Car hire Istanbul airport new

Car rental at Istanbul Airport is an opportunity to get behind the wheel and hit the road immediately after arrival. You won’t need to waste time waiting for a taxi, adjust to public transport schedules, or overpay for a transfer. All you need to do is book a car online in advance, go through a simple rental procedure on-site, and you'll receive the keys to a vehicle that fully meets your needs.

With a car, you can comfortably explore Istanbul’s attractions, such as the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar, and easily reach cozy coastal towns or natural parks outside the metropolis.

Advantages of Renting a Car at Istanbul Airport

Renting a car directly at the airport is a convenient start to your journey. Here's why you should opt for a car rental at Istanbul Airport:

1. Get a car immediately after exiting the terminal — no need to look for a taxi or wait for a transfer. On your way to the hotel, you can also stop for shopping, exchange currency, or make any necessary stops.
2. Choose your vehicle in advance from a vast fleet and add extras like a child seat — everything will be ready upon your arrival.
3. Easily reach historical districts, parks, or neighboring cities at your convenience.
4. Cars are available 24/7 at the airport, even if you arrive at night.
5. Car rental is cost-effective. A full day’s rental often costs less than a one-way airport transfer or a couple of taxi rides in the city.

Having your own vehicle makes your trip across Turkey more flexible and comfortable. Stop wherever you like, change plans on the go, and reach remote locations.

How to Book a Car at Istanbul Airport: Step-by-Step Instructions

The booking process for a car rental at Istanbul Airport takes just a few minutes:

1. Select your dates and filter options by class, brand, price, transmission type, and other criteria.
2. Review the car’s information card, which includes technical specifications, driver requirements, insurance type, and available payment methods.
3. Add desired extras like a child seat, second driver, winter package, or in-car Wi-Fi modem.
4. Choose the appropriate airport as the pick-up location, indicate the pick-up time and flight number. Also specify the return location and time.
5. Enter the primary driver’s details and contact information.
6. Pay a deposit of 15–20% of the total amount — a voucher will be sent to your email.

Upon arrival at the airport, inspect the vehicle: ensure any scratches or damage are noted in the report. Sign the contract and pay the remaining amount.

Note that Istanbul has several airports. You can pick up your car at:

• Sabiha Gökçen Airport;
• the new international airport;
• Atatürk Airport.

Some vehicles can be delivered to any airport, while others are only available at one of the three. During booking, make sure you’ve selected the correct airport for pick-up. The vehicle's information card will indicate whether an additional fee is charged for airport delivery or after-hours service, such as at night.

Documents and Requirements for Car Rental at Istanbul Airport

You’ll need a valid passport and driver’s license to complete the rental process.

Driver age and experience requirements:

• Minimum — 18 years old with 1 year of driving experience (some vehicles available);
• Optimal selection — 21 years old with 2 years of experience;
• No restrictions — 25 years old with at least 5 years of experience.

The deposit is a security hold, either temporarily blocked on your account or paid in cash. Around 25% of cars can be rented without a deposit, and in half the cases, the deposit does not exceed €300. Use the "Deposit Amount" filter to find suitable options during booking. The car’s info card will always indicate the acceptable deposit methods — credit card, debit card, or cash.

What Cars Are Available for Rent at Istanbul Airport

Istanbul airports offer a vast selection of vehicles — from budget hatchbacks and sedans to crossovers and luxury cars:

• For city driving, choose cars like the Fiat Egea or Hyundai i10 — economical and suitable for narrow streets.
• For family trips or traveling with friends, rent a 7–9 seater minivan — spacious for luggage and passengers.
• Comfort lovers will appreciate crossovers from Land Rover or luxury vehicles from BMW, Mercedes, Maserati, Porsche, or Audi.
• For romantic trips, consider renting a convertible.

The main benefit of online booking on Localrent is the ability to select a car in advance based on your needs. Use filters to specify brand, engine type, power, and desired features. Often, only unsuitable models remain in the office, and you must choose from what's available. Online, you book exactly what you need — just pick up the keys upon arrival.

How Much Does Car Rental at Istanbul Airport Cost?

Rental cost depends on car class, rental duration, and optional extras. Picking up a car at the airport does not increase the rental price. For example, a compact car costs from €20–25 per day, while premium-class cars start at €70.

Note that some vehicles include airport delivery in the base price, while others require an extra fee. An additional charge may apply if you pick up the car outside business hours, such as at night. This information is always available in the car's details — check it during booking.

Approximate cost of renting a car in Istanbul:

The prices in the table are approximate. For example, cheap models like the Renault Clio or Fiat Panda can be rented for €35 per day, while premium-class cars such as the Mercedes S 450 or Mercedes G 400 cost €1100–1200 for the same period.

This price includes basic insurance, taxes, and fees. Some rental companies also include extended insurance in the package. Check the details in the car’s info card to see what’s included and which extras can be added for an additional fee.

Renting a car at Istanbul Airport does not require you to return it at the same location. If your trip ends in another city, specify this during booking by selecting the appropriate return location. For example, you can pick up a car in Istanbul, drive along the coast to Antalya or Izmir, and return it at a local rental office or airport.

Where to Pick Up a Rented Car at Istanbul Airport

The pick-up process depends on the rental company, but is always designed for maximum efficiency:

1. Some companies have desks right in the arrivals area — just present your documents at the counter.
2. Others deliver the car to the airport parking lot and provide the exact location where your car is waiting.
3. Some companies use a shuttle service. You’ll be met in the arrivals zone and driven to the nearest office 5–10 minutes from the terminal.

Don't worry about the details: the voucher you receive after booking will contain the manager's contact information. They will reach out before your flight, explain the pick-up process, and answer any questions. Even if it’s your first time in Istanbul, you won’t get lost — everything is designed for your comfort.

Benefits of Renting a Car at Istanbul Airport with Localrent

Localrent offers clear terms, fair prices, and a service valued by frequent travelers. Here's why you should choose Localrent:

1. Transparent prices with no hidden fees — you see the final cost upfront, including insurance, taxes, and fees.
2. Modern fleet — most cars are less than 5 years old. Use filters to select the desired model year.
3. Flexible deposit — choose a car with no deposit or set a maximum deposit amount. You can pay the deposit in cash or by card.
4. Wide selection — from budget hatchbacks to 9-seater minivans and luxury convertibles.
5. No need to return the car to the same location — drop it off in another Turkish city or request hotel delivery.

With Localrent, you focus on experiences, not logistics.

Tips for Those Planning to Rent a Car in Istanbul

During booking, double-check the airport. Istanbul has three: IST (new airport), SAW (Sabiha Gökçen), and ISL (Atatürk). Make sure to select the correct pick-up location.

Choose a vehicle based on your plans:

• For city tours, go for a compact car like Hyundai i20, Renault Clio, or Kia Picanto;
• For coastal and mountain roads, pick a powerful crossover or mid-class car — popular choices include Ford Tourneo Courier, Citroen C4, Toyota Corolla, Peugeot 3008;
• For a large family or group, rent a minivan such as Opel Zafira, Citroen Jumpy, or Mercedes Vito (for 9 passengers), Dacia Lodgy or Jogger (for 7 passengers).

Petrol Ofisi, BP, and Shell gas stations are near IST and SAW airports. They operate 24/7, accept cards, and staff usually speak English. Refill the tank to the level it had upon pick-up before returning the car.

FAQ: Car Rental at Istanbul Airport