Car Rental in Yusufeli

Where to drive

• Drive the Coruh Valley Road: Explore the scenic route along the Coruh River, visiting villages like Barhal and enjoying rafting opportunities. This journey can stretch over 100 kilometers, taking a full day with stops.
• Visit the Georgian Churches of Artvin: Head north towards Artvin to discover historical Georgian churches such as Ishan and Haho. Ishan is about 60 km (1.5 hours) from Yusufeli, while Haho is further, requiring a dedicated day trip.
• Explore Kaçkar Mountains National Park: Access the lower reaches and surrounding areas of the Kaçkar Mountains, perfect for scenic drives and short hikes. Villages like Yaylalar are reachable within 1-2 hours, offering stunning views.
• Discover Tortum Waterfall and Lake: Venture west towards Erzurum province to see the impressive Tortum Waterfall and the beautiful Tortum Lake. This is approximately a 120 km drive, taking about 2-2.5 hours each way.
• Day trip to Erzurum: For a taste of a larger city and historical sites like the Double Minaret Madrasah, Erzurum is about 150 km (2.5-3 hours) away, making it a feasible day trip with a rental car.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid driving license held for at least one year. If your license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not clearly state 'Driving Permit', an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or often required. A passport or national ID card is also necessary. The minimum rental age is typically 21, but some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, and drivers under 25 might incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Yusufeli generally start from around 25 EUR per day for an economy car during the low season, potentially reaching 60 EUR or more for SUVs and premium vehicles in peak summer. Prices fluctuate significantly, with summer months seeing the highest rates due to increased demand, while winter often offers more budget-friendly options.

Demand by month

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 these can vary and are always signposted. The alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, effectively zero (0.5 per mille, but it's best to avoid alcohol entirely). 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 up to 1.35 meters tall or under 36 kg.

Parking

In Yusufeli, parking is generally straightforward, especially in the newer town center. There are usually designated parking areas, and many places offer free parking. However, during peak tourist season or local events, finding a spot directly in front of popular attractions might require a short walk. Always look for signage indicating parking restrictions.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in Yusufeli and along main routes. Both gasoline (petrol) and diesel are common. Fuel prices are regulated nationally and are generally comparable across Turkey. Payment can typically be made with cash or major credit/debit cards. It's advisable to fill up when you see a station, especially before heading into more remote mountain areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring the Yusufeli region and the Coruh Valley, a compact SUV or a vehicle with higher ground clearance is highly recommended. Many roads to villages and historical sites, while paved, can be winding, narrow, and sometimes in varying conditions. An automatic transmission can make driving more comfortable on the steep inclines and declines common in the area. A 4x4 is not usually necessary unless you plan to venture off-road into very remote, unpaved mountain tracks.

Frequently asked questions