$140 Car Rental Schmalkalden

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Top Car Deals in Schmalkalden

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

Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Compact

VW Golf
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Gotha, DEU
VW Golf

$140

includes taxes & fees
$117 per day
found 1 day ago
Compact VW Golf
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Midsize SUV

VW T-Roc
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Zella-Mehlis, DEU
VW T-Roc

$165

includes taxes & fees
$138 per day
found 1 day ago
Midsize SUV VW T-Roc
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Compact Elite

BMW 1 Series
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Zella-Mehlis, DEU
BMW 1 Series

$171

includes taxes & fees
$143 per day
found 1 day ago
Compact Elite BMW 1 Series
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Standard SUV

VW Tiguan
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Zella-Mehlis, DEU
VW Tiguan

$175

includes taxes & fees
$146 per day
found 1 day ago
Standard SUV VW Tiguan
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Midsize Elite

Audi A3 Sedan
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Zella-Mehlis, DEU
Audi A3 Sedan

$186

includes taxes & fees
$155 per day
found 1 day ago
Midsize Elite Audi A3 Sedan
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Fullsize Elite

BMW 3 Series
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Gotha, DEU
BMW 3 Series

$204

includes taxes & fees
$170 per day
found 1 day ago
Fullsize Elite BMW 3 Series
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Premium Elite

Mercedes-Benz E-Class
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Zella-Mehlis, DEU
Mercedes-Benz E-Class

$205

includes taxes & fees
$171 per day
found 1 day ago
Premium Elite Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Premium SUV

VW Tayron
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Zella-Mehlis, DEU
VW Tayron

$280

includes taxes & fees
$235 per day
found 1 day ago
Premium SUV VW Tayron
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Luxury Elite SUV

BMW X5 xDrive
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Zella-Mehlis, DEU
BMW X5 xDrive

$328

includes taxes & fees
$275 per day
found 1 day ago
Luxury Elite SUV BMW X5 xDrive
Tue, Nov 3 to Wed, Nov 4

Luxury Van

Opel Zafira Life
  • 9 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Gotha, DEU
Opel Zafira Life

$346

includes taxes & fees
$290 per day
found 1 day ago
Luxury Van Opel Zafira Life

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What you need to know for your Schmalkalden car rental

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Schmalkalden

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Schmalkalden

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Schmalkalden. 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 Schmalkalden

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $140.

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.

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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
$140
 
Our second best deal of the day
$165
 
Our third best deal of the day
$171
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Schmalkalden?
You can find cheap car rentals in Schmalkalden from $11 a day with Hertz's compact 4-5 door cars. Sixt offers midsize SUVs starting from $12 a day, and Enterprise provides economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $17 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a car rental in Schmalkalden that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.
What are the best luxury car companies in Schmalkalden?
For luxury car rentals in Schmalkalden, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt. They offer premium elite SUVs and premium SUVs, both starting from $20 a day. Europcar also has luxury and luxury elite categories available. These luxury rentals provide enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.
Can I rent a car one-way in Schmalkalden?
A one-way car rental in Schmalkalden is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $15 a day. Providers like Sixt and Europcar may have flexible one-way policies. These are good options for one-way car rental in Schmalkalden, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Schmalkalden and drop it off at a different location. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Schmalkalden?
Schmalkalden is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $11 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring the region and returning to the same spot. Providers like Sixt and Europcar also offer wide round-trip availability for your convenience. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.
What are the best car rentals in Schmalkalden?
Car rentals in Schmalkalden offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Standard SUV
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Premium elite SUV
Most come with A/C standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.

What are the best car rentals in Schmalkalden for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Schmalkalden for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $17 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 4-5 door, starting from $20 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $14 a day, for extra comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.

What are the best car rentals in Schmalkalden for couples?
The best car rentals in Schmalkalden for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $14 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a sports car for scenic drives around Schmalkalden. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.

What are the best car rentals in Schmalkalden for families?
The best car rentals in Schmalkalden for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $12 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Midsize passenger van, starting from $22 a day—seats up to 9 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and passenger vans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Schmalkalden. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the peak months of February and December, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. Consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Schmalkalden?
Schmalkalden has electric and hybrid vehicle options available. Europcar offers hybrid plug-in vehicles starting from $11 a day, and Sixt provides electric options starting from $12 a day. Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car also carry electric cars, widely available on Expedia. EVs can offer fuel savings, and it is advisable to book them 4-6 weeks ahead as demand can be high. Plan charging stops for longer trips.
What is the best time to book a car in Schmalkalden?
From November, prices for car rentals in Schmalkalden are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $12 a day during this period. February tends to be the busiest month, and December also sees high demand, when increased demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Schmalkalden?
Car rentals in Schmalkalden are available from providers like Sixt, Europcar, and Enterprise, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize SUVs and compact SUVs that are versatile for various routes. Europcar offers economy 2 or 4 door and compact 4-5 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise rounds out the choices with economy 2 or 4 door and midsize SUVs, providing a balance of value and space. Consider a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage, or an SUV for more space and stability on longer drives. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.
What are good day trip destinations from Schmalkalden by rental car?
Exploring the scenic surroundings of Schmalkalden by rental car offers many rewarding day trip opportunities for families, couples, and solo travelers. You can easily reach several natural parks and historical sites within a couple of hours' drive, making a car rental in Schmalkalden an ideal way to discover the region. Consider these destinations for your day trips:
  • Thuringian Forest: Located approximately 21 miles from Schmalkalden, this beautiful forest is perfect for nature lovers and offers scenic drives and hiking trails. The drive takes about 1 hour. A compact SUV or midsize SUV provides comfort and space for gear.
  • Wartburg Castle: Situated about 22 miles away, this historic castle near Eisenach is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into German history and culture. The drive is approximately 1 hour. A compact 4-5 door car is suitable for couples, while a standard SUV offers more space for families.
  • Hainich National Park: Roughly 30 miles from Schmalkalden, this national park is known for its ancient beech forests and canopy walk, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts. Expect a drive of about 1 hour. A midsize SUV or midsize passenger van is excellent for families needing extra room.
  • Thuringian Highlands-Upper Saale Nature Park: About 63 miles away, this expansive nature park provides opportunities for outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes. The journey typically takes around 2 hours. For longer drives, a premium SUV offers enhanced comfort.
  • Harz National Park: For a slightly longer adventure, Harz National Park is approximately 91 miles from Schmalkalden, offering diverse landscapes and charming towns. The drive is about 2 hours. A standard SUV or midsize passenger van is recommended for this trip, ensuring comfort for all passengers and luggage.
When planning your day trips with a car rental in Schmalkalden, it's always a good idea to fuel up before you leave and bring water and snacks, especially for trips to the national parks. Choosing a car rental for families in Schmalkalden, such as an SUV or minivan, helps ensure everyone travels comfortably with enough space for luggage and souvenirs. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Schmalkalden.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Schmalkalden?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Schmalkalden. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Schmalkalden?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Schmalkalden?
Budget car rental in Schmalkalden can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $140. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Schmalkalden?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Schmalkalden. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Schmalkalden car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Schmalkalden?
To rent a car in Schmalkalden, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Schmalkalden car rental?
If you need to cancel your Schmalkalden car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Schmalkalden with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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