Good to know about car rental in Marrakech Airport
Driving in Turkey, particularly from Ankara Esenboğa Airport, is generally straightforward for experienced travelers. The roads are in good condition, especially the highways leading in and out of the capital. From the airport, you’ll easily connect to Ankara via the D140 and reach the city center in about 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Turkey uses right-hand traffic, with most road signs following international standards. You'll find road surfaces well-marked and modern in most urban and intercity routes, although rural areas may feature narrower or less maintained roads. Renting a car at the airport offers the benefit of immediate access to these networks, making road trips to nearby cultural sites or even longer journeys to regions like Cappadocia much easier than by public transport.
To legally drive in Turkey, you must carry a valid driver's license — EU, UK, and US licenses are accepted. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, especially if your license is printed in a non-Latin script. Turkish authorities may request it during routine checks, which are not uncommon.
It’s important to drive cautiously and stay alert, especially at roundabouts or junctions, where right-of-way rules are sometimes loosely followed. In cities like Ankara, traffic can get busy, and local driving styles may seem assertive. However, outside of the capital, traffic thins out and long stretches of road make for enjoyable driving.
Be aware of these standard speed limits:
50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, up to 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, headlights must be on even during the day, and mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system. Also, note that Turkey enforces a near-zero alcohol limit. If you’ve had anything to drink, don’t drive.
Parking in central Ankara is relatively easy compared to Istanbul, with a mix of paid parking zones and public lots. And if you're planning to explore more remote or mountainous regions, such as during winter months, ask for a rental vehicle with snow tires or chains, as conditions can change rapidly.
Overall, with a bit of preparation and awareness of the rules, driving in Turkey can be a very rewarding and practical way to explore the country’s historical landmarks and diverse landscapes.