Car Rental at Sabiha Gokcen Intl. Airport (SAW) from $35

Reasons to book a car rental at Istanbul International Airport

Renting a car at Istanbul Airport is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the vibrant surroundings at their own pace. With the convenience of easy luggage management, you can embark on a journey to unique attractions without the hassle of public transportation. For cultural explorers and adventure seekers alike, a rental car opens up opportunities to visit key sites such as the Bosphorus Bridge, located 17 miles away, or the family-friendly Bağdat Avenue, just 13 miles from the airport. Adventure enthusiasts can head to Kalamış Marina for outdoor beach experiences, only 15 miles away. Additionally, popular neighborhoods like Kadıköy and Pendik are within easy reach, allowing for further exploration of local culture and cuisine. Traveling to Ataşehir also presents a chance to discover notable landmarks like Hagia Sophia, located 11 miles from the airport. Whether you're seeking relaxation or a bustling city experience, renting a car provides the flexibility to tailor your itinerary, making it a perfect option for road trippers and business travelers alike.

Most popular car rentals near Istanbul International Airport

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice among travelers at Istanbul airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers and 3 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for a balance between space and maneuverability. With its elevated seating position, you’ll enjoy a better view of the surroundings while exploring the beautiful attractions around Istanbul at your own pace.
• Economy: For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Economy car fits 5 travelers and can carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travelers and couples who want to save on rental costs while still enjoying the freedom of the open road. The compact size makes it easy to navigate through city streets and find parking, allowing you to focus on your adventure rather than logistics.
• Midsize: The Midsize car rental is another excellent option, accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is particularly suited for couples and families who need a bit more space for their luggage. Its spacious interior ensures a comfortable ride as you explore the sights around Istanbul airport, making it a versatile choice for those looking to travel with more gear.

Top rated car suppliers near Istanbul International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located a mere 0.1 miles from Istanbul airport, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travelers seeking convenience and quality service. Known for its straightforward rental process, Alamo is favored for its Midsize and Compact SUVs, making it an excellent option for those needing a spacious yet manageable vehicle for their adventures around Istanbul.
• AutoUnion: With a rental location just 0.2 miles from Istanbul airport, AutoUnion is another top supplier that provides a variety of vehicles to suit different preferences. Travelers often opt for Economy and Fullsize SUVs from AutoUnion, offering flexibility and comfort for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Istanbul at your own pace.
• Fox Rental Cars: Also situated 0.2 miles from Istanbul airport, Fox Rental Cars is a well-regarded option for many visitors. This supplier is particularly popular for its Compact and Economy cars, which are ideal for maneuvering through the bustling streets of Istanbul while still providing enough room for luggage and passengers. Fox focuses on delivering a seamless rental experience to enhance your travel plans.

Where to go near Istanbul International Airport

• Kadıköy: Located 14 miles away from Istanbul, Kadıköy is a vibrant district known for its city, outdoor, and family experiences. Visitors can enjoy the bustling shopping areas and centers, while key attractions like Bağdat Avenue and Ülker Stadium offer cultural and recreational activities. The scenic Kalamış Marina is perfect for outdoor adventures and beach activities, making this area a great choice for diverse interests, especially during the peak months from August to October.
• Pendik: Situated 4 miles from Istanbul, Pendik is ideal for families and business travelers. The district boasts shopping centers and areas that cater to various tastes. Notable points of interest include Bağdat Avenue for family-friendly outings and the modern Bosphorus Bridge for stunning views. Sedef Island offers an outdoor and beach setting, which is especially appealing during peak travel months in June, July, and September.
• Ataşehir: Approximately 11 miles away from Istanbul, Ataşehir is another excellent destination for city, family, and business experiences. This district features shopping malls and areas that provide a lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore Bağdat Avenue for outdoor enjoyment and the historic Hagia Sophia for cultural insights. Yeditepe University adds a modern touch to the area, attracting those interested in academia and contemporary city life, with peak visits occurring in April, July, and September.

9 tips to save on your Istanbul International Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal match for your trip.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually advantageous to reserve your SAW car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Aim to finalize your booking 1-3 months ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before completing 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 compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to 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 may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend a significant amount of time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges 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 March, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. Following March, November and December also offer slight savings with average demand, making them viable options. However, the summer months of June through August are the most expensive, with high prices and moderately high demand, especially in July and August. This peak period can make car rentals less budget-friendly as travelers flock to the city.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
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	Slightly High
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	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	Average
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	Slightly Low
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low