How to Rent a Car in Europe as a Tourist in 2025

Renting a car is often the smartest way to travel across Europe in 2025. It gives you full control over your route, lets you reach remote areas beyond public transport, and saves time on tight itineraries. But it also comes with strict rules, hidden fees, and country-specific requirements that many travelers learn about too late. This guide gives you verified, up-to-date information based on real policies, not guesses or general advice.

We focus on what actually matters: required documents, insurance traps, cross-border driving rules, one-way rentals, and how to avoid common scams. No fluff, no filler — only facts that help you save money, time, and stress. Every tip is current for 2025 and sourced from real rental terms or first-hand experience.

How to Rent a Car Abroad Without Mistakes

Renting a car in a foreign country in 2025 requires more than just booking online. Countries have different legal requirements, insurance policies, and accepted payment methods. Most rental companies in Europe require a valid driving license, a credit card for the deposit, and a minimum driver age of 21–23, depending on the location.

Things to Know Before Renting a Car Internationally

• Driving license: You must have held a license for at least 12 months. Some providers require 24 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is mandatory in countries like Italy and Austria if your license isn’t in Latin script.
• Minimum age: Most companies rent to drivers aged 21+, but under-25s often pay a young driver fee of €10–30 per day.
• Credit card in driver’s name: Required for security deposit. Debit cards are usually not accepted.
• ID and booking confirmation: Passport or national ID is required at pickup, along with a printed or saved confirmation.
• Advance booking: Prices are lower when booked online 2–4 weeks in advance, especially for automatic cars in high season.

Pros and Cons of Local vs Global Rental Agencies

• International companies (e.g. Sixt, Hertz, Europcar): predictable policies, cross-border options, multilingual support, higher prices.
• Local agencies: often 20–40% cheaper, more flexible with payment types, but vehicle condition and insurance coverage vary widely.

Always read the terms. Some local companies reject debit cards or require full payment upfront. Check recent reviews, not just ratings.

What Documents Are Needed to Rent a Car Abroad

Every car rental in Europe requires identification and driving credentials that comply with both local law and the rental company’s policy. In 2025, most major agencies require a valid driver’s license, a passport or national ID, and a credit card. In some cases, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also mandatory — especially for travelers from the U.S., Canada, or countries that do not issue licenses in Latin script.

Do You Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An IDP is not a standalone license. It’s a translation of your original license and must always be presented together with it. In the European Union, the need for an IDP depends on your country of residence:

• EU/EEA citizens: No IDP required within the EU.
• UK license holders: Still accepted across the EU in 2025 with no IDP needed.
• USA, Canada, Australia: IDP is recommended, and in countries like Italy, Greece, and Austria, it is legally required.
• Non-Latin licenses (e.g. China, Russia, Japan): IDP is mandatory almost everywhere.

Country-by-Country ID Requirements in Europe

Renting a Car Without a Credit Card – Is It Possible?

Most major car rental companies in Europe require a credit card under the main driver’s name. It’s not just for payment — it’s for placing a security deposit hold, which ranges from €300 to over €2,000 depending on the car type and insurance coverage. In 2025, very few providers allow debit cards, and cash is almost never accepted.

Can You Use Debit Cards or Cash for Rental Cars?

Some local agencies and a limited number of global providers accept debit cards, but with strict conditions. These may include a higher deposit, additional insurance purchase, or restrictions on vehicle category. Cash is almost universally rejected due to fraud risk and insurance requirements.

• Sixt: Accepts debit cards in some European countries, but not for luxury or SUV models.
• Avis: Accepts debit cards in select locations, often with proof of return flight and additional ID.
• Enterprise: Some branches allow debit cards, but only with full insurance and local residence proof.

Understanding Security Deposits and Hold Amounts

Rental companies freeze a deposit amount on your card at pickup — not a charge, but a hold. This amount is released upon safe vehicle return, but it can take 7–14 business days to appear back in your account. Deposit amounts vary widely:

Do You Need Insurance for a Rental Car Abroad?

