Compare cheap car hire at Munich Airport with exact desk locations, pickup areas, driving routes and prices.
Munich Airport (Flughafen München – MUC) is one of Europe’s busiest and most efficient airports, located around 28km northeast of Munich city centre. It’s a major starting point for trips across Bavaria, the Alps and neighbouring Austria.
If you’re planning to visit multiple destinations or head into the mountains, picking up a car at the airport is often the most practical option.
Where to Find the Car Hire Desks
Munich Airport is well organised, and car hire is easy to locate.
The rental desks are located inside the central area between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 (Munich Airport Center – MAC), which is directly accessible from arrivals.
Once you’ve collected your keys, vehicles are picked up from the P20 and P26 multi-storey car parks connected to the airport complex, all within walking distance via covered walkways.
Airport maps and services are available on the official Munich Airport website.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Munich has regular year-round direct flights from Ireland.
- Dublin → Munich (Aer Lingus, Lufthansa)
Flight time is typically around 2 hours 20 minutes.
Car Hire Companies at Munich Airport
You’ll find a wide range of international and German providers.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
All major companies operate directly from the airport, with vehicles located in nearby car parks.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Munich
| Season | Economy | Family Car | Larger Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | €30 – €60 | €60 – €100 | €100 – €160 |
| April – June | €40 – €80 | €80 – €130 | €130 – €200 |
| July – August | €60 – €120 | €120 – €180 | €180 – €260 |
| September – October | €45 – €90 | €90 – €140 | €140 – €210 |
| November – December | €35 – €70 | €70 – €110 | €110 – €170 |
Best Vehicle Types for Bavaria
Your choice depends on where you’re heading.
- Compact cars – ideal for city driving and short trips
- Family cars – comfortable for longer journeys
- Estate cars – useful for luggage and road trips
- All-wheel drive vehicles – recommended for Alpine routes in winter
For most trips, a standard family car is more than sufficient.
Driving from Munich Airport
The airport connects directly to Germany’s motorway network.
- Munich city centre – about 30 to 40 minutes
- Garmisch-Partenkirchen – around 1 hour 30 minutes
- Salzburg (Austria) – roughly 1 hour 45 minutes
- Innsbruck – about 2 hours
The A92 and A9 motorways provide fast access to Munich and beyond.
If you’re planning a wider trip, you might also compare pickup options at Innsbruck Airport or Salzburg Airport.
Driving in Munich and Bavaria
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Roads are modern, well maintained and clearly signposted.
Motorways (Autobahns) are generally free to use, though some sections have speed limits.
Traffic can be heavier in Munich city centre, but outside the city driving is straightforward.
More travel information is available on the official Germany tourism website.
Where a Car is Worth Having
Munich is well connected by public transport, but a car becomes useful once you leave the city.
- Bavarian Alps – mountains, lakes and scenic routes
- Neuschwanstein Castle – popular day trip destination
- Romantic Road – historic towns and countryside
- Salzburg – easy cross-border visit
Many travellers use Munich as the starting point for Alpine road trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Munich Airport?
They are located in the Munich Airport Center between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Where do I collect the car?
From the P20 and P26 car parks connected to the terminal.
Are there direct flights from Ireland?
Yes, regular flights operate from Dublin.
Is driving in Munich easy?
Yes, though traffic can be busy in the city centre.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, most rental providers require one.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, though manual vehicles are common.
Are Autobahns free?
Yes, most motorways are free for cars.
Can I rent a 7 Seater at Munich Airport?
Yes, these are widely available.
Can I drive into Austria?
Yes, but check with your rental provider.
Which side of the road do you drive on?
On the right-hand side.
