Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
Trustpilot
Dresden
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Dresden
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Dresden
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Dresden
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Dresden, a city known for its Baroque architecture and rich cultural history, offers much to explore. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom and flexibility to discover hidden gems and nearby attractions at your own pace.
Explore Beyond the City Centre. With a rental car, you can easily venture beyond Dresden’s city centre to explore the scenic Saxon Switzerland National Park or the vineyards along the Elbe River.
Visit Historical Sites. Drive to nearby historical sites like the Moritzburg Castle or the Pillnitz Castle, each offering a unique glimpse into Saxony's past.
Convenience and Comfort. A rental car offers a comfortable and convenient way to travel, especially if you're carrying luggage or travelling with family. You can avoid the hassle of public transport schedules and enjoy a more personalised travel experience.
Before renting a car in Dresden, it's important to understand the local terms and conditions. These guidelines ensure a smooth rental experience and help avoid unexpected issues.
Area
328.8 square kilometres (127 square miles)
Population
Approximately 550,000 residents
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET), UTC+1
Ideal for
Sightseeing and regional exploration
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Dresden require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. If your licence is not in a Roman alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. You'll also need a passport or other form of identification.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included in the rental price, but you can opt for additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit is usually required and will be refunded upon safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary; some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies often require you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, GPS navigation systems, child seats, or late returns.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand from tourists.
Low season (November to February): Often offers discounts as rental companies seek to attract customers during the colder months.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
Booking a rental car in Dresden is simple if you follow these essential steps. Careful planning ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies. Compare prices, included features, and customer reviews.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs. Consider the size, fuel efficiency, and any specific features you require.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Booking early can secure lower prices, especially during peak travel seasons. Aim to book several weeks in advance.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, passport, and credit card to the rental office. Inspect the car for any existing damage before driving off.
Dresden is a city renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural treasures. Navigating the city by car requires awareness of local traffic regulations and parking options.
As the capital of Saxony, Dresden offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. While Dresden has a reliable public transportation system, a rental car is invaluable for exploring the surrounding regions and attractions. However, driving in the city centre requires attention due to pedestrian zones and limited parking. Familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and parking rules for a smoother travel experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Zwinger Palace
A magnificent Baroque palace housing several museums and galleries.
Frauenkirche
A symbol of Dresden's resilience, rebuilt after being destroyed in World War II.
Semper Opera House
A renowned opera house known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Numerous parking garages are available throughout the city, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Limited on-street parking is available, often with time restrictions and payment requirements.
Park & Ride
Park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city allow you to park your car and take public transportation into the centre.
Gas Stations in Dresden
Major Brands
You'll find well-known gas station brands like Aral, Shell, and Total throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Locations
Gas stations are readily available on major roads and highways, but less common in the city centre.
Payment Options
Most gas stations accept both cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Dresden
Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in pedestrian zones and bike lanes.
Plan for Traffic
Avoid driving during rush hours to minimise traffic delays.
Respect Traffic Laws
Adhere to speed limits and traffic signals to ensure a safe driving experience.
Low Emission Zones
Be aware of low-emission zones. Make sure your vehicle meets the required standards or obtain a sticker.
Major Bus Stations
Dresden Central Bus Station
Located near the main train station, it provides connections to numerous regional and national destinations.
Railway Stations
Dresden Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station)
The city's main railway station, offering connections to major cities across Germany and Europe.
Dresden-Neustadt Station
Another major station in Dresden, serving regional and long-distance trains.
Airports
Dresden Airport (DRS)
Located approximately 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) north of the city centre, serving domestic and European destinations.
Renting a car in Dresden requires a few essential documents and qualifications. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth rental experience.
You need a valid driver's licence. If your licence is not in the Roman alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for those under 25.
A credit or debit card in the driver's name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification is necessary for international renters.
This content was written, fact-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Dresden as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Dresden was fantastic! Having a car was perfect for day trips to the coast after exploring the city's beautiful architecture. So relaxing!
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 03.02.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 14.08.2025
Dresden was lovely! Met up with friends, explored easily by car, and had a fantastic time.
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 16.11.2024
Exploring Dresden was effortless; having a car made everything so convenient. The city's beauty captivated me!
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 12.04.2025
Such a fun spontaneous weekend in Dresden! Having a car made getting around so easy. Beautiful city.
Mia Williams
Reviewed: 07.09.2024
Wonderful weekend in Dresden! Having a car made exploring so simple. The city is gorgeous.
Isabelle Brown
Reviewed: 13.01.2025
Dresden was delightful! Exploring the city and then relaxing by the coast was perfect.
Eleanor Hartley
Reviewed: 05.05.2025
Dresden exceeded expectations! So much to see, and having a car made it all accessible.
Katherine Lee
Reviewed: 16.06.2025
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Dresden was a dream! Getting around with a rental car made exploring so easy. The Zwinger Palace was breathtaking.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 27.12.2024