Dortmund by car
Dortmund anchors the eastern end of the Ruhr, a dense run of former pit villages that have flowed into one another with little open ground between. Drivers notice it at once: one junction follows another, and the next suburb is always minutes away.
Driving in Dortmund
Dortmund is reached by A 1, A 2, A 45 and B 1. Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone.
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 Dortmund
- Hattingen — 23 km
- Essen — 32 km
- Soest — 45 km
- Münster — 51 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 Dortmund?
In the city and at the airport — Dortmund 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.
Where do I park in the centre of Dortmund?
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.