Car hire in Turkey
Whether you like history, archaeology, nature and wildlife or just a relaxing holiday on the fabulous beaches of the Turkish Riviera … Turkey is an incredible holiday destination.
From Ankara or Istanbul, drive inland and explore the stunning regions of Anatolia and Cappadocia with its amazing volcanic landscapes.
Popular car hire locations in Turkey
Plan your trip to Turkey
Europe’s gateway to Asia, continent-straddling Turkey is a land of contrasts. Travellers are mainly familiar with Istanbul and the coastal resorts in the west but this is a huge nation, begging to be explored. Avis rental stations can be found all over Turkey, from where you can collect your hire car and discover this wonderful land.As the seat of the Ottoman empire, which spread out across the Mediterranean to the west and Asia to the east, Turkey was the centre of one of the largest empires the world has known. Lasting over 600 years, the Ottoman influence can be seen throughout large parts of Europe and Asia.
In Istanbul, Turkey’s cultural capital, every turn offers something for the inquisitive traveller to explore. Travellers maintain that despite its numerous museums, the majesty of the Blue Mosque and surfeit of fantastic architecture, Istanbul’s true beauty is down to its inhabitants’ exceptional friendliness and hospitality.
Turkey’s Mediterranean coast reveals spectacular beaches and lively resorts catering for families – like the wonderful, yacht-filled beaches of Antalya on the Turquoise Coast – and for those seeking more adventure … how about parasailing or cliff-diving at Ölüdeniz beach?
Food is a way of life in Turkey and a culinary exploration of Turkey’s varied regional cuisines takes you to the heart of Turkish culture. From Mediterranean mezze in the costal regions to the splendour of Ottoman cuisine in the Marmara region.
Road trips in Turkey
No road trip in Turkey would be complete without a trip from Istanbul across one of the major bridges that span the Bosphorus. It is one of the few places in the world where you can pick up an Avis hire car and drive between continents. This in itself is a great day trip but we also recommend these destinations for your itinerary:İznik
At just over two hours from Istanbul İznik, via the E80 and O-5, is more commonly known as Nicaea. Steeped in history, it is the site of the council of Nicaea, significant in the formation of modern Christianity. Nicaea is an orderly town; take a walk around its impressive walls and stop for refreshments in the town square.
Silivri
An hour’s drive south west, via the O-3 and E80, Silivri is a popular holiday destination for Istanbul residents. Its 45km coastline boasts long beaches, cafes and restaurants. For the active there are numerous sporting and health centres and the opportunity to horse-ride along the golden beach.
Edirne
A two-hour drive west on the O-3 is Edirne. History and architecture dominate: the centrepiece is the Selimiye Mosque designed by the famed architect Mimar Sinan. Edirne sits on the historic road to Istanbul; many ancient Ottoman complexes still hold pride of place here as a result. Head to the Museum of Archaeology to discover the story of the city and the role it has played through history.