Car Rental in Ostrava

Where to drive

• Explore the Beskydy Mountains: Drive to Lysá hora, the highest peak, for hiking and breathtaking views. Approximately 50 km, 1 hour drive.
• Visit Štramberk, the 'Moravian Bethlehem': A charming medieval town with a unique Trúba tower. Approximately 40 km, 45 minutes drive.
• Discover Olomouc: A beautiful historic city with a UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column. Approximately 90 km, 1 hour 15 minutes drive.
• Journey to Krakow, Poland: A longer but rewarding trip to a major European cultural hub. Approximately 160 km, 2 hours 15 minutes drive (check cross-border rental policies).
• Experience Pustevny and Radhošť: Famous for their unique wooden architecture and panoramic mountain vistas. Approximately 60 km, 1 hour 10 minutes drive.

What documents you need

To rent a car in the Czech Republic, you will typically need a valid driving license from your home country, a passport or national ID card, and a major credit card in the main driver's name. If your driving license is not in English and does not contain a photograph, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended or may be required. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, with some companies charging a young driver surcharge for those under 25. A minimum of 1-2 years of driving experience is also commonly required.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Ostrava vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs or premium models can range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Summer months generally see a price increase of 20-40% due to higher demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In the Czech Republic, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 130 km/h on motorways (D-roads). All occupants must wear seatbelts. Children under 36 kg or 150 cm must use an appropriate child safety seat. Headlights must be on at all times, day and night. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is strictly 0.00%.

Parking

Parking in Ostrava's city center is mostly paid, often managed by parking meters or mobile apps. Look for designated parking zones marked by different colors, indicating varying time limits and costs. Outside the immediate city center, free parking options become more available, particularly near shopping centers or residential areas. Always check signs carefully for restrictions and payment requirements.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol and diesel) is readily available at numerous service stations throughout Ostrava and on major routes. Most stations accept credit and debit cards, though having some Czech Koruna (CZK) cash is advisable for smaller, rural stations. Fuel prices are comparable to other Central European countries, fluctuating but generally around 38-42 CZK per liter (approx. 1.50-1.70 EUR per liter as of 2026).

Which car to choose

For city driving and short excursions around Ostrava, an economy or compact car is perfectly suitable and economical. If you plan to venture into the Beskydy Mountains or explore more rugged terrain, an SUV or a car with higher ground clearance might be more comfortable. Automatic transmission vehicles are widely available and recommended for drivers less familiar with manual gearboxes.

Frequently asked questions