With iconic scenery of the Bey Mountains sweeping down to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, Antalya provides a glamorous gateway to Turkey’s gorgeous Turquoise Coast. Beyond the city’s remarkable ancient Roman and Ottoman monuments, renting a car here unlocks doors for chasing waterfalls tucked up pine-forested valleys or discovering windswept ruins overlooking sandy coves at your own pace.
Benefits of Having a Rental Car in Antalya
Driving your own rental vehicle while visiting Antalya gives flexibility beyond walking, buses or contracted day trips:
Seamless Airport Transfer
Avoid hassles of crowded shuttle buses by simply picking up your rental car at the shiny new international terminal to whisk yourself effortlessly door-to-door across sprawling greater Antalya.
Regional Accessibility
A rental car makes all corners of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast readily available for impromptu escapes – from quaint Kalkan village to vibrant coastal Alanya with its castle to steep-cliffed Phaselis ruins.
Freedom of Movement
Cruise along the panoramic D400 highway at your own pace to stop frequently for fresh seafood meals, photography or exploring roadside fruit stands and ruins without dependence upon public transport timetables.
Cost Savings
A rental vehicle shared among a family or group of friends often compares favorably in affordability over accumulating individual taxi, bus or minibus tour fares.
Cargo Capacity
Easily store luggage, beach gear like umbrellas/chairs, photography equipment, restaurant take-away meals and shopping purchases securely in your rental without lugging on public transportation around Antalya.
Where to Rent a Car in Antalya
As an international resort destination and crucial Turkish travel hub, Antalya offers extensive rental car choices:
Antalya Havalimanı (Airport)
Counters from companies like Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, Europcar, Sixt and more operate around the clock in the new eco-friendly terminal building with convenient parking access.
City Centre Outlets
Various rental agencies offer downtown walk-in locations near major attractions like Hadrian’s Gate, Kaleiçi Harbor or luxury shoreline hotels for proximity and shuttle transport flexibility.
Belek & Lara Beach Zones
Additional neighborhood offices positioned in Antalya’s upscale beach resort communities cater smoothly to visitors lodging along the coastal strip west of city center for golf, spa escapes and beach relaxation.
| Area | Sample Locations |
|---|---|
| By Old Town Harbour (Kaleiçi Yacht Marina) | İskele Cd No:1 |
| Along Fener District Coast | Ahmet Yesevi Cd No:6 |
| Near Bus Terminal | İsmet Paşa Cd No:1 |
| Adjoining Beach Hotel Zone | Barbaros Mh. Atatürk Blv. Dayalı Apt. |
Table: Some prime rental car locations across greater Antalya
Driving Tips for Exploring Antalya Region with a Rental
Follow these suggestions for smooth rental car freedom around glorious Antalya province:
Verify International Driving Permit
Carry an IDP alongside your domestic license for legitimacy if questioned by traffic police. Some agencies mandate them under contracts.
Adjust to Variable Road Quality
While main toll roads boast quality on par with Europe, some rural mountain or countryside thoroughfares remain bumpy gravel tracks. Drive appropriately for conditions.
Carry Documentation
Keep rental agreement paperwork, IDPs if carried, copies of passport/visas accessible. Increased license checks occur, especially approaching coastal leisure zones during the summer season.
Embrace Detours
Meandering scenic backroads off the D400 leads to discoveries of ruins, fruit stands and sleepy Turkish mountain villages not featured in guidebooks. Allow extra time for such impromptu stops.
Refuel Carefully
Petrol stations can be sparse in interior mountain areas. Keep your rental car’s tank topped up in case limited options arising along your chosen route.
Frequently Asked Questions about Renting a Car in Antalya
What documents do I need to rent a vehicle?
Expect to provide your valid driver’s license, passport, and credit card at the rental counter. Some agencies accept digital copies stored in apps. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not legally required.
What side do Turkish drivers operate on?
As throughout continental Europe, vehicles in Antalya and across Turkey drive on the right hand side with steering wheel on the left.
What transmission types are available?
Both manual gearshift and automatic transmission rental cars are accessible across all common vehicle categories from economy hatchbacks to luxury sedans and specialty vehicles like passenger vans and SUVs.
Can I drive my rental car to destinations like Alanya, Kemer or Kas?
Yes, you may drive a rented vehicle along Turkey’s Turquoise Coastline or inland region unless expressly prohibited under your particular rental contract. Ask about associated surcharges.
Conclusion
While Antalya city offers walkable old town sightseeing and convenient tram connectivity, having the freedom of your own rental car wheels provides flexibility to chase Turkish horizons at your own pace – from spectacular Termessos ruins to the inviting sunshine of Patara Beach to pine-shrouded Saklıkent Gorge along the way. Booking an optimized rental vehicle sized for your travel party ensures comfort reveling in Antalya’s remarkable scenery. The open Turquoise Coast road awaits!