In most European countries, third-party liability insurance is included by law in every rental. But this does not cover damage to your own vehicle — and certainly not theft, personal injury, or roadside support. In 2025, rental desks often try to upsell multiple insurance options, many of which duplicate coverage already included by your credit card or external policy. Knowing exactly what’s covered — and what’s not — saves both money and legal trouble abroad.

Types of Insurance You May Need

There are four core types of car rental insurance to consider. Each one serves a specific purpose and has different coverage levels:

• Third-Party Liability (TPL): Covers injuries or damage you cause to others. Legally required and always included in the base rental.
• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces your financial liability for damage to the rental car itself. Often includes an excess (deductible) of €500–€2,000.
• Theft Protection (TP): Covers vehicle theft or attempted theft. Usually bundled with CDW in Europe.
• Supplemental Insurance: Includes excess reduction (SCDW), personal accident insurance (PAI), and roadside assistance (RSA). Sold separately or in bundles.

What’s Already Included in Standard Rental Agreements

Standard European rentals typically include TPL, CDW, and TP — but with high excess amounts. For example, Hertz and Sixt often have deductibles of €1,200+ unless you buy additional cover. Some providers require full CDW purchase if you pay with a debit card or book through a third-party broker.

• Credit card coverage: Many premium credit cards (e.g. Visa Infinite, AmEx Platinum) include CDW/TP. Check your terms in writing before declining insurance at the desk.
• External brokers: Platforms like DiscoverCars or Rentalcover.com offer excess insurance for €5–€10/day — often 50–70% cheaper than agency rates.

One-Way and Cross-Border Car Rentals in Europe

Driving a rental car across European borders is possible — but it’s not automatic. Every rental company has its own policy, and crossing into certain countries without prior approval may void your insurance entirely. In 2025, most agencies allow international travel within the EU and Schengen Zone, but only with written permission on your rental agreement. One-way drop-offs in another country or city are usually subject to high fees and limited availability.

Can You Drive Across Country Borders with a Rental?

Cross-border rental is allowed by most providers in Western and Central Europe. However, Eastern and non-EU destinations like Albania, Serbia, or Ukraine are often excluded. Failure to declare border travel in advance can result in denied claims or vehicle confiscation.

• Permitted countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Croatia (varies by company).
• Common exclusions: Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, Turkey, Moldova.
• Insurance impact: Some countries require additional cross-border insurance, even within the EU (e.g. Hungary, Slovenia).

Rules for Returning a Car in a Different City

One-way rentals within the same country are usually allowed, though fees range from €20 to over €200 depending on distance and location type (e.g. airport vs train station). International one-way returns (e.g. Paris to Rome) are available only through major providers and must be arranged at the time of booking.

• Same-country drop-off: Often allowed without prior approval, but always comes with a surcharge.
• Cross-border drop-off: Requires explicit confirmation, limited to select cities (e.g. Berlin → Zurich, Milan → Nice).
• Unsupported routes: Many routes are not allowed due to licensing, taxation, or insurance limits.

Automatic or Manual – What to Choose in Europe?

In most European countries, manual transmission is still the default. According to 2023 fleet data from major rental agencies, less than 30% of cars available for rent are automatic — and availability drops below 20% in countries like Poland, Spain, and Greece. For travelers unfamiliar with manual gearboxes, this makes advance booking essential if you want an automatic vehicle in 2025.

Is It Easy to Find an Automatic Rental in Europe?

Automatic cars are available, but they cost 20–40% more and are booked out quickly, especially in summer. Agencies like Sixt, Avis, and Hertz usually carry a limited number of automatic models — mainly in compact and premium categories. Booking through global platforms such as Rentalcars, DiscoverCars, or Kayak lets you filter for transmission type and compare prices across providers.

• France & Germany: moderate availability, especially in urban centers.
• Italy, Spain, Greece: limited stock — often less than 25% of fleet.
• Poland & Czech Republic: mostly manual, automatics usually in SUV or luxury class.

