Arriving at Hamburg Airport is a great start to your journey through Germany. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This page will help you navigate the rental process, understand potential costs, and prepare for driving on German roads.
Most car rental companies have their counters directly in the arrival area of Hamburg Airport. They are usually located in the main terminal, near the exits to parking and bus stops. Some companies may offer shuttle services to remote parking areas where the cars are located. Pay attention to signs in the airport to find the desired office.
The following car rental companies are usually represented at Hamburg Airport: Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt and others. The choice of cars is quite wide, from economy models to SUVs and premium cars. Here are a few popular options:
| Economy | 20 – 35 EUR |
| Compact | 30 – 50 EUR |
| Intermediate | 40 – 65 EUR |
| SUV | 60 – 100+ EUR |
| Minivan | 70 – 120+ EUR |
| Premium | 100+ EUR |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and car availability.
You will need the following documents to rent a car: a valid driver's license (an international driver's license may be required if your license is not in Latin characters), a passport or other identification document, and a credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, but some companies may require 23 or 25 years. A deposit is usually charged, which is blocked on your credit card. The deposit amount depends on the type of car and insurance coverage. When receiving the car, carefully check it for damage and record it in the handover report.
You will be offered various types of insurance when renting a car. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car as a result of a collision. Theft insurance protects against loss of the vehicle. Pay attention to the amount of the excess – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. You can reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost. Read the insurance terms carefully before signing the contract.
There are certain traffic rules in Germany that should be followed. Some highways have no speed limit, but it is recommended to maintain a reasonable speed and consider weather conditions. Parking in cities may be paid, so pay attention to signs and parking meters. Toll sections are often found on highways, where you need to purchase a vignette. Be careful of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in cities.
Driver's license, passport and credit card in the driver's name.
Usually 21, but some companies require 23 or 25 years.
This is the amount you will pay yourself in case of damage or theft of the car.
It may be required if your license is not in Latin characters.
The deposit is blocked on your credit card and returned after returning the car.
Usually yes, but you need to inform the company about it in advance.
Record it in the handover report before leaving the rental location.
Some highways have toll sections where you need to purchase a vignette.
Compare prices from different companies and book in advance.
Collision Damage Waiver.
Recommended to protect yourself from financial loss.
Pay attention to signs and parking meters.