Car Rental in Germany | Best Prices Guaranteed

1. How much does it cost to rent a car in Germany?

The cost of renting a car in Germany varies widely based on the rental company and the type of vehicle. On average, you can expect to pay between €20 and €120 per day.

2. What car model is most hired in Germany?

The VW Golf is one of the most popular rental cars in Germany due to its compact size which is suitable for both city and cross-country driving.

3. What are the most popular locations to rent a car in Germany?

Major cities such as Berlin, Munich and Hamburg are popular spots for renting cars, as well as major airports such as Frankfurt Airport.

4. Is there a 24-hour pickup and return service?

Most car rental companies in Germany offer 24-hour pickup and return services from their airport locations. However, it is important to confirm this service with your specific rental agency.

5. What is the minimum rental period?

The minimum rental period usually depends on the car rental company, but generally, it is a 24 hour period.

6. What is the minimum age to rent a car in Germany?

Most car rental companies in Germany require drivers to be at least 18 years old, though some companies charge an additional fee for drivers under 25.

7. What documents do I need to rent or drive a car in Germany?

You will need a valid driver's license (international if you are not from the EU), passport, and a credit card in the driver’s name.

8. When is it best to visit Germany by car?

Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing by car because the weather is generally mild. However, those who enjoy winter sports may prefer to rent a car in winter for a different kind of experience.

9. What are the main airports in Germany?

The main airports in Germany are Frankfurt Airport, Munich Airport, and Berlin Tegel Airport.

10. Can I pick up the car in one city and return it in another city in Germany?

Yes, most car rental companies offer the option of one-way rentals for an extra fee.

1. Berlin - Hamburg: A route of approximately 288 kilometers and 3 hours of driving via A24. Best known for its superb highway conditions and scenic views.
2. Munich - Nuremberg: A 169 kilometer drive via A9 lasting about 1 hour and 43 minutes, it's known for great road conditions and straightforward route.
3. Frankfurt - Heidelberg: This route runs 91 kilometers via A5 and is typically covered in about an hour. It is famed for its smooth highways, frequent rest stops and is surrounded by picturesque landscape.
4. Stuttgart - Baden-Baden: Almost 100 kilometers via A8 with an estimated driving time of 1 hour 30 minutes. Beautiful scenic drive with excellent motorway standards.
5. Dusseldorf - Cologne: A short 40 kilometer drive via A57, typically completed in about 40 minutes. The road has great traffic flow and offers some unique landmarks along the way.
6. Hannover - Wolfsburg: An 89 kilometer route via A2, generally covered in about hour. A significant motorway journey with regular service areas and excellent roads.
7. Bremen - Hamburg: A 126 kilometer journey via A1 takes typically about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The route is known for its scenic and advantageous drive with great highway conditions.

1. Berlin Wall: Uncover Germany's past at this iconic Cold War landmark.
2. Cologne Cathedral: Marvel at one of the world's largest cathedrals, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Neuschwanstein Castle: Discover the fairytale castle that inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle.
4. Brandenburg Gate: Visit one of Germany's most famed monuments, a symbol of unity and peace.
5. Dachau Concentration Camp: Reflect at the first Nazi concentration camp opened in Germany.
6. Heidelberg Castle: Explore the ruins of this iconic Renaissance structure with fascinating history.
7. Museum Island, Berlin: Delve into history at this UNESCO-listed site, home to five world-renowned museums.
8. Romantic Road: Drive through scenic towns and landscapes on this breathtaking route.

1. In what side of the road do you drive in Germany?

In Germany, as in most European countries, you drive on the right-hand side of the road.

2. What is the general speed limit on German highways?

Germany is known for some sections of its Autobahn network having no speed limit, but generally you're restricted to 130 km/h (81 mph). In towns, the speed limit is 50 km/h (31 mph), while on country roads the limit is 100 km/h (62 mph).

