Germany has a long history, some stunning architecture, and a wealth of places you might want to visit on your next vacation. You could visit the Cologne Cathedral, the Reichstag Building, and the Mercedes Benz Museum. The Brandenburg Gate, the Memorial of the Berlin Wall, the Berlin Philharmonic, and the Holocaust Memorial are just a couple of the other places you may want to visit. Having a rental car will make it easier to reach all of your destinations.
Renting a car in Germany
Foreign visitors vacationing in Germany can use their domestic driver’s licenses and international driver’s permit. The minimum age to drive in the country is 18 years old. You need to have third party liability insurance, which you should be able to get through the rental agency. All of the vehicles are required to carry a first aid kit as well as a warning triangle. You should check that the vehicle has this equipment when you are getting ready to rent. You need to have your rental papers with you at all times when you are driving.
Renting a vehicle will make it much easier for you to reach all of the various destinations you want to visit. When you rent a vehicle, be sure to get the rental agency’s phone number and emergency contact information, just in case you need it.
Road conditions and safety
The roads in Germany are in great condition in the cities and towns. They are paved and easy to drive on with no major issues. Even many of the smaller communities have smooth roads thanks to the country’s infrastructure. However, in the winter months, the roads in many areas can be treacherous due to the ice and snow. Most of the drivers in the country abide by the laws, but you should still drive carefully and defensively.
In Germany, you drive on the right side of the road, and you pass on the left. The driver, as well as all of the passengers, need to wear their seatbelts. Children who are under three years old need to have a car seat, which you should be able to get through the rental agency. Children who are less than 12 cannot ride in the front.
At uncontrolled intersections, the right of way is always given to the traffic flowing from the right. Emergency vehicles will always have the right of way.
Speed limits
You must always abide by the posted speed limits when driving in Germany. The typical speed limits are as follows.
- Urban areas – 50 km/h
- Outside of the city – 60 to 100 km/h
- Expressways – 80 to 130 km/h
The Autobahn is one of the most famous motorways in all of Europe, and you might want to drive on it as well. Along many parts of the Autobahn, there is no federally mandated speed limit. However, there are speed limits in areas that are urbanized, under construction, or prone to accidents. You need to abide by the posted signage.
When you choose a rental vehicle in Germany rather than trying to rely on public transportation, you can visit your destinations on your schedule. It is more convenience and more comfortable.
