Planning a European road trip? Understanding rental car pricing across different countries can help you budget smarter and avoid unexpected costs. Whether you’re exploring the French countryside, driving along Italy’s Amalfi Coast, or navigating Spain’s historic cities, vehicle rental expenses vary significantly depending on where you go.
This guide breaks down what you can expect to pay for car rentals in Europe in 2026, compares costs across popular destinations, and shares tips to help you save money on your journey.
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Average Car Rental Costs Across Europe
Car rental prices in Europe depend on several factors: the country you’re visiting, the season, the type of vehicle, and how far in advance you book. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $100+ per day for a standard economy or compact car.
Budget-Friendly Countries for Car Rentals
Some European destinations offer more affordable rental options:
- Portugal: $20–$40 per day for economy vehicles
- Spain: $25–$45 per day, particularly outside major cities
- Poland: $20–$35 per day with competitive rates in smaller towns
- Greece: $30–$50 per day, especially during off-peak seasons
These countries tend to have competitive markets with multiple rental agencies, which keeps prices lower for travelers.
Mid-Range Rental Markets
Popular tourist destinations typically fall into the mid-range category:
- France: $40–$70 per day depending on city and vehicle type
- Italy: $45–$75 per day, with higher rates in tourist hotspots like Rome and Florence
- Germany: $40–$65 per day for standard cars
- Netherlands: $45–$70 per day in Amsterdam and other major cities
Premium-Priced Destinations
Certain countries command higher rental fees due to limited competition or high demand:
- Switzerland: $60–$100+ per day with additional cross-border fees
- Iceland: $70–$120 per day, especially for 4×4 vehicles needed for rural roads
- Norway: $65–$110 per day with seasonal price fluctuations
- United Kingdom: $50–$90 per day in London and Scotland
Factors That Impact Your Rental Car Budget
Vehicle Type and Size
The car category you choose significantly affects your daily rate. Economy and compact cars are the most budget-friendly, while SUVs, vans, and luxury vehicles can cost 2–3 times more. For narrow European streets and better fuel efficiency, smaller vehicles are often the smarter choice.
Rental Duration
Longer rentals typically come with better daily rates. A week-long rental often costs less per day than a three-day booking. Many agencies offer weekly rates that provide substantial savings compared to daily pricing.
Seasonal Demand
Summer months (June–August) see the highest rental prices across Europe, particularly in coastal regions and popular tourist areas. Shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) offer better rates, while winter bookings outside ski resort areas can be the most economical.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Airport pickups typically include additional fees and surcharges. Renting from city locations can save you 10–20% on the total cost. One-way rentals between countries or even cities often incur steep drop-off fees—sometimes hundreds of euros.
Insurance and Additional Fees
Base rental rates rarely include comprehensive insurance. Expect to pay extra for:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): $10–$30 per day
- Theft protection: $5–$15 per day
- Additional driver fees: $5–$15 per day
- GPS rental: $10–$15 per day
- Young driver surcharge (under 25): $15–$30 per day
Always check what your credit card or travel insurance already covers before purchasing rental company insurance.
🚗 Planning to drive through multiple countries? Use our budget estimation tool to calculate costs for each destination on your European road trip, including accommodation, meals, and activities along your route.
Country-by-Country Rental Comparison
France
France offers diverse rental options from Paris to the French Riviera. Expect to pay $40–$70 per day for standard vehicles. Major cities have numerous rental agencies, creating healthy competition. Be aware of automatic transmission surcharges—manual cars are standard and cheaper.
Search for flights to Paris | Find hotels in France
Italy
Italian car rentals range from $45–$75 per day. Historic city centers often have ZTL (limited traffic zones) that can result in hefty fines if you enter without permits. Consider basing yourself outside major cities and using public transportation for urban exploration.
Book flights to Italy | Explore activities in Italy
Spain
Spain provides excellent value with rates between $25–$45 per day. The country’s extensive highway network makes driving convenient, though tolls on autopistas can add up. Smaller cities and coastal towns outside Barcelona and Madrid offer the best rental deals.
Find accommodation in Spain | Search flights to Spain
Germany
German rental rates fall between $40–$65 per day. The country’s famous autobahns are free, making cross-country drives economical. Munich and Frankfurt airports have competitive pricing, but watch for cross-border fees if traveling to neighboring countries.
