Car Rental in Dusseldorf

Why rent a car in Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf is a great place for renting a car. Upbeat and modern, but at the same time cozy and easy to navigate, its museums, parks, and beautiful buildings can be explored for days. Dusseldorf’s proximity to many other German destinations, as well as to a number of neighboring countries, means it can also serve as a great base for further explorations.

Top ways to enter Dusseldorf

• Dusseldorf Airport: The third-busiest in Germany, the large and modern Flughafen Düsseldorf serves more than 16 million travelers every year, providing air links to countless destinations in Europe, as well as some to other parts of the world. The airport is located just north of the city center.
• Cologne-Bonn Airport: Served by around 25 different airlines, flying into this airport can serve as a good alternative for reaching Dusseldorf. The airport serves both Cologne, Germany’s fourth largest city, and Bonn, the former capital of West Germany, and is located just one hour’s drive south of Dusseldorf.
• Weeze Niederrhein Airport: Sometimes also called Weeze-Dusseldorf, this small airport on the German-Dutch border is served mostly by the low-cost carrier Ryanair. In addition, Weeze Airport is also served by Corendon Airlines and Air Arabia Maroc (from March 2023) It hosts flights to and from Spain, Italy, Morocco, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Croatia, Greece, and other destinations. Weeze airport is about 80km (50 miles) northwest of Dusseldorf, a distance that can be traveled by car in about 80 minutes.
• Dortmund Airport: Another airport served exclusively by low-cost airlines, Dortmund Airport handles about 2.5 million passengers every year. Primarily serving the city of the same name, it is about a one-and-a-half-hour drive northeast of Dusseldorf.
• Frankfurt Airport. Although located quite a bit further than all of the aforementioned ones – it is a three-hour drive to the southeast – flying to Frankfurt is a useful option for getting to Düsseldorf as it is the hub of Lufthansa and one of the busiest airports in all of Europe, connecting this part of Germany to all the corners of the planet.
• By rail: If you arrive in Dusseldorf by train, you can conveniently pick up your rental car at Dusseldorf Hauptbahnhof.

City facts

• Thanks to its relative proximity to the North Sea, Dusseldorf has an oceanic climate with moderately warm summers and cool winters. The average temperature is 23°C  (73°F) in July, the hottest month, and 5°C  (41°F) in January. The precipitation is even throughout the year except for some occasional snowfall and increased rain in December.
• Thanks to its many green areas, pedestrian-friendly city center, high level of education and healthcare, and status as a technological and financial hub, Dusseldorf has been frequently mentioned among the most liveable cities in Europe and among the top 10 in the world.

Top sights and activities

• St. Lambertus Basilika. If you have ever seen a postcard from Dusseldorf, the odds are quite good that St. Lambertus was on it. The impressive church built in the Lower Rhine Gothic style has been an important religious center and one of the landmarks of the city for centuries, perhaps thanks to its most recognizable feature, its twisted tower.
• Media Harbor. Known as Medienhafen in German, this part of Dusseldorf was once the city harbor, and you can still see this past in the many remaining quays, depots, and warehouses. Nowadays, however, it has been turned into an upbeat neighborhood full of restaurants, coffee shops, and art centers. This mixture of old and new is perhaps what characterizes Dusseldorf the best. Taking the elevator up to the rhine tower (Rheinturm) is definitely worth it. From a height of 172.5 meters, you can enjoy an impressive view. There is also a restaurant at the top of the tower.
• Benrath Palace and Park. An impressive palace, Schloss Benrath has been standing in its place since the 18th Century. It is one of the finest examples of Rococo architecture in Germany. It is joined by a beautiful former orangery, as well as by a vast park that is perfect for long walks and a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• North park. Dusseldorf Nordpark is one of the most beautiful green spaces in the North Rhine-Westphalian state capital. A visit in spring is particularly worthwhile. Then numerous flowers bloom in the park. During a walk, you can explore the different plants and fountains. The highlight is the Japanese garden in the back of the park. Admission is free. The Aquazoo Löbbecke (which has an entrance fee), with over 5,000 marine animals, is also integrated into the park.
• Kings avenue (Königsallee). This well-known shopping street is located between Düsseldorf city center and the old town. It offers numerous shops of mostly high-priced luxury brands. There are also some good restaurants on the Kö, as it is known for short.
• K20 and K21. The most worthwhile museums of Dusseldorf. The K21 is a museum for modern art, which is highly recommended. It offers a climbing area at the top level, which is called the orbit. This room installation is made of walkable steel nets. If you are interested in classical modern art, such as Paul Klee, you should not miss the K20 museum.
• Brewhouses. In order to get to know the typical German, good middle-class cuisine, you should stop off at a brewery in Dusseldorf. Beer is brewed there. Classic dishes include pork knuckle with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes, knuckle of pork with red apple cabbage and boiled potatoes, "Sauerbraten Rheinische Art", and schnitzel with chips or fried potatoes. Füchschen, Himmel & Ähd, EigelStein and Zum Schiffchen are some great ones.

