Yes, you can rent a car one-way in Europe, but it is not as simple or cheap as a round-trip rental. The key factor is the one-way fee (or drop-off charge), which can range from under €100 to over €500 depending on the rental company, countries involved, and season. This fee compensates the company for returning the vehicle to its original location. While generally possible within a single country, cross-border one-way rentals often have more restrictions.
The most reliable way to find and compare options is by using the search filters on major international rental broker websites like Rentalcars.com, Discover Cars, or the sites of global brands such as Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt. These platforms allow you to enter different pickup and drop-off locations, instantly showing availability and the total cost including the one-way fee. Booking far in advance is crucial, especially for summer travel or desirable routes, as the number of vehicles allocated for one-way rentals is limited.
Some routes are more feasible than others. A one-way rental from Germany to Italy will likely carry a high fee, while a rental within France or Spain might be more affordable. Cross-border rentals between neighboring countries within the Schengen Area are commonly permitted, but you must always declare your travel plans to the rental company and confirm that the car's insurance and documentation are valid for all countries you plan to drive through.
| Rental Scenario | Estimated One-Way Fee Range | Key Considerations |
|---|
| Domestic (e.g., Paris to Nice, France) | €50 - €200 | Most common and often the cheapest option. |
| Cross-Border (e.g., Frankfurt to Zurich) | €150 - €400 | Must specify countries at booking; insurance checks vital. |
| Popular Tourist Route (e.g., Rome to Florence) | €100 - €300 | High demand in summer; book months ahead. |
| Less Common Route (e.g., Warsaw to Prague) | €250 - €600+ | Limited availability; may require specific rental companies. |
| Airport to City Center (e.g., Amsterdam Schiphol to Amsterdam Central) | May have minimal or no fee | Short distances within the same rental zone. |
To minimize costs, look for special offers where companies waive fees to balance their fleet. For example, a company might need more cars in Spain for the winter season, making a one-way rental from France to Spain cheaper than the reverse. Always read the rental agreement carefully to understand the fee structure and any mileage limitations.
