Arriving at the new Istanbul Airport (IST) is a great start to your journey to Turkey. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This page will help you navigate the rental process, understand potential costs, and prepare for driving on Turkish roads.
Most car rental companies have their desks directly in the airport arrival area. They are usually located in the main terminal, often with clear signage. After collecting your luggage, follow the signs indicating “Car Rental” or “Rental Cars”. Some companies may offer shuttles to remote parking areas where the cars are located.
The following car rental companies are usually represented at Istanbul Airport: Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt and others. The choice of cars is quite wide, from economy models to SUVs and premium cars. Here are a few popular options:
| Car Class | Approximate Daily Cost (EUR) |
| Economy | 20 – 35 |
| Compact | 30 – 50 |
| Mid-Size | 40 – 65 |
| SUV | 60 – 100+ |
| Premium | 100 – 200+ |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and car availability.
To rent a car in Turkey, you usually need the following documents: a valid driver's license (an international driving permit may be required, depending on the country of issue of your license), a passport and a credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21 years, but some companies may set higher requirements, as well as an additional fee for younger drivers. A deposit will likely be taken upon receiving the car, which will be returned after returning the car undamaged. Most major credit cards are accepted.
When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car as a result of a collision. Theft insurance protects against loss of the vehicle. Pay attention to the amount of the deductible (excess) – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. Ask the company representative about the possibility of reducing the deductible for an additional fee. Carefully review the insurance terms before signing the contract.
Driving in Turkey can be somewhat different from what you are used to. Toll sections are available on highways, payment is made in cash or with a special HGS (Hızlı Geçiş Sistemi) card. Parking in cities can be difficult, especially in central Istanbul. The speed on highways is usually limited to 130 km/h, in cities – 50 km/h. Be careful of local drivers and pedestrians.
It depends on the country of issue of your license. We recommend checking this information in advance.
Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are usually accepted.
This is the amount you will pay yourself in case of damage or theft of the car.
Usually this is possible, but you need to inform the rental company in advance and obtain permission.
In cash or with an HGS card.
Be careful and choose well-lit places. It is better to use parking lots.
Contact the car rental company for assistance.
Yes, the rental price usually includes VAT.
Yes, but this usually involves an additional fee.
Immediately report this to the rental company representative and record the damage in the report.
Some companies may set mileage restrictions, especially for short-term rentals.