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Car Rental in Germany

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Germany Car Rentals: Essential Tips

Renting a car in Germany offers freedom and convenience, especially for exploring scenic routes and neighbouring countries.

Non-European visitors need a valid driver's license, and an International Driving Permit is required if it's outside the Latin alphabet.

Drivers must usually be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Germany. A passport and a credit card are also necessary for booking.

Germany's Autobahn offers stretches without speed limits, making driving exciting, but the recommended speed is 130 km/h. Drink-driving laws are strict, with a 0.00% BAC limit for new drivers and 0.05% for experienced drivers.

If travelling with children, those under 1.5 meters (4 ft 10 in) must use car seats, which can be rented for €15 ($17) per day. Ensure compliance with safety laws for a smooth journey.

Basic insurance is included with most rentals, but adding a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft protection is wise, especially for luxury car rentals in Germany.

Cross-border travel to countries like Belgium and the Netherlands is usually free or costs up to €25 ($28) per day. Check for specific restrictions for Switzerland or other non-EU countries.

The Romantic Road, spanning 460 km (285 mi) from Würzburg to Füssen, is a popular route for exploring castles and historic towns. An SUV or sedan is ideal for comfort and luggage.

Major cities like Berlin and Munich have green zones requiring an emission sticker (umweltplakette), which costs around $14. Driving without one can result in fines.

Book a rental car at Berlin Brandenburg Airport for the ultimate convenience, allowing you to start your trip immediately upon arrival.

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 Berlin Brandenburg International Airport

Start your adventure the moment you land by renting a car at Berlin Brandenburg International Airport. Finalrentals ensures you can hit the road immediately, exploring Germany’s vibrant capital or embarking on a scenic road trip through its stunning landscapes.

With a wide selection of rental vehicles, from economy cars to luxury SUVs, there’s something to suit every traveller’s needs and budget. Our user-friendly rental booking process, competitive rates, and flexible options make planning easy.

With unbeatable customer service and reliable vehicles, book your rental car at Berlin Brandenburg Airport with Finalrentals and enjoy the ultimate freedom to discover Germany and beyond.

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  •   Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Car Rental in Germany: FAQs

