When is the cheapest time to refuel in Germany?

The statistically cheapest time to refuel is between 6 PM and 8 PM. Oil companies lower prices after the midday peak. Differences of up to 13 cents per litre compared to the most expensive time of day are possible.

Which day of the week is cheapest for refuelling in Germany?

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are the cheapest days. Friday and Saturday have the highest prices of the week — often 5–10 cents more expensive than Monday. This pattern is based on long-term ADAC data.

How much can I save by refuelling at the right time?

Refuelling at the cheapest time (6–8 PM) on a cheap day (Mon–Wed) versus the most expensive combination can save up to €6 per fill-up. At weekly refuelling that's over €300 per year.

Why are fuel prices cheaper in the evening in Germany?

Since 1 April 2026, German stations may only raise prices once per day but may lower them at any time. This amplifies the existing pattern: prices rise in the morning and fall in the evening after the midday peak subsides.

Does the 6–8 PM rule apply to motorway fuel stations?

No. Motorway service stations are an exception — their prices are consistently higher at all times of day. Whenever possible, refuel before the motorway or at the next exit.

How do I use Tank Alert to find the cheapest price?

Open Tank Alert, check the current market trend, search for stations near you, and set a price alert for your target price. As soon as a station drops below your target, you'll receive an immediate notification.

Refuelling guide — based on ADAC data

When is the cheapest time to refuel?

Best time

kurz vor 12:00 Uhr

Cheapest days

Mon — Wed

Under the April rule, your most important comparison is shortly before 12:00. Monday to Wednesday still tend to be cheaper days, and later price cuts remain possible.

Current market trend

Now or wait — what does the data say?

Analysing market data...

The market trend shows the price direction over the last 7 days. A rising trend makes early refuelling especially worthwhile.

Days of week comparison

Cheapest days of the week to refuel

MoCheap

DiCheap

MiCheap

DoAverage

FrExpensive

SaToday

SoAverage

Cheap

Average

Expensive

Based on long-term pricing patterns in Germany (ADAC). Individual prices vary by station and region.

Time of day analysis

The cheapest and most expensive times of day

06–08 Uhr

Average

Prices rise after overnight lows. Not peak, but not cheap either.

Best

11:30–12:00 Uhr

Key comparison window

Since the April 2026 rule, this is the most important time to compare. Check prices shortly before the only allowed daily mark-up.

12:00–14:00 Uhr

Expensive

Right after the only allowed daily mark-up, prices are often at their highest.

17–20 Uhr

Watch again later

Later price cuts are still allowed. A second afternoon or evening check can still pay off.

Refuelling strategy

3 golden rules to save on fuel

Timing is money

Since the April 2026 rule, shortly before 12:00 is the key comparison window. After that, later price cuts can still create opportunities.

Proven & ADAC-confirmed

Refuel early in the week

Monday to Wednesday are the cheapest days. Friday and Saturday have the highest prices — often 5–10 cents above Mon–Wed.

Proven & ADAC-confirmed

Use price alerts

Set a price alert and let Tank Alert do the work. When the price drops below your target, you get notified immediately.

Proven & ADAC-confirmed

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Stations near you

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18,000+ stations in Germany — sorted by price and distance, live updated.

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