Car Rental at Ataturk Intl. Airport (ISL)

Reasons to book a car rental at Istanbul International Airport

Renting a car at Istanbul Airport provides an ideal solution for cultural explorers, adventure seekers, and road trippers looking to maximize their time in this vibrant city. With a rental car, you have the flexibility to explore attractions around Istanbul at your own pace, making luggage management a breeze. For beach enthusiasts, Florya Beach is a mere 2 miles away, while those interested in business can easily access the Istanbul Expo Center, located just 0.8 miles from the airport. Adventure awaits at Ataköy Marina, only 3 miles away, where you can indulge in outdoor activities. Beyond the immediate vicinity, popular destinations such as Sultanahmet, featuring the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, are just 8 miles away, while the bustling Istanbul City Center, home to Galata Tower and Topkapi Palace, is 7 miles from the airport. Additionally, the nearby neighborhood of Bakırköy offers a variety of attractions, all within a short distance. Renting a car not only enhances your convenience but also allows you to create a personalized travel itinerary, ensuring a memorable experience in Istanbul.

Most popular car rentals near Istanbul International Airport

• Midsize: The midsize car is a popular choice among travelers at Istanbul airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for couples or families who require additional space while enjoying the freedom to explore the surrounding attractions at their own pace.
• Economy: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the economy car fits up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This budget-friendly option is highly sought after, providing a practical solution for those looking to navigate Istanbul and its surroundings efficiently without compromising on comfort.
• Compact SUV: The compact SUV is a versatile choice for 5 travelers, offering room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This category is particularly appealing to those who desire a bit more space and comfort while still being nimble enough for city driving. It's well-suited for a range of travelers, from solo adventurers to families, making it a popular selection for road trips around Istanbul airport.

Top rated car suppliers near Istanbul International Airport

• Enterprise: With 5 rental locations, Enterprise is a top choice at Istanbul airport, located only 0.2 miles away. Travelers appreciate their excellent customer service and wide selection of vehicles. The most booked cars with Enterprise include Midsize and Compact SUVs, making it a great option for those needing space and comfort while exploring the area.
• Sixt: Located 1 mile from Istanbul airport, Sixt offers a convenient rental option with a focus on quality vehicles. The most popular cars rented through Sixt include Economy and Midsize SUVs, perfect for travelers looking for efficiency and style. Their single location ensures a streamlined experience for those arriving at the airport.
• Europcar: Also situated 1 mile away from Istanbul airport, Europcar provides a straightforward rental experience with a focus on budget-friendly options. The most frequently booked vehicle is the Economy car, ideal for solo travelers or small groups looking to explore Istanbul with ease. Europcar's efficient service makes it a reliable choice for your car rental needs.

Where to go near Istanbul International Airport

• Sultanahmet: Located 8 miles away from Istanbul, Sultanahmet is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. Travelers visit for a blend of culture, city experiences, and business opportunities. Notable attractions include the historic Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, and the vibrant Sultanahmet Square. The area is a hub for public markets and shopping, making it a perfect destination for cultural vacations. Peak visitor numbers occur in March, July, and September, while April to May and December see slightly lower arrivals.
• Istanbul City Center: Situated 7 miles from Istanbul, Istanbul City Center is bustling with cultural activities and urban life. Visitors come for cultural and business experiences, with highlights such as the iconic Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, and lively Istiklal Avenue. The area also features public markets and shopping spaces. The best time to visit is from August to October, while January to February and June experience a decrease in traveler numbers.
• Bakırköy: Only 0.8 miles away from Istanbul, Bakırköy is a vibrant district ideal for family, city, and business experiences. The area offers popular shopping centers and malls, providing ample opportunities for retail therapy. Key attractions include Florya Beach, perfect for beach vacations, the Istanbul Expo Center for business events, and Ataköy Marina for outdoor and adventure activities. Visitor numbers peak from August to October, with fewer travelers in January to February and June.

9 tips to save on your Istanbul International Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best options for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's generally advisable to secure your ISL car rental as early as possible to access lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is ideal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favorable option. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards might not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you'll be spending a lot of time on the road, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Istanbul International Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Istanbul Airport is May, when prices are low and demand is also moderate. April offers slightly lower demand, making it a good shoulder month as well. Following this, June sees average prices and demand, while July and August become slightly busier with higher prices. The most expensive month is September, which features increased demand and higher costs for rentals. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low
March	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average