Highway vignette for Switzerland

In Switzerland, the e-vignette is mandatory for all vehicles up to 3.5 tons on highways. Uniqueness: there is only an annual option, but it is valid for 14 months!

Switzerland has a prestigious alpine highway network. A2 runs through the Gotthard Tunnel into Italy, A1 connects Geneva with Zurich.

The control is automatic. The Swiss vignette is necessary for passing through alpine tunnels.

Types of validity and prices

The Swiss e-vignette is valid for one year for 40 CHF. It is valid from December 1 to January 31 of the following year (14 months).

The only option, but with extended validity. You will receive confirmation by email.

How online purchase works

Purchasing the Swiss e-vignette is simple. Enter the license plate and complete the payment.

The annual vignette is valid for 14 months - the best value among European countries.

Fines for driving without a valid vignette

Driving without a vignette in Switzerland is an offense with a fine of 200 CHF plus the obligation to purchase a vignette.

Traveling to other countries

Czech Republic • Slovakia • Austria • Hungary • Slovenia • Croatia • Romania • Bulgaria • Moldova

Switzerland – The Land of the Alps and Precision

Switzerland is synonymous with quality and reliability. From majestic alpine peaks to watchmaking tradition to premium chocolate – this small country offers extraordinary experiences.

For car travelers, Switzerland is a gateway to the Alps. The Gotthard tunnel, panoramic mountain roads, and connections to three major European countries make Switzerland a key transit country.

Tourist Attractive Regions

• Zürich – The largest city and financial center. Old town, lake, and nearby Alps. An excellent base for excursions.
• Bern – The capital with a UNESCO medieval center. Bear park and views of the Alps from Rosengarten.
• Luzern – The most beautiful city by the lake. The wooden bridge Kapellbrücke and a trip to Mount Pilatus or Rigi.
• Zermatt – Home of the Matterhorn – the most photographed mountain in the world. Year-round skiing and mountain railway.

Swiss highways are among the best maintained in Europe. However, you pay a premium price for that.

What is the Swiss e-vignette and how does it work

The Swiss e-vignette (motorway sticker) is mandatory for all vehicles up to 3.5 tons on national roads (Nationalstrassen). Unlike other countries, there is only an annual option – no daily or weekly options!

The e-vignette is valid on all highways and expressways marked with a green symbol. Tunnels (Gotthard, San Bernardino) are included in the price.

Main Motorway Routes in Switzerland

The Swiss motorway network is compact yet high quality. The main axes connect neighboring countries and allow for quick transit through the Alps.

Tourist attractions accessible by car

Switzerland offers a concentration of natural beauty and cultural landmarks in a small space. Most are accessible by car.

• Matterhorn – Iconic mountain (4,478 m) near Zermatt. Zermatt is car-free – park in Täsch and take the train. Unforgettable view!
• Jungfrau Region – Jungfrau region with the highest railway station in Europe (3,454 m). Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen are accessible by car.
• Luzern – Wooden bridge from 1333, lake, and nearby mountains Pilatus and Rigi. Great starting point for excursions.
• Interlaken – Town between two lakes. Adrenaline sports (paragliding, bungee) and gateway to the Bernese Alps.
• Rýnské vodopády – The largest waterfall in Europe near Schaffhausen. Directly accessible by car, boats to the waterfall.

Tip: Many mountain resorts are car-free. Park in the valley and take advantage of the excellent Swiss railway!

Traveling from neighboring countries

Switzerland borders five countries. There are two main routes from the Czech Republic – through Germany or Austria.

History of the Swiss motorway network

The Swiss motorway network is a technical marvel. Building highways in alpine terrain required innovative solutions – tunnels, bridges, and viaducts.

The motorway vignette was introduced in 1985 in response to congestion in alpine passes. Since 2023, an electronic version is available.

Key milestones

• 1964: Opening of the first section of the motorway (Geneva)
• 1980: Completion of the Gotthard Road Tunnel (16.9 km – the longest in the world at that time)
• 1985: Introduction of the mandatory motorway vignette
• 2016: Opening of the Gotthard Rail Tunnel (57 km – the longest in the world)
• 2023: Introduction of the electronic e-vignette

The Gotthard Tunnel is a technical masterpiece – 16.9 km beneath 2,500-meter mountains.

Switzerland invests billions in maintenance and modernization of its motorway network. The quality of the roads is among the best in Europe.

Overview of Swiss vignette prices 2025

Switzerland offers only an annual option – but with a unique 14-month validity:

Switzerland is the only country in Europe without short-term options. 40 CHF for 14 months is a great price!

Controls and Fines in Switzerland

The e-vignette check is conducted automatically using cameras and manually by the police. The Swiss police are known for their consistency.

How Checks Are Conducted

1. Stationary Cameras: On highways and at tunnels, automatic license plate reading
2. Mobile Units: Police patrols with portable readers
3. Border Checks: Randomly upon entry into the country

Fines for Driving Without a Vignette

The Swiss police are very strict. Fines are paid on the spot, otherwise, vehicle confiscation may occur.

Practical Tips for Traveling to Switzerland

Traveling to Switzerland requires preparation for higher costs, but the reward is premium services:

Legal Information and Traffic Regulations

Swiss traffic regulations are strict and rigorously enforced:

Basic Rules

• Mandatory Equipment: Warning triangle, reflective vest (recommended)
• Lights: Recommended year-round, mandatory in tunnels
• Alcohol: Maximum 0.5 ‰ (professionals 0.0 ‰)
• Speed limits: Urban 50, outside urban areas 80, highway 120 km/h

Switzerland is not a member of the EU or Schengen for customs purposes. Goods checks may occur at the borders.

Best time to visit

Switzerland is beautiful in every season:

Frequently asked questions about traveling to Switzerland

Famous Swiss Tunnels

Switzerland is famous for its impressive tunnels that cross the Alpine massifs. Some are among the longest in the world:

Alpine Passes and Scenic Routes

Besides tunnels, Switzerland offers breathtaking mountain passes. Many are open only in summer:

• Furka Pass – Famous for serpentines and views of the Rhône Glacier. Film location from James Bond. Open June-October.
• Grimsel Pass – Connects cantons Bern and Valais. Lakes, dams, and dramatic scenery. Open June-October.
• Susten Pass – One of the most beautiful roads in Switzerland. 2,224 m above sea level. Open June-October.
• Stelvio Pass – Technically in Italy, but a popular destination from Switzerland. 48 hairpins, 2,757 m.

Tip: Mountain passes are an alternative to paid tunnels, but require more time and an experienced driver.

Travel Costs in Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe. Prepare for higher expenses:

Tip: The Swiss franc (CHF) is a strong currency. Current rate about 1.10 USD/CHF. Card payment accepted everywhere, cash not necessary.

Swiss Franc and Payments

Switzerland is not a member of the eurozone and uses the Swiss franc (CHF). Some tourist areas accept euros, but at an unfavorable rate.

Payment cards are accepted virtually everywhere – from parking meters to mountain huts. Contactless payments are standard.

ATMs (Bancomat) are everywhere. Withdrawals in CHF are usually free, but your bank may charge a foreign transaction fee.

Driving Specifics in Switzerland

Swiss roads are perfectly maintained, but have their specifics:

• Right of way: At roundabouts, traffic from the right has priority unless otherwise marked.
• Lights: Mandatory in tunnels and recommended year-round. Daytime running lights not mandatory.
• Horn: Use only in case of danger. Unnecessary honking is fined.
• Mountain roads: Vehicles going uphill have priority. On narrow roads, the vehicle going downhill reverses.