Car Rental in Nuremberg - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Nuremberg is generally not recommended for exploring the city itself, as the historic Altstadt (Old Town) is compact and walkable, with excellent public transport including U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses. The city center has pedestrian zones and limited parking, making a car more of a hindrance than help for typical tourist activities. However, car rental becomes valuable for exploring the Franconian countryside, visiting nearby castles like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or taking road trips through Bavaria's scenic routes. Germany drives on the right side of the road, and road quality is excellent throughout the region. Driving conditions are generally straightforward for international visitors, though be aware of strict enforcement of speed limits and environmental zones (Umweltzonen) in some areas. The Autobahn network provides easy access to other German cities, but note that while some sections have no speed limit, many areas are regulated. For stays focused on Nuremberg's attractions, skip the rental; for broader Bavarian exploration with flexibility to visit smaller towns and rural areas, a car opens up significantly more possibilities.

International Driving Permit

Generally recommended for non-EU visitors to Germany. Check current requirements with rental agencies as acceptance of foreign licenses varies by country of origin.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies in Nuremberg typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some vehicle categories requiring drivers to be 25 or older.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. EU licenses are generally accepted; non-EU visitors should verify acceptance with their rental agency.

Credit Card

A credit card in the driver's name is typically required for the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted for deposits.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage options are available. Review what's included and consider supplemental coverage based on your needs.

Passport or ID

Valid passport or government-issued identification is required for vehicle rental in Nuremberg.

Nuremberg Airport and main train station both have international rental agencies, while the city center offers additional local options - compare rates across locations as airport pickups may include convenience fees.

Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for existing damage, verify you have all required documents (license, insurance, rental agreement), and familiarize yourself with German road rules including autobahn regulations.

GPS navigation is recommended for Nuremberg's historic center with its narrow medieval streets and pedestrian zones - ensure your rental includes a navigation system or download offline maps as the Altstadt can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Most rental cars use diesel or petrol - confirm your fuel type before departing and note that fuel stations may be less frequent in the old town; parking in the city center typically requires paid parking tickets from machines (Parkschein).

Plan to return your car with the agreed fuel level and allow extra time for airport returns during peak hours - check your rental agreement for the exact return location as some agencies have separate return areas from pickup points.

Nuremberg's Altstadt (Old Town) features narrow medieval streets with restricted vehicle access and extensive pedestrian zones - familiarize yourself with the environmental zone (Umweltzone) requirements as only vehicles with proper emissions stickers are permitted in designated areas.

Winter driving conditions from November through March can be challenging with frequent snow and ice - German law requires winter tires (marked M+S or Alpine symbol) during winter conditions, and drivers are liable for accidents if improperly equipped.

Rush hour traffic (7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM) creates significant congestion on the Frankenschnellweg ring road and major arteries - the city also enforces strict speed limits with automated cameras, particularly in residential zones where 30 km/h limits are common.

Parking enforcement is rigorous throughout the city center with digital monitoring systems - always display valid parking tickets and note that many areas require a 'Parkscheibe' (parking disc) for time-limited free parking, available at gas stations and shops.