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Portugal
One of Europe’s most affordable rental markets, Portugal offers rates from $20–$40 per day. The Algarve region and Lisbon have numerous agencies competing for business. Fuel costs are moderate, and highways are well-maintained.
Find flights to Portugal | Book hotels in Portugal
Switzerland
Switzerland commands premium prices at $60–$100+ per day. The scenic routes are spectacular, but vignette highway stickers ($40 annual fee) are required. Cross-border fees to France, Italy, or Germany can add $50–$100 to your rental.
Accommodation options in Switzerland
Greece
Greek island and mainland rentals range from $30–$50 per day. Island-hopping requires separate rentals on each island. Roads in rural areas and islands can be challenging, so consider vehicle condition carefully.
Book flights to Greece | Activities in Greece
Iceland
Iceland’s rugged terrain requires sturdy vehicles. Expect $70–$120 per day, especially for 4x4s needed outside Reykjavik. Summer demand is extreme, so booking months in advance is essential. Gravel insurance is often necessary for Ring Road trips.
Money-Saving Tips for European Car Rentals
Book Early (But Check Again)
Reserving your rental car 2–3 months in advance typically secures better rates. However, prices fluctuate, so check again closer to your trip. Many agencies allow free cancellation, letting you rebook if prices drop.
Compare Beyond the Big Names
International chains like Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt are reliable, but local agencies often offer lower rates. Use comparison sites to evaluate both options, but read reviews carefully for smaller companies.
Skip the Extras
Bring your own GPS (or use your phone), decline insurance your credit card covers, and avoid prepaid fuel options that rarely save money. These add-ons can double your daily rate.
Consider Alternative Pickup Locations
City-center offices often have lower rates than airports. If you’re starting your trip with a few days in a city, consider taking public transit from the airport and picking up your car later.
Look for Inclusive Deals
Some rental packages include unlimited mileage, second driver, and basic insurance. These bundled offers can provide better value than building your own package à la carte.
Join Loyalty Programs
Free membership in rental company loyalty programs often includes faster service, occasional upgrades, and exclusive member rates. If you rent cars frequently, these benefits add up.
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Hidden Costs to Watch For
Cross-Border Fees
Taking your rental car from one country to another often triggers additional charges ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the destination. Some companies restrict travel to certain countries entirely.
Fuel Policies
“Full-to-full” policies (pick up with a full tank, return full) are fairest. Avoid “full-to-empty” options where you prepay for a full tank at inflated prices and return empty—you’ll rarely use every drop.
Traffic Violations and Tolls
Rental companies charge administrative fees (often $30–$50) on top of any fines you receive for speeding, parking violations, or toll violations. These fees arrive weeks after your trip ends.
Damage Claims
Document your vehicle thoroughly with photos and video before leaving the lot. Even minor scratches you didn’t cause can result in claims if not documented. Check the car in daylight, not under dim parking garage lights.
Is Renting a Car in Europe Worth It?
Whether a rental car makes sense for your European adventure depends on your itinerary. Road trips through regions like Tuscany, the Scottish Highlands, or Norway’s fjords are enhanced by the freedom of a vehicle. City-focused trips to Paris, Rome, or Barcelona are often better served by excellent public transportation.
Consider these questions:
- Will you be exploring rural areas or small towns without reliable transit?
- Are you traveling with family or a group where shared transportation saves money?
- Does your itinerary include multiple stops better connected by car than train?
- Are you comfortable driving on the right side of the road (or left, in the UK)?
For many travelers, a hybrid approach works best: spend a few days in a major city using public transport, then pick up a rental car to explore the countryside before returning to a city to drop it off.
Final Thoughts on European Car Rental Costs
Renting a car in Europe gives you flexibility and access to places trains and buses can’t easily reach. With daily rates ranging from $20 in Portugal to $120 in Iceland, understanding the market helps you make informed decisions and avoid budget surprises.
The key is planning ahead, comparing options thoroughly, and being strategic about where and when you rent. Factor in all costs—not just the daily rate—and consider whether a car truly enhances your specific travel plans.
✈️ Ready to plan your European adventure? Use our free trip budget calculator to estimate all your travel expenses, from rental cars and hotels to meals and sightseeing. Get destination-specific cost ranges based on your travel style and preferences—all in about 30 seconds.
Safe travels, and enjoy the open roads of Europe!
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