Swiss Taxi Prices 2026: Rates, Costs and Fees Overview

Tariff Structure: How Taxi Prices Are Calculated

The fare for a Swiss taxi consists of several components:

1. Base Fare (Pickup Fee)

The base fare is charged when you get in and covers the first meters of the journey. It varies by city and time of day.

2. Price per Kilometer

The price per kilometer is the most important cost factor for longer trips. It is calculated per kilometer traveled.

3. Waiting Time

For waiting times (e.g., in traffic or during stops), charges are per minute.

• Typical waiting fee: CHF 0.60 - 0.90 per minute
• Starts after: 30-60 seconds of standstill

4. Surcharges

Additional costs may apply for:

• Large taxi (5+ passengers): CHF 5.00 - 10.00
• Luggage surcharge: CHF 1.00 - 2.00 per large piece
• Airport surcharge: CHF 5.00 - 15.00
• Phone booking: Usually free
• Pets: CHF 5.00 (not allowed everywhere)

Taxi Prices by City

Tariffs vary considerably between Swiss cities. Here are the most important cities compared:

Zurich

Zurich has the most transparent tariffs in Switzerland:

Example: A 5 km trip during the day costs about CHF 25.00.

Geneva

Geneva has similar prices to Zurich:

Basel

Basel is mid-range in terms of price:

Bern

Bern is slightly cheaper than the major cities:

Lausanne

Lausanne has moderate tariffs:

Day vs. Night Tariffs

Most Swiss cities distinguish between day and night tariffs:

Day Tariff (Tariff 1)

• Valid: Monday to Saturday, 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Exception: Holidays count as night tariff

Night Tariff (Tariff 2)

• Valid: 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM, Sundays, holidays
• Surcharge: Typically 10-25% more expensive

Additional Fees

In addition to the base price, other costs may apply:

Airport Surcharge

• Zurich Airport: CHF 5.00 - 10.00
• Geneva Airport: CHF 5.00
• Basel Airport: CHF 5.00

The surcharge applies for trips from the airport, not for trips to the airport.

Luggage

• Hand luggage and normal suitcases: Usually free
• Bulky luggage (skis, bikes, etc.): CHF 5.00 - 10.00
• More than 2 large suitcases: CHF 1.00 - 2.00 extra each

Large Taxi

For groups of 5 or more passengers:

• Surcharge: CHF 5.00 - 10.00 flat rate
• Or: Higher price per km (up to +20%)

Credit Card Payment

Some taxi companies charge a fee for card payment:

• Typical: CHF 2.00 - 3.00 or 3-5% of the fare
• Many larger companies: Free card payment
• Apps (Uber, Bolt): Always free

Fixed Prices and Flat Rates

For certain routes, many taxi companies offer fixed prices:

Typical Fixed Price Routes

Advantages of Fixed Prices

• Predictable costs without surprises
• No risk from traffic jams or detours
• Often cheaper than taximeter in heavy traffic
• Easy billing for business travelers

Agreeing on a Fixed Price

1. Ask the driver before the trip
2. Explicitly request fixed price when pre-booking
3. Get the price confirmed in writing

Price Comparison: Taxi vs. Alternatives

How do Swiss taxis compare to other transportation options?

Uber and Bolt

Ride-hailing apps are often 20-30% cheaper than traditional taxis:

• Transparent prices before booking
• No cash payment needed
• Disadvantage: Surge pricing during high demand
• Available in: Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne, Winterthur

When Is a Taxi Still Worth It?

• For guaranteed availability (pre-booking)
• For business trips with receipt
• In rural areas without Uber/Bolt
• For special requests (child seat, wheelchair)

Money-Saving Tips for Taxi Rides

Here is how you can save on taxi rides in Switzerland:

1. Use Day Tariff

If possible, travel between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM (Monday to Saturday). You can save up to 25% compared to the night tariff.

2. Compare Apps

Before your trip, compare prices on Uber, Bolt, and traditional taxis. The price differences can be significant.

3. Agree on Fixed Price

For known routes (e.g., airport transfers), a fixed price often pays off. You eliminate the risk of traffic jam costs.

4. Use Shared Taxis

In some cities, there are shared taxis or shuttle services that are significantly cheaper than individual rides.

5. Board at Taxi Stand

If you do not call a taxi but board at a stand, you save any pickup charges.

6. Choose Direct Route

You can tell the driver a preferred route if you know a shorter way.

Price Transparency and Complaints

In Switzerland, taxi prices are strictly regulated:

Your Rights as a Passenger

• Taximeter must be visible and turned on
• Tariffs must be displayed in the vehicle
• Receipt must be issued on request
• Fixed price must be agreed before departure

In Case of Problems

1. Request receipt with taxi number
2. Report to the municipal taxi authority
3. For apps: Submit complaint in the app

Typical Complaints

• Detours without valid reason
• Defective or manipulated taximeter
• Refusal of card payment without notice
• Unfriendly behavior

Summary: Swiss Taxi Prices 2026

Conclusion: Swiss taxis are more expensive than in most European countries, but offer high quality, safety, and reliability in return. With the right tips, you can optimize the price.