Car Rental Diyarbakir

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.

Demand by month

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.

Frequently asked questions