How to find a cheap car hire deal in Basel
Whether you need a compact for zipping through the city streets or an SUV built for road trips, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Basel. Choose from options averaging £123 a day and hit the road for less.
The cheapest daily rental price in Basel is £23.
Planning a longer trip and want to explore beyond the usual highlights? £158 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
Consider this your cheat code for when to book. Around three weeks in advance is when you're most likely to find the best price on a Basel car hire.
Find your perfect ride with Europcar, Alamo or Sixt. They're some of the most popular providers in the city.
Whether you book with Europcar or a different supplier, be sure to check the coverage on your Basel car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others charge extra for it.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to score a good deal if the provider needs to move its fleet around. Discover the best available rates by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Avoid any unexpected charges by choosing a ride with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, and pay only for what you use.
Want to explore without worrying about the number of miles you clock up? Find rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and drive as far as you like without the extra charges.
Best value car hire options right now
Taking first place for value is this company, with average prices of £137 a day.
Offering daily rates of around £106, this provider is next in line.
The third option also keeps costs manageable. Expect to pay roughly £135 a day for one of their rentals.
The Large rental category is a reliable choice if you can't decide which wheels are right for you. It's also the vehicle type that's booked the most in Basel.
Flying to Basel? Think about an airport pick-up
Kick off your Basel trip quicker by booking a car hire at Basel Mulhouse Freiburg Airport. The city centre is about 8 kms (5 miles) from this airport, which is a drive of around 20 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Basel
Small: These cheap rental cars in Basel may be small in size, but they're big where it counts. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're nimble, fuel efficient, and just the thing for city driving.
Medium: A dependable choice when you need something that's easy to drive but doesn't skimp on features. This category covers compact and intermediate models that offer a little extra leg room compared to smaller cars.
Large: You've got the bags, the kids, the snacks, the lot. Large vehicles have got the capacity to carry it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance journeys, this Basel car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are made for plans that change mid-journey. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and scenic routes alike.
Van: If you're searching for a car for rent in Basel big enough for a small crowd (and all their gear), a van has space where it counts. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid pick for group trips, moving or business needs.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the cost you'd have to pay if your Basel car hire is stolen or damaged. While not compulsory, you'll be glad to have it if something goes wrong. Keep in mind that insurance policies vary between providers, so make sure you understand exactly what's offered.
From GPS units to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can make all the difference. Consider which features will help you make the most of your trip when you rent a car in Basel.
Good to know
Age requirements for rentals can vary by company and even car type, so know the rules before you book. Some companies in Switzerland may rent to younger drivers for an additional fee. If you're outside the typical age range, simply uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to unlock the right options.
Kids coming with you? Car seat requirements vary according to the location, and the best setup may depend on their height, age and weight. Find out if you need to add one to your Basel car rental booking.
You'll be asked for a few things when collecting your rental car: a valid driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card with enough balance for the deposit. Debit cards usually aren't accepted. Your booking will flag any other must-haves.
For first-time drivers in Switzerland, remember that traffic here keeps to the right side of the road.
Local speed limits may vary, but it's typically around 45kph (30mph) in urban areas and 110kph (70mph) or so on highways. Always obey the road signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Switzerland is 0.05%. Since alcohol's effects vary from person to person, it's best to skip drinks entirely so you remain legal to drive.
One of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination is around 8am. Make life easier by steering clear of rush hours in general.
You'll be using the Swiss franc (CHF) here. As well as your credit and debit cards, consider taking some cash for minor purchases.
Best hotels in Basel for drivers
Pull in, unpack, and ease into your stay at Hotel 2places. Offering parking as well as express check-in and internet access, this hotel is around 6 kms (4 miles) from central Basel.
Maison Jenny Hotel Restaurant & Spa is another good fit if your plans involve plenty of exploring. It features accessible parking, along with a lobby bar and internet access. Make this your base and you'll be roughly 6 kms (4 miles) from the city centre.
Explore the full lineup of hotels in Basel and choose the stay that suits your trip. Filters make it easy to tailor your search to your needs — like 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' There's even an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to find hotels with charging access.
It's time to start exploring now you've locked in a car hire deal in Basel and your hotel. From Art Basel to Basel Minster and Muensterplatz, you're spoiled for choice on things to do here.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Basel
Zurich has to be on your itinerary if you're eager to visit Bahnhofstrasse and Cirque du Soleil - Grand Chapiteau. This city is around 72 kms (45 miles) east of central Basel.
You'll be well looked after at Crowne Plaza Zürich by IHG and Züri by Fassbind, two accommodation options with parking in Zurich.
Or pick up your cheap car hire in Basel and head roughly 72 kms (45 miles) south to Bern. Featuring Old Town Bern and Zytglogge, its attractions make a strong case for visiting.
Bern has some comfortable places to stay including Novotel Bern Expo and Prize by Radisson, Bern City. Both give you somewhere to leave your car while you're here.
Catch up on sleep in Rapperswil at either Seedamm Plaza or Marina Lachen. They've got a bed waiting for you and space for your wheels too.
