Car Rental in Mendi, Turkey

Where to drive

• Drive to the ancient city of Aphrodisias, an archaeological marvel known for its temple of Aphrodite and well-preserved stadium, approximately 1.5 hours (≈90 km) from Mendi.
• Explore the picturesque lakeside town of Eğirdir, nestled by Lake Eğirdir, offering scenic views and fresh fish restaurants. This journey is about 2 hours (≈130 km) east of Mendi.
• Venture to the beautiful Köprülü Canyon National Park for rafting and hiking adventures, roughly 3 hours (≈180 km) from Mendi, showcasing Turkey's rugged interior beauty.
• Discover the traditional village life and carpet weaving centers in the Isparta region, about 1.5 hours (≈80 km) drive, experiencing local crafts and hospitality.
• Take a scenic coastal drive towards Antalya, stopping at charming towns and secluded beaches along the Mediterranean, with the city of Antalya itself being around 2.5 hours (≈150 km) away.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid driver's license (held for at least 1-2 years), a passport, and for non-EU/EFTA citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, though some rental companies may accept certain foreign licenses. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, and drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Mendi vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 40-70 EUR or more daily. Prices tend to increase by 30-50% during the peak summer months (July-August) due to higher demand.

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, unless otherwise signposted. The blood alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, practically zero (0.05% for private vehicles, 0.00% for commercial). Headlights are mandatory in tunnels and during poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 1.35 meters tall and under 36 kg.

Parking

In Mendi, parking in the city center often involves paid street parking or designated parking lots, usually managed by attendants or via payment machines. Look for 'Otopark' signs. Outside the immediate city center, free parking is more readily available, especially near residential areas or larger businesses. Always check local signs for restrictions.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol and diesel) is widely available across Turkey, with numerous petrol stations even in smaller towns and along major routes. Prices are comparable to other European countries, fluctuating but generally around 1.20-1.50 EUR per liter for petrol. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always good to have some Turkish Lira for smaller purchases or in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring Mendi and its surrounding regions, an economy or compact car is generally sufficient for city driving and well-maintained main roads. If you plan to venture into more rural or mountainous areas, especially towards the interior or less-developed coastal tracks, a compact SUV with higher ground clearance is advisable. Manual transmission cars are very common and often more affordable, but automatics are also available.

Frequently asked questions