Car Rental in Ayas, Turkey

Where to drive

• Explore the Ayas Castle (Kızkalesi), a stunning sea castle just a short drive from the town center.
• Visit the ancient city of Korykos, with its impressive land and sea castles, approximately 10 km west of Ayas.
• Drive to the Cennet and Cehennem (Heaven and Hell) sinkholes near Narlıkuyu, about 25 km from Ayas, offering unique geological formations and a historical church.
• Journey to the Roman ruins of Uzuncaburç and Olba, an hour's drive inland, showcasing well-preserved temples and theaters.
• Discover the pristine beaches and coves along the coast towards Silifke, offering secluded spots for swimming and relaxation, within a 30-minute drive.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you typically need a valid passport, a valid national driving license held for at least one or two years, and for non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required or strongly recommended. The minimum age for renting is generally 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car classes, and a surcharge may apply for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Ayas vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from approximately 20 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium models can range from 50 EUR to 100 EUR or more daily, especially during peak summer months. Prices can fluctuate by up to 50% between the cheapest and most expensive times of the year.

Demand by month

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, though these can vary and are always signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit is very strict, effectively zero for most drivers (0.05% for private vehicles, 0.00% for commercial drivers), so it's best to avoid alcohol entirely if driving. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but should be used in low visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under a certain height or age, typically up to 135 cm or 12 years old.

Parking

In Ayas, parking can be found along streets, often managed by attendants who collect a small fee, especially in busier areas. There are also designated parking lots. While some areas might offer free parking, particularly outside the immediate town center, it's safer to assume you'll pay a small fee in popular tourist spots. Always check for signs indicating parking restrictions or payment requirements.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Turkey, including in and around Ayas. Both gasoline (petrol) and diesel are common. The price of fuel is regulated and tends to be higher than in some other European countries, typically around 1 EUR to 1.2 EUR per liter for gasoline and diesel, though this fluctuates. Most stations accept credit cards, but having some local currency (Turkish Lira) for smaller purchases or older pumps is advisable.

Which car to choose

For exploring Ayas and its coastal surroundings, a compact or economy car is generally sufficient for couples or small families, navigating town streets and coastal roads easily. If you plan to venture into more rural or slightly hilly areas, a car with a bit more engine power might be comfortable. An automatic transmission can make driving more relaxed, especially if you're not used to manual gears on varied terrain.

Frequently asked questions