Compare cheap car hire at Berlin Brandenburg Airport with practical details on rental desks, pickup locations, driving routes and prices.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the main international airport serving Berlin and the surrounding Brandenburg region. Located about 27km southeast of central Berlin, it has replaced the city’s older airports and now handles all commercial flights.
While Berlin itself has excellent public transport, hiring a car at the airport is a practical choice if you plan to explore beyond the city, including Potsdam, Dresden or the wider eastern Germany region.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Berlin Brandenburg Airport has regular direct flights from Ireland throughout the year.
- Dublin → Berlin (Aer Lingus, Ryanair)
The flight time from Dublin is typically around 2 hours 30 minutes.
Where to Collect Your Rental Car
Car hire desks at Berlin Brandenburg Airport are located inside Terminal 1 on Level E0 (arrivals level). After baggage reclaim, follow signs for “Mietwagen / Car Rental”.
Vehicles are collected from the P2 and P3 multi-storey car parks directly opposite the terminal, within easy walking distance via covered walkways.
Airport maps and services are available on the official Berlin Brandenburg Airport website.
Car Hire Companies at Berlin Brandenburg Airport
A wide range of international and German car rental providers operate at BER.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
All major providers offer on-airport pickup, with vehicles located in nearby car parks.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Berlin
| Season | Economy | Family Car | Larger Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | €30 – €55 | €55 – €90 | €90 – €140 |
| April – June | €40 – €75 | €75 – €120 | €120 – €180 |
| July – August | €60 – €120 | €120 – €180 | €180 – €260 |
| September – October | €45 – €85 | €85 – €140 | €140 – €200 |
| November – December | €35 – €65 | €65 – €105 | €105 – €160 |
What to Drive in Berlin and Brandenburg
Compact Cars
Small cars are ideal for city driving and parking in Berlin.
Family Cars
Comfortable for longer journeys across Germany.
Estate Cars
Estate vehicles are popular for road trips, offering extra luggage space.
People Carriers
- 7 Seater vehicles – suitable for families travelling together
- 8 Seater vehicles – useful for larger groups
Driving from Berlin Brandenburg Airport
The airport is connected to the A113 motorway, which links directly to Berlin’s road network.
- Berlin city centre – about 35 to 45 minutes
- Potsdam – around 45 minutes
- Dresden – roughly 2 hours
- Leipzig – about 2 hours
The A113 connects with the A10 Berlin Ring, providing access to destinations across the region.
If you are travelling further across Germany, you can also compare car hire options at Munich, Frankfurt Hahn Airport or Memmingen Airport.
Driving in Germany
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Germany’s motorway network (Autobahn) is well maintained and clearly signposted.
Some sections of the Autobahn have no fixed speed limit, although recommended limits apply.
More visitor information is available on the official Germany tourism website.
Places to Visit by Car from Berlin
Hiring a car allows you to explore beyond the city.
- Potsdam – historic palaces and gardens
- Spreewald – network of canals and natural landscapes
- Dresden – historic city along the Elbe River
- Leipzig – cultural and music city
Many travellers use Berlin as a starting point for exploring eastern Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Berlin Brandenburg Airport?
The desks are located inside Terminal 1 on the arrivals level.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to Berlin?
Yes, regular flights operate from Dublin.
Is renting a car in Berlin necessary?
It is useful for travel outside the city, but not essential within central Berlin.
How far is Berlin Brandenburg Airport from the city centre?
The drive takes around 35 to 45 minutes.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car?
Yes, most rental companies require a credit card.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, although manual vehicles are common in Germany.
Is driving in Berlin easy?
City driving can be busy, but major roads and motorways are straightforward.
Can I rent a 7 Seater at Berlin Airport?
Yes, 7 Seater vehicles are available for families and groups.
Are German motorways toll roads?
Most passenger vehicles can use motorways free of charge.
Which motorway connects Berlin Airport to the city?
The A113 motorway connects the airport with central Berlin.
