Germany is a driver's paradise — excellent road infrastructure, the legendary Autobahn network, and a country that ranges from Baltic beaches to Alpine peaks. Whether you're following the Romantic Road, exploring the Black Forest or making your way to Neuschwanstein, a hire car is the best way to do it.

Best airports for car hire in Germany

  • Munich (MUC) — Bavaria, the Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle, Romantic Road.
  • Frankfurt (FRA) — central Germany, Rhine Valley, Heidelberg, Moselle wine region.
  • Berlin (BER) — Brandenburg, Mecklenburg Lakes, Poland border region.
  • Hamburg (HAM) — Northern Germany, the Baltic coast, Lübeck.
  • Düsseldorf (DUS) — Rhine-Ruhr area, Cologne, Aachen.

Driving in Germany: key things to know

  • Drive on the right. Germany is famous for unrestricted Autobahn sections — but speed limits apply in many areas, always check signs.
  • In towns: 50 km/h; rural roads: 100 km/h; motorway with limit: 130 km/h; many Autobahn sections: no limit.
  • Environmental (Umwelt) stickers (Umweltplakette) are required to drive in city centres — hire cars usually include these.
  • Winter tyres are not legally required but are effectively mandatory in winter weather and most hire cars will be equipped in season.
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