Your essential guide to navigating Swiss autobahns, vignettes, and breathtaking mountain passes with confidence.
Master the VignetteThe Swiss Vignette
Most Swiss autobahns require a toll sticker, known as a 'vignette'. Driving without one can lead to significant fines. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials to ensure a hassle-free journey.
The vignette is a mandatory toll sticker required for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes to use the national motorway network. It must be affixed directly to the inside of your vehicle's windshield. Since 2023, a digital e-vignette linked to your license plate is also available.
The vignette costs CHF 40 and is valid for the entire calendar year, from December 1 of the previous year to January 31 of the following year (14 months total). There are no weekly or monthly options.
Physical vignettes can be purchased at border crossings, post offices, petrol stations, and tourist offices in Switzerland. The e-vignette can be purchased online through the official Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) portal.
If you are caught driving on a motorway without a valid and properly affixed vignette, you will face a fine of CHF 200, plus the requirement to purchase a vignette immediately.
Yes. The vignette does not cover certain tunnels and car trains. Major additional tolls apply for the Great St. Bernard Tunnel and the Munt la Schera Tunnel. Car trains like the Furka, Lötschberg, and Oberalp also have separate fees.
Discover hidden gems and breathtaking routes that offer stunning views without the crowds. From the Susten Pass's rugged beauty to the serene stretches of the Jaun Pass, we highlight alternative tours that promise equally unforgettable Swiss landscapes and driving pleasure.
Read More →
Save time and avoid high alpine passes in winter with Switzerland's ingenious car trains. We break down exactly how the Lötschberg and Furka car trains work, including current costs, schedules, and essential tips for a smooth boarding and disembarking process.
Read More →
Driving in Switzerland's largest city comes with its own unique set of rules, particularly regarding environmental zones. Understand the current regulations for Zurich's low emission zones and learn how to avoid unexpected fines, ensuring a worry-free urban exploration.
Read More →Your vignette covers most of the country, but a few key routes have their own separate tolls. Plan your budget and route accordingly.
Connects Martigny, Switzerland with Aosta, Italy. Tolls are collected for a one-way or return trip, offering a direct pass through the Alps.
Connects Zernez, Switzerland with Livigno, Italy. Pricing can vary by season, and it's essential for accessing the duty-free haven of Livigno.
Transports vehicles between Oberwald and Realp, bypassing the challenging Furka Pass, especially indispensable during the winter months when the pass is closed.
A popular route connecting Kandersteg with Goppenstein, significantly shortening the journey through the Bernese Alps and offering stunning views as an alternative to driving longer routes.
"The vignette guide was a lifesaver! I bought mine online before I even crossed the border. No stress, no fines. Thank you, Swiss Road Travels, for making my first Swiss road trip worry-free!"
Mark T.
Manchester, UK
"I thought I knew how to drive in Switzerland, but the article on car trains saved me hours on my trip to Zermatt. Incredibly practical advice that really made a difference to my itinerary."
Anja K.
Stuttgart, DE
"As a first-time road tripper in the Alps, this site was my bible. Clear, concise, and the scenic route suggestions were fantastic. It gave me the confidence to explore beyond the common routes."
David L.
California, USA
Subscribe for the latest road updates, essential travel alerts, and insider tips delivered directly to your inbox. Drive smarter, not harder, with Swiss Road Travels.
No spam, ever. We only send useful travel information.
For general inquiries, partnership opportunities, or feedback on our content, feel free to reach out to our dedicated team. We're here to assist you on your Swiss journey.
Phone
+41 44 4961246