Why rent a car in Linz
Linz has trams and a compact centre on the Danube. A car is much more practical for reaching the Wachau valley, lakes, and abbeys. With a rental car, you can explore Upper Austria at your own pace.
Tips for finding a cheap car rental in Linz
Looking for a cheap car rental in Linz? With EconomyBookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal in Linz and across Austria. Comparing Linz Airport with city locations may help you find a better price.
- Compare pickup locations - Select the broader city instead of a specific location to unlock more deal options, including potential off-airport savings.
- Slightly adjust pickup times and dates - Even changing your booking by an hour can reveal lower rates.
- Choose economy or compact cars - These vehicle types are usually the most budget-friendly.
- Consider both price and availability - Rental prices are often lowest 2-31 days before pickup, but booking earlier may give you a better choice of cars, especially during busy periods.
- Use free cancellation to look for a better deal - If your booking includes free cancellation, you can keep checking prices and rebook if you find a better deal.
Car rental requirements in Linz
Requirements can vary by rental supplier, but you'll generally need the following when picking up a rental car in Linz:
- Driving licence - EU/EEA licences are valid in Austria. Many other licences are accepted for short stays, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if your licence is not in German or English.
- Passport or ID - Bring a valid passport, or a national ID card if you are an EU/EEA citizen.
- Payment card - A credit card in the main driver's name is usually required for the deposit. Accepted card types and deposit amounts vary by supplier.
- Booking voucher - Have your EconomyBookings voucher ready, either digital or printed if the supplier requires it.
- Insurance - Third-party liability insurance is required by law and is usually included in the rental price. Collision damage and theft cover may be included or offered as extras, so check what your booking covers before you arrive.
Always check your rental terms before pickup, as licence, age, deposit, payment, and insurance requirements can vary by supplier.
Driving in Linz
Parking
Central Linz has short-term parking zones. Many cities have short-term parking zones (Kurzparkzonen) with time limits, paid at machines or with apps such as Handyparken or EasyPark. Park-and-ride car parks are a good option for city centres.
Tolls
Austrian motorways require a vignette, available as a digital vignette linked to the number plate, and some tunnels and Alpine roads charge extra tolls. Austrian rental cars usually include the vignette, but check at pickup.
Road conditions & driving culture
Roads are well maintained, but mountain routes can be steep and winding. Winter tyres are required in winter conditions, typically from November to April, and snow chains may be needed on some mountain roads.
Popular road trips from Linz
Linz is a great base for exploring the region. Popular drives include:
- St. Florian Abbey - approx. 20 minutes, a baroque Augustinian monastery.
- Hallstatt - approx. 1.5-2 hours, a lakeside village with salt mines.
- Melk Abbey - approx. 1 hour, a baroque abbey above the Danube.
- Salzburg - approx. 1.5 hours, Mozart's birthplace and baroque old town.
- Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic - approx. 1.5 hours, a fairytale castle town. Check vignette and cross-border rules.
Final checklist before you pick up your rental car in Linz
- Bring your documents - Driving licence (plus IDP if applicable), passport or ID, booking voucher, and the payment card required by your rental supplier.
- Check your rental terms - Review the deposit, fuel policy, mileage, insurance coverage, and any additional fees before signing.
- Confirm cross-border travel - Most suppliers allow travel to nearby EU countries, but cross-border fees may apply and some car categories may be restricted, so confirm in advance.
- Inspect the car - Take clear photos and videos of the vehicle before leaving and make sure any existing damage is recorded on the rental agreement.