Arriving at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport opens up great opportunities to explore Istanbul and its surroundings. Renting a car is a convenient way to see everything you’re interested in, but it’s important to know what to expect from the rental process, what documents are required, and how to behave on the roads of Turkey. This information will help you make the rental process as simple and enjoyable as possible.
Most car rental companies have their counters directly in the airport arrival area. They are usually located in the main terminal, near the exits to the baggage claim area. You will see representatives of companies such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt and others. Some companies may offer shuttles to remote parking lots where the cars are located. Look carefully for signs and information at the counters.
The choice of cars at Sabiha Gökçen Airport is quite wide. Here are some popular options:
| Car Class | Approximate Cost Per Day (EUR) |
| Economy | 20 – 30 |
| Compact | 25 – 40 |
| Intermediate | 35 – 50 |
| SUV | 50 – 80 |
| Premium | 80+ |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and car availability.
To rent a car, you will 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 require 23 or 25 years. A deposit is blocked on your credit card and returned after the car is returned undamaged. Most major credit cards are accepted for payment.
When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car in the event of an accident. 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. Check if your credit card covers rental car insurance to avoid double insurance. Don't hesitate to ask the company representative about all the details of the insurance.
There are certain rules of the road in Turkey that are worth considering. Traffic is usually heavy, especially in large cities. The speed on highways is usually limited to 130 km/h, in settlements – 50 km/h. Toll roads are found on some routes, payment is made in cash or by card. Parking can be a problem in large cities, look for designated parking spaces. Be careful and cautious on the roads, especially during rush hour.
Driver's license, passport and a credit card in the driver's name.
Usually 21 years, but some companies require 23 or 25 years.
CDW is collision damage waiver insurance. It is recommended to consider, but check if your credit card covers it.
The deposit is blocked on your credit card and returned after the car is returned undamaged.
It depends on the country of issue of your license. It is better to have it with you.
They are located in the main terminal, near the exits to the baggage claim area.
Yes, there are toll roads on some routes. Payment is made in cash or by card.
On highways usually 130 km/h, in settlements – 50 km/h.
Immediately notify the car rental company and the police.
Usually it is prohibited. Clarify this issue with the car rental company.
Compare offers from different companies and book in advance.