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Auto rental suggestions in Munich

Posted by on

My family will be traveling to Munich. Any suggestions or feedback on an SUV rental? We have to rent a full size/ standard size SUV due to my husbands physical condition. We will have 5 total passengers, all adults. Just not sure which as the options for this type vehicle are slim and expensive. We are purchasing all insurance through the rental agency as our home insurance will not provide any coverage in Europe and credit card has limited liability. Have any of you rented a VW Tiguan?
Have you used a specific car rental company you were happy with? Any issues with Sixt?
AutoEurope (consolidator that finds affordable rentals) was suggested as it offers a complete breakdown of cost with ability to pay ahead of time. I don’t want to spend valuable time at the rental counter in the airport paying more than necessary.
Any tips?

Lastly, must you have an international license? I’m reading you do. We only have our state license.

Thank you in advance!

Posted by
1632 posts

I used gemut.com which a travel agency based in OR. They provide customer service in local languages, should the customer run into trouble with the rental car pickup/drop off point.

Yes, you do need an IDP. Get one from AAA.

Posted by
3009 posts

Ensure every driver(s) will have valid driving permission for Germany; a driving license alone might not be sufficient. US state licenses need IDP but not all ages and license types are allowed (see link #1, #5). High penalties and in case of accident lose of insurance coverage likely.

Using cars in cities like Munich or Berlin are less meaningful than using public transport or taxis, also for up to 5 passengers (Grossraumtaxi).

Size of car: Be aware of luggage size. Consider small passenger transporters such as Mercedes Vito, VW Multivan or Opel Zafira. I am not sure a Tiguan will provide a pleasant journey onlonger tours.

I prefer renting directly because in case of trouble more parties involved does not make it easier. Some years ago I was satisfied business customer of Sixt - party renting all year long in week blocks.

Temperatures below 5° C need winter tyres by law.

Most important:

  • Green sticker for low emission zones - likely already on vehicle.
  • Diesel ban areas, e. g. Munich. Likely no issue with newer level-6-Diesels.
  • No general turn-on-red-allowance only when green arrow sign shown.
  • On Autobahn keep most right lane if not trespassing other vehicles.

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