Renting a Car from Sabiha Gökçen Airport for a Journey to Bozcaada: Tips and Routes

1. Renting a Car from Sabiha Gökçen Airport: Practical Information

Sabiha Gökçen Airport is a major transportation point and hosts many national and international car rental companies. Before renting a car, here are a few key points to consider:

• Car Rental Needs: When heading to Bozcaada, it’s important to rent a comfortable and safe vehicle. If you're traveling during the summer months, consider a car with air conditioning and a larger trunk for luggage. Sabiha Gökçen Airport generally offers a wide range of car options.

• Required Documents: To rent a car, you’ll need a valid driver's license and ID. Foreign tourists may be required to show an international driver's license or a Turkish translation of their license. Additionally, there may be an extra charge for young drivers if you're under 25.

• Online Reservation: Especially during the summer months, it’s recommended to book your car online in advance. This way, you can reserve the vehicle you want and avoid long waits at the airport.

2. How to Get from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Bozcaada?

Bozcaada is located in the Çanakkale Province and is about 350 kilometers away from Sabiha Gökçen Airport. To reach the island, you’ll need to combine both road travel and a ferry. Here’s how to get to Bozcaada step by step:

• Traveling by Road from Istanbul to Bozcaada: From Sabiha Gökçen Airport, you can take the E80 highway towards Çanakkale. The journey takes approximately 5 hours. Along the way, you can stop and explore small towns and take breaks.

• Ferry to Bozcaada: After driving to Çanakkale, you’ll need to take a ferry from one of the nearby ports like Geyikli or Eceabat. Ferries run frequently, especially in the summer, and the crossing takes about 30-40 minutes. You can take your car on the ferry to the island and start exploring.

• Alternative Routes: You can also plan your route through Çanakkale. From Çanakkale center, it takes around 45 minutes to reach the Geyikli Ferry Port, where you can catch a ferry to Bozcaada.

3. Things to Do in Bozcaada

Bozcaada is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique attractions. Here are some must-see spots on the island that you can explore with your rental car:

• Bozcaada Castle: One of the island’s iconic landmarks, Bozcaada Castle offers breathtaking views and a peek into the island's history. It’s easily accessible by car and is a must-visit spot.

• Wine Tours: Bozcaada is famous for its wines. You can visit the vineyards on the island and participate in a wine tasting session. If you’re visiting in the summer, you can also enjoy the island’s wine festivals.

• Beaches and Nature: Bozcaada boasts some beautiful beaches like Akvaryum Bay and Habbele Beach, where you can relax and swim in the crystal-clear waters.

4. Food and Drink on Bozcaada

Bozcaada offers a wide variety of delicious Aegean cuisine. You’ll find many seafood restaurants, olive oil-based dishes, and local desserts. Don’t miss out on tasting the island’s famous wines that are recognized internationally.

5. Advantages of Exploring Bozcaada by Car

Renting a car to explore Bozcaada offers several advantages:

• Freedom: You can explore the island at your own pace, visiting as many places as you like without relying on public transportation, which is limited on the island.
• Hidden Gems: Some of Bozcaada’s more secluded spots, like the windmills or remote bays, are easier to reach by car. Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover the island’s lesser-known treasures.
• Flexibility: You can take breaks as you wish, especially during the hot summer days. Your car allows you to rest in the shade, grab a drink, and enjoy the island at your own convenience.