How to find a cheap car hire deal in Cologne
Whether you need a compact for zipping through the city streets or a bigger ride for longer drives, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Cologne. Pick from options averaging R 2,799 a day and hit the road for less.
August is the cheapest month to rent a car in Cologne. With average daily rates of R 908, you're geared up for serious savings.
It's all about timing when it comes to finding a cheap rental car in Cologne. Book around two weeks before you travel to score the best price.
Trusted providers such as Wheego, Flex To Go and Alamo are popular picks for car hire deals in Cologne.
Whether you choose Wheego or another supplier, make sure you understand the coverage on your Cologne car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others charge extra for it.
Look into booking a one-way rental. You might be able to pick up a bargain if the provider needs to move its fleet around. Discover the best available rates for a car for rent in Cologne by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Spend less on fuel by choosing a car hire in Cologne that offers a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect your vehicle with a full tank and refill it before drop-off, so you're only paying for what you use.
Go wherever the road takes you by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can go as far as you like with no extra cost.
Jetting into Cologne? Consider picking up one of the car rentals in Cologne Bonn Airport. That way, you can hit the road not long after you land.
Compare car hire types in Cologne
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Cologne gets you moving without breaking the bank. These zippy, fuel-efficient rides are perfect for city driving and short trips.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine comfort, space and fuel efficiency. Easy to manoeuvre around cities and with enough space for longer drives, they're a great all-rounder.
Large: You've got the bags, the kids, the snacks, the lot. Large vehicles have got the capacity to carry it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for longer drives, this Cologne car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are adventure on four wheels. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and country backroads alike.
Van: If you're looking for a car for rent in Cologne that can handle a small crowd (and all their stuff), a van is the roomy ride you need. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're best suited for group excursions, business needs or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Adding excess insurance to your Cologne car hire offers peace of mind. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of an accident or theft. Insurance policies can vary from one provider to another, so compare before you book.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can make all the difference. Consider which add-ons could enhance your trip when you rent a car in Cologne.
Good to know
Younger driver? Check each provider's age requirements before booking your rental in Germany. Rules can differ, and added fees or restrictions may apply. At the start of your search, just uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to explore your options.
Bringing the kids with you? Car seat laws vary from one location to another, and the best setup may depend on their height, weight and age. Be sure to add the right one to your Cologne car hire booking.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Cologne
Discover the top attractions in the city once you've found your car hire deal in Cologne. Cologne Christmas Markets and Cologne Cathedral are the perfect warm-up for the rest of your trip.
When it's time to check in, Hilton Cologne and Steigenberger Hotel Köln will help you feel right at home in Cologne.
Shift gears and take off to Essen. Around 56 kilometres north of central Cologne, you'll find must-do sights like PACT Zollverein and Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex in Essen.
Go-to accommodation options in Essen include Garner Hotel Essen - Handelshof by IHG and GHOTEL Hotel & Living Essen.
Or collect your cheap car hire in Cologne and drive around 72 kilometres north-east to Dortmund. Featuring Dortmund Christmas Market and Museum of Natural History, its attractions make a strong case for visiting.
Stays Design Hotel Dortmund and Hotel Excelsior Dortmund Hauptbahnhof are comfortable places to stay in Dortmund if you've got more than a quick stop in mind.
Still got fuel in the tank? Motor on to Hannover, around 257 kilometres north-east of Cologne. From The Old Town to Erlebnis Zoo Hannover, it'll bring your trip to a memorable close.
The only thing calling your name now is a bed. DORMERO Hotel Hannover and INA Boutique 030 Hannover-City have rooms ready in Hannover.
