Palu Car Rental

Where to drive

• Visit the ancient Palu Castle, located right in town, offering panoramic views of the Murat River. This site is easily accessible and a great first stop.
• Drive to Elazığ (≈75 km, 1 hour) to explore the Harput Castle and its historic mosques, then enjoy local cuisine in the city center.
• Journey to Lake Hazar (≈40 km, 45 minutes) for a relaxing day by the water, known for its clear waters and recreational activities.
• Explore the archaeological site of Çayönü (≈120 km, 1.5 hours), one of the earliest Neolithic settlements, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life.
• Take a scenic route along the Murat River towards Bingöl (≈100 km, 1.5 hours), experiencing the diverse landscapes of Eastern Anatolia.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport, and often an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin-script alphabet. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and have held their license for a minimum of 1-2 years. For drivers under 25, a young driver surcharge may apply.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Palu can fluctuate significantly based on vehicle type and season. Economy cars might start from approximately 25-35 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs or premium models could range from 60 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Summer months typically see higher demand and prices. Generally, you can expect daily rates to be around 30-70 EUR for a standard vehicle, with the lowest daily price sometimes dropping to around 0 EUR during promotional periods or for long-term rentals.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways, though always observe local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is very low, effectively zero for most practical purposes (0.05%). Headlights must be used in tunnels and during periods of low visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under a certain age or height must be secured in appropriate child safety seats.

Parking

In Palu, parking is generally less challenging than in larger Turkish cities. You'll find free parking available in many areas, particularly outside the immediate town center. For central areas or popular attractions, there might be designated paid parking lots or street parking with attendants (otoparkçı) who collect a small fee. Always check for signs and ensure you park legally to avoid issues.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are available in Palu and surrounding towns, offering unleaded petrol (benzin) and diesel (motorin). LPG (autogas) is also widely available. Fuel prices are regulated and typically displayed prominently at stations; they are generally comparable across the country. Payment can be made with cash or major credit cards. It's advisable to fill up before long journeys, especially when heading into more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring Palu and its immediate surroundings, an economy or compact car with manual transmission is often sufficient and economical. If you plan to venture into more mountainous regions or wish for greater comfort on longer drives, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would be a better choice. Automatic transmission vehicles are available but might be less common and slightly more expensive to rent.

Frequently asked questions