Malmo
Car Rentals
Options for renting cars to travel within Malmo or to nearby destinations.
Sections
1. Available Rental Companies in Malmö
Malmö has a variety of car rental companies, ranging from international brands to local providers. Most rental offices are located at Malmö Central Station, Malmö Airport (Sturup), and in the city center.
International Rental Companies:
- Hertz: Well-known for its wide range of vehicles and reliable service.
- Avis: Offers competitive pricing and a variety of car options.
- Europcar: Popular for its flexible rental terms and extensive network.
- Sixt: Known for premium vehicles and good customer service.
- Budget: A cost-effective option for travelers on a budget.
Local Rental Companies:
- MABI: A Swedish car rental company with offices in Malmö, offering competitive rates.
- Sunfleet (now part of M) by Volvo: A car-sharing service that can be a good option for short-term or occasional use.
Car-Sharing Services:
- GreenMobility: An electric car-sharing service available in Malmö, ideal for short trips within the city.
- Aimo: Another car-sharing service with eco-friendly options.
2. Typical Costs
The cost of renting a car in Malmö depends on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the season. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Economy Cars: SEK 400–700 per day (approx. €35–65).
- Mid-Size Cars: SEK 600–1,000 per day (approx. €55–90).
- Luxury Cars or SUVs: SEK 1,200–2,500 per day (approx. €110–230).
- Weekly Rentals: Discounts are often available for longer rentals, with weekly rates starting at SEK 2,500–4,000 for economy cars.
- Car-Sharing Services: Rates typically start at SEK 5–7 per minute or SEK 400–600 per day.
Additional Costs:
- Fuel: Petrol prices in Sweden are high, averaging SEK 20–25 per liter (approx. €1.80–2.30).
- Tolls: The Öresund Bridge to Denmark has a toll fee of SEK 645 (approx. €58) for a standard car (one way).
- Extras: GPS, child seats, and additional drivers may cost SEK 50–150 per day each.
3. Rental Procedures
Renting a car in Malmö is straightforward, but it’s important to prepare the necessary documents and understand the process:
Steps to Rent a Car:
- Book in Advance: Use online platforms like Rentalcars.com, the company’s website, or apps to compare prices and reserve a car.
- Provide Required Documents:
- A valid driver’s license (EU/EEA licenses are accepted; non-EU licenses may require an International Driving Permit).
- A passport or national ID card.
- A credit card in the renter’s name (for the deposit).
- Pick Up the Car: Inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damage and ensure it’s documented in the rental agreement.
- Return the Car: Return the car with a full tank of fuel (unless you’ve prepaid for fuel) and in the same condition as when you picked it up.
4. Insurance Requirements
Car rental companies in Sweden typically include basic insurance in the rental price, but you may want to consider additional coverage for peace of mind.
Included Insurance:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to the rental car but often comes with a high deductible.
- Theft Protection: Covers theft of the vehicle.
Optional Insurance:
- Super CDW: Reduces or eliminates the deductible for damage.
- Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.
- Roadside Assistance: Covers towing and other emergency services.
Tip: Check if your credit card or travel insurance includes rental car coverage to avoid paying for duplicate insurance.
5. Age Restrictions
- The minimum age to rent a car in Sweden is typically 20 years old, but some companies require drivers to be at least 25 years old for certain vehicle categories.
- Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge of SEK 100–200 per day.
- A valid driver’s license must have been held for at least 1 year.
6. Driving Rules in Sweden
Driving in Malmö is generally safe and straightforward, but it’s important to follow Swedish traffic laws and local customs:
Key Rules:
- Drive on the Right: Sweden drives on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
- Headlights: Must be on at all times, even during the day.
- Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 30–50 km/h.
- Rural roads: 70–90 km/h.
- Highways: 110–120 km/h.
- Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%, which is very strict. Avoid drinking and driving entirely.
- Mobile Phones: Using a handheld phone while driving is prohibited.
Parking in Malmö:
- Parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. Look for designated parking areas or garages.
- Pay-and-display machines are common, and you can also use apps like EasyPark or Parkster to pay for parking.
7. Local Considerations and Tips
- Eco-Friendly Options: Malmö is a green city, and electric or hybrid cars are widely available for rent. Charging stations are common.
- Winter Driving: If you’re visiting in winter (November–March), ensure the car is equipped with winter tires, which are mandatory during this period.
- Crossing to Denmark: If you plan to drive to Copenhagen, confirm with the rental company that cross-border travel is allowed. Additional fees may apply.
- Public Transport: Malmö has an excellent public transport system, so consider whether you need a car for your entire stay or just for day trips.
- Long-Term Rentals: For residents or long-term visitors, leasing a car or using car-sharing services like M by Volvo may be more cost-effective.
8. Practical Advice for Short-Term Visitors
- Rent a car only if you plan to explore areas outside Malmö, such as Lund, Ystad, or the countryside.
- Use public transport or bicycles for getting around the city center, as Malmö is compact and bike-friendly.
9. Practical Advice for Long-Term Residents
- Consider leasing a car if you need one regularly, as it often includes maintenance and insurance.
- Explore car-sharing services for occasional use, as they are more sustainable and cost-effective.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car in Malmö and enjoy a smooth driving experience. Let me know if you need further assistance!