A trip to the amazing Berlin is perfect to visit the iconic sights like the Brandenburg Gate, the various museums, and walking around Alexanderplatz. Berlin is a city with so much history. Along with these sights in the center, you won’t want to miss out on the impressive Reichstag Building or the famous graffitied East Side Gallery of the Berlin Wall. Both of these tourist spots are accessible by public transportation or even a Berlin car rental. Parking in the German capital is possible as long as you avoid the city center. There are over 30 car rental locations in Berlin both downtown and near the airports. The main international airport, Berlin Brandenburg Airport, is less than an hour's drive away. Since there are many options to choose from, finding a cheap car rental in Berlin is not difficult. If you prefer traveling in style, luxury car rentals in Berlin are also available at most agencies.
While visiting, is it worthwhile to rent a car while visiting Berlin?
Berlin center is best to get around by public transportation to not have to deal with traffic. Also, parking isn’t free in the center circle of the city. Having access to car rentals in Berlin will allow you to not only explore the inner city but also take a day trip to Dresden to see its beautiful architecture or learn more about German and World History at the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. Both of these destinations are less than a two-hour drive from downtown Berlin. You may find free parking in Berlin out of the main city center, where it’s easier to leave your Berlin car rentals and go exploring from there. The highways A96 and A2 are two of the most direct ways into Berlin from the south and the west, but try avoiding them at peak hours since they are known to get congested.
What different driving laws should I keep in mind while driving in Berlin?
Germany uses the metric system, so when driving your car rentals in Berlin, remember the speed limits and distances will be marked in kilometers. Contrary to popular belief, some Autobahns (highways) do have speed limits, or areas that have restricted speed. Make sure you keep your eye out for any possible signs limiting your speed. If you see blinking yellow lights at a traffic light, first stop and then proceed if the intersection is clear. Unless indicated otherwise, at an intersection, the car to your right has the right of way. The "priority road" is indicated with a yellow diamond-shaped sign. Driving on snow-covered roads is not permitted without proper winter tires. If you are traveling in the winter, make sure to confirm with the agency when picking up your rental car in Berlin that your vehicle is prepared. However, we do recommend checking with Berlin’s department of motor vehicles for any possible changes or updates in traffic laws.
Will I need a special driver’s license or permit to drive a rental car in Berlin if I’m visiting from another country?
To be able to rent a car rental in Berlin, you are required to be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver’s license. You are not required to hold an International Driving Permit if the driver’s license from your country of origin is in English or if it is a European Union driver’s license.