ADAC: Parking costs vary significantly across German cities

Street parking in the majority of German cities costs one euro or less per hour, according to a nationwide survey conducted by Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) covering 104 cities. The study included all major cities and the five largest municipalities in each federal state.

Stuttgart leads as the most expensive city, with hourly parking rates in the city center reaching up to 4.60 euros. In contrast, Frankfurt (Oder) offers parking for as little as 0.25 euros per hour. Additionally, 27 surveyed cities provide short-term, free parking via "bread buttons" on parking meters.

DUH deems current fees too low and advocates for the implementation of parking charges in all cities and municipalities, including rural areas. The organization argues that street parking should be subject to fees, with rates at least equivalent to a public transport single ticket, and significantly higher in central locations.

However, ADAC advises a cautious approach to parking fee increases. The automobile club emphasizes that parking charges should align with local mobility goals and conditions, rather than solely focusing on revenue generation.