Tourist driving guideDriving in Bern
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Bern, Switzerland. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
AutoviaTest.comInternational Driving Permit (IDP) in Bern
IDP not required
EU/EEA licenses are valid. Other foreign licenses are accepted for up to 12 months. An IDP is recommended if your license is not in a Roman alphabet.
Accepted licenses
- EU/EEA licenses
- US, Canada, Australia, UK licenses valid for 12 months
Traffic rules in Bern
Local traffic rules
Headlights must be on 24/7 - even during daytime
Highway vignette (CHF 40/year) is required for motorways
Blood alcohol limit is 0.5‰ (0.1‰ for new drivers)
Right-before-left rule applies at unmarked intersections
UNESCO Old Town has limited vehicle access
Common tourist mistakes
- Driving into the restricted UNESCO Old Town area
- Not yielding to trams and buses on shared roads
- Exceeding speed limits - enforcement is strict and cameras are common
- Parking without proper disc in blue zones
- Not turning wheels toward the curb when parking on hills (required by law)
Horn culture
Horn use is minimal and reserved for genuine emergencies. Bern is a quiet, orderly city.
Traffic fines & penalties
Safety tips
Essential safety tips
- Bern has very safe, well-maintained roads
- The Old Town streets are narrow and cobbled - challenging for any vehicle
- Watch for trams and buses at all times
- Public transport is excellent - strongly consider it over driving
- Hilly terrain requires extra caution in winter conditions
Best time to drive
Mid-morning or early afternoon. The Old Town is best avoided by car entirely.
Seasonal weather warning
No specific rainy season. Winter (Nov-Mar) brings snow and ice. Winter tires are strongly recommended, especially on hilly roads.
Areas to avoid (for beginners)
- Altstadt (UNESCO Old Town) - narrow medieval streets with limited access
- Bundesplatz area - government district with security restrictions
- Kramgasse and Gerechtigkeitsgasse - iconic arcaded streets, not for cars
Parking
Average cost
CHF 2-3/hour on street, CHF 25-45/day in garagesScooter parking
Designated motorcycle parking areas are available near the Old Town and train station.
Parking tips
- Blue zones offer 1 hour free parking with a parking disc
- Street parking costs CHF 2-3/hour
- Major garages: Casino, Bahnhof, Metro, Rathaus
- P+R at Neufeld and Wankdorf for good value
- When parking on hills, you must turn wheels toward the curb - it's the law
Where to park
Bern
Where to park
Renting a car in Bern?
We may earn a commission from bookings made through this link, at no extra cost to you.
FAQ: Driving in Bern
Can I drive in Bern's Old Town?
Access is very limited. The UNESCO-listed Old Town has narrow medieval streets, low arcades, and many pedestrian zones. Park outside and explore on foot - it's the only practical way.
Is it worth renting a car in Bern?
For the city itself, no - trams and buses cover everywhere you need to go. A car is useful for day trips to the Bernese Oberland (Interlaken, Grindelwald, Jungfrau region).
Why do I need to turn my wheels when parking?
Swiss law requires you to turn your wheels toward the curb when parking on a slope. This prevents runaway vehicles. Failure to do so can result in a fine.
How expensive is parking in Bern?
Street parking is CHF 2-3/hour. Garages cost CHF 25-45/day. The best value is P+R at Neufeld or Wankdorf, which connect directly to the tram network.
Can you pass the test?
Try a few real practice questions
What is the general speed limit in urban areas in Switzerland?
No signup required.
Practice for your Switzerland driving test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.
