Car Rental in Malatya

Where to drive

• Explore Nemrut Dağı National Park: Drive approximately 100 km (2 hours) to see the colossal statues of Nemrut Dağı, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering breathtaking sunrise or sunset views.
• Visit Arslantepe Mound: Just 7 km from Malatya city center, this UNESCO site reveals the ancient history of the region, showcasing early urban development and royal tombs.
• Discover Darende: A scenic drive of about 110 km (1.5 hours) will take you to Darende, known for its Tohma Canyon, Günpınar Waterfall, and historical mosques and bridges.
• Journey to Elazığ and Hazar Lake: Head east for approximately 90 km (1.5 hours) to Elazığ, and then further to the beautiful Hazar Lake, perfect for a day trip involving nature and relaxation.
• Explore the Apricot Capital: Drive through the numerous apricot orchards surrounding Malatya, especially beautiful during spring blossom or summer harvest, easily accessible with your own vehicle.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid national driving license held for at least one year, your passport, and often 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 years, but some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, or charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Malatya vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the off-season, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Prices can increase by 30-50% during the peak summer months.

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, unless otherwise indicated. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is very low, effectively zero for most practical purposes (0.05% for private cars, 0.00% for commercial vehicles). Headlights are required in tunnels and during periods of low visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child safety seats are required for children under a certain age or height, typically up to 135 cm or 12 years old.

Parking

In Malatya city center, street parking often requires payment through parking meters or attendants (often wearing vests). Free parking can be found in residential areas further from the center, or at larger shopping centers. There are also several private parking garages available for a fee. Always check for signage to avoid fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Malatya and along major routes. You'll find unleaded petrol (benzin) and diesel (motorin). LPG (autogas) is also common. Fuel prices are regulated and tend to be consistent across major brands, though they fluctuate. Payment is typically by cash or credit card. It's advisable to fill up when you see a station, especially when venturing into more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring Malatya and its immediate surroundings, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient and easier to navigate through city traffic. If you plan to venture into more mountainous regions or visit sites like Nemrut Dağı, which can involve some rougher roads, a compact SUV or a vehicle with higher ground clearance would be a more comfortable and practical choice. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are readily available.

Frequently asked questions