The Complete Swiss Taxi Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Swiss Taxi Prices: An Overview

Swiss taxis are not cheap, but you get quality and reliability. Prices vary by canton and city.

Typical Fare Structure

Sample Prices for Typical Rides

How to Order a Taxi: All Methods

There are several ways to order a taxi in Switzerland. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

By Phone

The classic and most reliable method:

• Call a taxi central
• Give your address and name
• Ask for waiting time (usually 5-15 minutes)

By App

Available apps:

At a Taxi Stand

In cities, you can find taxi stands at:

• Train stations
• Airports
• Large hotels
• Shopping centers
• Central squares

Online Pre-booking

Ideal for planned trips like airport transfers:

• Booking form on the taxi company's website
• Fixed price often possible
• Confirmation by email

Payment and Payment Methods

Accepted Payment Methods

• Cash: Accepted everywhere
• Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard (mostly accepted)
• Debit cards: Maestro, V-Pay (often accepted)
• TWINT: Increasingly common
• Apple/Google Pay: At some taxis

Receipt

You are always entitled to a receipt. This includes:

• Date and time
• Start and destination address
• Kilometers traveled
• Itemized fare
• Taxi company and license number

Tipping in Swiss Taxis

Tipping is not mandatory in Switzerland, but it is appreciated:

Common Practices

• Rounding up: CHF 18.50 to CHF 20
• 5-10% for good service: For longer rides or help with luggage
• No tip: Completely acceptable for unfriendly service

When to Tip More?

• Help with heavy luggage
• Ride in bad weather
• Particularly friendly service
• At night or on holidays

Taxis at Swiss Airports

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

The largest Swiss airport with many taxi options:

• Taxi stand directly in front of terminals
• Typical waiting time: 0-5 minutes
• To center: CHF 50-70 (approx. 15-25 min.)

Geneva Airport (GVA)

Important hub for Western Switzerland:

• Taxi stand at the exit
• To center: CHF 30-50 (approx. 10-15 min.)
• Note: Geneva taxis for CH, others for FR

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL)

Tri-national airport with special features:

• Swiss and French taxis available
• To Basel: CHF 40-55 (approx. 15-20 min.)
• Look for Swiss license

Taxi vs. Alternatives

Comparison Table

When to Choose a Taxi?

• In a hurry or important appointment
• Lots of luggage
• At night or early morning
• Bad weather
• Groups (3-8 people)
• Business trips

When to Choose Alternatives?

• Public transport: Well connected, affordable, in good weather
• Uber/Bolt: Often cheaper than taxi in cities
• Rental car: For multi-day stays

Practical Tips

Before the Ride

1. Know the exact address (street + house number)
2. Research approximate price
3. Clarify payment method
4. Register special requests in advance (large taxi, child seat)

During the Ride

• Meter must be visible and running
• Suggest route if needed
• In case of problems: note the license number

After the Ride

• Request a receipt
• Don't forget your luggage
• For complaints: contact the taxi central

Safety in Taxis

Swiss taxis are very safe. Nevertheless, some tips:

Recognizing Licensed Taxis

• Official "TAXI" roof light
• License number visible
• Meter present
• Rates displayed in vehicle

Safety Tips

• Only take official taxis at airports
• Ask driver for approximate price
• If uncertain: track route on your phone
• Note license number in case of problems

Taxis in Major Cities

Zurich

Largest city with the most extensive taxi offering. All apps available, many taxi stands. More about taxis in Zurich

Geneva

Second largest city, international audience. Note the distinction between CH and FR taxis. More about taxis in Geneva

Basel

Tri-border region with special character. Good taxi coverage in the city area. More about taxis in Basel

Bern

Federal capital with compact center. Shorter distances, moderate prices. More about taxis in Bern

Summary

Key points at a glance:

• Prices: CHF 6-8 base fare + CHF 3-5 per km
• Ordering: Phone, app, taxi stand, or online
• Payment: Cash, card, TWINT
• Tipping: 5-10% or round up
• Safety: Only use licensed taxis