Whatever the purpose of your visit or the size of your group, when you rent a car in Berlin from Avis, you’ll get the perfect vehicle for your needs. We’ve got practicality, performance and comfort all covered, so you can enjoy your car as much as possible. We can provide anything from a compact city car to a 7-seater family SUV – get in touch for more information about the exact models that are available.

The city was founded in the 13th century before being appointed as capital of the Margraviate of Brandenburg – a major principality of the Holy Roman Empire – in 1417. Since then, its history has been richly coloured by the Kingdom of Prussia, Imperial Germany, the Weimar Republic and the Third Reich.

Signs of these predecessors heavily punctuate Berlin today; from the Baroque Charlottenburg Palace – a grandiose castle constructed in the 17th century – to the infamous communist partition, the Berlin Wall, that physically and ideologically divided the nation between 1961 and 1989.

Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Museum Island, the Modernism Housing Estates and Sanssouci Palace and Gardens in outlying Potsdam – will strike a chord with culture buffs, in addition to three world-class opera houses and 150 theatres. Nature lovers can bask in the green spaces provided by Berlin’s 2,500 parks, and party people should not miss out on the city’s richly entertaining nightlife.

Located on the Great European Plain, the climate here changes with the seasons. Summer is the most popular time to visit, when the imposing architecture, piercing metallic Fernsehturm tower and the river Spree positively gleam in the sun. During the winter months, Christmas markets and ice-skating rinks twinkle from the iconic Alexanderplatz. Sample a traditional Currywurst (German sausage) alongside a warming Bavarian Glühwein for a festive refreshment.

Why Berlin is well worth a visit in your rental car

The vibrant capital has something for everyone: history and politics buffs, artists and art lovers, shopping enthusiasts and nature lovers. With rental stations throughout the city, we are always there for you.

Is Berlin an easy city to drive a rental car? Absolutely, the distances are great, so a car is much needed. But don't waste your time searching for a parking space in the city centre; a parking guidance system points you to free parking lots in the numerous parking garages. An hour's parking usually costs just 1 euro.

Which side of the road?
In Germany, please drive on the right side of the road.

Country driving laws

• Mobile phones may only be used with a headset or hands-free device
• Be aware that on unrestricted motorways (autobahns) you can still get a speeding ticket for driving too fast for the prevailing traffic or weather conditions
• In cities, if you see a blue sign with white car, children and bike symbols on it, you must drive at walking speed

• At crossroads or junctions in urban areas, you have the right of way if there is a road sign with a yellow diamond at the intersection. A white triangle with a red border indicates you must wait for the oncoming traffic to clear
• A number of German cities have low emission zones that require you to have a special permit to drive through them
• If you're caught committing a driving offence, the police can issue an on-the-spot fine

Speed limits

All speed signs will be in km/h.

For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (30 mph)
• Motorways (autobahns): None unless shown. 130 km/h (80 mph) is the suggested maximum

• Rural areas: 100 km/h (62 mph)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Child safety / Seatbelt laws

• It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt

• Children aged under 12 and less than 150 cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size

Please note - It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

This road rules information is for provided for general guidance only. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and accurate, but any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk.

Want a quick guide to the rules of German roads? We’ve unlocked them for you here.

The surrounds of Germany’s verdant capital are comprised of waterways and woodland. Strandbad Grünau is a 40-minute drive outside the centre of Berlin and regarded as one of the best river beaches in the region. Further south, Spreewald is a biosphere reserve nicknamed the Green Venice due its ample network of canals hemmed in by thick forest. Here you can take a barge tour, enrol on an artisan workshop or slip away and discover a secluded bathing spot for yourself. Pickled cucumbers are the province’s delicacy and a workshop offers a fun introduction to this culinary stalwart.

When you hire a car from Berlin, the mountains, lakes and historic villages en route to Leipzig and Dresden – Saxony’s chief city – offer yet more spectacular scenery and opportunity to become acquainted with east Germany’s accessible culture.

Worried you’ll get lost? To make your journey even easier, we can include a sat nav with your car so you can relax. Request yours when you book. Remember, you don’t have to drive full circle: make the most of one way car hire across Germany.

What is Berlin famous for?

Berlin is well known for its cultural attractions, particularly the nightlife in former warehouses and other industrial buildings. It also boasts plenty of historical architecture, including a memorial to the Wall that divided the city during the Cold War era.

Can I return a rental car to the airport?

If you've rented a car from a different Avis hub but wish to return it at one of Berlin’s airports, then you must arrange your return prior to the commencement of your rental agreement. If you return your car to the airport without specifying in your rental contract, a fee will apply.

Do I need winter tyres to drive in Germany?

Yes. As of 2010, it is a legal requirement for all passenger cars in Germany to be equipped with winter tyres, regardless of season. All cars in our German rental hubs have winter tyres to comply with this legislation.

Van Hire in Berlin

If you’re moving house or travelling with a particularly large load, a van might be the best choice for you. Check out our van hire options to find your ideal larger vehicle.