Compare car hire prices at Stuttgart Airport to find the best deal and save on your trip.
Quick overview for car hire at Stuttgart Airport
Stuttgart Airport has a concentrated car rental area that serves all major providers. Counters are easy to reach from the arrivals level. Pickup and return procedures are straightforward if you plan ahead.
Where to collect and return vehicles
Most rental companies operate from the airport’s central car rental centre. The centre is a short shuttle ride or walk from the terminal. Follow the signs marked “Mietwagen” in the arrivals hall for direct access.
For official details and directions see the Stuttgart Airport car rental page.
Local insights that affect your hire
Stuttgart enforces a low-emission zone. Vehicles entering the city centre must display a valid emissions sticker. Check the sticker requirement before you drive into town by reading the low-emission zone guidance.
Trade fairs at Messe Stuttgart create strong spikes in demand. The exhibition centre is close to the airport. Expect higher rates and lower fleet availability during major events listed at Messe Stuttgart.
Traffic and road notes
Airport access uses the A8 and A81 motorways. Peak congestion often occurs on weekday mornings and late afternoons. Allow extra time for trips to the city centre between 07:00 and 09:30 and between 16:00 and 19:00.
Many inner-city streets are steep and narrow. Drivers should choose compact cars if they plan to park in Stuttgart’s old town areas. Some underground car parks have height limits of around 1.9 metres.
Booking tips to save money
Book early for fair weeks and summer weekends. Pre-booking typically secures better rates than airport walk-up prices. Check fuel and mileage policies carefully before you confirm.
Insurance, fuel and tolls
Standard rentals include basic third-party cover. Upgrades for collision damage waiver reduce excess on the supplier’s policy. Germany has no general toll for cars on autobahns. Austrian and Swiss borders require vignettes if you plan to cross those countries.
Practical pickup and return checklist
Use this checklist at Stuttgart Airport to speed up collection and return.
| Step | Expected time | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Queue at counter | 10–25 minutes | Arrive with reservation reference |
| Sign paperwork | 5–15 minutes | Check excess and fuel policy |
| Vehicle inspection | 5–10 minutes | Photograph all damage |
| Shuttle to lot | 5–10 minutes | Watch luggage loading times |
Which car to choose for Stuttgart
Match the vehicle to your route and luggage needs. Compact cars suit city driving. SUVs work for rural trips and steep roads. Consider an automatic if you prefer simpler motorway driving.
| Vehicle type | Best use | Typical price per day |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | City trips, tight parking | €30–€60 |
| Compact / Estate | Weekend trips, luggage | €40–€75 |
| SUV | Country roads, hills | €55–€110 |
| Automatic | Motorway comfort | €50–€120 |
Parking and shuttle options at the airport
Short transfer times make off-airport parking a viable option. Choose the option that matches your arrival time and luggage needs.
| Option | Location | Transfer time |
|---|---|---|
| Rental centre lot | Next to P3 car park | 5–10 minutes |
| Terminal drop-off | Arrivals level | Walk to counter |
| Long-term parking | P1 / P2 multi-storey | 10–15 minutes |
| Bus shuttle | Outside arrivals | 5–12 minutes |
Returning the car
Return slots fill quickly on peak days. Allow 30–45 minutes for final checks and shuttle time back to departures. Top up fuel close to the airport if your contract requires full return.
Navigation and payment
Satellite navigation is reliable, but check for restricted access streets in old town areas. Contactless cards and cash are accepted. Some vendors require the same card used at pickup for deposit holds.
Frequently asked questions — Stuttgart Airport car hire
Where are car hire desks located at the airport?
Desks sit on the arrivals level and in the car rental centre. Follow the “Mietwagen” signs after baggage claim.
Is there a shuttle from the terminal to the rental lot?
Yes. A free shuttle operates between terminal and rental centre. Shuttle times are typically five to ten minutes.
Do I need an emissions sticker for Stuttgart?
Yes. Driving into the inner city requires a low-emission sticker. Check the sticker rules before you depart.
Are there height limits in local car parks?
Some underground car parks have limits around 1.9 metres. Choose compact vehicles for inner-city parking.
What paperwork do I need to hire a car?
Bring a valid driving licence, passport or ID, and the payment card used for the booking. Non-EU licences may need an international licence or translation.
Can I cross borders with my rental car?
Cross-border travel is allowed with prior consent from the rental company. Austria and Switzerland require vignettes for highways.
When are prices highest at Stuttgart Airport?
Prices peak during trade fairs and public holidays. Book early for event weeks to secure fleet choice and price.
What is the usual queue time at pickup?
Expect ten to twenty-five minutes during busy times. Allow more time during morning and afternoon peaks.
Is returning the car to a different location possible?
One-way returns are possible. They often incur a drop-off fee. Confirm fees when you book.
How should I document existing damage on the car?
Photograph all exterior and interior damage before leaving the lot. Keep images with timestamps and the rental agreement.