3. Are there often speed cameras on German roads?

Yes, there are quite a number of speed cameras (radars) on German roads and it's mandatory to respect the speed limits to avoid fines.

4. Do I need a special driver's license to drive in Germany?

If you are a tourist and your stay is less than a year, you can use an International Driving Permit combined with your home's country driver's license. For EU and EEA citizens, licenses issued in these countries are valid in Germany.

5. Is it mandatory to pay tolls in Germany?

Tolls don't exist on majority of German roads. However, a toll is required for trucks over 7.5 tonnes using motorways and selected federal highways.

6. Are there any specific driving rules in Germany i should know about?

Germany adheres to right before left rule at uncontrolled intersections. In case of a traffic jam, it's compulsory to form an emergency lane in the middle of the two lanes, regardless if emergency vehicles are present or not.

7. How often are service stations located on German highways?

Service stations, known as “Autohof”, are abundant on German highways, usually every 40 – 60 km where you can refuel, rest and grab a snack.

8. What should I consider regarding safety while driving in Germany?

Always keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, especially on the autobahns. Tailgating is a serious offense and is strictly penalized.

9. How are the road conditions in Germany?

Germany generally has high quality roads, but always stay alert for any sudden roadworks, especially in urban areas.

10. Is it required to carry some safety equipment in the car in Germany?

In Germany, it's mandatory to carry a warning triangle, first-aid kit and a safety vest in your car.

11. Can children be seated in the front seat of the car in Germany?

Children under 12 years or smaller than 150 cm must use appropriate car seats and cannot ride in the front seat.

12. Is it legal to overtake on the right in Germany?

Overtaking on the right is generally only allowed in traffic jams or on multi-lane city streets. On the highways, use the left lane to overtake.

13. Can I turn right on red when driving in Germany?

Unless there is a green arrow sign (“Grünpfeil”), it's forbidden to turn right on red.

14. Is honking allowed in Germany?

Honking is generally not encouraged and should only be used in situations where there is a risk of an accident.

15. Where should I park my car in Germany?

Always park your car to the right of the road. Parking against the traffic flow, on crosswalks and 5 meters in-front of intersections is illegal.

1. Berlin: The capital and largest city of Germany, known for its art, modern architecture, and vibrant nightlife.
2. Hamburg: A major port city, with a stunning harbor area and known for its rich musical history.
3. Munich: Famous for its Oktoberfest and beer halls, including the 16th-century Hofbräuhaus.
4. Cologne: A 2,000-year-old city spanning the Rhine River known for its Gothic architecture.
5. Frankfurt: The financial hub of Germany, housing the European Central Bank.
6. Stuttgart: Home to the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche headquarters and museums, showcasing Germany's automotive heritage.
7. Dusseldorf: Known for its influential fashion and art scene.

1. Romantic Road: One of the best known and loved routes in Germany, this trip from Wurzburg to Fussen stretches over 400 kilometers, passing through beautiful landscapes and historical towns.
2. German Wine Route: Stretching approximately 85 kilometers from the House of the German Wine Route to the French border, this trip offers stunning views of vineyards and charming wine-growing villages.
3. German Alpine Road: A breathtaking journey from Lindau on Lake Constance to Berchtesgaden on Lake Konigssee, covering roughly 450 kilometers through breathtaking mountaintops and serene valleys.
4. Fairy Tale Road: Perfect for families, this 600-kilometer route runs from Hanau to Bremen and includes stops at places that inspired famous fairy tales like Little Red Riding Hood and Sleeping Beauty.
5. Castle Road: Extend over 1,000 kilometers from Mannheim to Prague, this route passes by over 70 castles and palaces, exposing you to Germany's rich history and architecture.
6. Black Forest High Road: Covering about 60 kilometers from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt, this route is famous for its gorgeous scenery, including dense forests, mountain peaks, and glacial lakes.
7. Mosel Wine Route: Stretching over 240 kilometers from the German-Dutch border to the Rhine, this route allows you to explore one of the oldest wine regions in Germany.