Best Car Rental In Netherlands

Have you imagined driving past fields full of tulips, old windmills, and canals? The Netherlands is a wonderful destination with charming countryside, villages, and accessible big cities.

Even with buses and trains, driving is the best way to see the country at your own pace. Renting a car lets you experience the Netherlands’ beautiful scenery and rich culture.

Let us help you find the perfect rental car for your trip to the Netherlands.

Renting a car in the Netherlands allows you to venture beyond typical tourist routes. You might discover hidden gems inaccessible by train or bus in the countryside.

Here are essential local driving rules that you need to keep in mind:

Traffic Rules: In the Netherlands, you drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Seat belts: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Children under 18 or 1.35 meters must use an appropriate child seat.

• 50 km/h in urban areas
• 80 km/h on regional roads
• 100-130 km/h on highways.

Alcohol Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit in the Netherlands is 0.05%. The limit for drivers with a license for less than five years is 0.02%.

Bicycle Lanes: Be mindful of the extensive network of bicycle lanes. Cyclists have the right of way in many situations.

Environmental Zones: Some Dutch cities have environmental zones. This means that only vehicles meeting specific emission standards can enter. Check if your rental car complies with these standards.

For more information, check out our Netherlands Driving Guide.

Do you wish to rent a car yet have a non-EU license? This is where the International Driving Permit (IDP) comes in. This permit is accepted in over 150 countries and is like a translation of your driver’s license.

Here’s how you can apply for an IDP through the International Drivers Association:

1. Choose Your IDP Plan: IDA offers different IDP plans, like 1-year, 2-year, or 3-year
options. Pick the one that fits your travel plans best.

2. Fill in the Application: Fill out the online form with your basic information. Make sure
all the details match your license to avoid problems.

3. Upload Your Driver’s License: You must give a clear, color copy of your valid driver’s
license. You can do this by uploading a scanned or good-quality license photo.

4. Add a Passport-Size Photo: You also need a passport-size photo for the IDP. You can
usually upload a digital photo. Ensure it’s a recent photo meeting the usual passport
photo rules.

5. Pay the Fee: The cost depends on your chosen IDP plan. You can pay with a
credit card, debit card, or other online methods.

6. Submit Your Application: Check all information before submitting.

After you submit your application, the International Drivers Association will review it. If they approve it, they’ll send your IDP to your address. The time it takes to process and deliver can vary, so it’s best to apply early before your trip.

Remember, the IDP doesn’t replace your original driver’s license. You should always have your IDP and driver’s license when driving in another country.

Selecting the right car insurance is essential for a stress-free experience. Here are some tips to help you:

• Look for cover collision damage waiver (CDW), third-party liability, and theft protection policies.
• Some rental companies also offer additional options for your peace of mind. This might be in the form of personal accident insurance and roadside assistance.
• Compare different providers and read the fine print to understand the policy coverage. This ensures you’re protected throughout your journey.

The best car insurance provides great coverage at a fair price. Here are some of the best car insurance in the Netherlands:

Centraal Beheer

Centraal Beheer offers comprehensive car insurance policies. These include third-party liability, fire, theft, and damage coverage.

Interpolis

Interpolis is a popular choice in the Netherlands. It offers car insurance with various coverage levels. This includes third-party, limited comprehensive, and fully comprehensive options.

ANWB

The Royal Dutch Touring Club (ANWB) offers several car insurance packages, including roadside assistance services. It is also known for its excellent customer service and reliability.

InShared

InShared is known for its digital approach to insurance. It offers easy online management of policies.

FBTO

FBTO offers flexible car insurance policies. Customers can adjust their coverage monthly. Options for third-party liability, comprehensive, and specific coverages are also included.

Allianz

Allianz is a global insurance company that offers extensive car insurance options, including international coverage, which can be ideal for those planning cross-border trips.

When you’re looking to rent a car, there are various factors to consider. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice:

In the Netherlands, you’ll find many car rental options. These include big international companies, local businesses, and even peer-to-peer services, which allow people to rent out their cars.

Big names like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Sixt are well-known worldwide and are often seen as reliable and trustworthy. Traveling to different countries? Their extensive locations are handy for picking up and dropping off cars. They also offer special programs and discounts for travelers who rent cars often.

On the other hand, local rental companies often provide more personal services. They might be more flexible with your needs and budget. They can also give great advice about driving in the Netherlands and must-visit places.

Think about what type of vehicle you need. Small cars are great for city driving and parking. It’s easier to navigate, especially in old towns with narrow streets. You might want a bigger car or an SUV if you’re with a family or group or have excess baggage.

Many cars in Europe, including the Netherlands, have manual gear. If you’re uncomfortable with that, book an automatic transmission car.

It’s tempting to pick the cheapest rental company. But remember, the cheapest might not be the best. Compare prices and watch out for extra costs. This might come in the form of insurance, GPS, or fees for adding another driver. Sometimes, a deal that looks good at first can cost more.

Read the rental agreement carefully. Check specific policies regarding mileage, cross-border travel, and cancellation.

Ask about the company’s policy on fuel. Usually, you get the car with a full tank and return it full. Avoid deals where you pay for a full tank upfront and bring it back empty, as these can cost more.

