Renting a car can be an excellent way to explore bustling Frankfurt and easily visit surrounding towns and scenic areas. Navigating Frankfurt’s busy streets and highways may seem daunting but this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about renting a car for travel in Frankfurt.
How to Rent a Car in Frankfurt
Follow these key steps for a smooth rental experience:
Compare Rental Companies
Research rates and policies at major agencies like Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise. Consider:
- Rental costs
- Vehicle options
- Pickup/dropoff locations
- Inclusion of insurance, taxes, fees
Reserve Your Rental Car
Once you’ve selected a company, reserve your car rental providing:
- Pickup/dropoff dates
- Pickup/dropoff location
- Vehicle type
- Any extra equipment
- Driver personal details
Book early for the best availability and cheaper rates.
Know the Requirements
Common requirements for renting a car in Germany are:
- Valid driver’s license from your country
- Minimum age, typically 18-25 years
- Credit card for deposit
- International Driving Permit recommended
Pick Up the Rental Car
Arrive on time at the branch, finalize paperwork, inspect the car, and drive away.
Driving in Frankfurt
Here are some key tips for navigating Frankfurt’s roads and highways:
Getting Used to Driving
Frankfurt has very congested streets and highways. Useful tips:
- Closely follow speed limits and signs
- Use navigation apps like Google Maps
- Watch for pedestrians ignoring signals
Parking
Finding street parking in central Frankfurt is extremely difficult. Understand regulations:
- Metered parking zones have maximum stays
- Public car parks available at hourly/daily rates
- Some suburban train stations have Park+Ride
Tolls and Gas Stations
No tolls for driving in Frankfurt. Petrol stations are readily available from brands like Aral, Shell, Esso.
Driving Laws
Adhere to all German traffic laws:
- Strict legal alcohol limit of 0.05%
- No handheld mobile phone use
- Mandatory seat belt wearing
- Yield to pedestrians at crossings
Where to Rent a Car in Frankfurt
Major companies have rental branches across Frankfurt including:
Frankfurt Airport
Counters for all brands located in the airport terminals. Open 24/7 for easy pickup/dropoff.
Hauptbahnhof Station
Europcar, Sixt, Hertz, Budget outlets at the central train station.
Downtown Frankfurt
Numerous rental sites in the Innenstadt near hotels and attractions.
Suburban Locations
Find rental car pickup at train stations, hotels and hubs in the greater Frankfurt region.
Other German Cities
Rent a car in Munich, Hamburg, etc to drive to Frankfurt.
Types of Rental Cars in Frankfurt
Consider these popular rental car choices:
Economy or Mini
Small cars like VW Up, Toyota Aygo, Fiat 500. Best for tight parking and 2 passengers.
Compact/Intermediate
Models like VW Golf, Opel Astra, Renault Mégane. Solid balance of space and economy for 2-4.
Standard Sedans
Full-size options like Mercedes C-Class, BMW 3-Series, Audi A4. Comfortable for 4+ passengers.
Passenger Vans
VW Sharan, Mercedes Vito have ample room for groups and maximum cargo space.
Luxury Vehicles
Premium models like Porsche, BMW 7 Series, Mercedes S-Class. Very expensive but include top-tier amenities and services.
FAQ About Renting a Car in Frankfurt
1. Is an International Driving Permit required?
Having an IDP is recommended but a valid license from your country suffices legally.
2. What insurance should I consider?
Third-party liability is mandatory. Also consider collision coverage and theft protection for full coverage.
3. Are rental cars equipped with GPS?
Many rentals have built-in GPS, especially with international companies. Verify when booking if needed.
4. Can I take the rental car to other countries?
Yes, you may drive to Belgium, Netherlands, etc. Inform the rental company about your itinerary beforehand.
5. Are child safety seats available for rent?
Yes, reserve a child seat in advance. Inventory is limited so book early. Verify rental costs.
Conclusion
Renting a car enables you to conveniently visit top attractions in Frankfurt as well as charming villages and scenic areas nearby. Booking the right rental car along with mindful driving will ensure you have a hassle-free experience exploring Germany beyond Frankfurt.
