Compare prices and pick the right size for your trip from Berlin Brandenburg Airport.
Why Choose Automatic Car Hire
Automatic cars remove gear changes and reduce driver fatigue on unfamiliar roads. This makes them a practical choice for families and groups arriving at Berlin Brandenburg Airport.
At BER many international visitors prefer automatic cars for easier city driving and motorway runs to Brandenburg towns.
What Types of Automatic Cars Are Available
At Berlin Brandenburg Airport you can hire small city cars up to 8 Seater minivans. Common options include compact hatchbacks, estate cars, SUVs and people carriers.
Major international suppliers and German companies operate from the airport. Expect brands such as Avis, Sixt, Europcar, Hertz and local providers in the terminal service centre.
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | Simple for city and motorway driving | Can be more engaging on country roads |
| Fuel efficiency | Modern automatics are efficient | Often slightly better in older models |
| Availability | Less common than manual in Germany | More common; wide choice |
| Best for | Families, drivers new to the area | Drivers who prefer greater control |
Main takeaway. Automatic cars are easier in traffic. Manuals remain common and sometimes cheaper. Choose by comfort and passenger needs.
Picking Up and Returning Your Rental Car
All car hire company counters at BER are grouped in Terminal 1 near Arrivals. The desks sit on level E0. Follow the signs ‘Mietwagen – Car rental’ to reach them.
After paperwork your car will be parked in the dedicated P2 rental car park. Walk a few minutes to collect your vehicle from the marked bays. Returns use the same P2 area and staff take over the vehicle.
Practical tip. Allow 30 to 45 minutes for desk processing at peak times. Bring all drivers’ documents to speed collection. Peak demand is highest in summer school holidays and at weekends.
Tips for Choosing the Right Car
Match vehicle size to luggage and passenger numbers. For family trips pick an estate or 7 Seater if you need the extra space. For city breaks a compact automatic is easier to park.
Check the fuel policy and mileage limits before booking. Look for child seat options if you travel with young children. Compare supplier fleet photos to confirm model size.
| Item | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel policy | Impacts final cost | Full-to-full is easiest |
| Included mileage | Limits journey distance | Choose unlimited for long trips |
| Child seats | Legal requirement for children | Reserve seats in advance |
| Insurance cover | Reduces financial risk | Check excess and optional waivers |
Main takeaway. Read the rental terms. Small differences in cover change outlay at the desk.
Popular pickup locations
– Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) — direct terminal desks and P2 car park convenience
– Berlin Mitte — central access for city stays and short trips
– Munich Airport — large fleet and reliable availability for southern Germany
– Frankfurt Airport — major hub with wide vehicle selection and transfers
– Düsseldorf Airport — frequent carriers and good motorway connections
– Hamburg Airport — northern gateway with good rental coverage
– Stuttgart — useful for trips into Baden-Württemberg and vineyards
– Cologne Bonn — good option for Rhineland travel and business visitors
– Leipzig/Halle — nearby for eastern Germany trips and lower rates
– Nuremberg — regional hub useful for Franconia travel
How Much Does Automatic Car Hire Cost
Automatic vehicles typically cost more than manual equivalents. The premium varies by class and season. Expect a small daily premium on compact cars and a larger premium on premium SUVs.
Factors that affect price include season, booking lead time, insurance choices and one-way drops. Booking well ahead usually cuts the daily rate.
Local note. BER serves a high seasonal tourist flow in summer. Prices rise during July and August and around Christmas. If your dates are flexible you will usually save money by booking midweek or outside school holidays.
Final Advice Before You Book Your Automatic Car
Confirm the exact collection point on your reservation. Many companies list Terminal 1, Level E0 and collection from P2. Keep the supplier contact number with your booking.
Check parking height limits if you hire a tall van. Also check whether your vehicle has diesel or petrol engine and whether a toll device is supplied for German motorways.
For short city drives a compact automatic saves stress. For long drives choose comfort and luggage space.
Official sources. For terminal and rental centre directions see the airport pages. For public transport options check Berlin visitor transport guides. BER car hire info. visitBerlin BER transport guide.
Frequently asked questions — Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
- Where are car hire desks located at BER?
The counters are in Terminal 1 on level E0 near Arrivals. - Where do I pick up my hire car?
Cars are parked in the P2 rental car park a short walk from the terminal. - Do UK driving licences work in Germany?
Yes. UK licences are valid for short stays. Carry the photocard licence. Check any recent rules for long stays. - Is there a fee to return the car at BER?
Return fees vary by supplier. Check your booking for one-way charges and airport surcharges. - How long is the drive from BER to central Berlin?
Typical journey time via the A113 is around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. - Can I reserve a child seat at the airport?
Yes. Book child seats with your rental company before arrival to guarantee availability. - Are automatic cars more expensive to hire at BER?
They often cost a daily premium over manual models. The extra varies by car type and season. - What documents do I need to collect a hire car?
You need the booking confirmation, driving licence, ID or passport and a credit card for the deposit. - Is public transport from BER a better option sometimes?
Yes. S-Bahn and regional trains run regularly and can be quicker to central Berlin in peak traffic.
