Taxi travel in Switzerland is expensive, a reflection on the high cost of living that affects Switzerland's taxi drivers along with other residents. Taxi drivers are required to have a clean driving record for the previous 3 years and to have passed tests in local language competence as well as theoretical and practical tests. Taxi drivers have photographic ID cards clearly displayed in their vehicles. As a passenger you have a right to select from waiting taxis and are not obliged to accept the first driver in the line.

Taxi tariffs are generally based on a flat fee plus a rate per kilometre, with waiting charges where applicable. Surcharges apply for any luggage handling and for fitting of the mandatory car seat for small children. In Zurich, which is known for having particularly expensive taxi fares, maximum tariff rates have been set but taxi drivers now have the freedom to reduce these tariffs. They may not exceed the maximum tariffs. In some other areas taxi fares are also regulated, but this is not universal. A taxi will always have a meter (Taxuhr) in operation except where customers have accepted a flat rate for the journey. Tipping is not expected, although you may wish to round up the final charge.

Occasionally there are reports of visitors being scammed by drivers taking a longer than necessary route.

You will find taxi ranks at public transport hubs or can book by phone. Some companies have websites where you can request a callback to book your taxi free of charge.

Taking a taxi in Switzerland will cost significantly more than taking public transport. If you are travelling with a child who requires a car seat to travel safely, note that many taxi companies will require advanced notice and are likely to charge for the collection and/or fitting of the seat. If a seat has to be collected this can cost in the region of CHF 20-30. However, there should be no additional charge for raising seats to accommodate older children. Waiting taxis that do not have available car seats may refuse you rather than infringe child safety regulations. Animals that can be transported in a suitable container are unlikely to pose a problem when taking a taxi. If you need to transport a larger dog, please check first with the taxi company that they will permit this.

English-speaking Taxi Companies: Zurich

http://www.alpha-taxi.ch/
Alpha Taxi AG, Marketingabteilung, Zypressenstrasse 76, Postfach, CH 8040 Zurich
Tel: 044 777 77 77
Email: info@alpha-taxi.ch

http://www.taxi444.ch/
TAXI 444 AG, Ausstellungsstrasse 36, CH 8005 Zürich
Tel: 0444 444 400
info@taxi444.ch

Taxi Companies: Geneva
http://www.englishforum.ch/complaints-corner/123743-what-bike-thief.html
Taxiphone
Central phoneline for Geneva taxis
Taxi-Phone Centrale SA Genève, 15 Rue des Rois, CH 1211 Geneva
http://www.taxi-phone.ch/
Tel: 022 33 141 33