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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Potsdam
Potsdam
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Potsdam
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Potsdam
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Potsdam
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.
Why Hire a Car in Potsdam?
Potsdam, a city steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes, offers a wealth of attractions best explored with the freedom of a hire car. Public transportation is available, but a car allows you to discover hidden gems at your own pace.
Explore Sanssouci Park and Palaces. The expansive Sanssouci Park, with its magnificent palaces and gardens, is a must-see. A car allows you to easily navigate the park's various entrances and attractions, saving time and energy.
Discover the Prussian Palaces and Gardens. Beyond Sanssouci, Potsdam boasts numerous other palaces and historic sites, such as the New Palace and Cecilienhof Palace. A hire car makes it easy to hop between these locations without waiting for public transport.
Visit the Dutch Quarter and Russian Colony Alexandrowka. These unique neighbourhoods, with their distinctive architecture, are located in different parts of Potsdam. Driving allows you to explore them both in a single day.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Potsdam
Before booking a hire car in Potsdam, it’s crucial to understand the specific terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and trouble-free experience. Be aware of the requirements such as age, driving license, insurance, and potential fees.
Area
188.3 square kilometres (72.7 square miles)
Population
Approximately 180,000 residents
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET) / Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Ideal for
Sightseeing and day trips
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car hire companies in Potsdam require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driving license is required. If your license is not in German or English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is typically required and held on your credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can 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, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS navigation and child seats.
Car Hire Prices in Potsdam – How Much Does It Cost?
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
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Potsdam?
Booking a hire car in Potsdam involves a few straightforward steps. Comparing prices, choosing the right car, and understanding the rental terms are vital. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison sites to find the best deals based on your dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like space and fuel efficiency.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially in peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driving license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Potsdam
Potsdam is a city that combines historical significance with modern amenities. Renting a car allows you to easily explore its palaces, gardens, and surrounding areas, provided you are aware of local driving conditions and regulations.
Potsdam, the capital of Brandenburg, is renowned for its historical legacy as the former residence of Prussian kings and German emperors. It offers a captivating mix of grand palaces, picturesque parks, and vibrant cultural attractions. While Potsdam has efficient public transportation, a hire car provides greater flexibility, especially when visiting places like Sanssouci Park, Cecilienhof Palace, or the surrounding lakes and forests. Driving in Potsdam requires awareness of traffic rules, parking availability, and fuel access, ensuring a seamless experience during your visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Sanssouci Palace and Park
Explore the stunning palace and expansive gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Neues Palais (New Palace)
Visit the impressive New Palace, showcasing opulent Baroque architecture.
Cecilienhof Palace
Discover the location of the Potsdam Conference, which shaped post-World War II Europe.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Utilise parking garages throughout the city for secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Look for designated parking bays, but be mindful of time limits and payment requirements.
Park & Ride
Consider using Park & Ride facilities outside the city centre to avoid congestion.
Gas Stations in Potsdam
Convenient Locations
Find gas stations along major roads and near the city's outskirts.
Major Brands
Look for well-known brands like Aral, Shell, and Total.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps to locate nearby gas stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Potsdam
Use Contactless Payment
Pay for parking and public transport with contactless cards or mobile payment apps for convenience.
Watch for Cyclists
Stay aware of cyclists, as Potsdam has an extensive network of bike lanes.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM / 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) when roads are often congested.
Key Transportation Hubs in Potsdam
Major Bus Stations
Potsdam Central Station Bus Terminal
Located at the main train station, providing connections to regional and local bus routes.
Railway Stations
Potsdam Hauptbahnhof (Central Station)
The primary train station, connecting Potsdam to Berlin and other major cities.
Bahnhof Park Sanssouci
A train station near Sanssouci Park, offering convenient access to the palace and gardens.
Airports
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
Located approximately 45 kilometres (28 miles) from Potsdam, serving international and domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Hire a Car in Potsdam?
Renting a car in Germany is generally straightforward, but it's essential to meet specific requirements before you hit the road. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need.
If you’re from an EU country, your standard license is sufficient. Non-EU residents may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their home-country license.
Most car hire companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may charge extra for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some companies only accept credit cards.
A passport or another form of identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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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 Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Potsdam 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.
Potsdam was efficient for my quick business trip; renting a car was a breeze. The Sanssouci Palace was stunning, though the souvenir shops felt a bit overpriced.
David Lee
Reviewed: 30.03.2025
Relaxing, pretty chill.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 11.12.2024
Potsdam was perfect for my short business trip. Getting around with a rental car was so convenient; highly recommend!
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 27.09.2024
Lovely Potsdam! Met friends there for a quick weekend, and having a car was super handy. The only downside? The cafe we tried was a bit underwhelming.
Oliver Brown
Reviewed: 28.10.2024
Meh, kinda pricey.
Mia Wilson
Reviewed: 03.08.2025
Exploring Potsdam by car was fantastic! Such beautiful scenery and easy access to everything.
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 27.03.2025
Potsdam was a delightful stop on our road trip! Having a car made exploring so easy, and the city itself is stunning.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 14.01.2025