By Camper to Switzerland | Guide 2026
Switzerland has been enchanting tourists for years with its alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes and picturesque villages. By motorhome you can discover it from the inside — at your own pace and on your own terms. In this guide you'll find everything you need to know before setting off: how to buy a vignette, how much a campsite night costs, whether you can sleep in the wild in Switzerland and exactly where it is worth stopping. Welcome!
By Camper to Switzerland | Essential Information
Switzerland is a private oasis for motorhome travellers — well-developed tourist infrastructure, an excellent road network and breathtaking scenic routes. Before you set off, make sure you familiarise yourself with a few rules that will help you avoid problems on the road.
Are roads in Switzerland toll roads?
Yes — the use of motorways and expressways in Switzerland is only possible after purchasing a vignette (Autobahnvignette). It costs 40 CHF (around €45) and is valid for one year — from 1 December to 31 January of the following year.
Without a vignette on a motorway you risk a fine of 200 CHF or more. The vignette is mandatory for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes (both passenger cars and motorhomes). Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes are subject to additional per-kilometre charges (LSVA).
How do you buy a vignette for Switzerland?
You can buy a Swiss vignette online — with delivery of the sticker to your address or as a digital e-vignette. It is also available at border crossings, petrol stations and post offices in Switzerland.
What additional charges apply on alpine passes?
Some tunnel roads charge additional tolls independent of the vignette. The most important are:
- Great St Bernard Tunnel – around 32 CHF (motorhome)
- San Bernardino Tunnel – free (included in the vignette)
- Rail crossings (e.g. BLS AutoZug through the Lötschberg Tunnel) – from around 27 CHF per vehicle
What are the vehicle categories in Switzerland?
Motorhomes up to 3.5 tonnes are subject to the standard motorway vignette (the same as passenger cars). Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes (heavy motorhomes) pay the LSVA — a per-kilometre charge calculated electronically.
Good to know:
If the motorhome is towing a trailer, the trailer's GVW is added to the vehicle's weight. If the total exceeds 3.5 tonnes, registration in the LSVA system is required.
Buy a Swiss vignette online!
Order a motorway vignette for Switzerland conveniently online — with delivery of the sticker to your address or in the form of an electronic e-vignette. Pay quickly and securely.
Buy vignetteMap of Motorways in Switzerland
By Camper to Switzerland | Where to Go?
Switzerland is a country full of beautiful corners. Here are some exceptional destinations for motorhome travellers:
Zermatt and the Matterhorn
One of the most beautiful places in the Alps. The town of Zermatt is car-free (private combustion engine vehicles are banned), so you leave the motorhome in a car park in Täsch and continue by train. Campsite in the area: Camping Alphubel in Täsch. Price around 35–55 CHF per night.
Interlaken – between the lakes
Interlaken lies between Lakes Thun and Brienz, surrounded by the Bernese Alps. An ideal base for trips to Jungfraujoch and Grindelwald. Recommended campsite: TCS Camping Interlaken. Price around 40–60 CHF per night.
Ticino – the Italian soul of Switzerland
The canton of Ticino (Tessin) — southern Switzerland with a mild climate, palm trees by the lake and an Italian way of life. Recommended campsites on Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano. Example: Camping Tamaro in Monte Ceneri. Prices around 35–50 CHF per night.
Graubünden – wild nature and tranquillity
The largest canton in Switzerland, with Engadin National Park — the only one in the country. An ideal place for lovers of wild nature, hiking and mountain biking. Campsite: Camping Muglin in Zuoz (Engadin). Price around 30–45 CHF per night.
Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
The picturesque shore of Lake Geneva with UNESCO-listed vineyards (Lavaux), the Château de Chillon and the elegant town of Montreux. Campsite in the area: TCS Camping Vidy in Lausanne. Price around 40–55 CHF per night.
By Camper to Switzerland | Campsites and Overnight Stays in Switzerland
Switzerland has a rich camping infrastructure — here is what you should know about overnight options.
How much does a night at a campsite in Switzerland cost?
Campsites in Switzerland are among the more expensive in Europe. Typical prices per night:
| Location | High season | Off season |
|---|---|---|
| Alps / Mountains | 35–65 CHF | 25–40 CHF |
| Lakes (Geneva, Zurich) | 40–70 CHF | 30–45 CHF |
| Ticino / South | 35–60 CHF | 25–40 CHF |
How much does it cost to rent a motorhome in Switzerland?
Motorhome rental in Switzerland (indicative prices per week, high season): small van / campervan (2–3 persons) — from around 900–1,500 CHF / week; standard motorhome (4 persons) — from around 1,400–2,200 CHF / week; large motorhome / motorhome (5–6 persons) — from around 1,800–3,000 CHF / week.
By Camper to Switzerland | Parking and Regulations
Switzerland has clear rules on motorhome parking and overnight stays. It is worth knowing them before you set off.
Can you wild camp in Switzerland?
As a rule — no. Wild camping (camping outside official campsites) is prohibited in Switzerland on private land, in national parks and in most protected natural areas.
Exceptions may apply in certain public areas (e.g. higher mountain zones in alpine cantons), but always check local regulations — they differ between cantons. If in doubt — choose a campsite or an official motorhome zone.
Where can you legally park a motorhome in Switzerland?
Legal motorhome parking places in Switzerland:
- Campsites (Campingplätze) — the most convenient option; full facilities.
- Stellplätze — special motorhome car parks, often with access to water and electricity, cheaper than campsites.
- Public car parks — permitted (as long as there is no prohibition), but without camping or setting up equipment.
- Private properties, farms and orchards — with the owner's permission (platforms Campasun, Farmcamping.ch).
What are the road regulations in Switzerland for motorhomes?
Maximum speeds: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h outside built-up areas, 100 km/h on expressways, 120 km/h on motorways.
Motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes are subject to an 80 km/h limit on motorways. Alcohol ban: 0.5 ‰ for all drivers (0.1 ‰ for professional drivers). Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers — including persons in the living area of a motorhome while driving.
Motorhome equipment and documents required in Switzerland
Mandatory equipment: reflective vest, first aid kit, fire extinguisher (required for vehicles over 3.5 t).
Required documents: ID card or passport, driving licence, vehicle registration certificate, motorhome third-party liability insurance (Green Card).
Good to know:
Snow chains are required on certain mountain roads in winter. Check current road warnings before entering the Alps.
By Camper to SwitzerlandSummary
Switzerland is a paradise for motorhome travellers — beautiful landscapes, clean air, excellent infrastructure. Remember about the motorway vignette (mandatory for all vehicles — including motorhomes), the ban on wild camping outside official sites, and the parking rules in each canton. Enjoy your trip!
