Switzerland by RV
Tips for the perfect motorhome adventure
RV Infrastructure
Good facilities for RVs (parking, hookups, etc.)
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Many campgrounds and RV parks available for motorhomes.
RV Routes
Routes and round trips specifically suitable for RVs.
Planning an RV trip to Switzerland? Here are valuable tips, the best routes, campgrounds, and everything you need for an unforgettable motorhome journey.
Travel Climate for RV Trips
Important information about climate, weather, and the best travel time for your RV trip in Switzerland.
15–20°C·79–116 mm(heavy rain)
For hiking, mountain railways, and pass drives, June to September are best: High Alpine passes are usually snow-free only from about mid-June, and July generally offers the most hours of sunshine. For winter sports, December to March are suitable.
Monthly values are sourced from MeteoSchweiz (standard period 1991-2020) for Zurich, representing the Central Plateau. It's significantly cooler in the mountains, where the weather can change very quickly. In the Central Plateau, most precipitation occurs from May to August, primarily as showers and thunderstorms.
Seasons
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
High Season Summer
Winter sport time
Off-season
Inter-season
Best Time to Visit
▶Show detailed monthly data
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Sun (h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1.0 | 63 | 1.6 |
| February | 2.0 | 55 | 2.9 |
| March | 6.0 | 65 | 4.5 |
| April | 9.5 | 73 | 5.9 |
| May | 13.5 | 115 | 6.3 |
| June | 17.5 | 112 | 7.2 |
| July | 19.5 | 116 | 7.6 |
| August | 19.0 | 109 | 7.1 |
| September | 15.0 | 79 | 5.3 |
| October | 10.0 | 80 | 3.1 |
| November | 5.0 | 74 | 1.7 |
| December | 1.5 | 80 | 1.3 |
Warning: In the winter months, it can get very cold. Many campgrounds are closed. Make sure your RV is winter-ready.
RV Tips for Switzerland
Where to Stay Overnight
There is no nationwide rule for RV overnight stays outside of campsites. Wild camping, which includes sleeping in your vehicle, is not generally prohibited, but is subject to varying cantonal regulations, and ultimately the municipalities decide.
Ask beforehand: The Touring Club Switzerland (TCS) recommends checking with the municipality, tourist office, or local police. On private land, you need the owner's permission.
Strict Cantons: In Ticino, overnight stays are only allowed at official campsites and designated pitches; Basel-Stadt and Basel-Landschaft also do not permit it outside of campsites.
Rest Stops: A rest stop is not a campsite. Where an overnight break is tolerated, you must drive on in the morning.
Fines: High fines are imposed for violations.
Vehicle and Roads
Vignette or Heavy Vehicle Fee: RVs up to 3.5 tons require the standard vignette for 40 Swiss francs. Heavier vehicles pay a heavy vehicle fee instead.
Mountain Passes: High Alpine passes are usually reliably snow-free from around mid-June. The TCS Pass Portal shows the status and weather for 77 pass roads.
Mountain Roads: On mountain roads, uphill-driving vehicles have priority. Before narrow roads, check your vehicle's height, width, and weight.
Routes
The Grand Tour of Switzerland is a 1643-kilometer main scenic route signposted by Switzerland Tourism, which can also be traveled by RV. It leads through all four language regions, over five Alpine passes and along 22 lakes; its highest point is the Furkapass at 2429 meters. The route avoids motorways where possible and is especially suitable for summer due to the passes.
General RV Travel Tips
Planning Routes
Choose routes that are suitable for RVs. Pay attention to road width, height restrictions, and parking options.
Booking Campgrounds
Especially during peak season, you should book campgrounds in advance. Many RV parks are also available spontaneously.
