Car Rental in Istanbul

Where to drive

• Drive along the scenic Bosphorus Strait, visiting charming coastal towns like Beykoz or Anadolu Kavağı, approximately 1-2 hours drive depending on traffic.
• Explore the Princes' Islands, accessible by ferry from various Istanbul ports, with a car allowing easy access to ferry terminals and convenient return to the mainland.
• Take a day trip to Bursa, home to Mount Uludağ and historic Ottoman sites, about 2.5-3 hours drive (≈150 km) from Istanbul.
• Journey to Edirne, the former Ottoman capital, to see its magnificent mosques and bridges, approximately 2.5 hours drive (≈230 km) west of Istanbul.
• Head to the Black Sea coast and explore towns like Şile or Ağva, known for their natural beauty and beaches, about 1.5-2 hours drive (≈90-100 km) from the city center.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid passport, a national driving license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or does not feature a photo with Latin characters. 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 certain car categories, the minimum age might be 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Istanbul vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars can start from around 20 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Peak season, typically June to September, sees prices increase by 30-50% across all categories.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are typically 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 is 0.05%. Headlights are generally only required at night or in low visibility conditions. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for children up to 135 cm tall or under 36 kg.

Parking

Parking in central Istanbul can be challenging. Many areas have paid street parking managed by ISPARK, where you pay an attendant or via mobile app. Shopping malls and larger hotels often offer underground parking, usually for a fee. Free parking is rare in the bustling city center but can be found in residential areas further out or at some attractions on the outskirts.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Istanbul and across Turkey, offering gasoline (benzin) and diesel (motorin). LPG (autogas) is also common. Prices fluctuate but are generally comparable to other European countries; cash and credit cards are widely accepted. Fuel pumps are usually full-service.

Which car to choose

For navigating Istanbul's often narrow and congested streets, an economy or compact car is highly recommended due to ease of parking and maneuverability. If you plan extensive road trips to more rural or mountainous regions, an SUV or a car with a slightly higher ground clearance might offer more comfort and capability.

Frequently asked questions