Manual Transmission: Cheaper but Tricky for Tourists

Manual rentals are significantly cheaper — often by €10–€25 per day. However, for tourists used to automatics, European roads, roundabouts, and hills can make manual driving stressful. Misuse of the clutch or gearbox is considered driver error and is not covered by standard insurance.

• Pros: Lower rental cost, wider availability, better fuel efficiency.
• Cons: Harder to drive in traffic, steep roads, or unfamiliar terrain. Damage risk if you’re not trained.

Age Limits for Renting a Car in Different Countries

In Europe, the legal minimum age to rent a car varies by country and provider, but the standard baseline is 21. Some countries allow rentals from 18, while others restrict access to drivers under 23. Even if you meet the legal age, rental companies often apply “young driver fees” — a daily surcharge for renters under 25. In 2025, this fee ranges from €10 to €30 per day and is applied regardless of driving experience.

Minimum Age Requirements Across Europe

Below are verified minimum age thresholds from major rental companies in key European markets. Note that higher vehicle classes (e.g. SUVs, premium cars) may require the driver to be at least 25 or 30.

Young Driver Fees and Restrictions in 2025

Most providers apply automatic surcharges to drivers aged 18–24, regardless of driving history. These fees are non-negotiable and appear as separate line items in your booking. Some companies also restrict access to vans, 4x4s, or luxury models for younger renters. If you’re under 25, check both the base rate and total cost including surcharges before booking.

Car Rental Fuel Policies Explained

Fuel policy is one of the top areas where rental companies generate hidden fees. In 2025, almost all providers in Europe apply one of three standard fuel models: Full-to-Full, Prepaid, or Full-to-Empty. Each comes with different financial implications, and returning the car without meeting the exact fuel terms often results in charges of €15–€50 plus fuel cost markup.

Full-to-Full vs Prepaid Fuel – Which Is Better?

Full-to-Full is the default option with most international agencies and the only model that allows full cost control. You receive the car with a full tank and are required to return it full — failure to do so leads to refill surcharges plus inflated fuel prices. Prepaid fuel means you pay for a full tank in advance and can return the car empty, but unused fuel is not refunded. A third model, Full-to-Empty, is used by some low-cost local companies and is rarely advantageous for travelers.

• Full-to-Full: Most transparent; requires precise refueling before return.
• Prepaid Fuel: Convenient but often overpriced and non-refundable.
• Full-to-Empty: Common with local budget agencies; poor value for short trips.

How to Avoid Extra Charges for Fuel

The most common fuel-related penalties come from two issues: returning the car without a full tank under Full-to-Full terms, or agreeing to Prepaid Fuel without understanding the cost structure. Markups range from €0.30–€0.60 per liter above pump prices, and service fees can exceed €40. Always refuel as close as possible to the return location and keep the receipt.

• Use Google Maps to find 24/7 stations near the drop-off point.
• Take a timestamped photo of the fuel gauge at return.
• Decline prepaid fuel unless you’re 100% sure you’ll return empty.
• Electric cars: Some companies apply a “charging fee” if battery is below 70% at return.

Is It Worth Renting a Car on Vacation?

Whether a rental car is the right choice depends on where you’re going, how long you’ll stay, and how flexible you need your schedule to be. In 2025, rental cars offer a clear advantage in rural areas, small towns, or during multi-stop routes — especially when public transport is limited or nonexistent. In major cities, however, car hire is often slower, more expensive, and less convenient than trains or trams.

When Is a Rental Car the Best Option?

• Rural regions: No rail or bus service — e.g. villages in Tuscany, fjords in Norway, mountain areas in Slovakia.
• Multi-destination trips: Covering multiple towns in one week without backtracking (e.g. Alsace or Bavaria).
• Traveling with kids: Easier logistics, private space, and less luggage handling.
• Active holidays: Hiking, skiing, diving — rental cars simplify equipment transport.
• Travel during holidays: Limited public transport during national holidays in countries like France, Spain, or Croatia.

