Short answer: Sapanca is about 140 kilometres from the Asian side of Istanbul and about 180 kilometres from the European side; the drive takes between 1.5 and 2.5 hours depending on traffic. The route follows the TEM (O-4) motorway to the Sapanca exit. This article covers the distance, the route and what to check before setting off in a rental car.
The distance depends on where you start. The figures below are approximate and reflect weekday daytime traffic:
| Starting point | Approx. distance | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| Asian side (around Kadıköy) | 140 km | 1.5–2 hours |
| European side (bridge included) | 180 km | 2–2.5 hours |
| Sabiha Gökçen Airport | 110 km | 1–1.5 hours |
On summer weekends, and especially on Sunday evening returns to Istanbul, the drive can take considerably longer. Leaving early on Saturday and avoiding a late-afternoon Sunday return is the simplest fix.
The main route is the TEM (O-4) motorway: from the Asian side you follow the Gebze–İzmit stretch and leave at the Sapanca exit. The motorway is tolled, so the car needs a transponder; rental cars come with one fitted and the tolls you use are charged to you.
The D-100 highway is the alternative. It is slower but runs along the İzmit gulf with more places to stop. In snowy weather the motorway is usually the safer choice.
You can see the current models and classes on our rental cars page.
We have 18 pick-up points across Istanbul, so you can collect from the one nearest to you. You can also skip the trip entirely and have the car delivered to your address — delivery within Istanbul is free on rentals of 3 days or more. If you are flying in and driving straight out, you can also collect at our Sabiha Gökçen and Istanbul Airport points.
Daily rentals start at 24 hours. At handover you need a driving licence, an ID or passport and a credit card in your own name; the contract is signed at handover. The age and licence thresholds depend on the class: economy needs a driver aged 21 with a licence held for 1 year, mid-size 23 and 2 years, upper class 25 and 3 years. All terms are on the rental conditions page.
Snow is possible around Sapanca in winter; check the forecast before you leave and ask for winter tyres when you book if you need them.
About 140 km from the Asian side, about 180 km from the European side and about 110 km from Sabiha Gökçen Airport.
Between 1.5 and 2.5 hours in weekday daytime traffic. It takes longer on summer weekends and on Sunday evening returns.
The TEM (O-4) for speed and winter safety; the D-100 for the view and more frequent stops. Motorway tolls are charged to the renter.
Yes, daily rentals start at 24 hours. A same-day return trip is possible, but allow for the traffic on the way back.
Our pick-up points are in Istanbul, so the car is returned to one of our Istanbul points or collected from your address. Call 0850 305 00 45 if you need a different arrangement.
For what changes in rental terms when the new regulation takes effect on 1 January 2027, see our new car rental regulation article.
