Germany Car Rentals & Cheap Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in Germany

Renting a car in Germany offers the freedom to explore this diverse country at your own pace. Whether you are interested in outdoor activities, scenic views, or romantic experiences, having a rental car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. You can visit key attractions like Europa-Park, a family-friendly theme park, or BMW Welt, a transport museum that appeals to culture enthusiasts. For city experiences, Alexanderplatz in Berlin is a must-see. With a car, you can conveniently travel between major metropolises such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, each offering unique sights and experiences. In Berlin, you can see the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz, while Munich boasts Marienplatz and the Munich Trade Fair. Hamburg invites you to explore the Reeperbahn and the St. Pauli Piers. The ability to drive between these destinations without relying on public transport enhances your travel experience, allowing you to make spontaneous stops along the way. Renting a car provides a practical and enjoyable way to discover the wonders of Germany, catering to various traveller interests.

Most popular car rentals in Germany

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV offers a spacious interior, making it perfect for those who enjoy comfort and need extra room for luggage. This option is particularly beneficial for longer journeys, providing a balance of space and manoeuvrability, allowing you to navigate both city streets and the open roads of Germany with ease.
• Compact: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families. The compact car is designed for versatility, allowing easy handling in urban environments while maintaining a comfortable ride for passengers. Its smaller size makes parking simpler, especially in busy city centres, while still offering sufficient space for your travel needs.
• Fullsize: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases—ideal for families or groups. The fullsize car provides ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it an excellent choice for those travelling with a larger group. This vehicle type combines comfort and practicality, ensuring a pleasant journey whether you are exploring the scenic routes or navigating through towns.

Where to stay in Germany

• Berlin: Experience the vibrant metropolis of Berlin, where city-themed adventures await. Explore iconic landmarks such as Alexanderplatz, a modern square perfect for city holidays, and the historic Brandenburg Gate, ideal for culture enthusiasts. The lively Potsdamer Platz also adds to the urban charm. With numerous restaurants and dining options nearby, visitors can indulge in local cuisine while enjoying the bustling atmosphere. Berlin is especially appealing during the spring and summer months when outdoor activities thrive.
• Munich: Munich offers a delightful blend of outdoor and city-themed experiences for families and travellers alike. Key highlights include the impressive BMW Welt, a transport museum suitable for culture and family holidays, and Marienplatz, a charming piazza that captures the essence of the city. Munich Trade Fair is another must-visit for those interested in exhibitions. With numerous pubs and breweries in the vicinity, visitors can enjoy the local beer culture, particularly during the Oktoberfest season, which runs from late September to early October.
• Hamburg: In Hamburg, travellers can enjoy a mix of family-friendly and city-themed experiences. The Reeperbahn, a vibrant tourist precinct, is perfect for exploration, while St. Pauli Piers offers a unique marina experience appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. For those interested in culture, Hamburg Messe and Congress is a historic civic building worth visiting. The city boasts a variety of restaurants and breweries, making it a great place to sample local delicacies. Hamburg is particularly lively in the summer when outdoor events and activities abound.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Germany

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for those summer days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a better selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to hire and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which can be acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports; however, the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides reassurance in the event of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in Germany

The best value period to rent a car in Germany is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. Early in the year, January offers similar conditions with slightly low prices and average demand. March and February, however, can be more expensive, with February being the most costly month and experiencing moderately low demand. July stands out as the busiest month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making it a peak time for rentals.