Istanbul Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Istanbul

A coastal cityscape with a prominent mosque, a bridge, and a bustling harbor.
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Istanbul

Istanbul

What you need to know for your Istanbul car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Istanbul

Renting a car in Istanbul provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your interests. Whether you are seeking a city-themed adventure, a cultural experience, or a family outing, having a car allows you to visit key attractions like Taksim Square, Hagia Sophia, and Galata Tower with ease.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to venture beyond the city to popular destinations such as Adalar and Şile. In Adalar, you can explore Sedef Island and Aya Yorgi Church, while Şile offers the beautiful Şile Lighthouse and Ayazma Beach. The ability to drive to these locations enhances your sightseeing experience, as you can stop and take in the scenery along the way. Overall, renting a car in Istanbul is an excellent choice for travelers looking to maximize their exploration of this vibrant metropolis and its surrounding areas.

Most popular car rentals in Istanbul

  • Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold 2 medium suitcases. It's an ideal choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for an efficient way to explore Istanbul. The Economy cars are easy to maneuver in the bustling city and perfect for navigating narrow streets while keeping rental costs low.
  • Compact: Also suitable for up to 5 travelers, the Compact car option offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is great for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Its smaller size makes it a practical choice for city driving, allowing for easier parking and efficient fuel use as you explore the various attractions Istanbul has to offer.
  • Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, this car type accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV provides extra room for passengers and luggage, making it a comfortable option for those planning a longer stay in Istanbul. With its spacious interior, it’s perfect for transporting your belongings while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Where to stay in Istanbul

  • Istanbul: Experience the vibrant life of Istanbul, a metropolis rich in culture and history. This city is perfect for those seeking city-themed and culture-themed experiences. Must-visit landmarks include Taksim Square, Hagia Sophia, and Galata Tower, all of which are accessible from various accommodations. With an abundance of shopping areas, restaurants, and pubs, visitors can indulge in the local cuisine and nightlife.
  • Istanbul City Center: Ideal for tourists wanting to immerse themselves in the cultural heartbeat of the city, Istanbul City Center is surrounded by notable attractions. Key places like Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, and Istiklal Avenue offer a unique blend of history and modern city life. With nearby markets, shopping areas, and a variety of dining options, this neighborhood is perfect for those looking to explore Istanbul's vibrant atmosphere.
  • Sultanahmet: For a truly historical experience, Sultanahmet is the district to stay in. This area is home to iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Galata Tower, making it a cultural hub. Visitors will enjoy the nearby public markets and a selection of restaurants and wineries. Sultanahmet is ideal for those who appreciate history and want to be close to the city’s most significant attractions.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Istanbul

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well before your trip. By booking ahead, you’re more likely to access lower rates and a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. Renters over the age of 70 might also face restrictions. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Other policies may allow full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but this may be justified by the added convenience it provides.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when you book with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Istanbul

The best value period to rent a car in Istanbul is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February also offers low prices and low demand, making it a quiet option. Following these months, April and May have average pricing and demand, providing a balance for travelers. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand and pricing, while June and July also see elevated costs and busier rental periods.

Find Istanbul Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Istanbul car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Istanbul, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Istanbul offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Istanbul car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Istanbul to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Istanbul airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Istanbul rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Istanbul airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Istanbul?
You can find cheap car rentals in Istanbul from $11 a day with OK Mobility's compact 4-5 door cars. Car rentals for exploring Istanbul are picked up at the region's main gateway, Istanbul S Gokcen Airport (IST). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Istanbul and Arnavutköy. Suppliers such as Enterprise, Avec Rent a Car, and Alamo Rent A Car operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Istanbul.
What are the best car rentals in Istanbul?
Car rentals across Istanbul offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Enterprise, Garenta, and Avec Rent a Car, broadly available in the region's main cities — Istanbul, Arnavutköy, and Şile. The most common car classes include:
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Economy SUV
  • Midsize wagon/estate
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 4-5 door
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Istanbul.

What are the best car rental companies in Istanbul?
For car rentals across Istanbul, well-rated providers like Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, and Avec Rent a Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Istanbul, Arnavutköy, and Şile. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Istanbul S Gokcen Arpt (IST) for exploring Istanbul?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Istanbul S Gokcen Airport (IST) for exploring Istanbul. Providers including Enterprise, Garenta, and Avec Rent a Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $23 a day. Istanbul S Gokcen Airport (IST) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Istanbul to Arnavutköy.
Can I rent a car one-way in Istanbul?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Istanbul — pick up in one city, such as Istanbul, and drop-off in another, like Arnavutköy, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $22 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Garenta offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Istanbul?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Istanbul, including in Istanbul and Arnavutköy. Enterprise offers hybrid options from $25 a day and electric options from $44 a day. Garenta and Avec Rent a Car also offer hybrid vehicles from $25 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Istanbul?
For luxury car rentals across Istanbul, Enterprise offers premium SUV cars from $44 a day (and fullsize SUV from $52), while Alamo Rent A Car and Avec Rent a Car add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Istanbul and Arnavutköy. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Istanbul.
What are the best car rentals in Istanbul for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Istanbul, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Istanbul to Arnavutköy:
  • Enterprise: midsize SUV from $36 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Garenta: compact SUV from $40 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 3 medium suitcases
  • Avec Rent a Car: standard SUV from $40 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 4 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Istanbul.

What are the best car rentals in Istanbul for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Istanbul for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Istanbul and Arnavutköy:
  • Economy 4-5 door, from $21 a day — fits up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact 4-5 door, from $29 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Istanbul.

What are the best car rentals in Istanbul for couples?
The best car rentals in Istanbul for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Istanbul and Arnavutköy:
  • Midsize wagon/estate, from $26 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Economy SUV, from $27 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Istanbul.

What are the best road trip destinations from Istanbul by rental car?
From Istanbul, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and exploration opportunities. Easy drives from the Istanbul hub include:
  • Blue Mosque, approximately 1 mile away
  • Hagia Sophia, approximately 1 mile away
  • Grand Bazaar, approximately 1 mile away
These iconic landmarks are perfect for cultural exploration. You could also time your trip around events like the International Istanbul Book Fair in December, or add activities such as an Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table. With cities like Arnavutköy and Şile also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Istanbul.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Istanbul?
In Istanbul, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities like Istanbul, Arnavutköy, and Şile, and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Istanbul?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Istanbul. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Istanbul?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Istanbul?
Budget car rental in Istanbul can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Istanbul?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Istanbul. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Istanbul car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Istanbul?
To rent a car in Istanbul, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Istanbul car rental?
If you need to cancel your Istanbul car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation