Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at Sabiha Gokcen Intl. Airport, Istanbul

Reasons to book a car hire at Istanbul International Airport

Renting a car at Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) is a practical choice for tourists eager to explore Istanbul and its surroundings. With a rental car, you gain the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace, making it easier to manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans. This option is particularly appealing for families, business travellers, and those seeking a more secluded experience.

From the airport, you can conveniently reach key sites such as the Bosphorus Bridge, located 28 km away, and Bağdat Avenue, just 21 km from the airport, both offering unique experiences for visitors. For sports enthusiasts, Istanbul Park is only 10 km away, providing an adventurous outing. Additionally, you can easily navigate to nearby neighbourhoods like Kurtkoy and Tuzla, which are 2 km and 4 km away, respectively, where you can find more attractions like Istanbul Park and Gebze Center. Overall, a rental car enhances your ability to explore the rich culture and diverse offerings of Istanbul and its surrounding areas, making your trip more enjoyable and convenient.

Most popular car hires near Istanbul Airport

• Compact SUV: This popular choice accommodates 5 travellers comfortably and offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. It’s perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking to explore the surroundings of Istanbul airport at their own pace. With a compact SUV, you can manage your luggage easily while enjoying the flexibility of your travel plans.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, this vehicle accommodates 5 travellers and provides ample room for up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV is an excellent option for those who need extra space for their belongings, making it a practical choice for longer trips or when travelling with more luggage. Experience the comfort and versatility as you navigate the area around Istanbul airport.
• Mini: Perfect for solo travellers or couples, the mini car accommodates up to 4 passengers and can hold up to 2 small suitcases. This option is great for those looking for a cost-effective and compact vehicle that allows for easy manoeuvrability in urban settings. Renting a mini car gives you the freedom to explore while keeping your travel plans flexible without the hassle of larger vehicles.

Top rated car suppliers near Istanbul International Airport

• Europcar: Europcar is a top choice for many travellers seeking car hire at Istanbul Airport, with a convenient rental location situated less than 1 km away. This supplier is particularly popular for its Compact and Economy vehicles, allowing you to navigate Istanbul and its surroundings comfortably and efficiently. With a focus on customer satisfaction and a straightforward booking process, Europcar provides a reliable option for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget is another highly regarded supplier at Istanbul Airport, with its rental location also located less than 1 km from the terminal. Known for offering competitive rates, Budget's most popular vehicles include Economy and Compact models, making it easy to find a suitable option for your travel needs. This supplier is favoured by many for its hassle-free service, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey in and around Istanbul.

Where to stay near Istanbul International Airport

• Cayirova: Located 10 km from Istanbul (SAW-Sabiha Gokcen Intl.), Cayirova is ideal for a city-themed or family experience. This vibrant area features the Gebze Center, a popular shopping destination, and historic sites like Eskihisar Castle, which offers a touch of romance and culture. With numerous shopping centres and local dining options, Cayirova provides a comfortable stay close to the bustling metropolis while allowing for exploration of its charming neighbourhoods.
• Gebze: Situated 16 km from Istanbul, Gebze is a thriving city perfect for business and family travellers. The area is home to the Gebze Center, a hub for shopping and entertainment. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting Eskihisar Castle, a historic site that adds a romantic flair to the experience. With its array of restaurants and pubs, Gebze ensures a convenient and enjoyable stay near the airport while remaining close to various attractions.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car hire near Istanbul

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car with extra luggage capacity, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to secure your SAW car hire as early as possible to benefit from lower rates and a broader selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead of your trip is optimal, particularly before peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to confirming your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies necessitate a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you sidestep unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to include car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Istanbul Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Istanbul Airport is March, when prices are slightly low and demand remains average. Following closely, February also offers reasonable rates with similar demand levels. As spring approaches, April experiences higher demand and average prices, making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters. The summer months of July and August see a spike in both demand and prices, which can make car hires considerably more expensive during this busy season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low