Car Rental in Rzeszow

Where to drive

• Lancut Castle: A magnificent 17th-century aristocratic residence, approximately 20 km (12 miles) east of Rzeszow, taking about 25 minutes to drive. An essential day trip for history enthusiasts.
• Bieszczady Mountains National Park: Experience the wild beauty of Poland's southeastern mountains, roughly 130-150 km (80-93 miles) from Rzeszow, a drive of around 2.5 to 3 hours. Perfect for hiking and nature observation.
• Sanok: Home to an impressive open-air museum (Skansen) showcasing traditional wooden architecture, located approximately 60 km (37 miles) south of Rzeszow, about an hour's drive.
• Przemysl: A historic city with a well-preserved Old Town and fortress, situated about 90 km (56 miles) east of Rzeszow, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Magura National Park: A less-frequented but beautiful national park offering tranquil hiking trails, around 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Rzeszow, taking roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Poland, you will generally need a valid driving license from your home country, held for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, and often required, especially for non-EU licenses. A passport or national ID card and a major credit card in the main driver's name are also essential. The minimum rental age is typically 21, though some companies may have a higher age requirement or charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Rzeszow vary by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium models can range from 40 EUR to 70 EUR or more daily. Summer months (June-August) typically see prices increase by 20-40% due to higher demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Poland, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) outside urban areas, 100 km/h (62 mph) on single carriageway expressways, 120 km/h (75 mph) on dual carriageway expressways, and 140 km/h (87 mph) on motorways. Headlights must be on 24 hours a day, all year round. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children under 150 cm (4 feet 11 inches) must use an appropriate child seat or booster. The legal blood alcohol limit is very strict at 0.02%.

Parking

In Rzeszow city center, most street parking is paid, typically through parking meters that accept coins or card payments, or via mobile apps. Look for signs indicating 'Strefa Platnego Parkowania'. Outside the immediate city center, and in many residential areas, free parking may be available. Shopping centers and some hotels offer their own parking facilities, often with a fee.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Rzeszow and the Subcarpathian region, including major brands like Orlen, BP, and Shell. Both petrol (benzyna) and diesel (ropa) are readily accessible. Prices are comparable to other EU countries, with approximate costs around 6.50-7.00 PLN per liter for petrol and diesel as of 2026. Most stations accept credit/debit cards, and many are open 24/7, especially along main routes.

Which car to choose

For exploring Rzeszow and its immediate surroundings, an economy or compact car is ideal for navigating city streets and parking. If you plan to venture into the Bieszczady Mountains or other more rural areas, an SUV or a car with higher ground clearance could offer more comfort and capability, especially on less-maintained roads. A manual transmission is common in Poland, but automatics are available if preferred.

Frequently asked questions