Destination · Finland
Car Rental in Turku, Finland
A rental car in Turku opens up easy access to the enchanting archipelago, allowing you to venture beyond the city's historic core and discover charming coastal villages like Nagu or the scenic Rymättylä route. Drive along the winding roads of the Finnish countryside, stopping at ancient castles or picturesque lakeside cabins, all within reach at your own pace.
Search & book · Turku
Turku, Finland
Car Rental in Turku, Finland
A rental car in Turku opens up easy access to the enchanting archipelago, allowing you to venture beyond the city's historic core and discover charming coastal villages like Nagu or the scenic Rymättylä route. Drive along the winding roads of the Finnish countryside, stopping at ancient castles or picturesque lakeside cabins, all within reach at your own pace.
Where to drive
- Explore Naantali: Just a 20-minute drive (approx. 15 km) from Turku, Naantali is a charming coastal town famous for its Old Town, Moominworld theme park, and beautiful archipelago scenery. A perfect day trip for families.
- Visit the Archipelago Ring Road: Embark on a scenic journey through the Turku Archipelago. The Small Archipelago Ring Road is approximately 120 km long and takes about 3-5 hours to drive, including ferry waits, offering breathtaking sea views and quaint island communities.
- Discover Rauma Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Old Rauma is about an hour's drive (approx. 90 km) north of Turku. Its well-preserved wooden houses and narrow streets provide a fascinating glimpse into Finnish history.
- Journey to Fiskars Village: Approximately 1.5 hours (approx. 100 km) east of Turku, Fiskars is a historic ironworks village now known for its vibrant arts and crafts community, design shops, and beautiful natural surroundings.
- Experience the Teijo National Park: About an hour's drive (approx. 70 km) southeast of Turku, Teijo National Park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and canoeing amidst diverse landscapes of lakes, forests, and old ironworks villages.
- Coastal Road to Hanko: Drive along the scenic coastal road towards Hanko, Finland's southernmost town, roughly 2 hours (approx. 140 km) away. Enjoy sandy beaches, historical villas, and a lively summer atmosphere.
What documents you need
To rent a car in Finland, you will generally need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit. If your license is not in English or a Nordic language, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or often required. The minimum age to rent is usually 20 or 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, and often an additional young driver surcharge applies for those under 25. Drivers typically need at least one year of driving experience.
How much rental costs
Car rental prices in Turku vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars can start from approximately 30-40 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 70-150 EUR or more. Prices typically peak during the summer months (June-August) due to high demand, often increasing by 30-50% compared to winter rates.
Price by month, €
Demand by month
Traffic rules and fines
In Finland, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80-100 km/h on main roads, and 100-120 km/h on motorways, though these can vary and are clearly signposted. Headlights must be on at all times, day or night, year-round. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children under 135 cm must use an appropriate child seat or booster. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, at 0.05% BAC.
Parking
In Turku, parking in the city center is generally paid, either via parking meters, mobile apps (such as EasyPark or Parkman), or parking garages. Rates vary but expect to pay a few euros per hour. There are also designated free parking areas further from the city center, and some hotels offer private parking. Always check signs carefully for restrictions and payment methods.
Fuel stations
Fuel (petrol/bensiini and diesel) is widely available at service stations throughout Turku and the surrounding region. Most stations are self-service and accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) as well as cash. Fuel prices are comparable to other Nordic countries, typically ranging from approximately 1.80 EUR to 2.10 EUR per liter for petrol, and slightly less for diesel, but these are subject to frequent change.
Which car to choose
For city driving and short trips around Turku, an economy or compact car is ideal due to easier parking and better fuel efficiency. If you plan to explore the Archipelago Ring Road or venture into more rural areas, especially during winter, a larger sedan or even an SUV with good ground clearance and winter tires (mandatory from December to February) would be a more comfortable and safer choice. Manual and automatic transmissions are both common, so choose what you are most comfortable with.
Pros
- Freedom to explore the Turku Archipelago and surrounding regions at your own pace.
- Access to remote natural parks, historical sites, and charming villages not served by public transport.
- Convenient for travelers with luggage or families with children.
- Opportunity to experience Finland's scenic roads and diverse landscapes.
- Flexibility for spontaneous day trips and itinerary changes.
Cons
- Parking in Turku city center can be costly and sometimes challenging to find.
- Roads can be icy and challenging in winter, requiring experience with winter driving conditions.
- Fuel prices are relatively high compared to many other European countries.
- Rental costs can be higher during peak summer season and for younger drivers.
- Ferry connections on the Archipelago Ring Road can sometimes involve waiting times, especially in summer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cancellation policy for car rentals in Turku?
Cancellation policies vary by rental company and booking terms. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before pickup, while others may incur a fee or be non-refundable. Always check the specific terms of your booking through RentoRika.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Turku?
Yes, a major credit card in the name of the main driver is almost always required for the security deposit, even if you pay for the rental itself with a debit card or another method. Ensure your credit limit is sufficient to cover the deposit.
Can I pick up my rental car at Turku Airport (TKU)?
Yes, Turku Airport (TKU) is a popular and convenient location for picking up rental cars. Most major rental companies have desks directly at the airport terminal, allowing you to start your journey immediately upon arrival.
What type of driver's license is accepted in Finland?
A valid driver's license from your home country is accepted if it's in English, Finnish, Swedish, Norwegian, or Danish. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required and must be presented along with your original license.
Are winter tires mandatory for rental cars in Turku?
Yes, by Finnish law, winter tires (either studded or friction) are mandatory for all vehicles from December 1st to the end of February, and also when winter conditions necessitate them outside this period. Your rental car will be equipped accordingly during these months.
Is it better to rent a car from Turku city center or the airport?
Picking up from Turku Airport (TKU) is often more convenient if you are flying in, as you can drive off directly. City center pickups might be better if you're arriving by train or bus and staying in the city for a few days before needing a car, potentially saving on airport surcharges.