Trabzon Car Rental 2026 — from €56/day

Car Rental in Trabzon, Turkey

From the ancient walls of Sumela Monastery, your adventure in Trabzon truly begins the moment you pick up your rental car. Navigate the scenic coastal roads along the Black Sea, easily reaching Uzungöl Lake or the bustling bazaars with the convenience of your own vehicle, making every moment of your journey distinctly yours.

Car Rental in Trabzon, Turkey

Trabzon, Turkey

Where to drive

Drive to Sumela Monastery, an iconic Greek Orthodox monastery built into a cliff face, approximately 50 km (1 hour drive) south of Trabzon.
Explore Uzungol Lake, a stunning natural lake surrounded by lush green forests and traditional wooden houses, about 90 km (1.5-2 hours drive) southeast of Trabzon.
Journey to Ayder Plateau, famous for its thermal springs and alpine meadows, located roughly 160 km (2.5-3 hours drive) east of Trabzon.
Discover the historical city of Rize, known for its tea plantations and Rize Castle, approximately 75 km (1 hour 15 min drive) east along the coast.
Visit the charming coastal town of Ordu, offering beautiful views from Boztepe Hill, around 180 km (2.5-3 hours drive) west of Trabzon.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid passport, a national driving license held for at least one year, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin alphabet. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, and some companies may require drivers to be 25 for certain car categories or to have held their license for two years or more.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Trabzon vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars might start from around 25 EUR per day during the off-peak season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 50 EUR to 100 EUR or more daily. Summer months see prices rise considerably due to high demand, potentially doubling or tripling compared to winter lows.

Price by month, €

25€

Jan

25€

Feb

30€

Mar

35€

Apr

45€

May

60€

Jun

75€

Jul

80€

Aug

65€

Sep

40€

Oct

30€

Nov

25€

Dec

Demand by month

20%

Jan

20%

Feb

30%

Mar

45%

Apr

60%

May

80%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

85%

Sep

50%

Oct

35%

Nov

25%

Dec

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. Alcohol limit for drivers is approximately 0.05% BAC. Headlights must be used in tunnels and during periods of low visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 1.35 meters tall and under 36 kg.

Parking

In Trabzon city center, parking is often paid, with street parking managed by attendants or parking meters. Look for 'Otopark' signs for designated parking lots. Outside the immediate city center and in rural areas, free parking is usually more readily available, especially near attractions. Always check for local signs and regulations.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Trabzon and along major routes. You can find both gasoline (petrol) and diesel. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across stations, though they can fluctuate. Payment is typically by cash or credit card. Approximate price for a liter of gasoline is around 1.20-1.40 EUR.

Which car to choose

For exploring Trabzon and its surrounding mountainous areas, an economy or compact car is suitable for city driving and shorter trips. However, if you plan to venture into the higher altitudes or less-maintained roads, an SUV or a car with higher ground clearance is highly recommended. Manual transmission cars are more common, but automatics are increasingly available, especially in larger rental fleets.

Pros

Unrestricted access to stunning natural landscapes like Uzungol and Sumela Monastery.
Flexibility to create your own itinerary and explore at your own pace.
Opportunity to discover hidden villages and local culture off the main tourist routes.
Convenient for families with children, allowing for easy transport of luggage and gear.
Generally good road infrastructure on main routes, connecting major attractions.

Cons

City traffic in Trabzon can be dense, especially during peak hours.
Navigating narrow, winding roads in mountainous regions requires careful driving.
Parking can be challenging and costly in the busiest parts of the city.
Some rural roads may be unpaved or in poor condition, requiring a suitable vehicle.
Fuel costs can add up, especially with extensive travel.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Trabzon?

The minimum age is typically 21 years old, but some car categories or rental companies may require drivers to be 25 or older.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Trabzon?

Yes, if your national driving license is not in a Latin alphabet (e.g., Arabic, Cyrillic), an IDP is required in addition to your original license.

Can I pick up my rental car directly at Trabzon Airport?

Yes, Trabzon Airport (TZX) is a popular pickup location, with several rental agencies operating desks directly in the terminal.

What payment methods are accepted for car rental in Trabzon?

Most rental companies require a major credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. Cash payments are generally not accepted for deposits, though they might be for the rental cost itself.

What happens if I need to cancel my car rental booking?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company and booking terms. Many bookings offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, but it's essential to check the specific terms of your reservation.

Are there automatic transmission cars available for rent in Trabzon?

Yes, automatic transmission cars are available, especially in higher car classes, but manual transmission vehicles are more common. It's advisable to book an automatic well in advance if you prefer one.

Available cars — Trabzon