Rental Car
A rental car is the most comfortable way to travel along the coast and in Cappadocia — in Istanbul, however, it's a nightmare.
Prices (Small car, e.g., Fiat Egea)
| Period | Price/Day | Price/Week |
|---|---|---|
| Low season (Nov–Mar) | 600–1,000 ₺ / 17–28 € | 3,000–6,000 ₺ / 85–170 € |
| Shoulder season (Apr–May, Oct) | 800–1,500 ₺ / 23–43 € | 5,000–9,000 ₺ / 140–255 € |
| High season (Jun–Sep) | 1,500–3,000 ₺ / 43–85 € | 8,000–18,000 ₺ / 225–510 € |
Providers
International: Europcar, Avis, Budget, Hertz, Sixt — reliable, more expensive, better insured.
Local: Garenta (largest Turkish provider, good), Circular, EuropCar Türkiye. Significantly cheaper, check reviews in advance.
Traffic Rules & Tips
- Right-hand traffic as in Germany
- Speed limits: Urban 50 km/h, country road 90 km/h, highway (Otoyol) 120 km/h
- Alcohol limit: 0.5 per mille
- Toll: Highways are toll roads (HGS system). Rental cars often have an HGS box, ask the rental company.
- Driving style: Turkish traffic is lively. Horns are used as a means of communication, lane changes without signaling are common, traffic lights are creatively interpreted. Drive defensively!
- Refueling: Gasoline (Benzin) approx. 45–50 ₺/liter (approx. 1.30–1.40 €), Diesel (Motorin) approx. 42–47 ₺/liter. Gas stations everywhere, full service common.
Achtung
Traffic in Turkey is significantly more chaotic than in Germany. Caution is especially advised in Istanbul, Ankara, and on the Riviera coastal road. At night, unlit vehicles, donkeys, and pedestrians on country roads are not uncommon. Drive defensively and avoid night driving on country roads.