Ankara Car Rental 2026 — from €28/day

Car Rental in Ankara

The scent of blooming jasmine drifts through the air as you picture yourself cruising along the Atatürk Boulevard, the heart of Ankara, ready to explore ancient citadels and vibrant markets at your own pace. With a reliable car rental, the capital's rich history and modern charm are yours to uncover, from the majestic Anıtkabir to the bustling streets of Ulus.

Car Rental in Ankara

Ankara, Turkey

Where to drive

Drive to Gordion, the ancient capital of Phrygia, approximately 90 km (1.5-hour drive) west of Ankara, to see the tumulus of King Midas and the museum.
Visit Lake Tuz (Salt Lake), Turkey's second-largest lake, about 150 km (2-hour drive) southeast of Ankara, famous for its surreal white landscape and flamingos in season.
Embark on a multi-day trip to Cappadocia, approximately 280 km (3.5-hour drive) east of Ankara, to explore its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides.
Explore Beypazarı, a charming Ottoman town known for its traditional houses, silverwork, and carrots, located about 100 km (1.5-hour drive) northwest of Ankara.
Journey to Hattusa, the ancient capital of the Hittite Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site, around 200 km (2.5-hour drive) northeast of Ankara, offering impressive ruins and cuneiform tablets.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid national driver's license (held for at least 1-2 years, depending on the rental company), an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin alphabet, your passport, and a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, and surcharges may apply for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Ankara typically start from around 20 EUR per day for an economy car during the low season. Mid-range sedans might cost 30-50 EUR, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from 60 EUR upwards. Prices fluctuate significantly, with summer months and public holidays seeing increases of 30-50% or more compared to winter lows.

Price by month, €

22€

Jan

20€

Feb

25€

Mar

30€

Apr

38€

May

45€

Jun

55€

Jul

60€

Aug

48€

Sep

35€

Oct

28€

Nov

25€

Dec

Demand by month

30%

Jan

25%

Feb

40%

Mar

55%

Apr

70%

May

85%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

80%

Sep

60%

Oct

45%

Nov

35%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways, but always check local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is effectively zero (0.05% for private vehicles, 0.00% for commercial drivers). Headlights are required at night and in tunnels. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for children up to 1.35 meters tall or under 36 kg.

Parking

Parking in Ankara varies. In the city center, most street parking is paid, often managed by attendants (Otopark) or parking meters. Major shopping centers and hotels usually offer underground parking, which is typically paid. Free parking can be found further from the city center, but spaces are limited. Always look for official parking areas to avoid towing or fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol and diesel) is widely available throughout Ankara and across Turkey. Prices are generally similar to Western European levels and can fluctuate. Most petrol stations are self-service, but attendants are often available to assist. Payment can be made with cash or credit/debit cards.

Which car to choose

For city driving in Ankara, a compact or economy car is ideal due to heavy traffic and limited parking. If planning longer trips to Cappadocia or other regions, a comfortable sedan or a small SUV with good ground clearance would be more suitable, especially if venturing onto less-maintained rural roads. Automatic transmission cars are readily available and recommended for ease of driving.

Pros

Unrestricted access to historical sites and natural wonders outside Ankara.
Flexibility to set your own itinerary and explore at your own pace.
Comfortable alternative to public transport, especially for families or groups.
Opportunity to discover hidden gems and local eateries off the main tourist routes.
Convenient for airport transfers and navigating the city's sprawling layout.

Cons

Ankara's city traffic can be heavy and challenging, especially during peak hours.
Parking in central areas can be difficult to find and costly.
Road signage outside major routes may be less comprehensive, requiring good navigation skills.
Fuel costs can add up, especially for longer road trips.
Navigating unfamiliar driving rules and local driving habits can be stressful for some.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy for car rentals in Ankara?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company and booking terms. Many allow free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee. Always check the specific terms of your booking.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Ankara?

Yes, if your national driver's license is not in a Latin alphabet (e.g., Arabic, Cyrillic, Chinese), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required in Turkey. It acts as a translation of your license and must be presented alongside your original license.

Can I pick up my rental car at Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)?

Yes, Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) is the most convenient and popular location for picking up rental cars. Most major international and local car rental companies have desks directly at the airport terminals.

What payment methods are accepted for car rentals in Ankara?

Most rental companies require a major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) in the main driver's name for the security deposit. While some may accept debit cards for the rental cost, a credit card is almost always mandatory for the deposit.

Is it possible to rent a car in Ankara without a credit card?

Renting a car without a credit card for the security deposit is generally very difficult, as most companies require it for insurance purposes. A few local providers might offer alternatives, but it's not standard practice.

Are there any age restrictions for renting a car in Ankara?

Yes, the minimum age to rent a car in Ankara is typically 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a 'young driver' surcharge. For certain vehicle categories, the minimum age might be higher (e.g., 25 or 28 years).

Available cars — Ankara