Global Major Cities Guide

Services available for personal transportation in and around Nuremberg for visitors and residents.

Nuremberg has a variety of car rental companies, ranging from international brands to local providers. Some of the most popular options include:

International Companies:
- Hertz
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
- Budget
Local Companies:
- Buchbinder
- Flizzr
- Sunny Cars (broker service)

These companies have offices at Nuremberg Airport (NUE), the central train station (Hauptbahnhof), and in various locations around the city.

The cost of renting a car in Nuremberg depends on factors like the type of car, rental duration, and additional services. Here’s a general breakdown:

Economy Cars: €40–€70 per day
Mid-Size Cars: €60–€100 per day
Luxury Cars or SUVs: €100–€200+ per day
Weekly Rentals: Discounts are often available for longer rentals, with weekly rates starting at around €250 for economy cars.

Additional Costs:

Fuel: Gasoline costs around €1.80–€2.00 per liter (as of late 2023).
Insurance: Basic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage (e.g., collision damage waiver or theft protection) can cost €10–€30 per day.
Extras: GPS (€5–€10/day), child seats (€5–€15/day), or additional drivers (€5–€15/day).

To rent a car in Nuremberg, you’ll need the following:

Driver’s License:
- EU/EEA residents: A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- Non-EU residents: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if your license is not in English or German. Some companies may accept your home country’s license without an IDP, but it’s safer to have one.
Passport or ID Card: For identity verification.
Credit Card: Most rental companies require a credit card for the deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted.
Proof of Address: Occasionally requested, especially for long-term rentals.

Minimum Age: Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
Young Driver Surcharge: Drivers under 25 may incur an additional fee (€10–€20/day).
Maximum Age: Some companies may have restrictions for drivers over 70, so check in advance.

Car rental companies in Germany typically include basic insurance, but additional coverage is highly recommended:

Third-Party Liability Insurance: Mandatory and included in the rental price.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces your financial liability in case of an accident. Often comes with a deductible (€500–€1,500).
Super CDW (SCDW): Eliminates or further reduces the deductible.
Theft Protection: Covers the cost of the car if it’s stolen.
Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.

Tip: Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance, as this can save you money.

Driving in Nuremberg and Germany, in general, is straightforward, but here are some key rules to keep in mind:

Drive on the Right: Germany follows right-hand traffic.
Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
- Rural roads: 100 km/h (62 mph)
- Autobahn: No general speed limit, but 130 km/h (81 mph) is recommended.
Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. For new drivers (less than 2 years of experience) and drivers under 21, the limit is 0.00%.
Parking: Look for marked parking zones. Blue zones require a parking disc (Parkscheibe), and some areas may require payment at a meter.
Environmental Zones: Nuremberg has a low-emission zone (Umweltzone). Ensure your rental car has a green emissions sticker (Umweltplakette).

Nuremberg Airport (NUE): Convenient for international travelers. Rental desks are located in the arrivals area.
Nuremberg Central Train Station (Hauptbahnhof): Ideal for those arriving by train. Rental offices are within walking distance.
City Center Locations: Various rental offices are scattered throughout the city for local pickups.

Plan Ahead: Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and Christmas markets).
Manual vs. Automatic: Most cars in Germany have manual transmissions. If you need an automatic, specify this when booking.
Fuel Policy: Most companies operate on a full-to-full policy. Make sure to refill the tank before returning the car to avoid extra charges.
Roadside Assistance: Check if your rental includes 24/7 roadside assistance.
Navigation: Use a GPS or a smartphone app like Google Maps. Be aware that some rural areas may have limited cell service.
Toll Roads: Germany does not have tolls for passenger cars on highways, but some tunnels or bridges may have fees.
Winter Driving: If you’re visiting in winter (November–March), ensure the car is equipped with winter tires, as they are mandatory in snowy or icy conditions.

Language Barrier: Most rental staff speak English, but it’s helpful to know basic German phrases.
Driving Style: Germans are disciplined drivers. Follow the rules, use your indicators, and avoid lingering in the left lane on the Autobahn.
Public Transit Alternative: Nuremberg has an excellent public transportation system (U-Bahn, trams, and buses). Consider whether you need a car for city travel or just for day trips.
Parking Challenges: Parking in the city center can be limited and expensive. Use Park & Ride facilities if possible.

If you’re renting a car, consider visiting these destinations:

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent and drive a car in Nuremberg, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Safe travels!

Nuremberg