Some companies offer extras, such as help if your car breaks down or GPS systems. Compare what each company offers to find what’s best for you.

Look at online reviews and ask people you know for recommendations. This can help you understand what it’s like to rent from each company.

Knowing where to pick up and drop off rental cars in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht is good.

Ease of Access: Renting from big cities or airports is convenient if you want to start driving right away.

Extended Operating Hours: Service locations in airports or big cities often stay open longer, including weekends and holidays. This is helpful if your flight arrives early or late so you can pick up or drop off your car when it suits you.

There are many rental companies in the Netherlands, but some stand out from the rest. Here are the top rental companies in the Netherlands that you should consider:

You can count on Sixt, a century-old global car rental company. It offers a luxurious and comprehensive service in the Netherlands. Their fleet includes new, top-brand vehicles suitable for various needs:

• City and Long Drives: Choose sedans for city streets or SUVs for more space on longer trips.
• Winter Fun: SUVs are great for winter activities and theme parks.
• Youth Policies: Rentals are available for drivers as young as 21 — extra fee for those under 25.
• Flexible Payments: Major cards are accepted, there is a pay-later option, and there is free cancellation.
• High Satisfaction: Customer Excitement Score of 4.5 from over 10,000 reviews.
• One-Way and Cross-Border Rentals: Available within the Netherlands and Europe, depending on the car.

Enterprise makes renting a car a smooth and hassle-free experience for over 60 years. It has operations locations in more than 100 countries, including the Netherlands.

Here’s why you might consider Enterprise:

Short and Long-Term Rentals: If you need a car for a day or less, it’s only €6 per hour and €0.30 per kilometer. Need a car for a longer time, or prefer renting over buying? Enterprise has great long-term options, too.

• Clear information about costs and rules.
• You can return the car whenever and wherever you want.
• No extra fees for young drivers.
• 24/7 help if your car breaks down.
• A wide range of cars to choose from, so you get the perfect one for you.

Hertz Netherlands offers a great car rental service starting at $25.00 daily. Besides small cars and SUVs, they also have electric cars, which are great for the environment. You can find Hertz in big cities like Amsterdam and at major airports like Eindhoven.

Key features of Hertz Netherlands include:

• Hertz offers a great deal: if you find a cheaper price for a Hertz rental, they’ll pay you back the difference.
• There are no extra fees if you cancel or change your booking within two days of making it.
• You won’t have to worry about hidden costs because theft and damage coverage are included.
• There are no credit card fees.

Avis is a well-known car rental company that’s been around for over 70 years. They’re operating in more than 165 countries, including the Netherlands. It has built a reputation for customer service and a wide selection of vehicles.

• Easy Access: Avis has locations in big cities and airports, making picking up and dropping off cars easy.
• Vehicle Choices: Whether you need a small car for the city or a bigger one for a family trip, Avis has you covered.
• Flexible Booking: You can change your reservation online, which is convenient.
• Eco-Friendly Cars: They offer electric car rentals to support the environmentally conscious movement.
• Avis Preferred Program: This loyalty program gives regular customers special benefits and quicker booking.

In the Netherlands, there is a growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles. As a response, UFODrive is at the forefront of this movement.

UFODrive offers a unique, all-electric car rental experience. All transactions are manageable via a smartphone app. Here’s what makes UFODrive stand out:

• All-Electric Fleet: Choose from various electric vehicles, including Tesla, Polestar, Volkswagen, and Cupra.
• Self-Service Rental: Say goodbye to traditional queues and paperwork! Book, pick up, and drive your rental through an easy-to-use smartphone app.
• Charging Included: Your rental has access to a vast network of chargers, including Tesla Superchargers, for hassle-free charging.
• Flexible Rental Options: Do you need a car for a day, a week, a month, or longer? UFODrive has you covered.
• 24/7 Availability: Pick up and return your car anytime.
• High Customer Satisfaction: UFODrive has earned high ratings on Google. This reflects its commitment to customer service.
• Convenient Locations: Major airports and US, UK, and European city centers.
• Transparent Pricing: Rentals start at $60 daily, with clear, all-inclusive pricing.

Oscar Car Rental was founded in 2018 by brothers Dannie and Christian. This quickly expanded to 120 independent franchise locations in the Netherlands.

Oscar Car Rental is known for its affordability and inclusive insurance approach.

When renting a car via Oscar Car Rental, you can expect:

• Affordable Rates: Enjoy competitive pricing starting at €29 per day. This includes liability and collision insurance.
• Convenient Booking: Book online and choose from various vehicles to suit your needs.
• High Customer Satisfaction: Oscar Car Rental prides itself on a Trustpilot score of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
• No Young Driver Surcharge: Drivers under 25 don’t face extra rental fees. A higher deposit might be mandatory.
• Loyalty Benefits: Use the Oscar App for at least a 10% discount on standard bookings.
• Clear Cancellation Policy: Transparent guidelines on cancellations and fees make planning easier.

Find the perfect vehicle with the Netherlands’ top car rental companies. Book your vehicle in advance to secure your preferred vehicle at the best rate.