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Car Rental in Austria

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What You Need to Know Before Hire a Car in Austria?

  • You must be 21 to rent a car in Austria. Some rental companies set the minimum age at 23 or older, especially for larger or luxury vehicles. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country is sufficient if it is in Roman script and has been valid for at least one year. If not, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official translation.

  • A credit card is necessary to book a rental car. Rental agencies in Austria place a security deposit on the card, which is refunded if the car is returned without damage.

  • Deposit amounts vary based on the car category but typically range from $300 to $1,400.

  • Basic coverage, including third-party liability insurance, is usually included. Additional insurance options, like a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft protection, are highly recommended for extra security.

  • Examine the vehicle for any pre-existing damage and ensure it is documented in the rental agreement. Taking photos or videos is a good precaution.

  • You can rent a car in one city and drop it off in another, such as from Vienna to Salzburg. Expect a fee for this convenience.

  • Additional drivers must meet the same age and license requirements. There’s often a small daily fee for adding extra drivers.

  • Major hubs like Vienna International Airport (VIE) or downtown Vienna offer a wide selection of vehicles. Airport pick-ups are convenient but might have 15% to 20% higher costs.

Note: Make sure your license is valid and penalty-free. Bring an IDP or official translation if it isn't in Roman script. Double-check the rental terms before booking to avoid surprises.

hire Free Cancellation

Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Finalrentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.

hire Fair Fuel Policy

You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.

hire No Hidden Charges

Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.

Rent a Car at Vienna International Airport with Finalrentals

Vienna International Airport is the most popular spot for car rentals, thanks to its central location and wide selection of vehicles. In addition, other top pick-up hubs include:

  • Salzburg: Perfect for exploring Austria’s musical heritage and stunning lakes.

  • Innsbruck: Your gateway to the Alps for skiing and outdoor adventures.

  • Graz: A cultural gem with its UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Benefits of Renting a Car at Vienna Airport

  • Seamless Transit: With over 25 million passengers annually, Vienna Airport is a bustling hub, and renting a car here ensures a quick start to your trip.

  • Wide Vehicle Selection: From budget-friendly economy cars to spacious SUVs, Finalrentals has something for every traveler.

Explore at Your Pace: On your schedule, visit iconic locations like Schönbrunn Palace, Hallstatt, or the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

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  •   Vienna International Airport

Car Rental in Austria FAQs:

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  • How much does it cost to rent a car in Austria?
    The cost of renting a car in Austria depends on factors such as the car type, rental duration, and time of year. Economy cars, perfect for city driving and budget-conscious travelers, typically cost between $9 and $30 per day. The price can rise significantly for larger or luxury vehicles. Seasonal demand, such as during the summer or ski season, may increase costs. Booking early or during off-peak seasons often yields the most affordable rates.
  • What's the best time to book a rental car in Austria?
    To secure the best prices and availability, booking your car rental at least 1–2 months in advance is recommended, particularly for high-demand seasons like summer or winter holidays. Platforms like the Finalrentals online car rental app allow you to compare rates, choose from a wide selection of vehicles, and lock in competitive pricing. Last-minute bookings may limit your options and lead to higher costs.
  • Is GPS included with rental cars in Austria?
    GPS is not automatically included in most rental cars in Austria. A GPS device can usually be added for €5–€10 per day, depending on the rental agency. Alternatively, you can save on this cost using your smartphone’s navigation apps, which work well with a local or international data plan. Check coverage in rural or mountainous areas if relying on your phone.
  • Can I drive in Austria as a tourist?
    Yes, tourists can drive in Austria, but it is essential to carry your valid driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in German or Roman script. Alternatively, obtaining a certified German translation of your license is also acceptable. Always have these documents with you when driving, as you may be required to present them during routine checks or in case of an accident.
  • Can I add an additional driver to my rental car?
    Yes, additional drivers can be added to your rental agreement in Austria. They must meet the same age and licensing requirements as the primary driver. Rental companies typically charge a daily fee for each additional driver, which ranges from $5 to $20, depending on the agency. All additional drivers must be listed on the rental agreement to ensure insurance coverage in case of an accident or incident.
  • Do rental cars pay tolls in Austria?
    Rental cars in Austria typically come equipped with a vignette sticker, which is required for using highways and major roads. If you rent a car through Finalrentals, the cost of the vignette is included in your rental fee. Ensure the sticker is valid and visible on the windshield, as driving without one can result in significant fines. Before starting your trip, verify with the rental company to avoid unexpected toll charges.
  • Do I need personal insurance to rent a car in Austria?
    Personal insurance is not mandatory when hiring a car in Austria, as basic third-party liability coverage is included with most rentals. However, purchasing additional insurance, such as a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection, is strongly recommended for peace of mind. Some credit cards also provide rental car insurance as a benefit, so check with your provider to avoid duplicating coverage unnecessarily.
  • What happens if I get a speeding ticket in Austria?
    If you receive a speeding ticket while driving a rental car in Austria, the fine will be sent to the rental company, which will charge your credit card for the fine amount plus an administrative fee. Austrian authorities enforce speed limits strictly using automated cameras. Always adhere to the speed limits—50 km/h in towns, 100 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on highways—to avoid fines and additional costs.
  • What type of insurance is included with a rental car in Austria?
    Most car rentals in Austria come with basic third-party liability insurance, which covers damages to other vehicles or property. This coverage does not extend to the rental car itself. To protect against potential damages, rental agencies offer optional add-ons like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Super CDW, and theft protection. While these extras increase the cost, they minimize your financial liability in case of accidents or theft.
  • What is the minimum age for renting a car in Austria?
    The minimum age to rent a car in Austria is 21, but some rental agencies may require drivers to be at least 23 or 25 for larger or luxury vehicles. Additionally, drivers must hold valid licenses for at least one year. Always confirm the specific age requirements with the rental company before booking to ensure compliance and avoid complications.
  • Are there additional charges for young drivers?
    Yes, rental companies in Austria often impose a young driver fee for drivers under 25. Depending on the rental company and vehicle type, this fee typically ranges from $10–$20 per day. The surcharge is designed to offset the increased risk associated with younger, less experienced drivers. Be sure to factor in this cost when budgeting for your rental car.
  • Do rental cars in Austria come with winter tires?
    Austrian law requires vehicles to be equipped with winter tires from November to April. Most rental cars are automatically outfitted with winter tires during this period, and the cost is usually included in the rental fee. Ensure that your vehicle is properly equipped for driving in snowy or icy conditions, especially if you plan to visit the Alps or other mountainous regions.
  • Can I drive my rental car across the borders of Austria?
    Cross-border travel is generally permitted when renting a car in Austria, but the rental company must authorize it. Inform them before your travel plans, as additional fees or insurance requirements may apply. Certain restrictions may exist for specific countries or regions, so confirm details with your rental agency to ensure a smooth journey.
  • What are the fuel prices in Austria?
    Fuel prices in Austria fluctuate but average around $1.71 per liter for gasoline and $1.57 per liter for diesel. Prices are higher than in many countries, so factor fuel costs into your budget, especially for long road trips. Self-service gas stations are standard, and many accept credit cards. Plan if traveling in rural areas, where stations may be less frequent.
  • What are the essential driving rules in Austria?
    Drive on the right-hand side of the road, overtaking only on the left. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and children under 14 years or shorter than 150 cm must be secured in an appropriate child seat. Speed limits vary from 50 km/h in towns, 100 km/h on open roads and expressways, and 130 km/h on motorways. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, but it drops to 0.01% for novice or professional drivers. Familiarize yourself with these laws to enjoy a hassle-free journey.

Tips to Explore Austria with a Rental Car

Where to Start: Rental Pick-Up Locations

  • Vienna International Airport (VIE): Begin your journey in Austria’s vibrant capital. Rent your car here for easy access to major highways.

  • Salzburg Airport (SZG): Ideal for travelers heading to the lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut region.

  • Innsbruck Airport (INN): Perfect for exploring the Austrian Alps or heading to nearby Bavaria.

  • Graz Airport (GRZ): A great starting point for exploring southern Austria and neighboring Slovenia.

Top Destinations by Rental Car

  • Vienna to Salzburg: Drive through lush countryside and stop at Melk Abbey or Wachau Valley’s vineyards.

  • Salzburg to Hallstatt: Visit this postcard-perfect lakeside village, just a 1.5-hour drive from Salzburg.

  • Innsbruck to Grossglockner High Alpine Road: Experience Austria’s most scenic drive with breathtaking mountain views.

  • Graz to Styria’s Wine Roads: Explore rolling vineyards and charming villages in Austria’s wine country.

Drop-Off Locations for One-Way Rentals

Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck are popular drop-off cities for one-way rentals. These allow you to craft a customized itinerary. While fees may apply, the convenience is unmatched for longer trips.

Renting a car in Austria opens up endless possibilities for exploring its natural beauty and historic charm at your own pace.

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Finalrentals is Clear in Terms of Rental Policy

"I am so happy to use Finalrentals to Austria. The car rental services were amazing, and we delivered the car to the airport. 100% recommended.”

Adam Giles. Finalrentals customer in the Austria.