Traffic and parking

• Unless specifically indicated otherwise, the speed limit is 50km/h (31mph) in populated or built-up areas. There is no national speed limit on the autobahns (highways), and many of them don’t have a set speed limit. However, contrary to what is sometimes stated, about 50% of highways have their own individual speed limits, so carefully follow the speed limit signs on each road that you drive on.
• Where speed limits are enforced, the tolerance for speeding is low. Driving just 3km/h (2mph) above the speed limit can, and often will, lead to a fine. Many roads that do have speed limits have radars in place.
• Some autobahns have a minimum speed limit that applies to specific lanes, for example, a minimum speed of 110km/h (68mph) for the left and 90km/h (56mph) for the center lane. 
• Because of the very high speeds used by some on the German autobahns, be extra careful before switching lanes.
• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving. This is strictly enforced and the fines are high.
• Children under the age of 12 have to use a child safety seat.
• The legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.00% for novice drivers and drivers under the age of 21. Exceeding these limits can lead to high fines and a license ban. 
• Proof insurance and the car’s documentation need to be in it whenever you’re driving.
• If you are driving, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
• The general emergency number, like elsewhere in the EU, is 112. 

Toll roads

Although Germany has a large number of high-speed motorways, only vehicles that weigh more than 7,5 tons need to pay a toll. This excludes practically all types of rental cars.

There are two tolled tunnels in Germany, the Herren Tunnel in Schleswig-Holstein and the Warnow Tunnel in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Neither of them is near Dusseldorf.

Find out more about the toll roads in Germany on the European toll road website.

