Compare cheap car hire in Germany with practical tips on airports, Autobahn driving, pickup locations and prices.
Germany is one of the easiest countries in Europe to explore by car. The road network is extensive, distances between major cities are manageable, and driving standards are generally high.
Whether you’re planning a city-to-city trip, a scenic drive through Bavaria, or a cross-border journey into Austria or Switzerland, hiring a car gives you flexibility that trains can’t always match.
Where You Pick Up Your Car
Most travellers collect their rental car at the airport. Germany is very consistent in how this works:
- Car hire desks are located inside the arrivals hall or airport centre
- Vehicles are collected from multi-storey car parks attached to the terminal
- At larger airports, everything is clearly signposted and within walking distance
Popular pickup locations include Berlin Brandenburg Airport, Munich and Frankfurt Hahn Airport.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Germany has strong year-round connectivity with Ireland.
- Dublin → Berlin
- Dublin → Munich
- Dublin → Frankfurt
- Dublin → Düsseldorf
Flight times are typically around 2 to 2.5 hours.
Car Hire Companies in Germany
Germany has a mix of international and strong domestic providers.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt (German-based, very common)
- Enterprise
Availability is usually excellent, even at busy airports.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Germany
| 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 |
What Type of Car Should You Choose?
Germany suits a wide range of vehicles, but your route matters.
- Compact cars – ideal for cities and short trips
- Family cars – comfortable for longer Autobahn driving
- Estate cars – popular for road trips with luggage
- Executive cars – widely available and often good value
You don’t need a large vehicle unless travelling in a group.
Driving in Germany
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Roads are among the best maintained in Europe.
Key things to know:
- The Autobahn network is extensive and well signposted
- Some sections have no fixed speed limit, but recommended limits apply
- Fuel stations are frequent along major routes
Speed limits are strictly enforced in urban areas and on restricted sections.
Motorways and Costs
Germany is unusual in that:
- Motorways (Autobahn) are free for passenger cars
- No vignette or toll sticker is required
- Only some tunnels or special roads may have charges
This makes long-distance driving more affordable than in many neighbouring countries.
Where a Car is Most Useful
While cities have excellent public transport, a car is useful for:
- Bavaria – Alpine scenery and castles
- Black Forest – rural driving routes
- Romantic Road – scenic historic towns
- Cross-border trips into Austria or Switzerland
For purely city-based trips (e.g. Berlin or Munich), a car is often unnecessary.
Things to Check Before Booking
- Winter tyres may be required in colder months
- Cross-border travel is usually allowed but must be declared
- Insurance is typically comprehensive with Irish bookings
For official travel guidance, see Germany’s tourism website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a car in Germany?
Not for cities, but very useful for rural areas and road trips.
Are Autobahns really unlimited?
Some sections have no fixed speed limit, but many do have limits.
Are there toll roads?
No, most motorways are free for cars.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, though manual vehicles are still common.
Can I rent a 7 Seater in Germany?
Yes, these are widely available.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, most rental providers require one.
Is fuel expensive?
Fuel prices are similar to other Western European countries.
Is driving difficult?
No, roads are high quality and clearly signposted.
Can I drive into other countries?
Yes, but check with your rental company first.
Which side of the road do you drive on?
On the right-hand side.
German Car Hire Locations
- Aalen
- Augsburg
- Bavaria
- Berlin
- Bonn
- Bremen
- Cologne
- Dortmund
- Dresden
- Dusseldorf
- Frankfurt
- Freiburg
- Friedrichshafen
- Hamburg
- Hannover
- Heidelberg
- Kiel
- Leipzig
- Memmingen
- Muenster
- Munich
- Nuremberg
- Stuttgart
- Weeze
German Travel Guide
Germany is a diverse country with much to offer visitors from the west to the east.