Comparing Costs: Rental vs Train, Bus, or Rideshare

Base rental prices in Europe start from €25/day for economy models, but real costs (insurance, fuel, tolls) often bring the daily total to €50–€80. In contrast, a train ride from Berlin to Prague costs €30–€40, takes the same time, and requires no parking or fuel. City-to-city bus fares in Eastern Europe average €12–€20. In urban areas, ridesharing (e.g. Bolt, Free Now, Uber) often undercuts the daily cost of a rental — especially for short trips.

• Rental car: €300–€500 per week including extras.
• Train/bus combo: €150–€250 per week with good coverage.
• Car-sharing (e.g. SHARE NOW, GreenMobility): €0.19–€0.39/min, but city-only, no cross-border.

Best Time to Book a Rental Car for 2025 Travel

In Europe, the best prices on rental cars are usually available 4–6 weeks before departure. Booking too early (3+ months) often means missing short-term discounts, while last-minute reservations — especially in July and August — can cost 2–3× more. In 2025, average summer rental prices reached €65/day in July, compared to €38/day in May and October.

When Are Rental Prices the Lowest?

Weekday pickups (Monday–Thursday) are typically cheaper than weekend starts. Spring and fall shoulder seasons — April to early June, and late September to October — offer the best rates. Major events, festivals, or school holidays in the destination country can spike demand regardless of month.

Booking at the Airport vs City Center: What’s Cheaper?

Airport rentals are often more expensive due to location surcharges, typically €15–€40 per rental. However, they offer longer hours and broader vehicle selection. City center branches may be 10–20% cheaper, but they close earlier and have limited weekend hours. In some countries (e.g. Germany, Austria), railway station pickups offer the best compromise between cost and convenience.

• Airport rental pros: Extended hours, better car variety, open 7 days.
• Cons: Location fees, higher insurance markup.
• City center pros: Lower base rate, less busy at pickup.
• Cons: Shorter hours, smaller fleet, sometimes hard to find parking on return.

Best Car Rental Apps and Platforms in 2025

In 2025, car rental search apps have become the most efficient way to compare prices, filter by car type or transmission, and avoid agencies with poor service. While global platforms offer wide access and transparent terms, local providers often deliver better prices — but usually lack dedicated apps or multilingual support. Choosing the right tool saves both time and money on a European trip.

Top 5 Apps to Compare Car Rental Prices

• Kayak: Meta-search engine that aggregates prices from both agencies and brokers. Offers price alerts and flexible filters.
• DiscoverCars: Specialized rental broker with high transparency, full damage policy breakdowns, and free cancellation on most deals.
• Rentalcars: Part of Booking Holdings; wide coverage, useful reviews, and option to book extras like child seats or GPS.
• Getaround: Peer-to-peer rental app active in France, Spain, Germany. Great for urban use, but often limited to locals or EU residents.
• Turo: Widely used in the U.S. and expanding into Europe. Good for unique vehicles, but often lacks cross-border support and standardized insurance.

Each platform displays slightly different pricing structures. Some include insurance by default, while others show base prices only — always verify what’s included before booking.

Local Agencies vs Multinational Giants – What to Choose?

Multinational brands like Sixt, Hertz, Avis, and Europcar dominate the major airports and city centers. Their benefits include standardized contracts, English-language support, and 24/7 assistance. However, they’re often 20–35% more expensive than regional companies. Local agencies, while cheaper, may lack apps, offer fewer pickup options, and impose stricter fuel or insurance policies.

• Global providers: Ideal for cross-border trips, airport pickups, and automatic cars.
• Local providers: Better for price-sensitive short-term rentals, especially in southern and eastern Europe.
• Key tip: Always check Google Maps reviews for local agencies — 4.3+ average with 100+ recent reviews is a reliable threshold.

GPS, Wi-Fi, and Extras – Are They Included?

