How to find a cheap car hire deal in Istanbul
In search of a cheap rental car in Istanbul? With prices averaging R 2,592 a day, you're headed for some big savings. Whether you're after an economy ride, a spacious SUV, or anything in between, we round up all the best deals to get you more for your money.
Cruise off with savings by reserving your wheels in December. With average daily rates of R 461, it's the cheapest month to rent a car in Istanbul.
If you want to time it right, book around two weeks ahead to land a cheap rental car in Istanbul.
Check out car hire deals in Istanbul from some of the top providers like Hit, Essence and Eren Rent a Car.
Whether you choose Hit or a different supplier, make sure you understand the coverage on your Istanbul car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid add-on.
Booking a one-way car hire is often a great hack for cheaper deals. Simply check 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for rent in Istanbul. Providers sometimes need to move vehicles between branches, which means you can score some fantastic one-way prices.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Istanbul with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. You'll also skip the costly refueling charges rental agencies tack on.
Go wherever the road takes you by looking for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can go as far as you want without paying more.
A city pickup isn't your only rental choice. If you're planning to fly into Istanbul, check out the range of car rentals in Istanbul Ataturk Airport. You'll also find car rentals in Sabiha Gokcen International Airport.
Compare car hire types in Istanbul
Small: These cheap rental cars in Istanbul may be small in size, but they pack a big punch. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're nimble, great on mileage, and perfect for city driving or short trips.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine comfort, space and fuel efficiency. Easy to handle in traffic and roomy enough for longer drives, they're well-suited to most travel needs.
Large: You've got the kids, the bags, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the space to fit it all in without a hassle. Ideal for longer drives, this Istanbul car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: Enjoy a higher driving position and a commanding view of the journey ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged backcountry or cruising along uninterrupted highways, many come with all-wheel drive to keep you steady on any road.
Van: If you're looking for a car for rent in Istanbul big enough for a small crowd (and all their stuff), a van will do the job. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid pick for group travel, moving or business use.
Insurance and optional extras
Adding excess insurance to your Istanbul car hire gives you peace of mind. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of damage or theft. Insurance policies can vary between rental providers, so always compare your options.
Level up your ride with extras like a navigation system or mobile Wi-Fi. They can make your journey easier and more relaxed when you rent a car in Istanbul.
Good to know
Rental age requirements aren't the same everywhere. Companies can set their own policies, and if you're a younger driver, you could be hit with extra charges or rules. Check the terms set by each supplier before booking your car hire in Türkiye (Turkey).
If you're bringing the kids along, check if you need to add a car seat to your Istanbul car hire reservation. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to ride.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Istanbul
Line up a car hire deal in Istanbul and then get ready to explore the city's top attractions, like Hagia Sophia Museum and Hagia Sophia History Museum. Whether you drive or get there another way, you'll want to tick off these highlights before you take off.
Make yourself at home in Istanbul by staying at Aruna Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mount Ararat.
Bursa should be on your to-do list if you want to see Old Bursa Historic Houses and Archeological Museum. This city is about 88 kilometres south of central Istanbul.
Almira Hotel Thermal Spa & Convention Centre and Hilton Bursa Convention Centre & Spa are among the most popular accommodation options in Bursa.
Or pick up your cheap car hire in Istanbul and then head out to Gebze. Roughly 48 kilometres south-east of Istanbul, Süleymaniye Camii and Osman Hamdi Bey Museum are standout attractions that make the drive worthwhile.
Hyatt House Gebze and Hotel Libiza are comfortable places to stay in Gebze if you've got more than a quick stop in mind.
Not done driving yet? Balikesir is another fun destination that's about 177 kilometres south-west of Istanbul. Consider making a few pit stops at Sakarya Cami and 15 Temmuz Şehitler Parkı.
Look for a room at Asya Hotel or Elit Asya Hotel. Make one your base for exploring everything Balikesir has to offer.
