Car Rental Van, Turkey — from €115/day

Car Rental in Van, Turkey

Unlocking the wonders of Van, Turkey, begins with your own set of wheels, giving you seamless access to the dramatic shores of Lake Van and beyond. Navigate the scenic roads to Akdamar Island with ease, or venture further into the region's ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. A car is your essential companion for experiencing the true depth of this historic and naturally stunning destination.

Car Rental in Van, Turkey

Van, Turkey

Where to drive

Visit Akdamar Island and its historic Armenian Church: Drive about 40 km (25 miles) southwest from Van to Gevaş, where you can take a ferry to the island. The drive takes around 45 minutes.
Explore Van Castle and the Old City of Van: These iconic landmarks are right within the city, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history. Easily accessible with your rental car.
Discover Muradiye Waterfall: Located approximately 80 km (50 miles) north of Van, this impressive natural wonder is a scenic drive of about 1.5 hours.
Journey to Hoşap Castle: This magnificent medieval fortress is about 60 km (37 miles) southeast of Van, offering a roughly 1-hour drive through picturesque rural areas.
See the Van Cat House: Situated near Van Lake shore, this is a short drive from the city center to observe the famous white cats with different colored eyes.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid national driving license, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, and often required, for non-Turkish license holders. The minimum age for car rental is typically 21, with at least 1-2 years of driving experience. Some companies may charge a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Van can vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium models can range from 40 EUR to 70 EUR or more. Prices typically peak during the summer months and major holidays.

Price by month, €

25€

Jan

25€

Feb

28€

Mar

30€

Apr

35€

May

40€

Jun

45€

Jul

45€

Aug

38€

Sep

32€

Oct

28€

Nov

26€

Dec

Demand by month

30%

Jan

35%

Feb

45%

Mar

60%

Apr

75%

May

85%

Jun

100%

Jul

95%

Aug

80%

Sep

65%

Oct

40%

Nov

30%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, traffic drives 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, though always observe local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is approximately 0.05%. Headlights are required in tunnels and during poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child seats are compulsory for children up to 135 cm tall or under 36 kg.

Parking

In Van city center, parking is often paid, with attendants collecting fees or via parking meters. Free parking can be found further from the immediate city center, especially near larger shopping areas or some tourist attractions. Always check for signage to avoid fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available in and around Van. Both gasoline (benzin) and diesel (motorin) are common. Fuel prices are regulated nationally and are generally consistent across stations, though they can fluctuate. Payment is usually by cash or credit card.

Which car to choose

For city driving and most popular tourist routes around Lake Van, an economy or compact car with a manual or automatic transmission is perfectly adequate. If you plan to venture into more rural or mountainous areas, especially outside of main roads, an SUV with higher ground clearance might be a more comfortable choice. Automatic transmissions are available but might be less common in economy classes.

Pros

Unrestricted access to Lake Van's attractions and surrounding historical sites.
Flexibility to explore at your own pace, without relying on public transport schedules.
Opportunity to discover hidden gems and less-visited areas of Eastern Anatolia.
Convenient for carrying luggage and travel essentials for longer excursions.
Comfortable way to travel, especially for families or groups.

Cons

Traffic in Van city center can be busy, especially during peak hours.
Parking can be challenging and may incur costs in popular areas.
Road conditions outside of main routes can vary, requiring careful driving.
Fuel costs can add significantly to the overall travel budget.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy for car rentals in Van?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company and booking platform. Many offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee. Always check the specific terms of your booking.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Van?

Yes, a major credit card in the main driver's name is almost always required for the security deposit, even if you pay for the rental with a debit card or cash. Ensure you have sufficient credit limit available.

Can I pick up my rental car at Van Ferit Melen Airport (VAN)?

Yes, Van Ferit Melen Airport (VAN) is a primary pickup location for most car rental companies, offering convenience upon arrival. It's often recommended for easier access to your vehicle.

Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) required in Turkey?

For non-Turkish license holders, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended and often required by rental agencies and Turkish law, especially if your national license is not in English.

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

The minimum age to rent a car in Van, and generally in Turkey, is typically 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge, and some vehicle categories might have higher age requirements.

Are there one-way rental options from Van?

Yes, one-way rentals are generally possible from Van to other major cities in Turkey, but they usually come with an additional one-way fee. Confirm this with the rental company when booking.

Available cars — Van