything can be done by train and other public transport. It even gets you to places where cars can’t come.

    Shroffchetan
    Participant
    256 posts
    Reply 3 of 3 • 20 September 2021 at 13:29:40 #936623

    I agree car is not necessary in Switzerland. I love Swiss trains

    I was evaluating the same in Austria. Lake district and Hallstat are more than accessible by car than train.

    This trip was planned in May 2020 but cancelled due to Corona. While planning for this trip, I was evaluating about renting a car but I could not decide and finally booked train ticket

    Hence I was seeking inputs

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