Anticipate Ahead: Uncover the Significant Travel Modifications Set for Switzerland in 2025
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Hopping Behind the Wheel in Switzerland: What's New in 2025
Prepare for a change in the Swiss driving landscape come 2025! Here's a lowdown on upcoming regulations that'll have you cruising through the Alpine nation with a fresh set of rules.
Listen up, drivers! Strict noise regulations are on the horizon, and those who begrudgingly break 'em might have to dish out fines up to 10,000 francs. What's considered noise pollution? Backfiring that isn't absolutely necessary. And guess what? Existing fines for noise pollution from vehicles will sneak up to 80 francs.
Don't forget motorbike enthusiasts! Your prized two-wheelers need to comply with the European Union's exhaust fuel regulations (the "Euro 5+" standard rolled out in 2020) before getting registered. Stricter noise level regulations will also apply when you register 'em.
Mind you, this isn't a comprehensive list of traffic-related changes swirling around Switzerland. Care to learn more? Dive deeper here: Switzerland to bring in new driving rules in 2025
Now, let's talk about something that truly gets the automotive world buzzing - automated driving and parking. Starting March 1st, Swiss cantons will approve the use of autopilot systems in vehicles equipped with such a system. Once activated, you can relinquish control of the steering wheel, but remember - safety first! You'll need to be ready to take the wheel back at any moment if the automation system deems it essential.
Parking without human intervention will be a go in designated car parks and parking spaces. Want to know the future of driverless propulsion? Self-driving cars to hit Swiss roads next year, but what are the rules?
The Swiss railway company, SBB, is revamping its schedule with several updates you might find beneficial. Gear up for enhanced transport options in the French-speaking regions, where Renens, a suburb of Lausanne, will become a significant rail hub with long-distance trains stopping by. Improvements are also in store for German-speaking regions, including a half-hourly schedule for mainline traffic that will double the offer for commuters and travelers alike.
Craving to learn more about Switzerland's revamped train schedule? How Switzerland's train timetable has changed
International train enthusiasts, take note! Some exciting updates are in store for cross-border travel! Additional Zurich-Munich trains will whisk passengers to Munich two hours earlier, while returning them significantly later, and the direct Zurich-Brig (Valais) train will operate year-round, extended all the way to Domodossola, Italy.
Dreaming of a sunny getaway? Airlines have added an array of new destinations to their summer 2025 timetable, including Dubrovnik (Croatia), Montpellier (France), Heringsdorf (Germany), and Niš (Serbia).
Logistics buffs, here's a trivia tidbit for you: the Entry & Exit System (EES) replacing passport stamps for non-EU travelers entering the Schengen Area will launch in 2025. This digital system tracks entries and exits, helping enforce the 90-day rule for short-term stays (excluding EU/EEA citizens, residents, and visa holders). The EES is expected to improve border efficiency but may require non-EU travelers to register for EES and provide biometric data for EES during their first trip.
And last but not least, brace yourself for the UK's new ETA visa waiver, similar to the EU's ETIAS or the US ESTA, starting January 8th, 2025. This £10 digital authorization will be necessary for most non-UK nationals, including Swiss citizens, entering the UK. The rollout will begin with travelers from outside the EU, extending to EU nationals except Irish citizens starting April 2nd, 2025. Swipe here for more: EES and ETIAS: What are the big changes for travel in Europe?
- In 2025, motorbike enthusiasts looking to register their two-wheelers in Switzerland will have to comply with the Euro 5+ exhaust fuel regulations and stricter noise level regulations, as per European Union standards.
- The Swiss railway company, SBB, is set to introduce new train schedules, particularly in the French-speaking regions, where Renens, a suburb of Lausanne, will become a significant rail hub.
- Starting January 8th, 2025, Swiss citizens, along with other non-UK nationals, will need to obtain a UK ETA visa waiver, similar to the EU's ETIAS or the US ESTA, for entering the UK. This digital authorization will cost £10.
