Rent a Campervan in Gießen and Discover Central Germany
Your German adventure begins in Gießen! This vibrant university city is the perfect starting point for exploring the scenic Lahn Valley and the diverse landscapes of Hesse. When you rent a campervan in Gießen with us, you get the freedom and flexibility to travel at your own pace. Find the perfect motorhome for your trip and book easily online.
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Your Adventure Base: Getting to Know Gießen
Welcome to Gießen, the perfect launchpad for your German road trip! Before you hit the open road, let's get to know the city that will be the start and end point of your journey. To rent a campervan Gießen is not just about hiring a vehicle; it’s about choosing a gateway to adventure in the heart of Germany. Located in the federal state of Hesse, Gießen sits picturesquely on the banks of the Lahn river. Geographically, it's uniquely positioned between the foothills of the Vogelsberg, Taunus, and Westerwald mountains, offering immediate access to stunning natural landscapes. This makes the decision to rent a motorhome Gießen an excellent choice for nature lovers.
Gießen's history is deeply intertwined with science and education. The city was founded as a castle in 1152 by Count Wilhelm von Gleiberg. However, its real claim to fame came in 1607 with the establishment of the university, now named Justus Liebig University Gießen. This institution has shaped the city’s character for centuries. One of its most famous faculty members was Justus von Liebig, a pioneer of organic chemistry, whose work revolutionized agriculture worldwide. When you explore the city, you're walking through a hub of historical innovation. After you rent a camper Gießen, take some time to soak in this academic atmosphere. The city suffered heavy bombing during World War II, and much of its historic center was rebuilt in a modern style, creating a unique blend of old and new architecture. Today, Gießen has a population of around 90,000, with nearly 40% of them being students. This gives the city a youthful, vibrant, and dynamic energy that you'll feel as soon as you arrive. The decision to rent a 4x4 camper Gießen is popular among those looking to explore the rugged nearby terrain, a choice that reflects the adventurous spirit of the city.
The weather in Gießen is typical for central Germany, with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to travel, especially when you plan to rent a campervan Gießen, is between May and September. During these months, average temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring offers blooming landscapes in the Lahn valley, while early autumn provides a beautiful backdrop of colorful foliage. Planning to rent a motorhome Gießen during this period ensures you get the most out of your trip. Beyond Liebig, another Nobel Prize winner, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, who discovered X-rays, also taught at the university. This rich scientific heritage is celebrated throughout the city, most notably at the world-renowned Mathematikum. Opting to rent a camper Gießen gives you the flexibility to explore not just the city's highlights but also the surrounding regions at your own leisure. It’s the smart way to travel, offering comfort, freedom, and a direct connection to the beauty of Hesse. Your journey starts here, and there's no better way to begin than to rent a campervan Gießen.
What to See and Do Around Gießen
Once you've settled into your camper, it's time to explore! Gießen and its surroundings are packed with cultural highlights, natural beauty, and fun activities. The freedom you get when you rent a campervan Gießen means you can visit them all at your own pace.
Mathematikum: You can't visit Gießen without a trip to the world's first interactive mathematics museum. With over 170 hands-on exhibits, it makes math fun and accessible for all ages. It's a fantastic place to spend a few hours, especially on a rainy day.
Botanischer Garten Gießen: Founded in 1609, this is Germany's oldest botanical garden still at its original site. It’s a peaceful oasis in the city center, perfect for a relaxing stroll among rare and beautiful plants.
Liebig Museum: Step into the world of Justus von Liebig, the father of modern organic chemistry. The museum is located in his original laboratory and offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century scientific research. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in history and science.
Altes Schloss & Neues Schloss (Old & New Castles): Located right next to each other, these castles are central landmarks. The Altes Schloss houses the Oberhessisches Museum, which showcases regional art and cultural history. The Neues Schloss is now used by the university but is still an impressive sight.
Along the Lahn River: The river Lahn is the lifeline of the city. You can rent a canoe or kayak, take a leisurely boat tour, or cycle along the popular Lahn Valley Cycle Route (Lahntalradweg). Having a camper makes it easy; after a day on the water, your cozy bed is just a few steps away. The convenience you get when you rent a motorhome Gießen is unparalleled.
