Frankfurt Passenger Van with Luggage Space: Your Guide to a Central European Road Trip

Why Frankfurt Is the Perfect Starting Point for a Van Road Trip

Have you always dreamed about doing an epic road trip in Central Europe? Book a luxury Sprinter or Mercedes Minivan rental at Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime with your family or friends.

Frankfurt is the perfect city to kick off your voyage. Although it's best known as a global hub for commerce, it has a very enticing side — enchanting forests, pretty small towns, mesmerizing museums, dazzling historical cathedrals, gorgeous vineyards, and a foodie scene serving drool-worthy regional fare.

There are many more reasons to begin your drive in Frankfurt. It's a key traffic hub in the heart of Europe, it boasts the biggest airport in Germany, and it's centrally located for exploring the entire region.

How Much Luggage Space Do You Get in a Passenger Van?

When your travel party is in a vehicle for hours on end, comfort and luggage space should be top priorities. That's why a spacious Mercedes Sprinter van rental in Frankfurt is the ideal choice for groups.

Our 9-seater Sprinter vans offer supportive seats with headrests, bundles of legroom and headroom, along with generous cargo space for all of your luggage. Even with a full group of 9 passengers, you'll have ample room for suitcases, backpacks, and travel gear.

Our sleek 8-seater Metris vans also have an outstanding range of features that will make your group feel like VIPs — from AC and heating systems, power outlets, Bluetooth, USB connection, and a high-quality sound system to reclinable leather captain chairs. You can also count on cutting-edge road safety features.

Pick Up Your Van at Frankfurt Airport — No Waiting, No Lines

Once you land, pick up your luxury Frankfurt van rental at the airport and embark on your road trip. At Sprinter Rentals, we make your booking and van pick-up process as fast and smooth as possible. Booking and checking in is all done online. Plus, we bring the van directly to you even before you touch down.

No waiting, no lines, no dealing with attendants, and no annoying upsells. Just e-sign the rental agreement before you arrive in a few quick steps and self-drive immediately.

Day 1: Explore Frankfurt's Old Town and Skyline

From Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), take the A5 Autobahn to the main city center — a 20-minute ride. Your first stop should be Römerberg, a lively public square in Old Town and the iconic highlight of the city. It's lined with medieval half-timbered buildings, including a three-peaked Town Hall, a Historical Museum, and a 12th-century cathedral.

After taking in the traditional architecture, steer your van rental to Frankfurt's most celebrated bridge — the Eiserner Steg. This pedestrian bridge offers incredible views of Frankfurt's skyline and has loads of love locks attached to it.

Starving? Head to Kleinmarkthalle, Frankfurt's main market hall. There's a farmers' market on Thursday and Saturday. Sample local snacks and dishes, including freshly grilled sausages and Frankfurter Kranz (cream cake).

Wrap up your city trip at Städel Museum, which houses 700 years of art, as well as Germany's most important classic collections.

Day 2: Heidelberg — A Fairytale University Town

In the late afternoon of day 1, drive to Heidelberg and spend the night there. It's around 1 hour (56 miles) south of Frankfurt via the A5 Autobahn. This red-tiled university town is revered as one of the most charming fairytale towns in Germany. It rests along the Neckar River and is encompassed by beautiful lush forests.

In the morning, visit Heidelberg's most famous site — the medieval Heidelberg Palace ruins, which sit on a hill watching over the Old Town. This castle's Renaissance-style architecture will take your breath away. It also hosts festivals, concerts, theater performances, and fireworks displays.

You can also marvel at the university building that dates back to 1711, cross the romantic Karl Theodor Bridge, and wander the narrow streets of Historic Old Town (it has nice cafes and eateries to fuel up).

Day 2–3: Baden-Baden — Spa Town at the Black Forest's Edge

Resting cozily at the foot of the Black Forest in South Germany, Baden-Baden is one of the world's best-known spa towns. It's 1 hour (56 miles) south of Heidelberg on the A5. Take a dip into the mineral-rich thermal baths that bubble from beneath the earth. These springs have been used since Roman times.

With your Southern Germany van rental you can get off the beaten path — we suggest you visit Geroldsauer waterfall to enjoy tumbling waters, cool mists, and a woodland ramble. The trail starts at Bütthof forest car park and meanders through a wild and spectacular valley.

Day 3–4: Cross into France — Strasbourg

Pilot your Frankfurt Sprinter van rental across the German border to Strasbourg in northeastern France. It's about 50 minutes (36 miles) from Baden-Baden. Strasbourg is a brilliant city offering a unique blend of German and French culture, architecture, and cuisine. No special permit or insurance is required to enter France — it's just like crossing a state line in the US. Using the French freeway system does cost money; toll booths are positioned along the way and you pay as you go using any credit card.

Check out the awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral with a 465-foot spire and astronomical clock. Stroll along Petite France, a maze of old streets featuring timber-framed houses, quaint cobblestone streets, and picturesque riverside walkways.

Day 4–5: Return via the Black Forest High Drive

A trip to western Germany isn't complete without a scenic drive through the Black Forest. Instead of heading back to Frankfurt using the same route, spice things up by gliding up the Black Forest road. The Black Forest is a large forested mountain range bordering France. Apart from the lush canopies, it's famous for breathtaking waterfalls, picturesque villages, and the largest cuckoo clock in the world.

From Strasbourg, steer your Frankfurt Sprinter rental to Moosturm Observation Deck in Germany via the B28. Park close to this lookout tower, hike up the hill, and marvel at the stunning view of the forest and mountain ranges.

Enter the Black Forest High Drive (B500), a famous high-altitude scenic road with magnificent vistas over the Rhine plain to the Vosges (France) mountains. Take a breather at Mummelsee, a cute and perfectly round lake. From here, drive on to Baden-Baden, join the A5 Autobahn, and cruise back to Frankfurt.

Parking Tips for Your Van in Frankfurt

While a van rental is the most convenient way to access all noteworthy sites scattered around Frankfurt, the city's streets and parking can be packed on weekends. Sprinters do not fit into most indoor/underground parking structures, but the comfortable Metris / V-Class Minivans do. Plan accordingly when booking your van type.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much luggage space does a 9-seater Sprinter van have?

Our 9-seater Sprinter vans offer generous cargo space behind the rear seats, easily accommodating 9 full-size suitcases plus carry-on bags. The high-roof design means you can stack luggage without sacrificing passenger comfort.

Can I drive the van from Germany into France?

Yes! No special permit or additional insurance is required to cross from Germany into France. The border is open (Schengen zone), so it's seamless — just like crossing a state line in the US. French highways do charge tolls, payable by credit card.

Where do I pick up the van at Frankfurt Airport?

We deliver the van directly to you at the airport. Booking and check-in are done online ahead of time. Just e-sign the rental agreement, and you can self-drive immediately after landing.

Is the Metris minivan a good alternative to the Sprinter?

Absolutely. The 8-seater Metris is more compact and fits into underground parking garages, making it ideal for city-heavy trips. It still offers leather captain chairs, AC, Bluetooth, USB charging, and solid luggage space for a smaller group.

How long does the Frankfurt to Strasbourg drive take?

The direct route from Frankfurt to Strasbourg is about 2 hours via the A5. If you stop in Heidelberg and Baden-Baden along the way (highly recommended), plan for 2–3 days to enjoy the journey.

Can I do a one-way rental?

Yes, if your trip ends in Strasbourg or another city, you can arrange a one-way van rental. Contact us for pricing and availability on one-way drops.