Most rental cars in Europe do not include GPS or Wi-Fi by default. These are add-ons that must be selected during booking or requested at pickup. In 2025, GPS rental costs range from €5 to €15 per day, while mobile Wi-Fi routers average €8 to €12 per day. Many newer cars offer built-in navigation systems, but agencies still charge extra for guaranteed GPS access — regardless of model.

What Extras Are Worth Paying For?

Some extras improve safety and convenience, while others are overpriced or redundant. Below is a breakdown of the most common add-ons and their typical costs:

Navigation and Road Info You Might Not Expect

While GPS helps with routing, it does not include country-specific rules or toll data. For example:

• Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic: Toll stickers (“vignettes”) required for highways — not always included with rental.
• Italy and France: Tolls are ticket-based, and must be paid manually (cash/card).
• Norway, Portugal: Use automatic toll systems; rental companies may charge post-return.

Apps like Google Maps and Waze usually outperform outdated rental GPS units. They include real-time traffic and border delays, which built-in systems lack. However, mobile data charges may apply if roaming without a local SIM.

Renting a Car as a Tourist in Poland – What to Know

Poland is one of the most affordable countries in Europe for car rentals, with prices starting at €20–€30/day for economy vehicles. International travelers can rent a car using their national license (if in Latin script) or an International Driving Permit. Most major agencies — including Sixt, Europcar, and Panek — operate in airports and city centers across Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, and Gdańsk. However, local road conditions, parking zones, and traffic rules vary significantly by city and region.

Road Conditions and Parking Tips in Poland

Polish highways (A1, A2, A4) are well-maintained and allow speeds up to 140 km/h. Regional roads can be narrow, poorly lit, or under construction. Google Maps and Yanosik (local navigation app) are widely used for real-time traffic and police checks.

• Parking zones: City centers have paid parking Monday–Friday, usually from 8:00 to 20:00. Fees range from 4 to 7 PLN/hour (€0.90–€1.60).
• Mobile apps: Use SkyCash, moBiLET, or Pango to pay for parking — meters may not accept foreign cards.
• Low Emission Zones (LEZ): Active or planned in Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław. Access may be restricted based on car emissions and registration country.
• Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h outside, 120–140 km/h on highways. Speed cameras are widespread and automatic fines apply.
• Where not to drive: Old towns in Kraków, Gdańsk, or Lublin are pedestrian zones. Avoid driving into them — fines can exceed 500 PLN.

Are Electric Cars Available for Rent?

EV rentals are available in Warsaw, Kraków, and Gdańsk, primarily via Panek CarSharing or Traficar. Long-term rentals of EVs are limited to major international companies and often cost 30–50% more than gasoline models. Charging infrastructure exists but is denser in urban areas — expect AC chargers (22 kW) in public lots and DC fast chargers (50–100 kW) on highways.

• Charging apps: Use GreenWay, Elocity, or PlugShare for real-time availability.
• Free parking: In cities like Kraków and Wrocław, EVs with Polish “EL” plates can park for free in designated green zones.
• Tourist usage: EVs are best suited for city use. Long-distance infrastructure outside main routes remains limited.

Understanding Car Rental Insurance in 2025

Insurance is where many travelers lose the most money — often without realizing it. In 2025, every international car rental comes with minimum third-party liability (TPL), but not full vehicle coverage. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP) are either included with a high excess or sold separately. Misunderstanding these terms can turn a €200 rental into a €2,000 problem.

What Is CDW and Do You Really Need It?

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is not insurance — it’s a contractual agreement that limits your liability for damage to the vehicle. Most European rentals include CDW by default, but with an excess (deductible) of €500–€2,500. Without further coverage, you’re responsible for any repair costs up to that limit — even if the damage isn’t your fault.

• Third-Party Liability (TPL): Legally required and always included. Covers damage to others.
• CDW: Covers your vehicle but includes excess. Optional in some countries.
• Super CDW (SCDW): Reduces or removes the excess. Expensive at the counter (€15–€30/day).
• External excess insurance: Cheaper (often €6–€10/day) via brokers like DiscoverCars or Rentalcover.com.

