Stretching across the continents of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a melting pot of western and eastern influences. The city’s second largest airport is the Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). And with car hire companies in its arrivals hall, it’s your gateway to this uniquely located city.
When you land at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), the smaller of the city’s two international airports, it’s an easy walk to all the car rental desks that are located in the arrivals hall.
The car hire providers here are both local and international brands. Familiar names include:
The car hire rental desks at Istanbul Sabiha International Gokcen Airport are conveniently open 24/7, so whenever you land, you’ll be able to pick up your hire car and get straight on the road. It’s just a short walk from the terminal to the car rental zone where you’ll find your hire car.
To drive in Turkey, you need either a UK driving licence (notarised in Turkish) or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Most rental cars also come fitted with an HGS device for automatic toll payments. Ask your provider how this works.
From the airport, it’s around a 50km (31 miles) drive to the centre of Istanbul, where you can expect narrow streets, heavy traffic and limited street parking. The speed limit in Turkey’s urban areas is 50km/h (approximately 31 mph). On motorways, the limit is 120km/h (approximately 75 mph).
Highlights in the city include Topkapı Palace, İstanbul Archaeology Museums and the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. But remember, with a hire car, you can venture further to explore Turkey’s diverse landscapes, from the Aegean coast to the caves of Cappadocia.
Any additional requirements: A UK driving licence notarised in Turkish or an International Driving Permit (IDP)