Car Hire Ankara Airport

Hiring a Car from Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB):

1. Driving from the Airport: Ankara Esenboğa Airport is located approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) northeast of Ankara's city center.

• Route: The primary route to the city center is via the D140/E90. The journey typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

2. Tolls:

• Turkey utilizes an automatic toll system called "HGS" (Hızlı Geçiş Sistemi) or "OGS" (Otomatik Geçiş Sistemi). If you drive on tolled roads (such as the O-20/O-4, which is one of the main roads surrounding Ankara), charges are automatically deducted from an account or prepaid card. Make sure to ask your car rental agency if the vehicle is equipped with an HGS or OGS sticker and understand the toll charges when you collect your car.

3. Emergency Number:

• In case of emergencies, dial 112, which is the general emergency number in Turkey.

4. Fuel:

• Petrol stations are widely available in and around Ankara. Some operate 24/7, while others have specific working hours.
• It's advisable to keep the tank reasonably full, especially if you're planning longer trips outside the city.
• You'll find both petrol (benzin) and diesel (dizel) at the stations. Ensure you know which fuel type the rental car requires.

5. Traffic:

• Ankara, being the capital city, can experience heavy traffic, especially during rush hours (usually 7-10 AM and 5-8 PM).
• Traffic rules are similar to European standards, but driving behavior can be more aggressive. Keep an eye out for sudden lane changes, and always be cautious at intersections.

6. Driving Distances to Other Key Locations:

• Istanbul: About 450 kilometers (280 miles) to the northwest. It takes approximately 5-6 hours via the O-4 and O-7.
• Eskişehir: Roughly 230 kilometers (143 miles) to the west. The drive typically takes around 3 hours via the O-4.
• Konya: Around 260 kilometers (162 miles) to the south. Travel time is about 3 hours via the D750.

7. Additional Tips:

• Parking in the city can be challenging during peak times. Consider using designated parking lots or garages.
• It's crucial to always have your driving license, the International Driving Permit (if required), car hire documentation, and personal identification with you while driving.
• Road signs will be in Turkish. However, many of them use internationally recognized symbols.

Renting a car from Ankara Esenboğa Airport is a convenient way to explore the city and the broader region. Ensure you're familiar with local driving norms, and always prioritize safety. Enjoy your journey!