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Car rental in Cologne

Cologne by car

Cologne straddles the Rhine, with the cathedral and the old quarter packed onto the left bank and the trade-fair halls facing them across the water. Bridges, not distance, decide how long it takes to get from one side to the other.

Driving in Cologne

Cologne is reached by A 1, A 3, A 4 and A 57. Cologne has a low-emission zone, Umweltzone: check the sticker rules before driving into the centre. Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone. Streets in the old centre are narrow, a smaller car is easier.

Renting and driving in Germany

Speed limits 50 / 100 / 130 km/h. Alcohol limit 0.5 ‰. Motorways are free. Emergency number 112.

Within a day’s drive of Cologne

  • Bonn — 25 km
  • Düsseldorf — 34 km
  • Aachen — 64 km
  • Koblenz — 80 km

What kind of car do you need?

Typical capacity for the category — the exact model is confirmed by the rental company at booking.

  • Economy

    4–5 seats · 1 large bag + 1 small

    City streets and tight parking

  • Standard

    5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small

    Long drives with full luggage

  • SUV

    5 seats · 3 large bags

    Mountain roads and winter trips

  • Estate

    5 seats · 3 large bags

    Families with a lot of luggage

  • People carrier

    7 seats · 4 large bags

    Groups of six or more

  • Luxury

    5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small

    Business trips and long motorways

  • Convertible

    4 seats · 2 small bags

    Coastal roads in warm weather

Airports serving this city

Other cities in Germany

Frequently asked questions

Where can I pick up a car in Cologne?

In the city and at the airport — Cologne Bonn Airport. Which desk, and whether it sits inside the terminal or a shuttle ride away, is shown by the rental company before you book.

Germany: which side of the road do they drive on?

On the right. Speed limits are posted at the roadside and differ between towns, open roads and motorways.

Which currency will I be charged in?

Prices are usually set in EUR. The rental company sets both the price and the deposit, and shows them before you book.

Can I drive the car into another country?

Often yes within the EU, but never assume it. Crossing a border has to be allowed by the rental company and usually costs extra, so check the terms before you book.

Is there a low-emission zone in Cologne?

Yes. Cologne has a low-emission zone covering the centre, and cars have to meet its emission rules to drive in. The zone is called Umweltzone.

Where do I park in the centre of Cologne?

Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

An EU or EEA licence is enough.

What are the speed limits in Germany?

50 km/h in towns, 100 km/h on open roads, 130 km/h on motorways.

Are the motorways tolled?

Motorways are free.