Watch Out for Common Car Rental Scams

Even experienced travelers get caught by aggressive upselling or deposit fraud. Here are the top ways tourists lose money — and how to avoid them:

• Damage claims after return: Always photograph and video the car at pickup and drop-off. Focus on rims, bumpers, and windshield.
• Forced insurance upgrades: Agents may claim that CDW is mandatory even if your credit card covers it. Bring printed proof of your coverage.
• Fuel charges: Some agencies claim tank is not full and charge €50+ refill fees. Keep fuel receipt from last station (within 10 km).
• Cross-border penalty traps: Driving into restricted countries without prior approval may void your contract — or result in €500+ penalties.
• Cleanliness or admin fees: Some companies charge €30–€70 for “excess dirt” or “document handling.” Check terms before signing.

Renting an Electric Car – Is It a Good Option in Europe?

Electric vehicle (EV) rentals are expanding fast in Europe, especially in Western and Nordic countries. In 2025, tourists can book EVs from major brands like Sixt, Hertz, and Europcar in cities and airports across France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and more. Prices remain higher than for gasoline cars — often by 25–40% — but EVs come with benefits like free city parking and, in some cases, exemption from tolls and emissions charges.

Where Can You Rent an EV in 2025?

EV rentals are widely available in capital cities, major tourist hubs, and airport locations. Nordic countries lead in infrastructure and availability. In Southern and Eastern Europe, electric rentals are still limited and mostly urban-focused.

Charging Infrastructure and Costs

Europe uses the CCS and Type 2 standards for charging. Public stations can be AC (up to 22 kW) or DC fast (50–350 kW). Charging costs vary widely: €0.25–€0.60/kWh for AC, €0.55–€0.90/kWh for DC fast. Charging cards or apps (e.g. PlugSurfing, ChargeMap, GreenWay) are essential, as not all stations accept credit cards directly.

• Apps: Download PlugShare, ChargeMap, or ABRP for real-time availability and route planning.
• Charging time: Expect 6–10 hours for AC, 20–45 minutes for DC fast charging.
• Hotel charging: Increasingly common in 3–5 star hotels; ask before booking.

Final Tips for Renting a Car on Your European Holiday

Car rentals unlock access to rural regions, coastlines, and national parks across Europe — but they also introduce logistical risk. Whether you’re planning a 3-day trip or a 2-week circuit, small oversights can result in major costs. Below is a final set of must-know tips to help avoid the most common mistakes travelers make when booking, driving, and returning a rental car abroad.

Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a Car

• 1. Booking too late: Last-minute bookings cost 40–60% more in July and August.
• 2. Ignoring transmission type: Manual cars dominate in Europe — confirm automatic if needed.
• 3. Not checking toll systems: Many countries use electronic tolls — register your plate or ask the rental agency.
• 4. Skipping vehicle inspection: Always film a full walkaround, even if the agent says “it’s fine.”
• 5. Declining insurance without backup: Only skip CDW if your credit card or external policy covers it in writing.
• 6. Renting from unknown companies: Low-cost agencies may offer poor service or inflated post-return charges.
• 7. Driving in LEZ zones without permission: Fines for unauthorized entry into low emission zones can exceed €100.
• 8. Forgetting about drop-off hours: Most city offices close at 18:00; after-hours returns often incur fees.
• 9. Paying extra for GPS or Wi-Fi: Smartphones and offline apps are cheaper and more reliable.
• 10. Leaving personal items inside: Theft from parked rentals is common — especially in tourist zones.

Essential Road Trip Packing List for Car Travelers

• International driving permit (if required)
• Printed rental contract and booking confirmation
• Power bank and phone holder for navigation
• Offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me)
• High-visibility vests and warning triangle (legally required in many countries)
• Local currency for tolls or rural gas stations
• Reusable shopping bags (mandatory in several EU states)
• Snacks, water, and emergency charger cable