Switzerland Parking Guide
Switzerland uses different parking zones indicated by colors, and each zone follows its own parking rules. It’s important to understand these rules based on the color of the zone when parking. Below is a detailed guide to parking in Switzerland.
1. Parking Zone Colors
Blue Zone:
• This zone allows free parking, but there is a time limit, typically between 1 to 2 hours.
• You must use a blue parking disc, indicating your start time, and place it on your car’s dashboard.
• Blue zones are mainly found in urban or residential areas.
• Zurich: Blue zones are common in the city and residential areas. Especially near the city center, you can find many zones where you can park for short periods for free.
• Bern: Blue zones are widely available in the city and suburban areas, often near residential or commercial districts.
• Lucerne: The city and nearby residential areas have well-established blue zones. You can find blue zones a little outside the city center, where many tourists visit.
• Basel: There are numerous blue zones in suburban residential areas and the outer parts of the city. They are also available near the historical city center, providing useful parking options.
How to Use a Blue Zone:
• Use a blue parking disc to set the time you start parking and place it on your car dashboard.
• You can typically park for 1 to 2 hours for free, depending on the region.
• You can easily buy the disc from supermarkets, gas stations, or post offices.
Important Notes:
• Failing to use the disc or overstaying the time limit can result in fines. You must move your car before your parking time expires.
• You should never tamper with the disc to extend your parking time, as this is illegal.
White Zone:
• This is a paid parking zone, typically found in city centers.
• After parking, you pay using a parking meter and place the receipt visibly on your dashboard.
• Parking time is usually limited to a few hours, and the cost depends on the location.
Yellow Line:
• Yellow-marked parking zones are either private parking or reserved spaces.
• Parking here is prohibited unless authorized, and violators may face fines or towing.
2. Park & Ride System
• Park & Ride (P+R) is a large parking area located on the outskirts of cities. You park your car here and take public transport to reach the city center.
• This system is ideal for long-term parking or when it’s difficult to find parking within the city.
• Parking fees are generally lower, and it’s a convenient way to reduce traffic congestion in city centers.
3. Airport and Train Station Parking
• Major airports and train stations offer both long-term and short-term parking options.
• Airport parking is typically charged per hour, while long-term parking can be charged weekly.
• Train stations often offer discounts for those using the trains.
4. Electric Vehicle Parking
• Switzerland promotes eco-friendly policies, so there are designated electric vehicle (EV) parking spots in many city areas.
• These parking spots often have charging facilities, and you’ll need a charging card or app to use them.
5. Fines and Towing
• Illegal parking can result in fines. For example, parking in private zones or restricted areas may incur penalties, and city police monitor and enforce parking regulations.
• In some areas, illegally parked cars may be towed, and you’ll need to pay both towing fees and fines to retrieve your vehicle.
6. Paying for Parking
• Most paid parking lots accept credit cards, cash, or parking apps.
• Parking meters are installed throughout cities, and you must prepay for your parking.
• In some areas, parking apps allow you to extend your parking time via your mobile phone (for example, easypark or parkingpay).
7. Other Parking Rules
• You cannot park near pedestrian crossings or bicycle lanes.
• Parking within 5 meters of a crosswalk is prohibited.
• You cannot park in bus lanes or areas reserved for emergency vehicles.
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