Arriving at Adana Airport and planning to explore Mersin and the surrounding region? Renting a car offers fantastic freedom, but the pickup process, understanding costs, and navigating local roads can feel a little daunting. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from finding your rental company to confidently hitting the open road.
Rental car desks are generally located within the arrivals hall of Adana Airport. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Rental Cars’ after you collect your luggage. Most companies offer a shuttle service to the parking area where the cars are kept, though some have desks right next to the vehicle pickup locations. You’ll typically find a selection of well-known rental companies operating at the airport, including options like Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. Smaller, local companies may also be present.
The best car for you depends on your travel plans. Here’s a quick overview of common choices:
| Economy | $20 - $35/day |
| Compact | $25 - $40/day |
| Intermediate | $30 - $50/day |
| Standard | $40 - $60/day |
| SUV | $50 - $80/day |
| Luxury | $80+/day |
Prices change by season and availability.
For exploring Mersin city, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient. If you plan on venturing into more rural areas or the Taurus Mountains, an SUV provides better ground clearance and comfort. Families will appreciate the space of a standard or larger vehicle.
Generally, you’ll need a valid driver’s license (often an international driving permit is required alongside your home license, depending on your country of origin), a passport, and a credit card in the primary driver’s name. The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, though drivers under 25 may face additional fees. Rental companies will require a security deposit, which is usually held on your credit card. The amount varies depending on the car class and insurance options, but expect several hundred US dollars. Payment is almost always by credit card; debit cards are rarely accepted for the deposit.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers the vehicle if it’s stolen. Both often come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for paying in case of damage or theft. You can reduce this excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this adds to the cost. Check if your credit card or travel insurance already provides coverage before accepting additional insurance at the rental desk. Don’t hesitate to ask the agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option.
Driving in Turkey is generally straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Many highways have toll roads; be prepared to pay with cash or a credit card. Parking can be challenging in city centers, so look for designated parking areas. Speed limits are generally posted in kilometers per hour. On highways, the limit is typically 130 km/h, while in towns and cities, it’s usually 50 km/h. Be aware that traffic can be quite busy, especially in Mersin city itself. Defensive driving is always a good idea.
It depends on your home country. Check with the Turkish consulate or embassy in your country to confirm if an IDP is required alongside your driver’s license.
Almost all rental companies require a major credit card for both payment and the security deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted.
If you have CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), it will cover the cost of repairs, minus any excess amount. Understand your excess before driving.
Basic insurance is sometimes included, but it often has a high excess. Consider additional insurance options to reduce your financial risk.
Yes, many highways have tolls. Be prepared to pay with cash or a credit card at toll booths.
No, the credit card used for payment must be in the name of the primary driver.
Late returns usually incur extra charges, often a full day’s rental rate.
You can usually rent a GPS navigation system from the rental company, or use a smartphone app.
In Turkey, they drive on the right side of the road.
Automatic cars are available, but they are often more expensive to rent than manual transmission vehicles.
Carefully inspect the car for any existing damage and document it with photos or on the rental agreement to avoid being charged later.
Yes, but you’ll likely need to pay an extra daily fee and the additional driver must meet the same requirements as the primary driver.