Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
Trustpilot
Erfurt
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Erfurt
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Erfurt
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Erfurt
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.
Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, is a city steeped in history and brimming with culture. While Erfurt boasts a reliable public transport system, hiring a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore its surrounding treasures at your own pace.
Unrestricted Exploration: A rental car allows you to venture beyond Erfurt's city limits, discovering the scenic Thuringian Forest, medieval castles, and charming neighbouring towns without being tied to public transport schedules.
Time Efficiency: Maximise your precious holiday time by avoiding the delays and inconveniences often associated with public transportation. A car ensures you can visit multiple attractions in a single day, optimising your itinerary.
Comfort and Convenience: Travelling with family or bulky luggage? A rental car provides the comfort and space you need to transport your belongings and loved ones with ease.
Before booking a rental car in Erfurt, be sure to familiarise yourself with the rental terms and conditions. These guidelines ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience while exploring Erfurt and its surroundings.
Area
269.9 square kilometres (104.2 square miles)
Population
Approximately 214,000 residents
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) & CEST (UTC+2) during summertime
Ideal for
Exploring Thuringia at your own pace
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsGenerally, the minimum age to rent a car in Erfurt is 21. However, 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 German, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be necessary.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) for peace of mind. A security deposit is typically required via credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyRental agreements may have mileage limits. Fuel policies vary, so clarify whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtras such as GPS navigation systems, child seats, and additional drivers can incur additional fees. Be sure to enquire about these when booking.
Understanding car rental prices in Erfurt is essential for budget-conscious travellers. Factors such as vehicle type, rental duration, and seasonality influence the overall cost.
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 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 / $12 / €11 per day
Peak season (June to August): Prices increase by 20-30% due to summer tourism.
Low season (November to February): Significant discounts are often available during the colder months.
Prices fluctuate with demand. Knowing these patterns can save you money.
Securing a rental car in Erfurt involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience.
1. Compare Prices - Utilise online comparison platforms to evaluate rates from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that aligns with your travel needs, considering factors like size and fuel efficiency.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the fine print, paying attention to mileage allowances, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure the best rates and vehicle availability by making reservations well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver's licence, passport, and credit card to the rental office when collecting your vehicle.
Erfurt is a city where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy. Driving allows you to uncover its historical secrets and cultural treasures with ease.
As the capital of Thuringia, Erfurt boasts a rich history and stunning architecture, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its captivating atmosphere. Renting a car in Erfurt provides the freedom to explore the city's hidden gems and venture into the picturesque landscapes of the surrounding region. While Erfurt's city centre is pedestrian-friendly, a car is invaluable for accessing attractions further afield. Before embarking on your journey, it's essential to familiarise yourself with local traffic regulations and parking options to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Erfurt Cathedral
A magnificent Gothic cathedral with stunning stained-glass windows and intricate carvings.
Krämerbrücke (Merchants' Bridge)
Europe's longest inhabited bridge, lined with charming shops and houses.
Zitadelle Petersberg
A historic citadel offering panoramic views of the city.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Numerous parking garages are available throughout the city, offering secure and convenient parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display parking bays can be found on many streets, but be mindful of time restrictions.
Park & Ride
Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts of the city provide an affordable alternative, with easy access to public transport.
Gas Stations in Erfurt
Major Brands
Shell, Aral, and Esso stations are readily available throughout Erfurt and its surrounding areas.
Fuel Availability
Most gas stations are open from early morning until late evening, with some offering 24-hour service.
Payment Options
Credit cards and cash are widely accepted at gas stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting Erfurt
Watch for Pedestrians & Cyclists
Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in pedestrian zones and cycle lanes.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Traffic congestion can occur during rush hour, so plan your journeys accordingly.
Use Navigation Apps
Navigation apps can help you find the best routes and avoid traffic.
Learn Basic German Phrases
Knowing a few basic German phrases can enhance your interactions with locals.
Major Bus Stations
Erfurt Bus Station
Centrally located, connecting Erfurt with regional and national destinations.
Railway Stations
Erfurt Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)
A major transportation hub with connections to various German cities and international destinations.
Airports
Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF)
Located a short distance from Erfurt, offering flights to select European destinations.
To rent a car in Erfurt, you'll need to meet certain requirements. Here's a breakdown of what you'll typically need:
A valid driver's licence is essential. If your licence is not in German, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, although some may have higher age limits or charge additional fees for younger drivers.
A valid credit or debit card in the renter's name is necessary for the security deposit and rental payment.
A passport or other government-issued identification may be required, especially 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 Erfurt 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.
Family vacation in Erfurt was fantastic! Exploring the city with our rental car was so convenient.
David Lee
Reviewed: 16.05.2025
Chill vibe, liked it
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 15.02.2025
So glad I finally visited Erfurt! Having a car made exploring the charming streets so easy.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 07.07.2025
Wonderful weekend in Erfurt! Exploring was effortless.
Alice Wilson
Reviewed: 30.10.2024
Pleasant surprise, really.
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 05.04.2025
Back in Erfurt after years—so much beauty!
Karen Davis
Reviewed: 14.10.2024
Erfurt's charm was unexpected! Having a car made our road trip so much smoother, exploring easily.
Thomas Murphy
Reviewed: 22.02.2025
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Erfurt exceeded expectations! Heard great things, and they were right.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 03.01.2025