Tips for Renting a Car in Istanbul: Which Car to Choose and How to Get the Best Deal

Başak Dağıstan

I am a long-life learner, a coffee addict who wants to be a star of a Disney movie someday. I like discovering new places, watching tv series, and fangirling about them. Having been a psychologist, I am still trying to find ways for my cat to let me pet him.

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There are various car rental services available in Istanbul. You can rent a car or SUV depending on your needs and budget. If you plan to explore the city and its outskirts, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around. You can also rent a car if you take day trips from Istanbul; many small cities are within an hour’s drive. A car is also perfect if you want to feel more like a local while exploring new places and meeting new people—there is no better way to do that than by having your own set of wheels! Many options are available if you rent a car in Istanbul. You can choose from various car types, such as compact, economy, intermediate, and SUVs.

Popular car rental agencies in Istanbul include Otoq Car Rental, Surprice Car Rental, DMR Car, Carwiz, and Erboy Car. It is always recommended to check the respective hire car provider’s website for additional fees for services like GPS or infant car seats. With an Avis hire car in Istanbul, you can explore the city and its surrounding areas comfortably and efficiently. In this blog post, we share insider tips on renting a car in Istanbul, which type of vehicle to choose, what documents you need, how much it costs, and some useful tricks for getting the best deal!

1. What to look for when renting a car in Istanbul

If you are planning to rent a car for your trip to Istanbul, there are some things you should know. First, deciding whether to use a vehicle for one or all days is essential. The rates start from about $20 per day, but if you plan to spend several days or weeks in the city, you can get a discount.

Another factor to consider is the type of car you plan to rent. Remember that the minimum age to rent a car here is 21, and the maximum vehicle size that most companies will rent to a young driver is a small car. When renting a car in Istanbul, it’s essential to consider the distance you’ll be traveling and the associated costs.

Most car rental companies charge by the day or kilometer (km) driven. The average price per km is around 0.5 TL, but this can vary depending on the type of vehicle you rent and the rental company. It’s also important to note that in Istanbul, the speed limit within the city center is 50 km/h (31 mph), while on highways outside of the city, it increases to 90 km/h (56 mph). If you travel with your friend or family and want extra space, an SUV would be a better option. If you are traveling alone, a smaller car would be fine, plus easier to park in some places.

2. Which type of car to rent?

If you decide to rent a car, Istanbul is a great place to do so, but there are a couple of things you should consider before choosing the type of car that works best for you. First, you need to know that some car rental companies may not offer certain types of vehicles. You need to book your car in advance if you have special requirements. Also, if you are interested in luxury car rental in Istanbul, you should consider car hire in Istanbul in advance.

If you’re planning to rent a car and travel to Ankara, several car rental agencies can help you. Some of the most popular ones include Enterprise, Europcar, and Hertz. You can easily compare prices online and choose the best fit for your budget and needs. Before finalizing your booking, check with the agency about additional fees or requirements for traveling between cities. With a reliable rental car, you can easily explore everything Turkiye offers at your own pace.

One of the most important aspects to consider when renting a car is the type of fuel used. In Turkiye, you will mostly find diesel cars. If you don’t want to drive a diesel car, specify this in advance because many car rental companies can’t rent a gasoline car.

Another thing to consider is the number of people who will be sitting in the car, as well as the amount of luggage you will have. If you travel with a lot of baggage, an SUV would be a better choice. A smaller car would be fine if you travel with only a small suitcase or a backpack.

3. Car rental services in Istanbul

When you decide to rent a car in Istanbul, you have several options where to do it. You can book online at a rental company’s office or rent a car at Istanbul airport. While booking online has many advantages, it is essential to know that not all car rental companies have an online booking system. So, if you want to rent a smaller car, visiting a rental office is a good idea. The advantage of booking a car online is that you can choose the exact type of car you want. When renting a car in Istanbul, it’s essential to consider the pick-up location.

Many rental companies offer pick-up services from airports and hotels for added convenience. It’s best to book your rental car in advance to ensure availability and a smooth pick-up process. Check the rental company’s policies and fees regarding pick-up and drop-off locations, as some may charge extra fees for non-standard locations. With careful planning, renting a car in Istanbul can be a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

4. Where to find the best deal?

If you want to get the best deal on a car rental, it is a good idea to make a booking as early as possible. The best deals are usually available if you book a few weeks before your flight. Another tip for getting a good deal is to rent a car with a company that is not just a car rental company.

For example, if you need to go on a day trip to the city of Bursa but you t want to rent a car for a whole day, you can rent a car for just a few hours. Another option, if you only rent a car for a few hours, is to choose a car rental company that also offers taxi services. TherCartal companies in Turkiye have their fleet of vehicles but work as so-called “Brokers.” These companies have various vehicles which other rental companies operate.

When planning to rent a car in Istanbul, looking for the best car hire deals is essential. You can search for car hires near your location or check out online car rental booking websites that offer affordable rates. On average, compact car hire in Istanbul costs min of £30 per day. It’s always good to compare prices and packages from multiple vendors before booking. Doing so lets you get the most cost-effective deal that meets your needs and budget.

Istanbul is a fascinating destination with so much to see and explore. From the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, there’s something for everyone in this bustling city. And with cheap car hire options readily available, you can explore all that Istanbul offers at your own pace and schedule. Whether you want to visit the historic Topkapi Palace or take a scenic drive along the Bosphorus, renting a car in Istanbul is an affordable and convenient way to make the most of your trip. Don’t miss out on this incredible city – book your cheap car hire in Istanbul today!

5. Documents you need to rent a car in Turkiye

Before you start to look for a car rental company, you should make sure that you have the required documents with you. The most important thing is the international driving license. In addition, you need a valid ID, passport, and a credit card in your name. Some rental agencies offer different types of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury models, so be sure to choose one that suits your needs and budget. 

Remember that if you are a non-resident, you cannot rent a car for more than 90 days, so check out the rental period. In addition, you need to ensure that your car rental company will accept your credit card. On the other hand, if you are a resident, you can rent a car for up to a year, a long-term car rental in Istanbul.

6. How safe is renting a car in Turkiye?

When it comes to renting a car in Turkiye, many people wonder how safe this is. The first thing to keep in mind is that it is much safer to rent a car in Turkiye than in some other countries. In Istanbul and other cities of Turkiye even the highways are well maintained and easy to navigate.

There are certain things to keep in mind when driving in Turkiye, traffic laws, as well as rules and regulations, are generally the same as in other countries. The traffic in Turkiye is right-handed. The seat belt is obligatory for all passengers, and the use of child seats is mandatory for children under 10 years.

Don’t forget to always put your seat belt on! The use of cell phones while driving is forbidden. You don’t need to apply for a local license unless you are a resident of Turkiye.

Renting a car in Istanbul is an excellent way to explore the city’s top destinations at your own pace. With various types of cars available, from budget-friendly options to luxury vehicles, you can choose the one that fits your needs and budget. Before renting a car, comparing prices and booking in advance is crucial to save money and avoid last-minute hassles. Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and credit card, and inspect the car before renting it to avoid additional fees or surprises. Explore Istanbul’s hidden gems like a local by renting a car today! For more money-saving tips, frequently asked questions, and everything else you need to know about Istanbul, visit our website now.

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