Car Rental in Samsun

Where to drive

• Drive to Amasya, a historical city nestled in a narrow valley with Ottoman-era houses, approximately 130 km (2 hours drive) south of Samsun. Explore the rock-cut tombs of the Pontic kings and the impressive Amasya Castle.
• Visit the coastal town of Ordu, known for its cable car offering panoramic views of the Black Sea and the city, about 150 km (2.5 hours drive) east of Samsun. Enjoy fresh seafood and the serene atmosphere.
• Explore the Ayvacık district, home to the beautiful Ayvacık Dam Lake and lush green landscapes, located approximately 60 km (1 hour drive) south-east of Samsun. Ideal for nature walks and picnics.
• Take a trip to Vezirköprü, a district rich in history with archaeological sites and the impressive Şahinkaya Canyon, roughly 100 km (1.5 hours drive) south-west of Samsun. The canyon offers boat tours and stunning views.
• Discover the scenic drive along the Black Sea coast towards Sinop, Turkey's northernmost point, about 160 km (2.5 hours drive) west of Samsun. Sinop boasts a historic prison, a charming harbor, and beautiful beaches.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid passport, a driver's license held for at least 1-2 years (depending on the rental company), and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not include a photograph. The minimum age for renting is typically 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car classes, and drivers under 25 might incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Samsun vary significantly by car class and season. Economy cars might start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 40-70 EUR or more daily. Prices tend to increase by approximately 30-50% during the peak summer months (July-August) 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 blood alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, effectively zero (0.05% for private vehicles, but it's best to avoid alcohol entirely if driving). Headlights are required during adverse weather conditions and in tunnels. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child safety seats are compulsory for children under a certain height or age, typically up to 135 cm or 12 years old.

Parking

In Samsun, parking in the city center often involves paid street parking or multi-story car parks. Street parking is usually managed by attendants who collect payment. Outside the immediate city center, you can often find free parking, especially near larger shopping centers or residential areas. Always check for signs indicating parking restrictions or fees.

Fuel stations

Fuel (gasoline and diesel) is readily available at numerous stations throughout Samsun and along major routes. Prices are regulated nationally and are generally higher than in some European countries. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry some Turkish Lira for smaller, independent stations or in case of card reader issues.

Which car to choose

For exploring Samsun and its immediate surroundings, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient, offering good maneuverability and fuel efficiency. If you plan to venture into the mountainous regions or travel with more luggage, a sedan or a small SUV would provide more comfort and better handling on varying road conditions. Automatic transmission cars are widely available and recommended for ease of driving.

Frequently asked questions