Bern, SwitzerlandTips for Expats Driving in Bern
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Bern.
1. Understanding the Driving Culture
Driving in Bern is generally considered safe and efficient. The roads are well-maintained and the drivers are disciplined. However, it's important to familiarize yourself with the local driving rules and regulations. For instance, the Swiss drive on the right side of the road and give priority to the right unless otherwise indicated. Speed limits are strictly enforced and vary depending on the type of road.
2. Choosing the Right Car
Switzerland has a diverse terrain, so the type of car you choose will depend on your specific needs. If you plan on exploring the mountainous regions, a 4x4 might be a good choice. However, for city driving, a smaller, fuel-efficient car would be more practical. Keep in mind that manual transmission cars are more common in Europe, so if you're not comfortable driving one, make sure to specify that you want an automatic when buying or renting a car.
3. Parking in Bern
Finding parking in Bern can be challenging, especially in the city center. Most parking spaces are metered and can be quite expensive. There are also parking garages available, but these can also be pricey. It's recommended to use public transportation when possible to avoid the hassle and cost of parking.
4. Driving with an International License
Foreigners can drive in Switzerland with an international driving permit (IDP) for up to one year. After that, you will need to obtain a Swiss driving license. It's important to note that not all countries' driving licenses are recognized in Switzerland, so it's best to check with the local authorities to see if you need an IDP.
5. Obtaining a Swiss Driving License
If you're planning on staying in Switzerland for more than a year, you will need to exchange your foreign driving license for a Swiss one. The process varies depending on your country of origin. For some countries, it's a simple exchange, while for others, you may need to take a driving test. It's recommended to start this process as soon as possible after your arrival in Switzerland.
6. Adapting to Local Road Conditions
Switzerland's weather can greatly affect road conditions, especially in winter. Snow and ice can make driving challenging, so it's important to be prepared. Make sure your car is equipped with winter tires and that you're comfortable driving in these conditions. Also, be aware that mountain roads can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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