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Can I rent a car in one country in Europe and return it in another?

With Avis' one-way car rental, you can do just that. Pick up your vehicle from one of our offices across Europe and drop it off at a different location at the end of your trip. It's quick, easy and efficient, and it means you can plan your journey exactly as you please, without having to drive full circle.



Yes, in 2026, "one-way" international car rentals are common in Europe, particularly within the Schengen Area. Major agencies like Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt allow you to pick up a car in a city like Munich and drop it off in Paris or Milan. However, there are three major caveats: significant drop-off fees, which can range from €200 to over €1,000; country restrictions, where cars rented in Western Europe may not be allowed into certain Eastern European nations; and insurance complexities. You must inform the rental company of every country you plan to visit to ensure your "Green Card" insurance coverage is valid. In 2026, many travelers find it more cost-effective to rent a car locally for a specific region and use Europe's high-speed rail network for the cross-border legs, as the one-way fee often exceeds the cost of a luxury train ticket.

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