Switzerland is one of Europe’s most spectacular motorcycling destinations, with superb mountain passes, excellent road surfaces and breathtaking scenery. However, Swiss traffic laws are strictly enforced and fines can be substantial, so it pays to understand the local regulations before travelling.
Motorway Vignette
A motorway vignette is required for all motorcycles and vehicles using Swiss motorways and expressways. The vignette costs CHF 40 and is available either as a traditional windscreen/fork-mounted sticker or as a digital e-vignette linked to your vehicle registration number.
If you enter Switzerland via a motorway border crossing and intend to continue on Swiss motorways, you must obtain a vignette before using the motorway network. Vignettes can be purchased online before travel, at border crossings, petrol stations and many post offices.
The vignette is valid from 1 December of the previous year until 31 January of the following year (14 months in total).
If you are caught using a motorway without a valid vignette, the penalty is currently CHF 200, plus the cost of purchasing the vignette.
If you wish to avoid the cost, you can travel entirely on Switzerland’s excellent non-motorway roads. Simply set your SatNav to avoid motorways when planning routes through the country.
Speed Cameras and Speed Limits
Switzerland has a reputation for rigorous speed enforcement. Fixed and mobile speed cameras are common, particularly in towns, villages and on major routes. Many cameras are discreetly positioned and there is often little or no advance warning.
Speed camera warning devices and speed camera databases are prohibited in Switzerland. Before entering the country, ensure any speed camera alert functions on your SatNav or navigation app are disabled.
Swiss speeding penalties can be severe, especially for significant excess speeds, so it is strongly recommended that riders observe all posted speed limits.
Motorcycle Filtering
Motorcycle filtering and lane splitting are generally not permitted in Switzerland. Riders are expected to remain in their position within traffic queues and should not ride between lanes of stationary or slow-moving vehicles.
Currency
Switzerland is not part of the Eurozone and uses the Swiss Franc (CHF).
Although many hotels, restaurants, fuel stations and tourist businesses accept Euros, exchange rates can be unfavourable and any change is usually given in Swiss Francs. For this reason, many visitors find it more convenient to pay by debit or credit card, which are widely accepted throughout the country.
Fuel Stations
Fuel stations are plentiful, including in most mountain regions, although opening hours may be more limited in remote areas. Automated pumps accepting credit and debit cards are common.
Road Conditions
Swiss roads are generally maintained to an exceptionally high standard. Mountain passes can remain closed due to snow until late spring and may close temporarily during adverse weather. If travelling early or late in the season, check local road conditions before setting out.
Essential Documents
Carry the following documents when travelling in Switzerland:
• Full UK driving licence
• Passport
• Vehicle registration document (V5C)
• Valid motor insurance certificate
• Breakdown and recovery details
• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
Useful Links
Swiss Travel Centre
https://www.myswitzerland.com
Swiss Federal Roads Office
https://www.astra.admin.ch
Swiss e-Vignette
https://via.admin.ch
The Big Five Swiss Passes
Switzerland is home to some of the finest motorcycling roads in Europe. Many riders visit specifically to experience the legendary Alpine passes, which combine breathtaking scenery with outstanding riding.
The “Big Five” Swiss passes are:
• Furka Pass
Perhaps the most famous of all Swiss passes, reaching 2,429 metres. Featured in the James Bond film Goldfinger, it offers spectacular mountain scenery, sweeping bends and views of the Rhône Glacier.
• Grimsel Pass
Connecting the Bernese Oberland with the Upper Valais, the Grimsel Pass rises to 2,164 metres and is renowned for its dramatic granite landscapes, reservoirs and excellent road surface.
• Susten Pass
Often regarded as one of the most enjoyable roads for motorcyclists, the Susten Pass reaches 2,260 metres and combines flowing curves, tunnels, waterfalls and stunning glacier views.
• Nufenen Pass
At 2,478 metres, this is the highest fully paved mountain pass entirely within Switzerland. The road is less busy than some of the other major passes and offers magnificent panoramic views.
• St Gotthard Pass
One of Europe’s historic Alpine crossings. Riders can choose between the modern paved road or the famous cobbled Tremola Road, a unique experience featuring dozens of hairpin bends climbing through the mountains.
Many riders combine Furka, Grimsel and Susten into a single circular route known as the “Three Pass Loop”, widely considered one of the best day’s rides in the Alps.
Passes are typically open from late May or early June until October, depending on snowfall and weather conditions. Before travelling, always check current road and pass opening information, particularly early and late in the season.