Antalya Airport Car Hire Guide 2026: Turkish Riviera Driving Tips

Antalya Airport (AYT) is Turkey's second-busiest airport and the primary entry point for the "Turkish Riviera" — the coastal stretch from Alanya to Kas that draws 15 million visitors a year. The car rental market here is different from Europe: cheaper, more chaotic, and with a few local quirks that catch first-time visitors. This guide covers everything you need to know about antalya airport car hire before you book.

This guide covers the airport pickup experience, which suppliers to trust, and what to expect on Turkish roads.

Antalya Airport rental setup

Antalya has two terminals — Terminal 1 (international) and Terminal 2 (domestic). Both have rental desks in the arrivals halls. If you land at Terminal 2 and your supplier is only in Terminal 1, it is a 5-minute walk through a covered walkway.

The desks are modern and efficient outside peak hours. But in July and August, when Russian, German, and British tourist flights stack up, the queue can stretch 20 minutes for a pre-booked car and 45+ minutes for a walk-up.

Review note: A traveller arriving at 02:00 reported: "Flight was delayed, landed at 2 am. Avis desk was still open — they knew about the delay. Paperwork in 10 minutes, car in the lot ready. Impressed with the night service."

Which suppliers to book at Antalya

Garenta is a Turkish brand worth knowing. Their fleet is modern, their prices are 20–30% below Hertz, and their English-speaking staff at Antalya is reliably good. Reviewers frequently mention them as the "sleeper hit" of Turkish car hire.

Car class: anything works

Antalya's main roads are dual carriageways or modern motorways. Even mountain roads to places like Termessos or Olympos are paved and well-maintained. You do not need an SUV. A compact car handles everything.

Turkish driving: what surprises Europeans

Turkey drives on the right. Roads are generally excellent. But there are local habits that take getting used to:

• Overtaking — aggressive and common. Expect to be overtaken on both sides on the D400.
• Roundabouts — rare. Most junctions are traffic lights or give-way.
• Honking — normal. Short beeps mean "I am here," not "angry."
• Pedestrians — cross anywhere, anytime. Drive defensively in town.
• Speed limits — 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on main roads, 120 km/h on motorways. Cameras are everywhere.
• Tolls — Turkey uses HGS (Highway Geçiş Sistemi) — an automatic toll system. Most rental cars have a transponder. The rental company charges you afterwards.

The toll trap: Some local suppliers do not include the HGS transponder. You must pay cash at toll booths (rare on motorways) or face fines. Verify at the desk: "Is HGS included?"

Fuel: cheap by European standards

Turkish petrol is subsidised and cheaper than Greece, Italy, or Spain. Prices are set nationally and updated weekly.

• Petrol (95 octane): roughly €1.00–1.10/litre
• Diesel: roughly €0.95–1.05/litre
• LPG is common in Turkey — cheaper but not usually available in rental cars

Payment is cash or card at all stations. Major brands (Petrol Ofisi, Shell, BP) accept international cards without issue.

Insurance: the "full insurance" illusion

Turkish rental desks aggressively sell "full insurance." Be careful — there is no such thing. What they call "full" usually means:

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) — with an excess of €500–1,500
• Theft protection — with an excess
• Third-party liability — legally required, usually included

It does not mean zero excess. It does not cover windscreen, tyres, undercarriage, or interior. It does not cover damage on unpaved roads.

Review note: A customer at Antalya said: "Desk sold me 'full insurance' for €25 a day. Returned the car with a cracked windscreen from a stone chip. Was charged €380. 'Full' did not include windscreen. Read the small print."

Driving itinerary: where to go from Antalya

The D400 coastal road from Antalya to Kaş is one of the best drives in the Mediterranean. It rivals the Amalfi Coast for views and beats it for road quality.

FAQ

Do I need a 4x4 in Antalya?

No. All main tourist routes are paved and in excellent condition. Even mountain roads to ancient sites are surfaced.

How much does car hire cost at Antalya Airport?

Shoulder season: €18–25/day for compact. Peak season: €30–45/day. Add insurance and the real cost is €40–65/day.

Is it safe to drive in Turkey?

Yes. Turkish roads are modern and well-maintained. Driving standards are lower than northern Europe — expect aggressive overtaking — but the roads themselves are safe.

Can I take a rental car from Antalya to Cappadocia?

Yes. It is a 550 km, 8-hour drive. One-way fees may apply. Confirm with the supplier.

What side of the road does Turkey drive on?

The right. Same as mainland Europe. The steering wheel is on the left.

Is fuel cheaper in Turkey than Europe?

Yes. Roughly 30–40% cheaper than France, Germany, or Italy. Greece is more expensive still.

Do I need an international driving permit for Turkey?

Not for EU, UK, or US licence holders for stays under 6 months. Some suppliers request it — carry one to be safe (€10–15 online).

What is HGS and do I need it?

HGS is Turkey's automatic toll system. Most rental cars have a transponder. Ask at the desk. If not included, you may face toll fines.

Related car hire guides

• Car Hire Fuel Policy Explained
• Car Hire Scams and Hidden Fees
• Car Hire Excess Insurance Explained
• One-Way Car Hire Explained