An important commercial centre of Turkey, Izmir is a beautiful and lively city that charms visitors with its historical wonders that stand side-by-side modern day bazaars and broad boulevards, glimpsing the past and present simultaneously. The ancient Agora, Kordon Promenade and Konak Meydani are some of the most popular points of interest in the city, and to visit these spots and others, it's a wise idea to rent a car in Izmir for flexibility and convenience.
Rent a car in Izmir: the most important rental sites
Cheap car hire is available from many locations, and is a good idea for anyone planning to explore the sights of the city and beyond. You can rent a car in Izmir from the following sites.
Rental Site | Address | Main Opening Times* |
Izmir Airport | Dokuz Eylül Mh., 35425 Gaziemir/Izmir, Turkey | 12:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. |
City Office | Kültür, 1375. Sk. Sevil Apt No:6, 35220 Konak/Ä°zmir, Turkey | 09:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m. |
*The opening times may differ and vary depending on the rental site. More information can be found in the listing details. Pickups and returns are possible outside of the opening times through some of the car rental sites. Additional charges may be applicable.
Izmir: Rent a car and explore its sights
Agora: The ancient Agora sight was originally built in honour of Alexander the Great, but was destroyed in 178 AD by an earthquake. What is still standing is a version rebuilt by the Romans in the second century. Today, the Agora is an insight into how an ancient bazaar used to look, with its arches, chambers and colonnades.
The Kordon: The Kordon is Izmir’s famous seafront promenade, lined with a great selection of restaurants and bars, ideal for appreciating beautiful sunsets at the same time as a delicious meal. Visitors can park nearby in order to take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage along the promenade.
The Kemerali Market: A trip to Izmir is not complete without stopping at the Kemeraltı Market, which is the go-to for jewellery, clothing and leather goods, among other crafts and housewares. Besides the shopping, the market's quaint cafes are perfect for sampling your first baklava or Turkish coffee. The Hisar Camii, a 16th century mosque which also happens to be the city’s largest, is located right inside the market.
The Kadifekale: This 4th century castle is located on a hill of the same name, just outside the city. The so-called Velvet Castle not only allows you to inspect the ancient fortifications up close, but offers visitors a magnificent view of Izmir, which makes it more than worthwhile.
Pamukkale: Visit Izmir, rent a car and take a road trip west through the Turkish countryside to the incredible petrified lime cascades of Pamukkale. Submerge yourself in the thermal springs and admire this truly breathtaking natural wonder. The site is easily reachable from Izmir by rental car, thanks to a well maintained road system. The journey should take around three hours to get there.
Getting around Izmir
When you rent a car in Izmir, be aware that driving here is easy, if occasionally a bit chaotic. Don’t expect everyone on the road to follow traffic rules all the time, so do be sure to keep your focus as you drive. You will find a lot of honking and a degree of impatience, but this is common in Turkey, and you will soon get used to it. Street parking is available in Izmir but always check that you're parking in the correct place to avoid a ticket. Be sure to read the posted signs before you park your car. It can be easier to keep your car in one of the parking lots in the city.
If you plan on driving on toll roads in Turkey, you will need to purchase a prepaid toll pass (known as a HGS), which can be purchased from many banks and post offices. When you arrive in Izmir, ask your car rental provider about the HGS pass if you're planning on getting out town.
