Not at all, because driving in Turkey is essentially similar to driving at home, as the traffic rules are largely the same. The main difference is that these rules are often less strictly observed in Turkey. This can make driving a bit of an adventure. But don’t worry, it’s usually not as bad as it initially seems. Once you get used to the Turkish mentality on the road, you’ll find that everything runs smoothly.

To put all concerns to rest, we’ve created a guide for those who want to rent a car in Turkey.

 
Renting a car in Turkey offers numerous advantages that will make your trip more enjoyable and flexible. With a rental car, you are independent of the fixed schedules of public transport and can adjust your route spontaneously to discover hidden treasures and lesser-known places. Enjoy the comfort and freedom that only a rental car can provide, and make your trip to Turkey an unforgettable experience. Let us help you maximize your mobility and implement your travel plans with ease and style. To save you stress and time when renting and using the vehicle, we would like to give you the following tips.

Traffic Rules and Right-of-Way in Turkey

In Turkey, there are sometimes no clear rules for certain situations, or they are not always observed. Therefore, you should forget all right-of-way rules and not drive off immediately when the light turns green. Watch for cross traffic and give way to drivers running red lights to avoid accidents.

The Importance of the Horn in Turkey

The horn plays an important role in Turkey. While honking is often seen as an insult in Germany, in Turkey it is mostly used to draw attention to oneself. Honking is even required when overtaking. It is also advisable to honk in curves to warn oncoming vehicles.

Behavior Towards Trucks and Animals on the Roads in Turkey

Trucks are often overloaded and drive very slowly. Only overtake them on straight, clear stretches to avoid danger. In rural areas, donkeys, goats, or other animals can block the roadway. Do not honk as the animals are often unimpressed. Move forward carefully and slowly to ensure that no animal is injured.

Defensive Driving in Turkey

With defensive driving, you should not have major problems in Turkey. Drive with the motto "Nothing is impossible", watch out for potholes, suddenly appearing children or animals, and be especially careful at construction sites, which are not always well secured.

Night Driving and Lighting in Turkey

At night, you should be particularly careful as there is no "light duty" in Turkey. Many vehicles drive without lighting, which is especially dangerous on rural roads. Therefore, always drive in a way that allows you to brake at any time.

Parking in Turkey

You can park almost anywhere unless it is expressly forbidden. The traffic signs are international and easy to understand. Do not park in no stopping or no parking zones, as the police react quickly and your vehicle could be towed or fitted with a parking claw.

Speed Limits and Safety Regulations in Turkey

In towns, you can drive 50 km/h, outside built-up areas 90 km/h, and on highways, the speed limit is 120 km/h. Seat belts are mandatory, but you do not need to carry a warning vest. The allowed blood alcohol limit must not exceed 0.5 per mille.

Accident Behavior and Fines in Turkey

Accident sites must be secured with a warning triangle, which is placed visibly before and after the accident. Fines are moderate: For a speeding violation of 20 km/h, you pay about 70 euros, for illegal parking around 40 euros. If your vehicle is towed, the costs are higher, so it is smarter to park only in permitted zones.

Winter Equipment on Turkish Roads

Although Turkey is known as a holiday destination, winter equipment is required in the winter months. Higher regions can have alpine conditions. Carry snow chains and ensure that your coolant withstands low temperatures.

Also, in Turkey, you basically drive the same way as on our roads, although the Turks prefer a slightly more spirited driving style and are less tense behind the wheel. Fender benders are no more common than in other vacation countries. You are relatively safe and can take your rental car on the road without any problems. Enjoy your drive in Turkey and always stay alert and flexible.

And here is an overview of the most important terms and their meanings to consider when renting a car.

Important Terms and Their Meanings

- Rental car: A vehicle rented for a specific period.
- One-way rental: The option to return the vehicle to a different location than where it was picked up.
- Comprehensive insurance: Insurance that covers damage to the rental vehicle.
- Unlimited mileage: A rental option with no mileage limit.
- Additional driver: A person allowed to drive the vehicle in addition to the primary renter.
- Deposit: An amount held as security and refunded upon return of the vehicle.
- Fuel policy: The terms under which the vehicle must be returned with fuel (e.g., full/full, full/empty).
- GPS navigation: A navigation system often offered as an additional option.
- Child seat: A safety accessory for children that can be rented.
- Pickup location: The place where the vehicle is picked up, e.g., at the airport or in the city.

