Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
Darmstadt
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Darmstadt
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Darmstadt
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Darmstadt
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Darmstadt, a city known for its art nouveau architecture and scientific institutions, offers a blend of cultural and practical attractions. While public transport is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and reach locations that might be less accessible by public transit.
Explore the Mathildenhöhe: This unique art colony, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is easier to reach and fully explore with a car, allowing you to appreciate its artistic and architectural details without being tied to public transport schedules.
Visit the Messel Pit Fossil Site: A short drive from Darmstadt, this fascinating site is a must-see for nature and science enthusiasts. Having a car simplifies the trip and allows you to spend more time exploring this prehistoric treasure.
Day Trips to the Odenwald: The scenic Odenwald region is within easy driving distance, offering picturesque landscapes and charming villages. A rental car lets you discover these hidden gems and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Before renting a car in Darmstadt, it’s essential to understand the local regulations and requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
122.2 square kilometers (47.2 square miles)
Population
Approximately 160,000 residents
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET)
Ideal for
Exploring the surrounding regions
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic from 7 AM to 9 AM and 4 PM to 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsThe minimum age to rent a car in Darmstadt is typically 21 years old. However, some rental companies may have restrictions and additional fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. If your license is not in a Roman alphabet, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but you may want to consider additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit is also required, usually held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others having restrictions. Fuel policies typically require you to return the car with the same amount of fuel as when you picked it up.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges can apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, GPS navigation systems, and child seats.
Car rental prices in Darmstadt can vary depending on the type of car, the rental duration, and the season. Here’s a general guide to estimated daily prices.
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 / $11 / €10 per day
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher tourist traffic.
Low season (November to February): You can often find discounts and lower rates during the colder months.
Car rental prices in Darmstadt are affected by seasonal demand.
Booking a car in Darmstadt is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to secure the best deal and ensure a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best rental deals from various companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure availability by booking your car well in advance, especially during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card to the rental office when collecting your vehicle.
Darmstadt is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and modern amenities. Knowing a few key details about driving and parking can enhance your visit.
Darmstadt combines historical charm with scientific innovation, making it a unique destination in Germany. While the city center is well-served by public transport, a car offers greater flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas and nearby attractions. Be aware of local traffic regulations and parking options to make the most of your trip.
Top Attractions to Discover
Mathildenhöhe
An art nouveau complex featuring the iconic Wedding Tower and various artists' residences.
Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt
A museum showcasing art, history, and natural sciences from the region.
Messel Pit Fossil Site
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exceptionally well-preserved Eocene fossils.
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, but it can be challenging to find during peak hours and may have time restrictions.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport into the center.
Gas Stations in Darmstadt
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are readily available throughout Darmstadt and the surrounding areas.
Major Brands
You'll find well-known brands like Aral, Shell, and Esso.
24-Hour Stations
Some stations are open 24 hours a day for your convenience.
Useful Tips for Visiting Darmstadt
Be Aware of Environmental Zones
Darmstadt has an environmental zone; ensure your vehicle meets the required emission standards.
Watch for Cyclists
Darmstadt has a well-developed cycling infrastructure, so be mindful of cyclists.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, particularly on the main roads.
Use Navigation Apps
Utilize GPS navigation apps to find the best routes and avoid congestion.
Railway Stations
Darmstadt Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)
The primary railway station in Darmstadt, connecting to major cities throughout Germany.
Airports
Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
Located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Darmstadt, offering international and domestic flights.
Bus Stations
Darmstadt Bus Station
Serves regional and national bus routes, providing connections to various destinations.
Renting a car in Darmstadt requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria.
You need a valid driver’s license. If your license is not in a Roman alphabet, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
The minimum age is typically 21, but some companies may have restrictions and fees for younger drivers.
A credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Darmstadt as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Pleasant enough, really.
Kevin Lee
Reviewed: 06.01.2025
Darmstadt surprised me! Exploring by car was effortless, such charming streets.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 15.03.2025
Quiet, but okay.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 18.07.2025
Darmstadt was a great base for my relaxing coastal getaway. Having a car made exploring so convenient, allowing easy trips to the seaside and back.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 11.02.2025
Relaxing, car helpful.
David Wilson
Reviewed: 10.12.2024
Chill vibe, car handy.
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 16.04.2025
Family vacation in Darmstadt went well; having a car made everything easier. The Mathildenhöhe was a bit crowded, though.
Ava Rodriguez
Reviewed: 14.10.2024
Pretty chill, car good.
Mia Hernandez
Reviewed: 13.09.2024
Darmstadt was a delightful surprise! Having a car made exploring its charming streets and hidden gems so easy. I'll definitely return.
Olivia Brown
Reviewed: 30.07.2025
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Darmstadt was lovely! Getting around with a rental car was so easy, perfect for visiting friends. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 09.05.2025