How to
Renting a Car in Europe: What to Know
Europe is made for a road trip, but the rules catch out first-timers. How to book, what an IDP is, and the manual-vs-automatic trap.
Published February 17, 2026 · AI-assisted editorial
Europe is built for a road trip — compact distances, dramatic scenery, towns a train will not reach. But a few quirks catch out first-timers, so it pays to book and prepare properly.
Book ahead with a specialist
AutoEurope has decades of experience and strong rates across the continent, while QEEQ compares suppliers with instant confirmation. Book ahead rather than walking up — the counter rate is almost always the worst. Compare options on our car rental hub.
The European gotchas
- Manual vs automatic: most European rentals are manual; automatics are scarcer and pricier, so book one early if you need it.
- International Driving Permit: many countries require an IDP alongside your home licence — cheap to get, but get it before you travel.
- City restrictions: low-emission and limited-traffic zones in city centres carry fines. Park outside and walk or take transit in.
Insurance
Check the excess and whether your card or a standalone policy covers the gap — topping up is often worth it for peace of mind on unfamiliar roads.
Mix in the train
For long city-to-city hops, Europe's trains are often faster and more relaxing than driving — keep the car for the rural stretches and scenic routes where it shines.
What we are watching
European car-hire demand stays high in summer, pushing prices up and availability down in popular regions. Booking early with free cancellation locks a rate while leaving room to rebook if it drops.