Car & Van Hire - Ordu

Ordu features many attractions, both natural and cultural, that cater to local and international visitors. Renting a car in Ordu allows you the freedom to explore the city and its surrounding regions in your own time, taking in stunning landscapes and architecture.

Begin your journey by visiting Boztepe Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea. Accessible by a cable car or a scenic drive, this vantage point is the perfect spot for photography enthusiasts to get some of the most beautiful pictures you'll find on the continent. It's also just a great spot for nature lovers to enjoy the region.

For history buffs, the Pasaoglu Mansion and Ethnography Museum is a must-visit. This beautifully restored 19th-century mansion showcases the region's history, culture and traditional architecture. Explore the museum's exhibits to gain insight into the lifestyle of the Ottoman period, gaining a deeper insight into the long history of this part of the world.

Ordu is also home to the Yason Burnu Peninsula, a serene area featuring the Yason Church, a historical building with a fascinating past. The church, built in the 19th century, overlooks the Black Sea and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors seeking tranquillity and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Nature enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Ulugöl Nature Park, a lush area boasting pristine forests, a serene lake and abundant wildlife that's just a short drive inland. The park offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking and birdwatching. The picturesque surroundings make for an unforgettable experience.

The city's culinary scene is equally impressive, with traditional Black Sea dishes taking centre stage. Sample regional delights such as "kuymak," a delicious cornmeal and cheese dish and "hamsi tava," a fried anchovy dish unique to the area. Additionally, Ordu's coastal location ensures that fresh seafood is always on the menu at local restaurants.

If you're more of a shopping enthusiast, you will find a range of options in the city, from modern shopping centres to local markets. The city is famous for its hazelnut production, with the area being responsible for somewhere in the region of a quarter of the world's hazelnuts! So be sure to pick up some locally sourced hazelnuts as a tasty souvenir.

Exploring Ordu by car grants you the opportunity to fully experience the city and its surroundings. A car hire in Ordu provides a convenient and comfortable mode of transportation, while opting for a van hire in Ordu is ideal for larger groups or families.

Key routes, such as the D010 coastal road, connect the city centre to nearby attractions and towns. While driving in the city, it's essential to be mindful of the differences in traffic rules and regulations compared to the UK. Always drive on the right side of the road and ensure all passengers wear seat belts. You should also be aware of the rules regarding speed in your vehicle, as Turkey has different speed limits for different classes of vehicles and different regions. The cost of a speeding fine is also adjusted based on how fast the vehicle was going, meaning higher fines for going further over the limit.

While travelling outside the city, be aware that rural roads may be narrower and less well-maintained than those in the city. While out in the countryside, you may encounter farm animals and slow-moving vehicles on the country roads, so exercise caution and be prepared for the unexpected. Always be mindful of oncoming traffic if you are looking to overtake a rural vehicle, and ensure you are in a suitable and legal position to do so.

Traffic congestion is relatively rare, but, as with any city during peak hours, the city centre can become busy and harder to navigate. To avoid delays, plan your route in advance. A good way to avoid running into issues here is to use a GPS or navigation app to help you navigate more efficiently.

Finding parking is generally hassle-free, with on-street parking available throughout the city. Keep an eye out for signs indicating paid parking zones or parking meters. Additionally, numerous shopping centres and attractions offer complimentary parking for visitors. Conversely, Petrol stations in Turkey might be less common than you'd expect coming from a country like the UK, especially on rural roads. To avoid running out of fuel while you're exploring, fill up your vehicles whenever you come across a petrol station to ensure you have enough fuel for your journey.

Finally, be prepared for the possibility of encountering toll roads when driving in 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.