Cheap Car Rental in Istanbul

Car rental in Istanbul – A Medley of Culture

Spanning two continents, Istanbul is the crossing point of the east and the west. Admittedly the vast majority of the city lies in Asia, but a small corner does place its feet firmly on European soil. The Bosporus Strait partly separates the two sides, and it is spanned by a bridge which displays the plaque of the border between the two sides. The city contains a heady mix of cultures, from the street sellers peddling their carpets through to the solemn beauty of the mosques. All of this combines to create an atmosphere like no other.

What to See in Istanbul

With so much history, it is hard to pinpoint the top ten let alone the top five top attractions to visit. Perhaps the Blue Mosque would top that list. Iconic and grand, this mosque has six minarets, was built in 1616, and contains the architect’s tomb inside. Remember that this is still a functioning mosque so dress accordingly and check the opening times. Nearby is the iconic Hagia Sophia. Now a museum, this Byzantine structure is unique in that two religions, both Christian and Muslim have worshipped within its walls. Covered in glittering Biblical scenes, this church and mosque stands testament to another more congenial time.

Heading underground is the Basilica Cistern – a large Roman-built water source that comes complete with 336 marble columns. This impressive structure still stands tall today and is something not to be missed.

Topkapi Palace rounds off this list. Decadent and enormous, this building harkens back to the Ottoman era a mere 400 years ago. Within its walls are numerous Ottoman treasures and artifacts, including the famed Topkapi dagger, made famous by the movie of the same name.

How to Save On Car Rental

Car rental prices in Istanbul do come in a variety of different options, which depend on the time of year, pickup point, vehicle make, and the length of the rental period. Car prices can range from as little as $12 per day for a small vehicle all the way through to $45 per day for a larger model. At this time there are a number of excellent deals available and some of these are outlined below.

• Renault Clio or similar (economy class) – $18/day
• Renault Symbol or similar (compact class) – $19/day
• Hyundai I10 or similar (mini class) – $20/day
• Ford Focus or similar (intermediate class) – $22/day
• Fiat Linea or similar (standard class) – $24/day

The above prices all reflect car rental for a week-long period. The prices will also vary slightly depending on the dates that are selected. In order to give a more accurate representation of the prices when you are planning to travel, simply use the search function at the top of the page.

Finding Budget Car Hire

Istanbul is normally the main entry point for visitors to Turkey and, as such, sees a rather high influx of visitors. Particularly in the high summer seasons, it can be very important to book a vehicle in advance in order to ensure its availability. The city offers numerous pickup locations throughout the city, though an airport pickup is easily the most convenient. Check out the other areas though, as prices vary between locations with Ataturk Airport offering $12 per day, Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport $11 per day, and other areas such as the Istanbul Asian side offering prices of $24 per day. An added bonus on ways to save is by simply returning the car to the same point that you picked it up.

As previously mentioned, being organized is key. Vehicles booked just one week in advance are prone to higher costs such as $16 per day whilst the organized traveler, booking two to three months early, will get a better deal, at closer to $12 per day. A final tip on getting a budget car rental is by taking a smaller vehicle. For a lower car class, not only is rental cheaper but the cost of the fuel too, creating an overall saving.

Rules of The Road and Rental Requirements

1. Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt.
2. The correct driver’s license and motor insurance must be with you at all times.
3. City speed limits are 30 miles per hour with motorways set at 75 miles per hour.
4. Drivers must be at least 18 years old with a minimum age of 21 if renting a car.
5. Driving is on the right side of the road.
6. Using a mobile phone whilst driving is illegal.
7. Certain areas are restricted for parking, but parking areas are clearly marked.
8. Though drivers can be seen driving through red lights, this is illegal.

Other Information about Turkey

• On the spot fines are common, so make sure to have cash at all times otherwise police will take you to a cash point.
• Women should be dressed respectfully with their shoulders and knees covered, particularly when entering a mosque.
• Most nationalities will require a visa to enter Turkey so make sure you follow the correct procedures before arrival. Check current rules, as visa requirements can be subject to change.