Destination · Turkey

Car Rental in Selim, Turkey

A rental car in Selim is your direct ticket to the ancient wonders of Ani, just a short, scenic drive away. With your own vehicle, you can effortlessly navigate the undulating Kars Plateau, stopping to photograph the stunning Georgian Monastery of Bana or enjoy the untouched beauty of Lake Çıldır at your leisure.

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Selim, Turkey

Car Rental in Selim, Turkey

A rental car in Selim is your direct ticket to the ancient wonders of Ani, just a short, scenic drive away. With your own vehicle, you can effortlessly navigate the undulating Kars Plateau, stopping to photograph the stunning Georgian Monastery of Bana or enjoy the untouched beauty of Lake Çıldır at your leisure.

Where to drive

  • Journey to Kars city center, approximately 30 minutes (≈30 km), to explore the Kars Castle, the Stone Bridge, and the Armenian Church.
  • Drive to the ancient city of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage site, about 1 hour and 15 minutes (≈80 km) from Selim, to wander through its impressive ruins.
  • Head towards Lake Cildir, roughly 1 hour (≈50 km) away, for picturesque views, ice fishing in winter, or boat trips in summer.
  • Explore the Sarikamis Ski Resort, approximately 45 minutes (≈40 km) drive, known for its crystal snow and pine forests, suitable for winter sports enthusiasts.
  • Take a scenic route to the Susuz Waterfalls, about 45 minutes (≈40 km) from Selim, offering a refreshing natural escape.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid national driving license, a passport, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not clearly state your driving category. 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 Selim vary depending on the vehicle class and the time of year. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs or premium models could range from 60 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Summer months typically see higher demand and prices, with rates increasing by approximately 20-40% compared to the quieter winter period.

Price by month, €

30€
Jan
32€
Feb
35€
Mar
40€
Apr
48€
May
55€
Jun
60€
Jul
62€
Aug
50€
Sep
45€
Oct
38€
Nov
33€
Dec

Demand by month

30%
Jan
35%
Feb
40%
Mar
50%
Apr
65%
May
75%
Jun
90%
Jul
95%
Aug
70%
Sep
55%
Oct
40%
Nov
35%
Dec

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 for drivers is very low, effectively zero for most practical purposes (0.05% for private vehicles, 0.00% for commercial). Headlights are mandatory in tunnels and during poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and children under 1.35 meters or 36 kg must use an appropriate child seat.

Parking

In Selim and surrounding smaller towns, parking is often readily available and free, especially outside the immediate town center. In larger nearby cities like Kars, you may find designated paid parking zones or car parks. Look for attendants or payment machines. Always ensure your vehicle is parked legally to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are common along main roads and in towns throughout the Kars region. Both gasoline (petrol) and diesel are widely available. LPG is also an option at many stations. Fuel prices are regulated nationally and are generally comparable across different brands; expect to pay cash or use major credit/debit cards. It's advisable to fill up when you see a station, especially before heading into more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring the Selim region and its surroundings, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient for city driving and well-maintained asphalt roads. However, if you plan to venture onto unpaved tracks, visit more remote sites, or travel during winter with potential snow, a higher-clearance vehicle or an SUV would be a more comfortable and practical choice. Manual transmission cars are very common in Turkey, though automatics are increasingly available.

Pros

  • Unrestricted access to historical sites and natural wonders beyond public transport routes.
  • Flexibility to set your own schedule and explore at your own pace.
  • Convenient for carrying luggage, especially for longer trips or families.
  • Opportunity to discover hidden gems and authentic local experiences.
  • Comfort and privacy during your travels through the Kars region.

Cons

  • Road conditions can vary, with some rural roads being unpaved or less maintained.
  • Navigating in larger towns can be challenging due to unfamiliar signage and traffic patterns.
  • Parking might require payment in busier city centers like Kars.
  • Fuel costs can add up, especially for extensive road trips.

Frequently asked questions

The minimum age to rent a car in Turkey is typically 21 years old, and some companies may require drivers to be 25 for certain vehicle categories or impose a young driver surcharge for those under 25.