Car Rentals in Dortmund, DEU

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Dortmund

Renting a car in Dortmund offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the district and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families and those with a lot of luggage, as a rental car allows for easy management of belongings while travelling. With a vehicle, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the stunning Westfalenpark Dortmund, the insightful German Football Museum, and the historic Dortmunder U, all located within the district.

Additionally, having a car makes it simple to venture beyond Dortmund to nearby cities like Witten and Luenen, both just 11 km away. In Witten, you can explore sites like Marienkirche and LWL Industrial Museum Zeche Nachtigall, while Luenen offers attractions like the Luenen City Museum. A rental car enhances your travel experience by providing the flexibility to create your own itinerary, allowing you to fully enjoy everything that Dortmund and its neighbouring areas have to offer.

Most popular car hires in Dortmund

• Compact: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases, compact cars are perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families. They offer the maneuverability needed for navigating Dortmund's streets while ensuring that parking is hassle-free, making them a popular choice for exploring the city at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, midsize SUVs can comfortably carry 5 travellers along with 3 large suitcases. Their spacious interiors provide extra comfort for longer journeys, making them suitable for those looking to venture beyond the city limits while enjoying the added flexibility of luggage space.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or groups, fullsize cars accommodate up to 5 travellers and can hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is highly sought after for its generous space, making it an excellent choice for those who need room for both passengers and luggage while travelling around Dortmund.

Top rated car suppliers in Dortmund

• Sixt: With 2 rental locations in the area of Dortmund, Sixt is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility. The most booked vehicles from this supplier include Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, making it an excellent option for those looking for spacious and comfortable rides. Sixt’s commitment to customer service ensures a smooth rental experience, allowing you to explore Dortmund and its surroundings with ease.
• Avis: Avis operates 1 rental location in the Dortmund area, making it convenient for visitors to access their services. Known for its selection of Compact SUVs and Economy cars, Avis provides economical options for those who wish to navigate the city and beyond without breaking the bank. Their efficient service and well-maintained vehicles make them a solid choice for your car hire needs.
• Europcar: With a single rental location in the Dortmund area, Europcar is another reliable supplier for your car hire requirements. They offer a range of vehicles, with Compact and Economy cars being the most popular choices among customers. This supplier is ideal for those who value affordability and efficiency, allowing you to enjoy your trip while managing costs effectively.

Where to stay in and around Dortmund

• Dortmund City Centre: Located at the heart of Dortmund, this vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking a mix of sports, entertainment, and family-friendly experiences. Key attractions include the German Football Museum, ideal for sports enthusiasts, and the scenic Westfalenpark Dortmund, suitable for outdoor lovers. Visitors can also explore the historic Dortmunder U building. With numerous breweries and dining options nearby, the City Centre offers a lively atmosphere for your stay.
• Witten: Situated 11 km from Dortmund, Witten is an excellent choice for families and sports fans. This city boasts attractions such as the Marienkirche, a beautiful church, and the LWL Industrial Museum Zeche Nachtigall, perfect for culture enthusiasts. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Kemnader Lake offers stunning scenery and recreational opportunities. Witten features a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a delightful location to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Innenstadt-Ost: This borough, located around Dortmund, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy the German Football Museum and the picturesque Westfalenpark Dortmund, both of which are great for outdoor activities. The historic Dortmunder U also adds a cultural touch to the area. With shopping centres and various venues for music concerts, Innenstadt-Ost provides a lively backdrop for your stay in Dortmund.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Dortmund

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for warm weather, or a compact car for budget-friendliness, utilising filters on Expedia will assist you in finding the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary according to demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more economical to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain categories of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age criteria prior to making your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, although this may be justified by the convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides additional peace of mind should any unexpected incidents arise during your trip. It’s simple to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent any extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary in order to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Dortmund

The best value period to rent a car in and around Dortmund is November, when prices are lower and demand is moderately high. September also presents a good opportunity, with slightly lower prices and average demand. Mid-range months like March and May see average pricing and demand, making them reasonable choices as well. However, October tends to be the most expensive month with slightly high prices and moderately low demand, setting it apart from the preceding and following months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	36.1°F (2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
February	37.6°F (3.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
March	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	60.3°F (15.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low
December	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low