Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
Trustpilot
Kalmar
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Kalmar
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Kalmar
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Kalmar
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.
Kalmar, a charming coastal city in southeastern Sweden, is a blend of historical significance and modern attractions. While public transport is available, hiring a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace. Discover the surrounding areas and hidden gems with ease, making your visit truly unforgettable.
Explore Kalmar's Historical Sites. Hiring a car allows you to conveniently visit landmarks such as Kalmar Castle and the Old Town, each telling a story of Sweden's rich history.
Discover the Island of Öland. Just a short drive across the Kalmar Sound Bridge, Öland offers stunning landscapes, beaches, and unique cultural experiences. Public transport to Öland is limited, making a car essential for exploring the island fully.
Flexibility to Visit Nearby Towns. With a rental car, you can easily visit charming towns such as Västervik and Karlskrona, each offering unique attractions and local experiences. Enjoy the freedom to explore the region at your own leisure.
Before booking a hire car in Kalmar, it is important to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Knowing the age requirements, necessary documentation, insurance options, and potential fees will help you plan your trip effectively.
Area
Approximately 49.55 square kilometres (19.13 square miles)
Population
Approximately 70,000 residents
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET), UTC+1
Ideal for
Exploring regional attractions and countryside
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsThe minimum age to hire a car in Kalmar is typically 21 years old, though some rental companies may have a higher age requirement or charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required, and international visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in Swedish or English. Ensure your license is valid for the entire rental period.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements usually include basic insurance, but additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) may provide extra protection. A security deposit is generally required and held on your credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy, as some rentals may have mileage limits. Fuel policies vary, so understand whether you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or add-ons like GPS navigation systems or child seats.
Understanding car hire prices in Kalmar will help you budget effectively for your trip. Several factors influence the cost, including the type of car, the rental duration, and the time of year. Here’s a general guide to daily rental prices.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Classic:
from £25 / $31 / €28 per day
Executive:
from £50 / $63 / €58 per day
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75 / €70 per day
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
SUV:
from £45 / $56 / €52 per day
Peak season (June to August): Demand is higher, leading to price increases of 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Discounts are often available, making it a budget-friendly time to hire a car
Prices tend to fluctuate based on the season. Here's what to expect during peak and off-peak times.
Booking a car in Kalmar involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs. By following these guidelines, you can streamline the process and enjoy a seamless rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies in Kalmar. Check for discounts and special offers to save money.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and comfort. Ensure it can accommodate all passengers and luggage.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better prices and a wider selection of vehicles by booking your car rental well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card to the rental office when collecting your car. Inspect the vehicle for any existing damage before driving off.
Kalmar is a city brimming with history and scenic beauty, making it ideal for exploration by car. Knowing some key details about local driving conditions and regulations will enhance your travel experience.
Driving in Kalmar is generally straightforward, but it's helpful to be aware of local traffic rules, parking options, and refuelling locations. Being prepared will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable visit to this beautiful Swedish city.
Top Attractions to Discover
Kalmar Castle
A magnificent Renaissance castle with a rich history dating back to the 12th century.
Kalmar Cathedral
An impressive example of Baroque architecture and a landmark in the city.
The Old Town (Gamla Stan)
Charming cobblestone streets and well-preserved historical buildings.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several garages offer secure parking in the city centre, often with hourly or daily rates.
On-Street Parking
Available in many areas, but check for time limits and payment requirements.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport into the centre to avoid congestion.
Gas Stations in Kalmar
Major Brands Available
You'll find well-known fuel brands such as Circle K, OKQ8, and Shell throughout Kalmar and the surrounding areas.
Convenient Locations
Most gas stations are located along major roads and highways, making refuelling easy during your travels.
Payment Options
Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted at gas stations, with many offering self-service options.
Useful Tips for Visiting Kalmar
Use Contactless Payment
Most places in Kalmar accept contactless payments, making transactions quick and easy.
Watch for Cyclists
Kalmar has an extensive network of bike lanes, so be mindful of cyclists when driving.
Plan for Traffic
Expect moderate traffic during rush hours, especially around the city centre and main roads.
Check Local Events
Be aware of local events and festivals that may affect traffic and parking in certain areas.
Major Bus Stations
Kalmar Central Station
Serves as a primary hub for regional and long-distance bus services.
Railway Stations
Kalmar Central Station
Main railway station providing connections to major cities in Sweden.
Airports
Kalmar Airport (KLR)
Located approximately 5 kilometres (3 miles) west of Kalmar, offering domestic and international flights.
Hiring a car in Kalmar is a straightforward process, but it's important to have the necessary documents and meet certain requirements before you can drive off. Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need.
You'll need a valid driver's license. If your license is not in Swedish or English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit. The amount will be refunded upon the car's return, provided there's no damage.
A passport or another form of identification may be required to verify your identity, 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 Kalmar 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.
Heard great things about Kalmar, and they were right! Exploring by car was perfect; so much to see.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 21.06.2025
Chill vibe, good drives.
Mike Johnson
Reviewed: 04.05.2025
Kalmar was lovely! Met friends there for a quick visit, explored easily. The castle was underwhelming, though.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 21.09.2024
Getting around Kalmar was a breeze with a rental car. The city center was charming, although the local museum was a bit underwhelming. I'd recommend a visit, though!
Olivia Peterson
Reviewed: 11.02.2025
First time in Kalmar, and it was wonderful! Having a car made exploring so easy. Beautiful city.
David Lee
Reviewed: 13.06.2025
Kalmar was great; renting a car made things easy. The shops felt a bit touristy, but the castle was amazing!
Benjamin Harris
Reviewed: 21.06.2025
Kalmar exceeded expectations! My business trip was surprisingly pleasant; having a car made getting around so easy. The city is charming.
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 17.12.2024
Pretty chill, overall.
Chloe Brown
Reviewed: 14.09.2024
Pleasant enough, really
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 17.06.2025
Charming Kalmar! Met up with friends, explored easily by car. Loved it!
Anna Schmidt
Reviewed: 01.06.2025
Quiet, but nice enough.
Noah King
Reviewed: 27.09.2024
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Relaxing, scenic drives.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 13.08.2025