Compare cheap car hire at Frankfurt Airport with exact desk locations, pickup areas, driving routes and prices.
Frankfurt Airport (Flughafen Frankfurt – FRA) is Germany’s busiest airport and one of Europe’s main international hubs. Located around 12km southwest of Frankfurt city centre, it’s a common starting point for both business and leisure trips across Germany.
Hiring a car here is especially useful if you plan to travel beyond the city into regions like the Rhine Valley, Bavaria or neighbouring countries.
Where to Find the Car Hire Desks
Frankfurt Airport has two main terminals, and car hire is available in both.
Terminal 1:
- Car hire desks are located in Hall A (Arrivals level)
- This is the main and busiest rental area
Terminal 2:
- Car hire desks are located in the Arrivals area of the terminal
Vehicles are collected from the multi-storey car parks connected to each terminal, all within walking distance via lifts and walkways.
Terminal maps and services are available on the official Frankfurt Airport website.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Frankfurt has strong year-round connectivity with Ireland.
- Dublin → Frankfurt (Aer Lingus, Lufthansa)
Flight time is typically around 2 hours.
Car Hire Companies at Frankfurt Airport
You’ll find a full range of international and German providers.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
All major providers operate on-site, with cars located in nearby parking structures.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Frankfurt
| 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 |
Choosing the Right Car
Frankfurt is well suited to most vehicle types.
- Compact cars – good for city driving
- Family cars – ideal for longer trips
- Estate cars – useful for luggage and touring
- Executive cars – widely available and often good value
If you’re heading onto the Autobahn, a comfortable mid-size car is usually the best option.
Driving from Frankfurt Airport
Frankfurt Airport sits directly beside major motorway connections.
- Frankfurt city centre – about 20 minutes
- Heidelberg – around 1 hour
- Cologne – roughly 2 hours
- Stuttgart – about 2 hours
The A3 and A5 motorways provide fast access in all directions.
If you’re planning a broader trip, you might also compare routes via Munich Airport or Berlin Brandenburg Airport.
Driving in Frankfurt and Germany
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Roads are modern, well maintained and clearly signposted.
Motorways (Autobahns) are generally free for cars, though speed limits apply in certain areas.
Traffic can be heavy around Frankfurt during peak hours, but driving becomes much easier once you leave the city.
More travel information is available on the official Germany tourism website.
Where a Car is Worth Having
While Frankfurt itself has strong public transport, a car is useful for exploring surrounding regions.
- Rhine Valley – castles and scenic river drives
- Heidelberg – historic university town
- Black Forest – longer road trip destination
- Luxembourg – easy cross-border visit
Frankfurt is a strong starting point for both short trips and longer journeys across western Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Frankfurt Airport?
They are located in Terminal 1 Hall A and in the arrivals area of Terminal 2.
Where do I collect the car?
From multi-storey car parks connected to each terminal.
Are there direct flights from Ireland?
Yes, regular flights operate from Dublin.
Is driving in Frankfurt easy?
Yes, though traffic can be busy near the city.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, most rental providers require one.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, though manual vehicles are common.
Are motorways free in Germany?
Yes, most Autobahns are free for cars.
Can I rent a 7 Seater at Frankfurt Airport?
Yes, these are widely available.
Can I drive into other countries?
Yes, but check with your rental provider first.
Which side of the road do you drive on?
On the right-hand side.
