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1. Rental Companies in Stuttgart

Stuttgart has a wide range of car rental companies, from international brands to local providers. Here are some of the most popular options:

International Rental Companies:

Hertz: Known for its reliability and wide range of vehicles.
Avis: Offers competitive pricing and good customer service.
Europcar: A popular choice in Germany with many locations.
Sixt: A German company with a strong presence in Stuttgart, offering luxury and budget options.
Enterprise: Known for its customer-friendly policies.

Local Rental Companies:

Buchbinder: A German company with affordable rates.
Flizzr: A budget-friendly option, often associated with Sixt.
Car2Go/Share Now: A car-sharing service that originated in Stuttgart, ideal for short-term rentals.

Locations to Rent a Car:

Stuttgart Airport (STR): Most major rental companies have counters here, making it convenient for travelers arriving by air.
Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station): Many rental offices are located near the central train station.
City Center Locations: Rental offices are scattered throughout Stuttgart for easy access.

2. Costs of Renting a Car

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

Economy Cars: €30–€50 per day.
Mid-Size Cars: €50–€80 per day.
Luxury Cars: €100–€200+ per day.
SUVs or Vans: €80–€150 per day.
Additional Costs:
- Fuel: Gasoline prices in Germany are high, averaging €1.80–€2.00 per liter (as of 2023).
- Insurance: Basic insurance is included, but additional coverage costs €10–€30 per day.
- Extras: GPS (€5–€10/day), child seats (€10–€15/day), or additional drivers (€5–€15/day).

Tip: Book in advance to secure better rates, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and Christmas).

3. Required Documents

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

Driver’s License:
- EU/EEA citizens: A valid driver’s license from your home country is sufficient.
- Non-EU citizens: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, along with your home country’s license.
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 Age: The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, but some companies may require drivers to be 25 for certain vehicle categories. Drivers under 25 may incur a "young driver fee."

4. Procedures for Renting a Car

Booking: Reserve your car online or in person. Online bookings often offer discounts.
Pick-Up:
- Present your documents (license, ID, credit card).
- Inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure it’s documented.
- Confirm the fuel policy (e.g., full-to-full is common).
During the Rental:
- Keep the rental agreement and insurance documents in the car.
- Follow local driving rules (see below).
Return:
- Return the car with the agreed fuel level.
- Inspect the car with the rental agent to avoid disputes over damages.
- Keep a copy of the final receipt.

5. Insurance Options

Rental companies in Stuttgart typically include basic insurance, but additional coverage is highly recommended:

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces your liability in case of an accident. Often included but may have a high deductible.
Super CDW: Eliminates or significantly reduces the deductible.
Theft Protection: Covers theft of the vehicle.
Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.
Third-Party Liability Insurance: Mandatory in Germany and usually included.

Tip: Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance to avoid paying for duplicate coverage.

6. Local Driving Rules

Driving in Stuttgart is straightforward, but there are some key rules and cultural norms to be aware of:

Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph).
- Rural roads: 100 km/h (62 mph).
- Autobahns: No general speed limit, but 130 km/h (81 mph) is recommended.
Environmental Zones:
- Stuttgart has a "Low Emission Zone" (Umweltzone). Only vehicles with a green emissions sticker (Feinstaubplakette) are allowed. Rental cars typically have this sticker, but confirm with the rental company.
Right of Way: Priority is given to vehicles coming from the right unless otherwise indicated.
Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, but for new drivers (less than 2 years) and drivers under 21, it’s 0.00%.
Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
Mobile Phones: Using a phone while driving is prohibited unless it’s hands-free.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with German road signs, as they may differ from those in your home country.

7. Parking in Stuttgart

Parking in Stuttgart can be challenging, especially in the city center. Here’s what you need to know:

Street Parking:
- Paid parking zones are common. Look for blue signs with a "P" and a parking meter nearby.
- Rates range from €1–€3 per hour.
- Free parking is rare in the city center but more common in residential areas.
Parking Garages:
- Underground and multi-story parking garages are widely available.
- Rates are typically €1.50–€3 per hour or €15–€25 per day.
Park & Ride:
- Consider using Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts of Stuttgart and taking public transport into the city center.
Cultural Insight: Germans are very particular about parking rules. Avoid parking in restricted zones or blocking driveways, as fines are strictly enforced.

8. Specific Considerations for Driving in Stuttgart

Traffic: Stuttgart is known for heavy traffic during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:30 PM). Plan your trips accordingly.
Hilly Terrain: Stuttgart is surrounded by hills, so be prepared for steep roads and sharp turns.
Winter Driving: If visiting in winter, ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tires (mandatory in snowy/icy conditions).
Cultural Insight: Germans are disciplined drivers. Stick to the rules, use your indicators, and avoid overtaking on the right.

9. Practical Tips

Navigation: Use a GPS or a navigation app like Google Maps. Be aware that some tunnels in Stuttgart may interfere with GPS signals.
Fueling: Most gas stations are self-service. Look for "Super" (unleaded) or "Diesel" pumps, depending on your car.
Toll Roads: Germany does not have tolls for cars on highways, but some private roads or tunnels may charge a fee.
Day Trips: Consider using your rental car to visit nearby attractions like the Mercedes-Benz Museum, Porsche Museum, Ludwigsburg Palace, or the Swabian Alps.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car and drive confidently in Stuttgart. Enjoy your trip!

Stuttgart

Car Rentals