Rental car desks at Istanbul Airport (IST) are Car rental desks are located in the arrivals hall on the ground floor of the main terminal, past customs and baggage reclaim. The rental car park is in the multi-storey car park accessible via elevators near the rental counters.. Major companies include Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Sixt. The fastest transfer to Istanbul is by Havaist Bus (60-90 minutes).
Car rental desks are located in the arrivals hall on the ground floor of the main terminal, past customs and baggage reclaim. The rental car park is in the multi-storey car park accessible via elevators near the rental counters.
Book your rental car at IST at least 2-3 weeks ahead for the best prices, especially during summer.
Compare prices from all companies at IST to find the best deal:
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| Transport | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Havaist Bus | 60-90 minutes | TRY 140 (EUR 4) | Express buses to Taksim, Sultanahmet, Kadikoy, and other hubs; runs 24/7 |
| Metro (M11) | 50 minutes | TRY 20 (EUR 0.60) | Connects to Kagithane and the wider Istanbul metro network |
| Taxi | 45-90 minutes | TRY 500-800 (EUR 14-22) | Metered fare; journey time depends heavily on Istanbul's legendary traffic |
| Private Transfer | 50-80 minutes | EUR 30-50 | Pre-booked; fixed price regardless of traffic delays |
Istanbul Airport (IST) opened in 2019 as one of the largest airports in the world, replacing the beloved but cramped Ataturk Airport. Located on the European side of Istanbul near the Black Sea coast, it is the main hub for Turkish Airlines and handles over 64 million passengers per year.
Renting a car at Istanbul Airport is a good choice if you plan to explore Turkey's western regions — the ancient ruins of Troy and Ephesus, the Gallipoli Peninsula, the Aegean coast, and the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. The Turkish motorway network has expanded significantly, making long-distance drives increasingly comfortable.
However, driving in Istanbul itself is not recommended. The city's traffic congestion is among the worst in the world, parking is difficult, and the public transport network (metro, ferry, bus) is extensive and affordable. Pick up your car when you are ready to leave Istanbul, or use it solely for trips beyond the city.
Turkish motorways are modern and well-maintained. Rural roads can be narrow, and driving standards vary. Exercise caution with overtaking and be prepared for livestock on rural roads.
Turkish motorways use electronic tolling (HGS/OGS). Rental cars should come equipped with an HGS device. Verify at pick-up and ask how charges are billed.
Yes, two suspension bridges and the Eurasia Tunnel connect the European and Asian sides. Tolls are charged electronically via HGS.
Approximately 730 km (8-9 hours by car). The route via Ankara on the O-4/O-21 motorways is mostly dual carriageway.
Turkey officially requires an IDP for non-Turkish licences. In practice, EU licences are usually accepted, but an IDP is recommended for non-EU visitors.
Country-by-country driving requirements, packing list, and emergency contacts — all in one PDF.
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