Burg Gleiberg & Vetzberg: Just a short drive from Gießen are the twin castle ruins of Gleiberg and Vetzberg. Climb the tower of Gleiberg Castle for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Lahn Valley. It's a perfect first trip after you rent a camper Gießen.
Dünsberg: For a mix of nature and history, head to the Dünsberg mountain. It was once the site of a huge Celtic settlement (oppidum), and you can still see the remnants of the ancient ramparts. It's also a great spot for hiking. If you opt to rent a 4x4 camper Gießen, the drive up is an adventure in itself.
Road Trip Itineraries Starting From Gießen
With your keys in hand, the open road calls. Gießen's central location makes it the ideal starting point for incredible road trips. Here are a couple of ideas for your adventure when you rent a campervan Gießen.
🏞️ The Scenic Lahn Valley Tour (3-4 Days)
This tour follows the winding Lahn river, taking you through picturesque towns, past towering castles, and into the heart of German fairytale country.
Tag 1: Gießen to Wetzlar and Weilburg
Pick up your camper and head west to Wetzlar, a town famous for its beautifully preserved old town and cathedral. It's also where Goethe was inspired to write 'The Sorrows of Young Werther'. Continue to Weilburg, a stunning baroque residence town with a magnificent castle complex perched high above the river.
Tag 2: Weilburg to Limburg
Drive along the Lahn to Limburg, easily recognizable by its seven-towered cathedral, a masterpiece of late Romanesque architecture. Park your camper and wander through the winding, cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses.
Tag 3: Limburg to Bad Ems and Return
Continue to the elegant spa town of Bad Ems, once a fashionable resort for European royalty. Enjoy the thermal baths or a walk along the river promenade before heading back towards Gießen, full of memories.
🌋 Volcanoes and Villages Tour (2-3 Days)
Explore the Vogelsberg, Europe's largest volcanic region, filled with charming villages and unique natural landscapes. This is where you'll be glad you chose to rent a motorhome Gießen for its flexibility.
Tag 1: Gießen to the Hoherodskopf
Drive east into the High Vogelsberg Nature Park. Your destination is the Hoherodskopf, one of the highest peaks in the region. Here you can enjoy hiking, a summer toboggan run, and the treetop adventure park (Kletterwald).
Tag 2: Schotten, Laubach, and Lich
Explore the charming small towns dotted around the volcanic landscape. Visit Schotten with its 'Vulkaneum' museum, the fairytale Laubach Castle with its magnificent library, and the historic brewing town of Lich. Each stop offers a unique slice of Hessian culture.
Returning Your Campervan Clean in Gießen
After an amazing trip, it's time to think about returning your vehicle. Our campers need to be returned clean, both inside and out. The interior is easy enough, but washing a tall motorhome can be a challenge as most automatic car washes are too low. Don't worry, we've got you covered! To make your drop-off smooth and easy after you rent a camper Gießen, here are a few suitable washing facilities in and around the city that can handle high-top vehicles and campers.
1. LKW-Waschanlage Gießen (Truck Wash)
These facilities are designed for large commercial vehicles, making them perfect for campers and motorhomes. They have the height clearance and equipment to get the job done properly.
Address Example: LKW-Waschanlage an der A5, Autohof Fernwald, 35463 Fernwald (This is a typical location type near major highways).
2. SB-Waschboxen (Self-Service Wash Bays) with High Clearance
Many self-service car wash centers have at least one bay designed for vans and small trucks. Look for open-air bays without a low roof. You can use their high-pressure wands and brushes to clean your camper yourself.
Address Example: Cleanpark Gießen, Schiffenberger Weg 113, 35394 Gießen.
3. Select Petrol Stations
Some larger petrol stations, especially those part of the ARAL or Shell network, have oversized washing bays. It's always best to check the maximum height signs before you enter.
Address Example: ARAL Tankstelle, Marburger Str. 120-122, 35396 Gießen (Please confirm height clearance on-site).
Always remember to check the opening hours before you go. A clean camper means a quick and easy handover, getting you on your way home faster!
How to Get to Gießen to Start Your Trip
