Side Car Rental 2026 — from €33/day

Car Rental in Side, Turkey

Just 15 minutes by car from the ancient Apollon Temple and Side Amphitheatre, your Turkish Riviera adventure truly begins. Pick up your rental car in Side and cruise the scenic D400 highway, granting you effortless access to Antalya's vibrant heart or the tranquil beaches further east.

Side, Turkey

Where to drive

Drive to Aspendos Ancient City to marvel at its incredibly well-preserved Roman theater, approximately 45 kilometers (a 40-minute drive) from Side.
Explore the stunning Manavgat Waterfall and its surrounding picnic areas, just about 10 kilometers (a 15-minute drive) inland from Side.
Take a scenic trip to Alanya Castle and Cleopatra Beach, roughly 65 kilometers (a 1-hour drive) east along the coast.
Venture into the Taurus Mountains to visit the traditional village of Ormana and its Button Houses, approximately 80 kilometers (a 1.5-hour drive) north of Side.
Discover the ancient city of Perge near Antalya, about 60 kilometers (a 50-minute drive) west, offering another impressive archaeological site.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you will generally need a valid passport, a driver's license held for at least one year (some companies may require two years), and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or does not have a photograph. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car classes, often with a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Side fluctuate significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from approximately 15-20 EUR per day during the off-peak season, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from 40 EUR to 80 EUR or more daily, especially in summer. Expect prices to be highest from June to September.

Price by month, €

20€

Jan

18€

Feb

22€

Mar

28€

Apr

35€

May

45€

Jun

55€

Jul

58€

Aug

48€

Sep

35€

Oct

25€

Nov

20€

Dec

Demand by month

25%

Jan

20%

Feb

30%

Mar

50%

Apr

70%

May

85%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

90%

Sep

65%

Oct

40%

Nov

30%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways, but always observe local signage. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very low, effectively zero for most foreign drivers. Headlights are required during adverse weather 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 Side's ancient town center is very limited and often restricted to pedestrians. Outside the immediate historical area, you'll find various paid parking lots, especially near popular attractions and beaches. Many hotels offer free parking for guests. Free street parking can be found further away from the main tourist hubs, but always check for 'No Parking' signs or restrictions.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available throughout Side and the surrounding region. Both gasoline (benzin) and diesel (motorin) are widely sold. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across stations, though they can fluctuate. Payment can typically be made with cash or major credit/debit cards.

Which car to choose

For driving around Side and nearby attractions, an economy or compact car with manual or automatic transmission is perfectly adequate and easy to park. If you plan to venture into the Taurus Mountains or prefer more comfort on longer journeys, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would be a better choice, offering more power and space. Consider an automatic transmission for ease of driving on potentially unfamiliar roads.

Pros

Freedom to explore historical sites and natural wonders at your own pace, without relying on tour schedules.
Access to less-visited beaches and charming inland villages that are difficult to reach by public transport.
Convenience for families with children, allowing for flexible stops and carrying luggage.
Cost-effective for groups when compared to multiple taxi fares or organized tours.
Enjoy scenic coastal and mountain drives with stunning views.

Cons

Traffic, especially in peak season around Side's popular areas, can be heavy.
Parking in Side's old town is very restricted, requiring parking outside and walking.
Road signs can sometimes be in Turkish only, though major routes usually have English translations.
Navigating unfamiliar roads and dealing with local driving styles can be challenging for some drivers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy for car rentals in Side?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, especially if booked through platforms like RentoRika. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your booking.

Do I need to prepay for my car rental in Side?

Some rental companies require prepayment, while others allow you to pay upon arrival. Often, booking online with prepayment can secure better rates. A credit card is almost always required for a security deposit, even if you pay cash for the rental itself.

Can I use my home country's driving license in Turkey?

If your driving license is from a country that is a signatory to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, and it is in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP), it is generally accepted. It's highly recommended to carry an IDP regardless, especially if your license is not in a widely understood language.

Which is better for pickup: Side city or Antalya Airport?

Picking up at Antalya Airport (AYT) often provides more options and potentially better rates due to higher competition. However, if you're already in Side and prefer immediate convenience, picking up directly in Side saves you the transfer from the airport. Consider your arrival point and onward travel plans.

Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of?

Always read the rental agreement carefully. Potential hidden fees can include young driver surcharges, additional driver fees, out-of-hours pickup/drop-off charges, one-way rental fees, or charges for optional extras like GPS or child seats. Ensure you understand the fuel policy (e.g., full-to-full).

What kind of insurance is included with car rentals in Side?

Basic third-party liability insurance (TPL) is usually included by law. However, you should consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Super CDW to reduce your excess liability in case of damage or theft. Always verify what is covered before signing the contract.

Available cars — Side