Car Rental in Rabat, Turkey

Where to drive

• Visit Gordion: Drive approximately 100 km (1.5 hours) southwest to explore the ancient capital of Phrygia, home to King Midas.
• Explore Lake Mogan and Lake Eymir: A short drive of around 30-40 km (30-45 minutes) south offers tranquil lakeside scenery, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk.
• Discover Beypazarı: Journey about 100 km (1.5 hours) west to this charming Ottoman town, famous for its historic houses, silverwork, and mineral water.
• Ankara City Exploration: While Rabat itself is small, it's very close to Ankara. Renting a car allows easy access to Ankara's museums, the Anıtkabir mausoleum, and its bustling city center, approximately 20-30 km (30-40 minutes) away.
• Nallıhan Bird Paradise: Drive approximately 150 km (2 hours) northwest to this important wetland area, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, foreign drivers typically need a valid national driving license, a passport, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in Latin script. Drivers must generally be at least 21 years old and have held their license for a minimum of 1-2 years, though this can vary by rental company and car category. Some companies may charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Rabat, Turkey, vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from approximately 25-35 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs or premium models could range from 60-90 EUR or more daily. Expect prices to surge by 30-50% during the peak summer months due to higher demand.

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 alcohol limit for drivers is approximately 0.05% BAC, though a zero-tolerance policy is often enforced for foreign drivers. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are recommended in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 1.35 meters tall or under 36 kg.

Parking

In Rabat and nearby Ankara, parking regulations vary. In city centers, you'll often find paid street parking or multi-story car parks. Look for 'Otopark' signs. Outside of central areas, especially in smaller towns, free street parking is more common. Be mindful of 'No Parking' signs and designated zones.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Turkey, including around Rabat and on major routes. They typically offer unleaded petrol (kurşunsuz benzin) and diesel (motorin). Prices are regulated and generally similar across stations, with credit cards widely accepted. It's advisable to fill up before long journeys, especially when heading to more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For driving around Rabat and exploring central Anatolia, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient for city driving and well-maintained main roads. If you plan to venture onto less paved or slightly uneven rural roads, an SUV with higher ground clearance would offer more comfort and capability. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatics are readily available if preferred.

Frequently asked questions