Hamburg by car
Hamburg works as a seaport far from open sea, where the Elbe widens and canals, warehouses and locks cut the ground into islands. Weather blows in off the Baltic and the German Bight, so plans here are usually made to allow for rain.
Driving in Hamburg
Hamburg is reached by A 1, A 7, A 23, A 24 and A 25. 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 Hamburg
- Lübeck — 58 km
- Kiel — 86 km
- Bremerhaven — 93 km
- Schwerin — 94 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 Hamburg?
In the city and at the airport — Hamburg Airport, Lübeck-Blankensee Airport and Hamburg Finkenwerder 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 Hamburg?
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.