Welcome to Istanbul! Renting a car at Istanbul New Airport (IST) is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. This guide will help you navigate the pickup process, costs, and local traffic rules to make your trip as smooth as possible.
Car rental company offices are usually located inside or in the immediate vicinity of the arrival terminals. Most rental counters are located in a central area, with free shuttle services to the different terminals. Signs will help you find the location in the international arrivals area. Major international car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt are generally present at Istanbul New Airport.
The ideal car choice depends on your travel plans. Istanbul and its surroundings offer diverse landscapes, so it’s worth considering your needs. Here are some popular choices:
| Car Class | Daily Price (EUR, approx.) |
| Economy | 20-30 |
| Compact | 25-40 |
| Mid-size | 35-50 |
| SUV | 50-80 |
| Luxury | 80+ |
Prices vary seasonally and depending on availability.
Most car rental companies require you to be at least 21 years old to drive, but certain car classes may have a higher age limit. An international driving permit is usually required if your driving license was not issued in an EU member state. You will need a credit card to pay the security deposit when picking up the car. The deposit amount depends on the car and the rental company, but is usually several hundred euros. It is advisable to clarify the payment methods, as not all places accept debit cards.
The insurance options offered when picking up your car can often be confusing. Mandatory liability insurance is usually included in the price, but it is worth considering additional insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car in the event of a collision, Theft Protection covers damage caused by theft or burglary. Excess Reduction reduces the deductible you have to pay in the event of an accident. Ask at the counter exactly what damages the insurance covers and what the excess amount is.
Traffic in Turkey can be heavy, especially in Istanbul. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in the city, 90 km/h on country roads and 120 km/h on highways. Tolls are often charged on highways, which can be paid in cash or with an HGS (Hızlı Geçiş Sistemi) sticker. Parking in Istanbul can be challenging, so it is advisable to choose parking garages or guarded parking lots. The local driving style can be somewhat aggressive, so be extra careful.
If your driving license was not issued in an EU member state, an international driving permit is usually required.
Most rental companies accept credit cards, but debit cards are not accepted everywhere.
CDW covers damage to the car in the event of a collision.
The deductible is the amount you have to pay in the event of an accident, even if you have CDW insurance.
In cash or with an HGS (Hızlı Geçiş Sistemi) sticker.
Inside or near the arrival terminals, accessible by free shuttle services.
This depends on your travel plans and risk tolerance. It is worth considering CDW and Theft Protection.
Most rental companies require 21 years, but certain car classes may have a higher age limit.
Driving license, identification and credit card.
Parking can be difficult, so it is advisable to choose parking garages or guarded parking lots.
Traffic is heavy and the driving style can be somewhat aggressive, so be extra careful.