- Customer benefits:
- Quality & Expertise
- Free amendments before rental start
- Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
- 24/7 customer service
- Club Member Discount
Why rent a car in Istanbul?
Renting a car in Istanbul offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the city's diverse neighbourhoods and hidden gems at your own pace. With a personal vehicle, you can easily venture beyond the typical tourist spots, discovering local markets, quaint cafes, and scenic viewpoints that are less accessible by public transport.
Additionally, having a car allows for convenient day trips to nearby attractions such as the serene beaches of Şile, the historic town of Edirne, or the picturesque landscapes of the Princes' Islands. This autonomy enhances your travel experience, providing the freedom to create a personalised itinerary tailored to your interests.
Car rental tips for Istanbul
Istanbul's traffic is notorious, especially during rush hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:00–8:00 PM). Plan your driving times accordingly to avoid congestion, and consider using navigation apps to identify less congested routes. Many motorways and bridges in and around Istanbul utilise the HGS (High-Speed Toll System) for electronic toll payments. Ensure your rental car is equipped with an HGS device to avoid fines, and clarify with the rental company how tolls will be charged. Before departing the rental agency, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage, and document it with photos. This practice helps prevent disputes over damages upon returning the car. If your driving licence is not in the Latin alphabet, obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, as it may be required by rental agencies and local authorities.
FAQs about renting a car in Istanbul
What is the recommended car type/category?
Given Istanbul's narrow streets and heavy traffic, a compact or mid-sized car is advisable for easier manoeuvrability and parking. If planning trips to surrounding regions, a vehicle with good fuel efficiency and comfortable seating is recommended for longer drives.
What are the parking options?
Parking in Istanbul can be challenging, especially in central areas. Public parking lots and garages are available but may be costly, typically ranging from 15 to 20 Turkish Lira per hour. Utilising parking apps like 'İSPARK' can assist in finding and paying for parking spaces. Be cautious of unauthorised parking attendants and always adhere to local parking regulations to avoid fines or towing.
What's the speed limit?
In Turkey, the general speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways. However, always observe posted signs, as limits can vary. Speed cameras are prevalent, and fines for violations are strictly enforced.
Popular attractions
Hagia Sophia: A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, this former cathedral and mosque now serves as a museum, showcasing a rich history spanning over 1,500 years. Topkapi Palace: Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, this expansive palace complex offers insights into royal life with its opulent rooms, courtyards, and treasury. Grand Bazaar: One of the world's largest and oldest covered markets, featuring thousands of shops selling jewellery, textiles, spices, and antiques. Basilica Cistern: An underground marvel built in the 6th century, known for its forest of marble columns and serene ambience. Galata Tower: A medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline and the Bosphorus Strait.
More places to visit
Edirne: Located near the Greek and Bulgarian borders, Edirne is renowned for its Ottoman architecture, including the Selimiye Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bursa: Once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is famous for its thermal baths, historic mosques, and the nearby Uludağ Mountain, a popular ski resort. Şile: A coastal town on the Black Sea, known for its sandy beaches, historic lighthouse, and tranquil atmosphere.
Find Great Deals for Car Hire in Istanbul
We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Istanbul. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Hire in Istanbul in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.
Flexible Booking Process
No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Istanbul and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.
Free Extras & Cancellation
In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Istanbul and surcharges from our partners on the final price.
Quality & Expertise
We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Istanbul so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.
Highly recommended by our customers
All Car Hire Brands in Istanbul
Compare all car rental companies available in Istanbul in one place. This list includes international and local car hire brands operating in Istanbul, ranked by real customer ratings and reviews based on rentals in Istanbul . Scores may vary by location depending on customer experience. Browse the providers, check their scores, and choose the car rental company that best fits your travel plans.
OKMobility Car Hire
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Cizgi Car Hire
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Dailydrive Car Hire
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Goldcar Car Hire
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Circular Car Hire
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Budget Car Hire
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Europcar Car Hire
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Alamo Car Hire
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Avec Car Hire
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Enterprise Car Hire
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AutoUnion Car Hire
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Wish Car Hire
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HIT Car Hire
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QCAR Car Hire
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Essence Car Hire
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Nissa Car Hire
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Everyday Car Hire
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Expy Car Hire
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Carwiz Car Hire
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WAYRent Car Hire
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: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.
Find a car according to your needs
Small / Economy
You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!
Hybrid / Electric
A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.
Prestige Cars
Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.
Stationwagon / Minibus
You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.
The cheapest car rental deals
Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)
Website advantages
Destinations in almost every city in the world. Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand Multilingual website
Customer benefits
Free amendments before rental start Free cancellation up to 48h before rental 24/7 customer service Club Member Discount
One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!
No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.
No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.
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