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  • How Much Does Rent a Car in Germany Cost?
    The cost of car renting in Germany varies depending on the vehicle type, duration, and season. Economy cars typically cost between $14 and $40 per day, while SUVs or luxury cars can exceed $70 daily. During peak travel seasons, such as summer, prices tend to increase by 20–30%. Additional costs may include insurance, GPS rental, and fuel charges.
  • What Are the Most Popular Rental Cars in Germany?
    Germany's most popular rental cars are compact and economy vehicles, such as the Volkswagen Golf or Opel Astra, valued for fuel efficiency and ease of city navigation. For families or larger groups, SUVs like the BMW X3 are a top choice, providing comfort and luggage space. Travellers embarking on scenic road trips, like the Romantic Road, often prefer sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class for luxury and performance. Electric and hybrid options are also growing in popularity, aligning with Germany’s focus on sustainable travel.
  • What Is Driving Like in Germany?
    Driving in Germany is characterised by well-maintained roads and strict traffic laws. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on non-urban roads, and variable on the Autobahn, where some sections have no limit but a recommended speed of 130 km/h. Drivers must stay in the right lane unless overtaking and are expected to use turn signals. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05 g/l, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle.
  • Do I Need an International Driver’s License in Germany?
    An International Driving Permit (IDP) is only required in Germany if your license is in a non-Latin alphabet (e.g., Cyrillic or Mandarin). Drivers from the EU, US, UK, Canada, and Australia can use their home licenses for car rentals. Always carry your passport and license together while driving, as both may be required during police checks. Even if not mandatory, an IDP can simplify communication with rental agencies or authorities, especially in rural areas. Check your rental provider’s requirements; some may request an IDP regardless of the law.
  • Can I Drive a Rental Car in Germany with My Foreign License?
    Most foreign licenses are accepted for driving in Germany. If your license is in English, you don’t need additional documentation for renting or driving. For licenses in non-Latin scripts, such as Arabic or Japanese, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. Ensure your license is valid and carry it alongside your passport throughout your rental period. While EU licenses are universally accepted, non-EU drivers should confirm with rental providers if additional documents are needed. Check specific agreements for cross-border travel if you plan to drive to neighbouring countries.
  • Is GPS Navigation Available with Rental Cars in Germany?
    Most rental companies in Germany offer GPS navigation as an add-on service, typically costing $5–$15 per day. GPS is especially useful for navigating cities, rural areas, and the Autobahn. Modern vehicles may come equipped with built-in navigation systems. Alternatively, you can use smartphone apps like Google Maps or Waze, but ensure you have a mobile data plan or download offline maps in advance. If you plan on crossing borders, confirm that the GPS or maps are compatible with neighbouring countries for seamless travel.
  • What Can I Explore with a Rental Car in Germany?
    With a rental car in Germany, you can explore iconic routes like the Romantic Road and visit fairytale towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Neuschwanstein Castle. Drive through the scenic Black Forest, or head to Bavaria’s Alps for breathtaking mountain views. Visit historic cities like Berlin, Munich, and Dresden, or tour the famous Rhine Valley vineyards. A car allows flexibility to explore hidden gems, such as Saxon Switzerland National Park or Lake Constance. Cross-border travel to nearby countries like Austria, Belgium, and the Netherlands adds even more adventure to your trip.
  • What Are the Speed Limits in Germany?
    Germany’s speed limits depend on the road type. In cities, the limit is 50 km/h (31 mph) unless otherwise posted, with 30 km/h (19 mph) common in residential zones. On rural roads, the limit is 100 km/h (62 mph). The Autobahn has no general speed limit, but 130 km/h (81 mph) is recommended for safety. Always watch for signs indicating specific limits, especially in construction zones. Speeding fines are strictly enforced, and speed cameras are standard. Knowing the limits ensures compliance and a safe driving experience while exploring Germany.
  • What Are the Fuel Prices in Germany?
    Fuel prices in Germany fluctuate but are among the highest in Europe. As of December 2024, the average cost for regular petrol is around 1.648 EUR/ per litre, LPG is 1.055 EUR/per litre, and diesel costs approximately 1.58 EUR/per litre. Prices can vary by region, with higher rates near highways or city centres. Refuelling at supermarkets or off-highway stations often offers better prices. Many rental cars run on diesel, which is slightly more economical for long distances. Apps like TankstellenFinder or Google Maps help locate the cheapest fuel stations during your trip.
  • What Are the Most Convenient Locations in Germany for Picking Up a Rental Car?
    Germany offers numerous convenient car rental locations, including major airports like Berlin Brandenburg (BER), Munich (MUC), and Frankfurt (FRA). Picking up a car at the airport lets you start your journey immediately after landing. Train stations in cities such as Cologne, Stuttgart, and Hamburg are popular rental hubs. Urban rental centres in Berlin or Munich offer flexible options for travellers staying in the city. Ensure your chosen location suits your travel plans, especially if you plan one-way rentals or cross-border trips. Booking in advance secures availability at your preferred location.
  • How Far in Advance Should I Book My Car Rental in Germany?
    Booking your car rental in Germany 4–6 weeks in advance is ideal for securing the best deals and vehicle options. For peak travel periods like summer or Christmas markets, book even earlier, around 8–12 weeks. Early booking helps avoid price surges and ensures availability for popular vehicles, such as SUVs for winter or sedans for road trips. Late bookings may still offer good deals during the off-season, but flexibility might be limited. Advance bookings also allow you to compare prices, review rental policies, and select additional services like GPS or insurance.

Best Time to Book a Car Hire in Germany

The best time to book a car hire in Germany depends on your travel plans and the season. Generally, booking 4–6 weeks in advance offers the best combination of price and availability. However, timing also plays a critical role, as car hire costs fluctuate based on demand and seasonality.

During the low season (November and January to early March), car rental rates are at their lowest. These months coincide with colder weather and fewer tourists, leading to reduced demand. Economy cars can cost as little as €20–€30 ($22–$33) per day during this period. If you plan a winter trip to explore Germany’s cities or ski resorts, booking in advance ensures access to winter-ready vehicles, like those equipped with snow tyres.

The peak season (June to August and December holiday weeks) sees a surge in tourism, particularly in summer when travellers flock to destinations like the Romantic Road, the Bavarian Alps, and cultural hubs like Berlin and Munich. Rental costs during this period can exceed €50 ($55) per day for economy models and even higher for SUVs or luxury cars. Booking your rental 8–12 weeks in advance is recommended to secure your preferred vehicle and avoid last-minute price hikes.

Spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) are shoulder seasons. They offer a balance of favourable weather and moderate rental prices. Rates are often lower than in summer, but availability can be limited during events like Oktoberfest in Munich.

Book your Germany car rental online from your home through the Finalrentals app or website. Enjoy affordable rates year-round, from winter getaways to summer adventures. Reserve your vehicle early for the best deals and availability.

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Finalrentals is Clear in Terms of Rental Policy

"Finalrentals made my trip to Germany hassle-free. Their process is super easy. I booked a rental car in Germany from my home in London, and the car was ready for me at Berlin Brandenburg Airport. The vehicle was clean, comfortable, and perfect for my road trip along the Romantic Road. I highly recommend their reliable service and excellent customer support."

Janella Rose. Finalrentals customer in the Germany