Destination · Turkey

Car Rental in Silifke

A car makes exploring Silifke's ancient ruins and picturesque coastline an effortless adventure, allowing you to seamlessly journey from the Roman Aqueducts to the sun-drenched beaches of Kızkalesi at your own pace. Navigate the scenic D400 highway with ease, pausing for spontaneous dips in the Mediterranean or discovering hidden coves known only to locals.

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Search & book · Silifke

Silifke, Turkey

Car Rental in Silifke

A car makes exploring Silifke's ancient ruins and picturesque coastline an effortless adventure, allowing you to seamlessly journey from the Roman Aqueducts to the sun-drenched beaches of Kızkalesi at your own pace. Navigate the scenic D400 highway with ease, pausing for spontaneous dips in the Mediterranean or discovering hidden coves known only to locals.

Where to drive

  • Explore the ancient city of Uzuncaburç-Diocaesarea, about 30 km inland (≈45-minute drive), featuring impressive Hellenistic and Roman temples and ruins.
  • Visit the stunning Cennet and Cehennem (Heaven and Hell) sinkholes, geological wonders just 25 km from Silifke (≈30-minute drive), offering unique natural formations and a historic church.
  • Drive to the beautiful Kızkalesi (Maiden's Castle) and its surrounding beaches, approximately 25 km east (≈30-minute drive), perfect for swimming and historical sightseeing.
  • Discover the Göksu Delta, a vital wetland bird sanctuary located just south of Silifke, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying unspoiled nature (accessible within 15-20 minutes).
  • Take a day trip to the ancient city of Kanlıdivane, an archaeological site with rock-cut tombs and churches, about 40 km northeast (≈50-minute drive).

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you will generally need a valid passport, a valid national driving license held for at least one or two years (depending on the rental company), and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not contain a photograph. The minimum age for renting is typically 21, with surcharges often applied for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Silifke can vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles could range from 40 EUR to 80 EUR or more daily. Prices tend to be highest during the summer months (June-August) due to increased tourist demand, potentially doubling or tripling compared to winter rates.

Price by month, €

25€
Jan
24€
Feb
28€
Mar
35€
Apr
45€
May
60€
Jun
75€
Jul
78€
Aug
65€
Sep
40€
Oct
30€
Nov
26€
Dec

Demand by month

30%
Jan
28%
Feb
35%
Mar
50%
Apr
65%
May
80%
Jun
95%
Jul
100%
Aug
85%
Sep
60%
Oct
40%
Nov
32%
Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, driving is 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 signposted. The blood alcohol limit is effectively zero (0.05% for private vehicles, 0.00% for commercial). Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are recommended in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants. Child seats are legally required for children under 1.35 meters tall and under 36 kg.

Parking

In Silifke, parking in the town center often involves paid street parking or designated parking lots, usually managed by attendants or automated systems where you pay by the hour. Outside the immediate center, especially near beaches or archaeological sites, free parking might be available, though it can be limited during peak season. Always look for signs indicating parking rules.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available throughout Silifke and the surrounding region. You'll find unleaded petrol (benzin) and diesel (motorin). LPG (LPG otogaz) is also common. Prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across different brands, though they can fluctuate. Payment is typically by cash or credit card. It's advisable to fill up before heading to more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring Silifke and its immediate surroundings, a compact or economy car is usually sufficient, easy to maneuver in town, and fuel-efficient. If you plan to venture into more rural or slightly mountainous areas, or if you're traveling with family and luggage, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would offer more comfort and ground clearance. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatics are increasingly available, especially from larger rental agencies.

Pros

  • Unrestricted access to historical sites like Uzuncaburç and Kanlıdivane, often difficult to reach by public transport.
  • Freedom to explore hidden beaches and coves along the Mediterranean coast at your own pace.
  • Flexibility to visit natural wonders like the Göksu Delta and Cennet-Cehennem sinkholes without being tied to tour schedules.
  • Convenient for day trips to nearby towns and attractions in the Mersin region, such as Kızkalesi or Tarsus.
  • Comfort and privacy, especially when traveling with family or carrying beach gear and picnic supplies.

Cons

  • Driving in Turkish cities can be challenging due to assertive local driving styles and sometimes less-than-perfect road conditions.
  • Parking in central Silifke can be busy and may incur costs.
  • Navigation can be tricky in older towns with narrow, winding streets; a GPS or reliable navigation app is highly recommended.
  • Fuel costs can add up, although they are generally comparable to European prices.

Frequently asked questions

You typically need a valid passport, a national driving license held for at least one to two years, and often an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or a Latin alphabet.