Arriving at the airport is a great time to start exploring Poland by car. Renting a car at Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) gives you freedom and flexibility, but it's important to know what to expect regarding the pickup procedure, potential costs, and driving features in the country.
Most car rental companies have their counters directly at the airport. They are usually located in the arrivals area, often in the main terminal or near the parking lots. To get to the car pickup location, you may need to use a free shuttle, usually provided by the rental company. Pay attention to signs in the airport to find the desired office.
The following car rental companies are usually represented at Warsaw Airport: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and others. The choice of cars is quite wide, from economy models to SUVs and premium cars. Here are some popular options:
| Car Class | Approximate Daily Cost (EUR) |
| Economy | 20 – 30 |
| Compact | 25 – 40 |
| Intermediate | 35 – 50 |
| SUV | 50 – 80 |
| Premium | 80+ |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and car availability.
To rent a car, you will need a valid driver's license (an international driving permit may be useful, although not always required), 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 will be blocked on your credit card and may vary depending on the car class and insurance coverage. Make sure you have enough free credit limit on your card.
When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car as a result of a collision. Theft insurance protects against car loss. Pay attention to the amount of the deductible (excess) – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. You can reduce the deductible by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost. Read the insurance terms carefully before signing the contract.
Toll roads (motorways) operate in Poland. Payment is made using vignettes, which can be purchased online or at gas stations. Parking in cities is usually paid, especially in the center. The speed limit on motorways is 140 km/h, on roads outside populated areas – 90 km/h, and in cities – 50 km/h. Be careful of signs and follow traffic rules.
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.
Not always required, but may be useful.
Using vignettes, which can be purchased online or at gas stations.
Most companies require payment by credit card.
Immediately notify the rental company and fill out a damage report.
Yes, the rental price usually includes VAT.
Yes, but this may involve an additional fee.
140 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on roads outside the city, 50 km/h in cities.
Definitely! Carefully inspect the car for damage and record it in the report.