Germany Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Germany

Renting a car in Germany provides the freedom to explore the country at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, allowing you to visit a variety of attractions seamlessly. For families, the convenience of a rental car means easy access to destinations like Europa-Park, a theme park perfect for family experiences, or BMW Welt, a transport museum that caters to culture enthusiasts. You can also explore vibrant cities such as Berlin, where you can see landmarks like Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate, or Munich, home to Marienplatz and the renowned Munich Trade Fair. Hamburg, with its famous Reeperbahn and St. Pauli Piers, is another destination that is easily accessible by car. Whether you're seeking romantic scenery or outdoor experiences, having a rental car enhances your travel flexibility, allowing you to discover the diverse attractions Germany has to offer without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Most popular car rentals in Germany

• Midsize SUV: This car option is a great choice for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers. With space for up to 3 large suitcases, a Midsize SUV offers ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it ideal for those planning to explore Germany comfortably. The higher ride height also provides better visibility on the road, enhancing your driving experience.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the Compact car can comfortably seat up to 5 individuals while also fitting up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is not only easy to navigate through city streets but also fuel-efficient, helping you save on costs during your travels across Germany. Its size makes it simpler to park, particularly in urban areas.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers flexibility with luggage arrangements, fitting either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium ones. This makes it an excellent choice for families or groups needing extra space. With a Fullsize vehicle, you can travel worry-free, knowing that there’s room for everyone and their belongings as you journey through Germany.

Where to stay in Germany

• Berlin: Berlin is a vibrant metropolis ideal for city-themed and family experiences. The area boasts attractions such as Alexanderplatz, a modern square perfect for a city holiday, and the historic Brandenburg Gate, which appeals to culture enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the shopping areas and enjoy local restaurants and dining options nearby. Don't miss the bustling Potsdamer Platz, another modern square, which adds to the city's dynamic atmosphere.
• Munich: Munich offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it perfect for families and city-themed travellers. Key points of interest include the transport museum BMW Welt, which is great for culture and family holidays, and Marienplatz, a picturesque piazza that serves as a cultural hub. The Munich Trade Fair is also nearby, providing a glimpse into the city's vibrant exhibit scene. Enjoy local pubs and breweries that contribute to Munich's lively atmosphere.
• Hamburg: Hamburg is a metropolitan hub that caters to family, business, and city-themed experiences. The Reeperbahn is a lively tourist precinct, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. St. Pauli Piers provides a beautiful marina experience, ideal for those seeking adventure and beach activities. Additionally, Hamburg Messe and Congress, a historic civic government building, offers cultural insights. The city features various restaurants and breweries for travellers to enjoy local cuisine and drinks.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Germany

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced option between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which can also be convenient. Just ensure to return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Collecting your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for transactions.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your travels. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Germany

The best value period to rent a car in Germany is May, when prices are lower and demand remains moderate. April also offers good value with average prices and demand. For shoulder months, September and October show slightly low prices while demand is still reasonable. However, February tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately low demand, making it a less attractive option for car rentals. July sees a spike in demand, leading to average prices during that peak period.