Car rental in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city where eras intertwine and landmarks are spread across two continents. Car rental in Istanbul makes it easy to combine visits to the historical sites of Sultanahmet, the business districts of Levent, and the authentic neighborhoods of Kadıköy in a single trip.

Having your own transport is especially convenient for those planning to see not only central Istanbul but also its picturesque surroundings: the Bosphorus Strait, the Yalova region, or the Black Sea coast.

Renting a car saves time and provides access to locations that are hard to reach by public transport. Good roads, clear navigation, and a well-developed road infrastructure make driving comfortable even for those who have never driven in a foreign country.

Advantages of Renting a Car with Localrent

There are hundreds of rental companies in Istanbul. Don’t waste time searching for the best place to rent a car. Here’s why you should choose Localrent for your car rental in Istanbul:

1. Fixed booking cost. Upon receiving the car, you’ll pay exactly the amount stated in the voucher, with no hidden fees or taxes.
2. Low deposits, averaging from €300. Some cars can be rented with no deposit.
3. Small prepayment. Car booking is available with a minimal advance payment — 15–20%.
4. Convenient car selection. Use filters by insurance type, transmission, deposit size, and other criteria.
5. 24/7 assistance — support is available until the end of your rental period.

Localrent takes care of all formalities — you just have to enjoy the views of Istanbul from behind the wheel.

Requirements for Renting a Car in Istanbul

Each car has its own driver requirements — they are specified on the car’s page. To rent a car in Istanbul, the driver must be over 19 years old and have at least 1 year of driving experience; however, the selection will be limited. A wider range of vehicles is available to drivers aged 23+ with 3 years of experience. Some cars require the driver to be over 25 with at least 5 years of experience.

To rent a car, you’ll need a passport and a valid driver’s license. An international driver’s license is not required, but you can only drive with a national license for six months from the date of entry. If you stay in Turkey longer, you’ll need an IDP.

Driving in Istanbul

To feel confident behind the wheel in Istanbul, consider local nuances — here are some tips to make your trip easier:

• If you’re heading into historical districts like Beyoğlu, Eminönü, or Balat, watch for the “Tek Yön” sign — one-way traffic. It may be partially obscured by trees.
• In areas with narrow roads, stay to the right, even on one-way streets — motorcycles or taxis often use the left side, ignoring road markings.
• Before sharp turns, pedestrian crossings, or schools, you'll see “Yavaş” signs — slow down when you see them.
• On major interchanges, such as near the Avrasya Tunnel or the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, follow signs with district names — like Taksim or Sultanahmet — rather than compass directions.
• Use the “Sola Dönüş” lane for left turns in Istanbul.

In residential and historical areas, road markings are often worn off — follow general traffic rules. Yellow lines at curbs prohibit stopping and parking; violations may lead to your car being towed. Blue lines indicate paid parking with a time limit, usually up to 2 hours.

Gas Stations in Istanbul

Gas stations in Istanbul are often full-service zones. Most have mini-markets with drinks, snacks, Turkish coffee, and restrooms. Full-service refueling is common — attendants pump the gas, check tire pressure, clean the windows, and tipping 30–50 lira is customary.

Fuel types available at Istanbul gas stations:

• Gasoline — benzin
• Diesel — motorin
• Gas — LPG, otogaz

Check the labels at pumps: “Kurşunsuz 95” — unleaded 95 or “Dizel” — diesel. You may also find FuelSave — a gasoline with additives marketed as more efficient, often at Shell stations, and V-Power — premium fuel.

For rental cars, use the fuel type specified in your contract. Most often, it’s Kurşunsuz 95.

Parking in Istanbul

Parking in Istanbul is one of the most challenging aspects of driving due to heavy traffic and limited space. Main parking types include:

• Paid municipal parking (otopark) — marked with blue-white signs. Some central lots have time limits, usually up to 2 hours. Pay via parking meters or in cash to the attendant.
• Residential zones — parking for local residents marked with license plate lines.
• Shopping malls and hotels usually offer free parking for guests. Malls may require a purchase for free parking.
• Underground parking — available in central areas like Taksim Square, Galata Bridge, and near attractions like Sultanahmet and the Blue Mosque. Best for long-term parking.

In central historical areas, it's better to leave the car in a paid lot and walk. When parking, make sure you’re not violating any rules:

• Yellow curb lines — no parking
• Signs like “Park Yapılmaz” or “Durma” — no stopping or parking
• Areas near mosques, markets, and narrow streets in Sultanahmet — high risk of towing

One unique feature of Istanbul — unofficial parking attendants demanding money for parking and “watching” your car. They are not employed by parking facilities — they have no right to charge you and offer no safety guarantees. Even if you pay them, your car may still be towed. Park only in official lots marked with blue-white “Otopark” signs or underground garages. If in doubt, check if there’s a meter or ticket booth nearby.

How to Book a Car in Istanbul: Step-by-Step

To begin searching for a car, enter your rental dates. Use filters to choose the vehicle class, transmission type, payment method, and more. Then:

1. Click on a car you like to open its page. Here, you’ll find the vehicle's specifications, driver requirements, insurance terms, and the option to add extras. The full rental cost and payment methods are also listed.
2. Click “Continue,” choose the exact pick-up/drop-off time and location. Fill in the driver’s information and contact details. Make a prepayment to confirm your booking.
3. After payment, a voucher with booking details will be sent to your email. You can print it or save it on your phone — you’ll need it to pick up the car.

At the agreed time and place, sign the contract, pay the remaining amount, and receive your car keys.

What to See in Istanbul by Rental Car

Go beyond the tourist center — with a rental car you can easily reach scenic spots:

1. Belgrad Forest — located 25 km from the center. A nature reserve with lakes, hiking trails, and picnic zones. Ideal for a break from the city. Roads are paved, parking is available at the entrance.
2. Rumeli Fortress — on the European shore of the Bosphorus. A 15th-century Ottoman fortress with panoramic views of the strait.
3. Anadolukavağı — a small village 40 km from Istanbul, near the Bosphorus and Black Sea junction. Climb to the Yoros Fortress ruins for a scenic view. The village has local-style seafood restaurants.
4. Yalova Thermal Springs — 50 km from the city, surrounded by forests, with modern spa complexes and natural hot springs. Some have hotels for overnight stays; others are day-use facilities.
5. Sarıyer and Büyükdere Bay — a district 30 km from central Istanbul. Walk along the promenade and dine at a Bosphorus-view restaurant. Emirgan Park with tulip fields is recommended.

All locations are accessible by paved roads. Avoid rush hours — traffic leaving Istanbul can be especially heavy.

Where to Pick Up a Rental Car in Istanbul

You can choose a convenient option: pick up the car at the airport, have it delivered to your hotel, or collect it from the rental company’s office. Each car has its own list of available locations — all or some of these options may be offered.

Tips for Renting a Car in Istanbul

Car rental in Istanbul offers comfortable travel, but there are local specifics to consider. Here are a few recommendations to avoid surprises:

1. If you’re not planning to leave the city — opt for a compact car. In older neighborhoods like Balat or Fener, streets are so narrow that crossovers or large city sedans might struggle to pass parked vehicles.
2. Ask the rental agent about the HGS transponder — if you plan to cross the Bosphorus via bridges or the Avrasya Tunnel, it’s the most convenient way to pay tolls.

By following these tips, you’ll not only save time and money but also enjoy your Istanbul road trip to the fullest.

FAQ About Car Rental in Istanbul