Ideas for day trips

• Bruhl. A small town near Cologne, Bruhl is one of the most picturesque places in Germany. It is known for its many historic buildings, the most famous of which, the Augustusburg Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking among Bruhl’s churches, fortresses, and exquisite hunting lodges feels like a trip back in time. Located about 70km (43 miles) south of Dusseldorf, Bruhl can be reached in about one hour.
• Cologne. There’s a century-long rivalry between Dusseldorf and Cologne. Famous for its magnificent cathedral, interesting museums, and the creative Agnesviertel, the largest city of the North-Rhine Westphalia indeed has a lot to offer. After visiting Dusseldorf and Cologne, you’ll probably conclude that both of them were worthy of your time. The distance between them can be covered in under one hour by car.
• The Rhine Valley. The scenic middle section of the Rhine River is dotted by many small towns and villages, each with a castle straight out of a fairy tale. Here you can also visit the famous Mittelrhein vineyards and sample amazing local rieslings. Or, if you’re up for something more active, explore the areas forests, meadows, and streams. 
• Bonn. Many people know it as the former capital of Western Germany, but the historical importance of Bonn long preceded the events of the 20th century - as shown by landmarks such as the 18th century Old Town Hall, Bonn Basilica, and Beethoven Monument. Located some 75 km (46 miles) to the south, Bonn can be reached in about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Zons. You can explore this small medieval town between Dusseldorf and Cologne on your own or take a guided tour. The night watchman tours are particularly atmospheric here. Zons is located directly on the Rhine and offers several good restaurants.
• North Duisburg Landscape Park. An approximately 180-hectare landscaped park with disused industrial plants, it belongs to the Ruhr area, which is known for its industrial culture. On the park grounds, there are, among other things, disused blast furnaces, which you can take a close look at. The landscape park is about 35 minutes by car from Dusseldorf.
• Schloss Burg. Construction of this medieval castle in Solingen began in the year 1130. You can go up here by cable car or directly by car. The castle grounds are accessible free of charge. There is also a castle museum that has an entrance fee. The distance to Düsseldorf is just under an hour.
• Muenster. This is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. Its old town was rebuilt true to the original after being destroyed in World War II. St. Paul's Cathedral, St. Lamberti, Liebfrauen-Überwasser Church and Prinzipalmarkt, with the historic town hall, are particularly impressive to look at. Café 1648, with its inclusive concept and a fantastic view over Muenster, is a great place to grab some food. A trip on the solar ship across Lake Aasee and a visit to the LWL Natural History Museum are also worthwhile. The travel time between Muenster and Duesseldorf is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• Aachen. Sitting on the borders with the Netherlands and Belgium and a bit to the west of the huge North Rhine–Westphalia conurbations that Düsseldorf is a part of, Aachen is one of the most beautiful cities in Western Germany. Known for the strong French and Dutch influences that have seeped into its architecture and cuisine, Aachen has been an important city since the early Middle Ages and has the landmarks to prove it. The drive from Düsseldorf takes just under 90 minutes. If your rental car provider permits a quick pop over the border, the city is less than an hour’s drive east of Liege in Belgium and Maastricht in the Netherlands, two other very worthy travel destinations. 

Most popular cars

The most popular rental cars in Dusseldorf are the Toyota Aygo, the Skoda Fabia, and the Renault Clio, while the most popular rental car types are the compact, mini, and economy classes.

Further destinations

• Amsterdam. The capital of the Netherlands is considered one of the nicest cities in Europe for a reason. With a large historic city center, unique wooden architecture, world-class museums, and, of course, its famous canal system, it’s a fun place to explore. Only 230km (143 miles) northwest of Dusseldorf, it can be reached by car in two and a half hours. Keep in mind that you’d have to cross a international border, so first, ask your car rental provider if they permit it.
• Brussels. The capital of Belgium, NATO, and the EU, Brussels is known for its grand political standing, but it is also an upbeat, thriving metropolis with plenty to offer travelers. Appreciate its distinct architectural styles, explore its unique neighborhoods, and try what is arguably the most delicious cuisine in the region. Only 205km (127 miles) from Dusseldorf, it’s also easy to reach. Keep in mind that you’d have to cross an international border, so first, ask your car rental provider if they permit it.
• Munich. The largest city in southern Germany, Munich is as famous for its cathedrals, towers, and galleries, as it is for the scenic beauty of the nearby Bavarian Alps. Oktoberfest is, of course, the most famous of its festivals, but far from the only one. About 600km (373 miles) southeast of Dusseldorf, driving to Munich takes about six hours, but the destination is worth the trip.
• Frankfurt. Much more than just a financial powerhouse, Frankfurt is one of the most interesting cities in Western Germany. The city is home to unique architecture, plenty of high-quality museums, and large green spaces, and it also provides access to the nearby Rhine Valley. The drive between Dusseldorf and Frankfurt takes just under three hours.

Car rental prices in Dusseldorf

• Vans - from $64 per day
• SUVs - from $39 per day
• Medium cars - from $37 per day
• Station wagons - from $42 per day
• Large cars - from $44 per day
• Premium cars - from $83 per day
• Small cars - from $23 per day
• Convertibles - from $90 per day

Money-saving and other tips

Apply these tricks to get a great car rental deal in Dusseldorf:

• Compare the rates of different rental car providers
• Book your rental car well in advance
• Plan your route before you go
• Know your fuel and mileage requirements
• Visit during the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Dusseldorf is the cheapest in September when renting a car is about 55% cheaper than the yearly average and an entire 70% cheaper than renting a car just a month earlier in August.