Car Rental Essen

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Essen

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

Top Car Deals in Essen

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Essen, Lower Saxony, DEU
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Essen, Lower Saxony, DEU
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Essen, Lower Saxony, DEU
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Essen, Lower Saxony, DEU
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Essen
View all cars

What you need to know for your Essen car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Essen

Renting a car in Essen allows you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like the Cloppenburg Museum Village, located 10 miles away, where you can immerse yourself in cultural experiences. The scenic Thülsfelder Talsperre, just 14 miles from Essen, is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, while TERRA.vita Nature Park, situated 12 miles away, offers a peaceful retreat into nature. The convenience of having a car makes it effortless to manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. Whether you’re interested in culture, scenery, or outdoor activities, a rental car opens up popular destinations like Quakenbrück and Altenbunnen, both within a short drive of Essen. Quakenbrück is only 3 miles away and features attractions like the Alfsee and the Cloppenburg Museum Village. By renting a car, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience, whether traveling solo, with family, or even with pets, allowing you to focus on making the most of your time in and around Essen.

Where to stay around Essen

  • Dinklage: Located 8 miles from Essen (Oldenburg), Dinklage is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities and romantic scenery. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque Alfsee lake, which is ideal for a beach and outdoor experience. Other attractions include the Cloppenburg Museum Village for cultural exploration and Vechta Europe Square, a lovely city piazza. Dinklage's surrounding nature, including lakes and forests, enhances its appeal, especially during the warmer months.
  • Cloppenburg: Situated 10 miles away from Essen (Oldenburg), Cloppenburg offers a scenic and outdoor-friendly environment. Notable spots include the Wildeshauser Geest Nature Park, perfect for adventure seekers, and the Thülsfelder Talsperre dam, which provides beautiful views. The Tier- und Freizeitpark Thüle GmbH amusement park is ideal for families looking for outdoor fun. Cloppenburg's charm is accentuated in the spring and summer months when outdoor activities are at their peak.
  • Loningen: Also 8 miles from Essen (Oldenburg), Loningen is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the Thülsfelder Talsperre dam for scenic views and engage with nature at TERRA.vita Nature Park. The Cloppenburg Museum Village is also within reach for those interested in cultural heritage. Loningen's serene atmosphere is best enjoyed in the warmer seasons, making it a great getaway for nature lovers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Essen

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher security deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This option is generally the most favorable. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just ensure to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provides you with peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Essen

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Essen into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Essen and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Essen

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Essen. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Essen

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
Our second best deal of the day
Our third best deal of the day
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Essen?
Daily rental prices were as low as within the past seven days. With rates like this, cruising the streets of Essen in your own set of wheels is an affordable way to see the sights.
What happens if I need to cancel my Essen car reservation?
You should be eligible for your money back on your rental car if it's canceled at least six hours prior to the collection time. Read through your policy for all the info. Our Customer Service Portal may have what you need too.
Where can I go on a road trip from Essen?
There's so much to do in Essen, but venture farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Grab a set of wheels and you can meander around the surrounding area at your own speed. Add these awesome destinations to your list:
  • Bremen is approximately 45 miles from Essen. Popular sights like Weser Stadium deserve to be high on your list while you're in town.
  • Next stop? It has to be Moenchengladbach, which is around 120 miles away. Borussia Park is one local hot spot you shouldn't miss.
  • Warnemunde Beach is 200 miles from Essen and is one of the region's most spectacular nature spots. Stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air here.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Essen with Expedia?
Pick up an incredible deal with Expedia. All you have to do is choose your preferred car type, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off locations, and browse offers from top rental brands. Save even more when you combine your Essen car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Essen?
You need to be at least 18 to pick up the keys to a rental car in Essen. Keep in mind that young drivers may be restricted to renting from a few car categories, such as compact and economy. Higher age limits usually apply for specialty and premium vehicles. Many providers will also charge an additional fee for young renters. Read through the rules before clicking the book button and factor any extra fees into your travel budget.
What do you need to rent a car in Essen?
While rules can differ between outlets, the basics are a valid driver's license and a credit card. You don't need to take out auto insurance with your rental provider. However, proof of alternative coverage may be required.
What side of the road do you drive on in Essen?
Road-tripping around Essen may feel like second nature to drivers from the U.S. This destination, and the rest of Germany, sticks to the right.
What is the cheapest car rental in Essen?
The lowest rate for a rental car in Essen within the past seven days was per day. The next best deal snapped up by thrifty travelers was . These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Essen?
Yes, and you'll find your perfect set of wheels on our long-term car rental deals page. Simply enter your trip information and we'll show you excellent options from various reliable companies.
Where can I find an Essen car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Essen companies will rent to drivers under 25 years of age, and others won't. Age policies differ between suppliers, so be prepared to do some research. Also, find out if there are extra costs. Some places will have a surcharge for young customers between 21 and 24. Always look through the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Essen?
A comprehensive insurance policy is a wise idea for your Essen escape. That's why we suggest adding collision protection while reserving your car rental with Expedia. This covers your vehicle from theft, vandalism and accident damage. Some destinations may also require a minimum level of liability insurance. This might be included in your rental cost or your personal auto insurance, so check what you're covered for.
Can I drive in Essen with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in Germany, then you'll likely need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence to be allowed to rent a car. Please also consider that if an IDP is required, it has no validity on its own. You'll need to show your current license your passport and other forms of identification as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card you used to book the rental matches the name on your license and passport. A few other things to note for international car rentals are:
  • Age restrictions: You must be at least 25 in many countries to rent a car. If you're younger than that, it may still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of vehicles available to rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the rules and regulations before getting behind the wheel. Usually, you can't cross country borders, drive onto ferries or off road with your rental car.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia