"Road Conditions to Consider When Renting a Car in Istanbul"

Istanbul Traffic and Peak Hours Istanbul has some of the busiest traffic in the world. Especially during rush hours (07:00 - 09:00 in the morning and 17:00 - 19:00 in the evening), traffic congestion peaks. During these times, city roads can become clogged, and traffic may slow down significantly. When renting a car, try to plan your trip around these hours to avoid being affected by the heavy traffic.

Main Roads and Intersections Main roads in Istanbul, such as highways (E-5, TEM) and bridges (Bosphorus Bridge and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge), play a crucial role in transportation. However, some sections of these roads can also get congested. Additionally, intersections and traffic light sections often cause traffic jams. Before renting a car, it's useful to research main roads and alternative routes.

Bosphorus Bridge and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge The two main bridges of Istanbul, the Bosphorus Bridge and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, are important for city transportation. However, the traffic density on these bridges, especially during the evening, can be quite high. If you're planning to travel from the European side to the Asian side of Istanbul, try to travel during off-peak hours to avoid traffic.

Narrow Streets and Traffic Lights In some districts of Istanbul, narrow streets and numerous traffic lights can be common. Particularly in the old city areas, you might encounter narrow and one-way streets. When driving on such roads, it is important to be careful for both your vehicle's safety and the flow of traffic. Additionally, since you may need to stop at traffic lights, slow down and pay attention to the vehicles around you.

Parking Problems Another crucial issue to consider when renting a car in Istanbul is the difficulty of finding parking. Especially in crowded areas, finding parking spaces can sometimes be nearly impossible. Before renting a car, research the parking facilities at the places you plan to visit to avoid parking issues. Also, using private parking spaces can be a good option to ensure your vehicle’s safety.

Adhering to Speed Limits It is important to comply with speed limits on Istanbul’s roads. Speed limits typically range from 50 km/h to 90 km/h in the city, while on highways, it can reach up to 120 km/h. However, due to traffic density and road conditions, it is also important to be mindful of the traffic flow in addition to adhering to speed limits. Exceeding the speed limits can lead to fines and safety risks.

Rainy Weather and Road Conditions Istanbul has a rainy climate, especially in the winter months. This can cause the roads to become slippery and reduce visibility. During rainy weather, drive more cautiously, reduce your speed, and maintain a greater following distance. Also, be prepared for visibility reductions in tunnels.

Poor Roads and Construction Works In some areas of Istanbul, road construction and maintenance works are ongoing. This can negatively affect road conditions. You may encounter road closures or be forced to take alternative routes. When renting a car, it's beneficial to gather information on roadworks and potential closures to ensure your journey goes smoothly.