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Destination · Turkey

Car Rental Diyarbakir

As the ancient basalt walls of Diyarbakir beckon, imagine gliding through its historic streets, perhaps en route to the Hasan Pasha Han for a morning tea, with the convenience of your own vehicle. From the bustling bazaars to the serene Tigris River, a rental car unlocks the city's rich tapestry at your own pace, ensuring every turn reveals a new wonder.

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Diyarbakir, Turkey

Car Rental Diyarbakir

As the ancient basalt walls of Diyarbakir beckon, imagine gliding through its historic streets, perhaps en route to the Hasan Pasha Han for a morning tea, with the convenience of your own vehicle. From the bustling bazaars to the serene Tigris River, a rental car unlocks the city's rich tapestry at your own pace, ensuring every turn reveals a new wonder.

Where to drive

  • Explore Hasankeyf: Drive approximately 1.5 hours (100 km) east to the ancient city of Hasankeyf, known for its caves, historical ruins, and the controversial Ilısu Dam project.
  • Visit Mardin: A scenic drive of about 1.5 hours (90 km) southeast takes you to Mardin, a city famous for its unique architecture, Assyrian monasteries, and panoramic views of the Mesopotamian plains.
  • Discover Göbeklitepe: Head west for approximately 2 hours (130 km) to Şanlıurfa, then continue to Göbeklitepe, the world's oldest known temple site, offering an unparalleled glimpse into early human history.
  • Journey to Midyat: Located roughly 2 hours (120 km) southeast, Midyat is renowned for its silversmiths, traditional stone houses, and being a center for the Syriac Christian community.
  • Relax at Nemrut Mountain National Park: While a longer drive, around 4-5 hours (250 km) northwest, a car allows you to visit the colossal statues atop Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage site, best experienced at sunrise or sunset.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid passport, a national driving license held for at least 2 years, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not clearly state 'Driving License'. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, though some premium categories may require drivers to be 25 or older.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Diyarbakir can vary significantly based on the season and car class. Economy cars typically start from around 25-35 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from 60 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Peak tourist season, especially summer, sees prices increase by approximately 30-50% across all categories.

Price by month, €

28€
Jan
27€
Feb
30€
Mar
35€
Apr
40€
May
48€
Jun
55€
Jul
52€
Aug
45€
Sep
38€
Oct
32€
Nov
29€
Dec

Demand by month

30%
Jan
25%
Feb
40%
Mar
55%
Apr
70%
May
85%
Jun
95%
Jul
90%
Aug
75%
Sep
60%
Oct
45%
Nov
35%
Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05%, but a zero-tolerance approach is often enforced for tourists. Headlights are required in tunnels and during periods of reduced visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children up to 135 cm in height or 36 kg in weight.

Parking

Within Diyarbakir city, parking can be challenging, especially in the old city areas. There are both paid street parking zones and multi-story car parks available. Outside the city center, parking is generally easier to find and often free, particularly near tourist attractions in smaller towns. Always look for designated parking areas and avoid blocking traffic.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Diyarbakir and along major routes in Southeastern Turkey. Both gasoline (benzin) and diesel (motorin) are common. Fuel prices are regulated nationally and are generally comparable across different brands; expect to pay cash or use major credit cards. Unmanned stations are rare, so service is usually available.

Which car to choose

For exploring Diyarbakir and its immediate surroundings, an economy or compact car with manual transmission is often sufficient due to city traffic and narrower streets. However, for longer road trips to places like Mardin or Hasankeyf, a comfortable sedan or an SUV with good ground clearance might be preferred, especially if you plan to venture onto less-maintained roads. Automatic transmission cars are available but may be slightly more expensive.

Pros

  • Unrestricted access to historical sites and natural wonders outside Diyarbakir.
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace without relying on public transport schedules.
  • Comfortable travel, especially for families or groups with luggage.
  • Opportunity to discover hidden gems and local villages off the main tourist routes.
  • Relatively affordable fuel prices compared to many European countries.

Cons

  • City traffic in Diyarbakir can be dense, especially during peak hours.
  • Parking in the old city center can be difficult and expensive.
  • Some rural roads may not be in the best condition, requiring careful driving.
  • Signage outside major cities might be less frequent or only in Turkish.

Frequently asked questions

The minimum age to rent a car in Diyarbakir is typically 21 years, though some car categories or rental companies may require drivers to be 25 or older.