For those arriving by air, the nearby Cottbus-Drewitz aerodrome welcomes charter flights, while larger international airports like Dresden-Klotzsche and Berlin/Tegel are just over an hour’s drive away. You can pick up your rental vehicle directly from any of these airports, ensuring that you hit the road as soon as you land. By working with the top car rental agencies, we guarantee that you will receive the best discounts, making your travel both affordable and stress-free.
Cottbus is also easily accessible by train, with its main station, the Spreewaldbahnhof, offering numerous rail connections through Deutsche Bahn and high-speed ICE services. Whether you’re planning to visit Berlin, Dresden, Leipzig, or even Frankfurt, a well-connected rail network means you can explore the surrounding region with ease. For travelers arriving at the train station, our car rental services are available right outside, making it simple to pick up your vehicle and continue your journey. Just remember, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and a credit card to secure the deposit during the rental period.
Situated in the heart of Eastern Germany, just 20 kilometers from the Polish border, Cottbus serves as the ideal starting point for a road trip across borders. Whether you’re interested in discovering the cultural heritage of the local Sorbs, the only Slavic ethnic group native to Germany, or exploring the natural beauty of the Spreewald region, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace. From the dual-language street signs to the historical Wendish Museum, Cottbus offers a unique blend of cultures that’s best enjoyed with the flexibility a rental car provides.
For those keen on history, despite the city’s tumultuous past, Cottbus still preserves remnants of its medieval charm, with highlights like the Spremburger Turm and Münzturm—survivors of both time and conflict. These towers, alongside the iconic Staatstheater, Germany’s only Art Nouveau-style theatre, stand as symbols of the city’s resilience and artistic spirit. To fully explore these attractions and many more, having a car is essential, allowing you to delve into Cottbus’ hidden corners and beyond.
Traveling by road around Cottbus is remarkably easy, with excellent infrastructure ensuring smooth connections to nearby cities and countries. The A15 Autobahn provides direct access to Berlin, Dresden, and Poland, with well-marked exits at Cottbus-West and Cottbus Süd for easy navigation.
Additionally, major federal highways like the B97, B115, and B169 connect you to key destinations across the region, including scenic drives through historical towns such as Guben, Görlitz, and Bad Muskau. Once in the city, ample parking facilities and an efficient public transport system, featuring four tram lines and eight bus routes, make getting around effortless. For those looking to experience Cottbus in a more eco-friendly way, the city’s compact layout is perfect for cycling.
When renting a car in Cottbus, there are a few additional things worth knowing to ensure a smooth experience:
Driving Permits: Make sure you have a valid driver’s license. If you’re an international traveler, a valid license from your home country is typically sufficient, but it’s a good idea to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well, especially if your license is not in English or German.
Age Restrictions: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, but there may be additional fees for drivers under 25. Be sure to check age-related policies with your rental provider to avoid any surprises.
Fuel Policy: Many rental agencies operate on a “full-to-full” fuel policy. This means you’ll receive the car with a full tank of fuel, and you’ll need to return it the same way. If you don’t refill the tank, you may be charged a high rate for the missing fuel, so keep an eye on gas stations near your drop-off point.
Cross-Border Travel: Cottbus is located close to the Polish border, and you may want to explore neighboring countries. However, not all rental agencies allow cross-border travel, and if they do, they may apply additional fees or restrictions. It’s important to check with your rental company beforehand if you plan to cross into Poland or other countries.
Toll Roads: While most German roads are toll-free for cars, you may encounter tolls in nearby countries like Poland or Austria. If you plan to travel across borders, be prepared for potential tolls or special vignettes required for certain highways.
Winter Tires and Conditions: If you’re traveling in winter (November to March), German law requires vehicles to be equipped with winter tires. Most rental cars come with them during this period, but it’s worth confirming. In snowy or icy conditions, carrying chains or checking if the rental car has other winter equipment is also advisable, especially if you plan to drive in more rural or mountainous areas.
Parking: Cottbus offers plenty of parking spaces, but like many European cities, parking in the city center can be limited and often comes with time restrictions or fees. Look out for parking signs, and consider using public parking lots or garages to avoid tickets.
Traffic Regulations: Germany has strict traffic laws, including speed limits, which are enforced rigorously. The general speed limit in cities is 50 km/h (31 mph) and 100 km/h (62 mph) on rural roads, while the Autobahn often has no limit, but keep in mind that certain sections do. Always check for local signage. Also, note that driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited, with a blood alcohol limit of 0.05%.
Insurance: Standard car rentals usually come with basic insurance, but it’s highly recommended to review and consider additional coverage options like CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), theft protection, and liability insurance to avoid large deductibles in case of accidents or damage.
Traffic Zones: Many German cities, including Cottbus, have low-emission zones where only vehicles meeting certain environmental standards are allowed. If you plan to drive through these areas, make sure your rental car has the appropriate environmental sticker.
Car Return Flexibility: Most rental agencies offer flexible return locations, so you can pick up your car in one city, such as Berlin or Dresden, and drop it off in Cottbus, or vice versa. Be sure to inquire about any drop-off fees if you plan to return the vehicle to a different location.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to rent and drive a car in Cottbus, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience on your trip.
With so many options at your disposal, renting a car in Cottbus is the smartest way to ensure your trip is as comfortable and flexible as possible. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or adventure, our comprehensive car rental service puts you in control, letting you explore the best of Cottbus and beyond at your own pace.
