Car & Van Hire - Rize

Whether you are a local visitor or travelling from an international destination, opting for a car hire in Rize will grant you the freedom to explore this stunning region at your leisure. Begin your journey at the Rize Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city. This medieval fortress offers stunning views of the surrounding area and the Black Sea. While the interior of the castle is not open to visitors, the panoramic vistas alone make the climb worthwhile.

For nature enthusiasts, the Fırtına Valley is a must-see. This breathtaking valley is home to lush forests, cascading waterfalls and traditional wooden bridges. The area is ideal for hiking, rafting and birdwatching, providing ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural splendour of the region. It can provide an ideal spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city during your trip.

Another captivating natural attraction is the Ayder Plateau, a picturesque highland meadow dotted with charming wooden houses. This idyllic spot offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with thermal springs and various hiking trails to explore. The plateau is especially beautiful during spring and summer when the meadows are in full bloom.

Rize is renowned for its tea production, so a visit to a local tea garden is a must. Tour a tea factory to learn about the production process and enjoy a refreshing cup of Turkish tea amidst the lush green tea plantations. Don't forget to purchase some tea leaves as a souvenir of your visit.

The city also boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Be sure to sample local dishes such as Laz Böreği, a sweet pastry filled with custard and Mıhlama, a cornmeal and cheese dish typical of the Black Sea region. Rize's coastal location also means that fresh seafood is plentiful, with numerous restaurants offering delicious fish and seafood dishes.

For shopping enthusiasts, Rize offers a range of options, from modern shopping centres to local markets. The city is famous for its handwoven textiles, particularly the colourful "Rize bezi" (Rize cloth). Visit a local bazaar to find unique souvenirs, including traditional clothing, handwoven textiles and locally produced tea.

When navigating Rize, you'll find that the D010 coastal road and the Rize-Ãayeli highway are the primary routes providing access to the city centre and surrounding areas. As you drive, remember that Turkey's traffic rules and regulations may differ from the UK's. For example, always drive on the right side of the road and ensure all passengers wear seat belts. You should also be aware of the law regarding speed limits in Turkey. For example, the speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h, whereas the speed limit in rural areas is 90 km/h. Different classes of vehicles also have different speed limitations. Another thing to be aware of is that speeding fines are adjusted based on how far over the speed limit a vehicle is travelling.

Parking is typically hassle-free, with ample on-street parking spots throughout the city. Be aware that some locations may require payment, so look for parking meters or signs indicating paid parking zones. Many shopping centres and popular attractions provide free parking for visitors. Traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly within the city centre. To avoid delays, plan your route ahead of time. You might consider using a GPS or navigation app to help you navigate the city more efficiently, as many modern GPS apps will factor in the expected amount of traffic during your journey.

When driving a car or van hire in Rize, it's crucial to be prepared for local driving habits and customs, which may differ from what you're used to. Turkish drivers might occasionally display aggressive behaviour or change lanes without signalling. To ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience, remain alert, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and exercise patience with other drivers.

While travelling outside the city, remember that rural roads might be narrower and in poorer condition compared to those in the city. Also, be prepared to encounter farm animals and slow-moving vehicles on country roads and exercise caution at all times. On a related note, petrol stations in Turkey might be less frequent than you're accustomed to, especially on rural roads. To avoid running out of fuel, fill up your tank whenever you come across one to ensure you have enough fuel for your journey.

There is a good chance that you will encounter toll roads when driving around Turkey. Some motorways require payment, either through cash or an electronic toll system called HGS. To make your journey smoother, familiarise yourself with the available payment methods and ensure you have sufficient funds to cover the cost of your journey.