Popular Vacation Destinations in Turkey and Their Car Rental Options

- Car rental in Alanya

 -  Alanya : Known for long sandy beaches and historical sights such as Alanya Castle.
 -  Car rental in Alanya : Numerous providers in the city and at Gazipaşa Airport.
 -  Key places: Cleopatra Beach, Damlataş Cave, Red Tower.

- Car rental in Side

 
 -  Side: An ancient city with well-preserved ruins and beautiful beaches.
 -  Car rental in Side : Available in the city and surrounding resorts.
 -  Key places: Temple of Apollo, ancient theater, Side Museum.

- Car rental in Belek

 -  Belek: Popular with golfers, offering luxurious resorts and beautiful beaches.
 -  Car rental in Belek : Many resorts and nearby Antalya Airport offer rental cars.
 -  Key places: Golf courses, Aspendos Theater, Kursunlu Waterfall.

- Car rental in Antalya

 
 -  Antalya : One of the largest cities on the Turkish Riviera, known for its old town and beaches.
 -  Car rental in Antalya: Numerous providers at Antalya Airport and in the city.
 -  Key places: Kaleiçi (old town), Hadrian's Gate, Düden Waterfalls.

- Car rental in Kemer

 
 -  Kemer: A popular seaside resort with a lively marina and beautiful beaches.
 -  Car rental in Kemer: Many providers in the city and surrounding hotels.
 -  Key places: Moonlight Park, Phaselis ruins, Tahtali Mountain.

- Car rental in Fethiye

 
 -  Fethiye : Known for turquoise bays and the famous Butterfly Valley.
 -  Car rental in Fethiye: Available in the city and at Dalaman Airport.
 -  Key places: Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, Kayaköy (ghost town).

- Car rental in Marmaris

 -  Marmaris : A lively resort town with a beautiful coastline and vibrant nightlife.
 -  Car rental in Marmaris: Numerous providers in the city and at the harbor.
 -  Key places: Marmaris Marina, Marmaris Castle, Icmeler Beach.

- Car rental in Bodrum

 -  Bodrum : Known for historical sites and vibrant nightlife.
 -  Car rental in Bodrum: Many providers at Bodrum-Milas Airport and in the city.
 -  Key places: Bodrum Castle, Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Bodrum Marina.

- Car rental in Kuşadası

 
 -  Kuşadası : Popular cruise port and starting point for visits to the ancient city of Ephesus.
 -  Car rental in Kuşadası: Numerous providers in the city and at the harbor.
 -  Key places: Ephesus, Ladies Beach, Güvercinada.

- Car rental in Istanbul

 -  Istanbul: A city full of history and culture, spanning two continents.
 -  Car rental in Istanbul: Many providers at Istanbul and Sabiha Gökçen Airports as well as in the city.
 -  Key places: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Bosphorus.

Tips and Important Points for Car Rental in Turkey

-  Book Early: Reserve your rental car in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
-  Check Insurance Options: Inform yourself about the different insurance options and choose the one that best suits your needs.
-  Inspect Vehicle Condition: Check the vehicle for damages upon pickup and report them immediately.
-  Observe Fuel Policy: Pay attention to the fuel policy and follow it to avoid additional charges.
-  Understand Additional Costs: Be aware of possible additional costs, such as for additional drivers, GPS navigation, or child seats.

Nevertheless, car rental in Turkey is a practical solution for travelers seeking flexibility and independence on vacation. With the right information and a bit of planning, you can make the most of your rental car and explore Turkey's diverse destinations comfortably and stress-free. Whether you want to discover the beaches of Alanya, the Biodrum by Light, the old town of Antalya, the historical sites of Istanbul, or the picturesque bays of Fethiye – a rental car offers you the freedom to design your trip according to your own preferences.

We wish you a safe and pleasant drive with your rental car!