Frequently Questions People ask
Switzerland is home to some of the most iconic and scenic driving roads in the world — a true playground for petrolheads. Here are the must-drive routes:
1. Furka Pass (2,429m)
Famous for its appearance in James Bond’s Goldfinger, this Alpine road offers tight switchbacks, panoramic views, and thrilling elevation changes. A bucket-list drive for any enthusiast.
2. Grimsel Pass
Linking the Bernese Oberland with Valais, this pass delivers dramatic rock tunnels, sweeping curves, and perfect tarmac. Often combined with Furka and Susten for a full-day loop.
3. Susten Pass
A favorite among sports car drivers, this pass features fast-flowing corners, glacier views, and minimal traffic. Ideal for spirited yet smooth driving.
4. Klausen Pass
With its historic racing pedigree, the Klausen offers a mix of technical challenges and Alpine charm. Best tackled early in the morning to avoid tourist traffic.
5. Gotthard Pass (Old Tremola Road)
Drive the legendary cobbled switchbacks of the Tremola, the original Gotthard route. It’s a time machine for classic car lovers and a unique piece of Swiss road history.
6. Bernina Pass
Close to the Italian border, this route is both scenic and fast, making it perfect for high-performance touring cars.
Switzerland’s roads are well-maintained, incredibly scenic, and tightly regulated — so be sure to respect speed limits and road rules to enjoy them to the fullest.
Switzerland hosts some of the most scenic and exclusive automotive events in Europe, from Alpine hillclimbs to curated supercar meetups. Here are the top events every car enthusiast should know about:
1. Arosa ClassicCar (Arosa)
A legendary hillclimb event held in the Swiss Alps, featuring vintage race cars from every era. With over 7.3 km of winding mountain roads and stunning scenery, it’s a must-see for fans of historic motorsport.
2. Schloss Binningen Classic & Supercar Meet (Basel Region)
This upscale event brings together hypercars, exotics, and beautifully restored classics at a historic castle venue. Expect elegance, rare machinery, and a community of passionate collectors.
3. Bergrennen Oberhallau (Schaffhausen)
One of Switzerland’s most iconic hillclimb races. Featuring both vintage and modern race cars, it draws serious motorsport fans with its grassroots charm and challenging curves.
4. Classic Car Show & Emil Frey Collection (Safenwil)
Held at the Emil Frey Classic Car Museum, this show features over 100 vehicles from various eras. Great for fans of Jaguar, Aston Martin, and rare European models are often paired with seasonal exhibitions.
5. Lucerne Car Nights / Zurich Car Meets (Community Events)
During spring and summer, Switzerland’s car community organizes informal gatherings around Lucerne, Zurich, and the lakes. From supercars to custom builds, these events showcase the country’s quiet but thriving car culture.
Whether you’re into vintage racers, luxury GTs, or tuner culture, Switzerland offers curated experiences for every kind of car lover. All set against the stunning backdrop of Alpine roads and historic towns.
Driving in Switzerland means facing a wide range of conditions, from alpine snow to summer heat and mountain climbs. To keep your car running smoothly (and legally), here are key maintenance tips:
1. Seasonal Tire Changes
Switzerland requires winter tires during snowy or icy conditions. Switch to summer tires around April for better performance and safety. All-season tires may be legal, but winter-specific tires are strongly recommended in alpine areas.
2. Brake System Care
Mountain driving puts extra stress on brakes. Check your brake pads, discs, and fluid regularly, especially before or after driving through steep passes like Furka or Grimsel.
3. Coolant & Engine Checks
Alpine driving and elevation changes can push your engine. Keep coolant levels optimal, ensure proper oil viscosity for cold starts, and make sure your radiator and fan system are in good condition.
4. Wiper Blades & Washer Fluid
Swiss weather can change quickly. Use winter-grade washer fluid, and replace wiper blades annually to maintain clear vision during snow, rain, or fog.
5. Battery Health
Cold winters can drain weak batteries. Test your battery before winter and consider a battery with higher cold cranking amps (CCA) if you live in mountain regions.
6. Legal Essentials
Always carry the required items: reflective vest, warning triangle, first aid kit, and snow chains if heading to remote or high-altitude roads. Swiss police often check for compliance during the winter season.
7. Wash Often, Especially in Winter
Salt from icy roads can quickly corrode your car’s undercarriage. Regular washing, especially underneath helps prevent rust and long-term damage.
Switzerland has strict regulations when it comes to car modifications, with a strong focus on safety, noise, and environmental impact. All modifications must comply with ASTRA (Swiss Federal Roads Office) and cantonal vehicle inspection standards. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Approval & Documentation
Any modification that alters your car’s appearance, performance, or safety features must be officially approved and listed in your vehicle’s registration (Fahrzeugausweis). This includes body kits, exhausts, suspension, engine tuning, and wheel upgrades.
2. Certified Parts Only
Aftermarket parts must come with Swiss or EU certificates (ABE, ECE, or CH-Gutachten) proving road legality. Random imports or uncertified mods will likely be rejected during inspection.
3. Noise & Emissions Limits
Modified exhaust systems must not exceed strict noise limits, and removal of catalytic converters or DPF filters is illegal. Cars failing emissions or decibel tests won’t pass MFK (roadworthiness test).
4. Suspension & Ride Height
Lowering or lifting a car is allowed within specific limits, but must not compromise safety. Coilovers or air suspension systems must be approved and installed professionally.
5. Lighting & Tinting
Xenon or LED conversions require special approval, and tinted windows are only permitted on rear windows. Windshield and front side window tints are prohibited unless medically exempt.
6. Wheels & Tires
Wheel modifications must match approved sizes, offsets, and load ratings. Stretched tires, extreme camber, or oversized wheels without documentation are not road legal.
7. In-Car Electronics
Mods like steering wheels, sport seats, and roll cages must meet safety standards, especially if airbags or restraint systems are removed or altered.
Always check with your local Strassenverkehrsamt (Road Traffic Office) before modifying your vehicle. Unapproved modifications can lead to fines, inspection failure, or your car being taken off the road.
While Switzerland is home to dozens of jaw-dropping mountain roads, the Furka Pass often takes the crown as the most scenic, especially for car enthusiasts.
Winding through the central Swiss Alps at 2,429 meters, the Furka Pass offers a thrilling mix of tight switchbacks, panoramic glacier views, and wide, open stretches ideal for spirited driving. It’s best known for its appearance in the James Bond film Goldfinger, where Sean Connery raced through its sweeping curves in an Aston Martin DB5.
The drive connects Andermatt and Gletsch, and can be paired with the nearby Grimsel and Susten Passes for a full-day alpine loop. Along the way, expect dramatic elevation changes, cliffside views, and postcard-worthy pit stops, especially at the Rhone Glacier Ice Grotto.
The pass is typically open from June to October, depending on snowfall. Outside of those months, it’s closed due to ice and avalanche risk.
For the ultimate Swiss road trip, Furka Pass is a must-drive experience that blends performance, history, and natural beauty like no other.
