Car Rental in Sivas

Where to drive

• Divrigi Great Mosque and Hospital: A UNESCO World Heritage site, approximately 180 km (2.5-3 hours drive) east of Sivas, known for its intricate stone carvings.
• Gurun Goksuyun Waterfall: Enjoy nature's beauty about 130 km (2 hours drive) south of Sivas, a refreshing escape.
• Kangals: Visit the home of the famous Kangal dog breed in Kangal, roughly 70 km (1 hour drive) south of Sivas.
• Sivas Hot Springs (Sivas Termal): Relax in the therapeutic waters at various hot springs around Sivas, some as close as 30-40 km (30-45 minutes drive).
• Yildiz Mountain Ski Resort: For winter sports enthusiasts, approximately 60 km (1 hour drive) north of Sivas, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
• Tokat: Explore the historical city of Tokat, about 100 km (1.5 hours drive) northwest of Sivas, with its castle and traditional houses.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you'll generally need a valid passport, your national driving license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not clearly state 'driving license'. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held their license for a minimum of 2 years. For some vehicle categories, the minimum age might be higher.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Sivas vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars can start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 40 EUR to over 80 EUR daily. Expect prices to increase by 30-50% during the peak summer months due to higher demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, 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 by signage. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, practically zero (0.05% BAC, but it's safest to avoid alcohol entirely). Headlights must be used in tunnels and in conditions of poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children up to 1.35 meters tall or 36 kg in weight.

Parking

In Sivas city center, parking is often paid, usually through attendants or ticket machines. There are also designated parking lots. Outside the immediate city center, street parking can be found, sometimes free, but always observe local signs. It's generally advisable to use secure, paid parking facilities, especially overnight.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Sivas and on major routes. Both gasoline (petrol) and diesel are common. Fuel prices are regulated and can be checked at any station; they are generally comparable to Western European prices. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some Turkish Lira cash on hand, especially in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring Sivas and its immediate surroundings, a compact or economy car is usually sufficient, especially for city driving and well-paved roads. If you plan to venture into more rural areas, particularly during winter or to destinations like Yildiz Mountain, an SUV or a vehicle with higher ground clearance is recommended. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatics are available, often at a slightly higher price.

Frequently asked questions