Car Rental in Midyat

Where to drive

• Explore the historic city of Mardin, renowned for its stone houses and panoramic views, approximately 65 km (1 hour drive) from Midyat.
• Visit Mor Gabriel Monastery (Deyrulumur), one of the oldest surviving Syriac Orthodox monasteries, just 23 km (30 minutes drive) east of Midyat.
• Journey to Hasankeyf, an ancient city on the Tigris River with cave dwellings and historical ruins, located about 70 km (1 hour 15 minutes drive) northeast of Midyat.
• Discover the ancient city of Dara, an important Roman garrison city, roughly 90 km (1 hour 30 minutes drive) from Midyat, offering impressive ruins and subterranean structures.
• Take a scenic drive through the Tur Abdin region, visiting numerous other Syriac monasteries and churches scattered throughout the hills surrounding Midyat.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid national driving license (held for at least 1-2 years), your passport, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, though some categories or agencies might require drivers to be 25 or older.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Midyat vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 50-80 EUR or more daily. Prices tend to rise during the peak summer months and major holidays, so booking in advance is advisable to secure better rates.

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 is effectively zero (0.05% for private vehicles, but 0.00% for commercial drivers and those with less than 5 years experience). Headlights must be used in tunnels and in low visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 1.35 meters tall or under 36 kg.

Parking

In Midyat, parking in the town center is often paid, typically managed by attendants or parking meters. Outside the immediate central areas, you might find more free parking options, especially near larger attractions or residential zones. Always check for signs and obey local parking regulations to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in Midyat and along main roads. Both gasoline (petrol) and diesel are widely available. Fuel prices in Turkey can fluctuate but are generally comparable to other European countries. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some local currency (Turkish Lira) for smaller purchases or in case of card issues.

Which car to choose

For navigating Midyat's older streets and exploring the surrounding rural areas, a compact or economy car is often sufficient and easier to park. If you plan extensive trips into the more rugged Tur Abdin region or prefer more comfort on longer drives, an SUV or a mid-size sedan with good ground clearance would be a more suitable choice. Manual transmission is common, but automatics are available.

Frequently asked questions