Renting a car in Europe is a great way to experience the freedom of travel, dive into the atmosphere of European cities, and explore lesser-known spots across the continent. But if you want to rent a car affordably, it’s important to understand all the nuances, know where to rent, and how to save money. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and give you some helpful tips on how to rent a car in Europe without breaking the bank.
Where’s the Best Place to Rent a Car: Online or On-Site?
There are several ways to rent a car: online, at the airport, at train stations, or even at a port. Let’s go over which option might be more convenient and cost-effective for you.
Online Car Rental
Booking a car online is the most convenient and often the cheapest way. It allows you to choose a suitable car in advance, read reviews, and find the lowest price. Aggregator websites like Rentalcars, Auto Europe, and Kayak let you compare offers from various companies to find the best deal. Plus, you can select additional options, like a child seat or insurance, ahead of time. Online booking often comes with discounts, too.

Renting at the Airport
If you want to start your journey as soon as you land, it’s convenient to rent a car at the airport. But keep in mind that prices are often higher there due to extra fees. The main advantage of renting at the airport is the 24/7 availability and wide selection of vehicles. However, if you’re not in a rush, it’s usually cheaper to rent a car in the city.
Renting at Train Stations and Ports
If your journey begins at a train station or a port, you can also find rental offices there. Just be aware that the selection of cars might not be as large as at airports, especially in smaller towns. Still, this option can be convenient if you’re looking to start your trip right after arriving.
Major Car Rental Companies in Europe
In Europe, you can find both large international companies and local rental firms. Here are some of the biggest companies available in almost every European city:
- Carsharing – A budget-friendly option for renting a car in cities. For example, the Georgian carsharing service Getmancar allows for convenient and affordable short-term rentals, ideal for exploring urban areas.
- Hertz – One of the largest and best-known international companies.
- Avis – Offers a wide variety of cars and often provides good discounts when booking online.
- Europcar – A European company with a wide selection of cars and offices all over the continent.
- Sixt – A German company known for its excellent service and quality vehicles.
- Budget – Provides affordable options, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

All these companies have websites where you can book your car in advance, as well as rental offices in major airports and cities.
How to Save Money on Car Rental in Europe
Now let’s talk about how to rent a car in Europe without spending a fortune:
- Book in Advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper it will be, especially during peak season.
- Use Aggregators. Compare prices through aggregators—this can save you a lot of time and money.
- Avoid Renting at the Airport. Try to rent in the city if possible—airport rentals often come with additional charges.
- Skip the Extras. Many companies will offer you extras like a GPS or child seat for an additional fee, but you can bring your own or use navigation on your phone.
- Insurance. Full insurance can add a lot to your rental cost, but it’s important for peace of mind. Sometimes your credit card already provides similar coverage—be sure to check.
- Weekdays are Better than Weekends. Demand is higher on weekends, which means higher prices. Try to book your rental for weekdays if you can.
Can You Return the Car in a Different City or Country?
One of the major benefits of renting a car is the ability to drop it off somewhere else. This service is called One Way Rent, and it’s available with most major rental companies. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

- Additional Fees. Returning a car in a different city or country usually comes with extra fees, and they can be significant.
- Availability. Not all companies allow cross-border rentals, and not all countries permit drop-offs outside the initial rental country. Make sure to check these details before booking.
- Plan Ahead. If you plan to return the car in a different country, make sure that all documents and insurance allow you to cross borders in a rental car.
Car Rental Process: What You Need to Know
Renting a car isn’t complicated, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choosing the Right Car. It’s important to know in advance what kind of car you need. If you plan to drive through narrow streets, a compact car is better. For longer trips, you might want a more comfortable option.
- Documents. Make sure you have your driver’s license (in some countries an international driver’s permit is required), passport, and a credit card for the deposit. Note that the minimum age for renting a car in most European countries is 21.
- Terms of the Agreement. Always read the rental terms carefully: mileage limits, fuel policy, insurance. For example, if the agreement states “Full to Full,” return the car with a full tank to avoid paying for fuel at inflated prices.
- Deposit. Rental companies typically block a certain amount on your card as a deposit. This amount will be unblocked once you return the car in good condition.
To rent a car affordably, it’s important to plan ahead, use online aggregators, avoid extra charges, and read the rental terms carefully. Renting a car gives you freedom to explore, and that makes your trip truly unforgettable.