Car Rental in Ilmenau

Ilmenau center in Thuringia offers 2 rental companies and is a university town with strong ties to Goethe, who visited the town many times. Located in Thüringer Wald, 40 km south of Erfurt via A71, Ilmenau is a perfect starting point for skiing and hiking vacations. The Rennsteig ridge trail, Thuringia's most famous hiking route, begins just 15 km to the south.

Ilmenau is home to Technische Universität Ilmenau, which gives the town a vibrant student life despite its small size. The Goethe walking trail Auf Goethes Spuren leads from Ilmenau up to Kickelhahn mountain (861 m), where Goethe wrote 'Wandrers Nachtlied'. Thüringer Wald offers 20 ski slopes within a 30 km radius.

Drive up to Kickelhahn (10 km to the south) for panoramic views over Thüringer Wald—take the small forest road from Manebach. In winter, choose a car with winter tires, as roads in Thüringer Wald can be snowy and icy. Erfurt with its attractions and airport can be reached in 35 minutes via A71.

How long is the drive from Ilmenau to Erfurt? Erfurt is 40 km to the north and takes approximately 30–35 minutes by motorway A71. Can I reach Oberhof ski resort from Ilmenau with a rental car?

Yes, Oberhof is 20 km to the south via A71 and takes only 20 minutes—an excellent ski excursion destination in winter. Are the roads in Thüringer Wald passable in a standard rental car? Most roads are well-maintained, but in winter, winter tires are recommended.

Ask the rental company about tire condition when booking.

We compare prices from all major providers at Ilmenau Center so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.