Arriving in Belgrade and picking up a rental car right away is one of the easiest ways to start your trip in Serbia. In fact, car hire at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG) gives you the freedom to explore on your own schedule without waiting for taxis or navigating bus timetables. As Serbia’s busiest international airport, BEG is located about 18 kilometres west of Belgrade’s city centre. This guide covers everything you need to know to plan memorable day trips beyond the capital.
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is the largest airport in Serbia and operates from two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which are housed within a single connected building. After landing, passengers pass through passport control and baggage claim before entering the Arrivals Hall on the ground floor.
Most Nikola Tesla Airport car hire desks are located in the arrivals area, primarily on the upper/first floor or just outside the terminal near the public parking garage. After collecting baggage, passengers should follow the clearly marked “Rent a Car” signs, which may direct them upstairs or outside the terminal building. Arrivals and baggage claim are generally on the lower level, while departures and check-in areas are located on the upper level.
Choosing car hire at Belgrade Airport is a practical and flexible option for travellers. While Belgrade offers taxis and public transportation from the airport, renting a car allows you to begin your journey immediately and on your own schedule.
A taxi ride into the city typically costs around USD 22 to 28 for a journey of about 25 minutes. Buses are generally cheaper, but they can take longer, feel crowded, or run less frequently, especially late at night. By collecting a car directly at the terminal, you avoid waiting in queues or navigating unfamiliar routes.
Having your own vehicle also makes it much easier to explore beyond the city. You can plan day trips to destinations such as Novi Sad, Niš, or rural areas without relying on fixed timetables or tours. Driving gives you the freedom to stop when you like, take scenic detours, or visit smaller towns that public transport may not serve well.
Belgrade Airport offers a range of car rental options to suit different needs and budgets.
Large international car hire providers are available at Belgrade Airport. These global companies operate directly from the terminals. Staff usually speak English, the rental process is clear and efficient, and vehicles are generally modern and well-maintained.
Desks for these providers are typically located inside the terminal. In some cases, the car is parked in a nearby rental area just outside the terminal building. At Belgrade Airport, this usually involves a short walk across the road from the terminal exit to the designated car park. Paperwork is completed at the counter, and staff then direct you to the vehicle collection area.
International providers often offer additional reassurance, including round-the-clock roadside assistance and clear rental terms. Some also offer benefits for frequent renters, although prices may be slightly higher than those of smaller local operators.
Alongside international operators, several local and regional car rental companies also serve Belgrade Airport. These providers are for travellers who want to save money, as they frequently advertise competitive prices and attractive car rental deals in Belgrade. In many cases, daily rates can be lower than those offered by larger international companies.
Service arrangements can vary. Some local providers have desks inside the terminal, while others operate a meet-and-greet system. A representative meets you in the arrivals hall and escorts you to the vehicle. In certain cases, the car is parked off-site, and a short shuttle transfer is provided.
Local companies may have fewer staff on site, which are ideal option during busy periods. They may also offer additional insurance options. On the positive side, many travellers appreciate the personal service and lower overall cost. To ensure a smooth experience, check recent reviews, fuel policy, and mileage before booking.
The cost of renting a car at Belgrade Airport can vary depending on the time of year and your rental preferences. Below, we break down typical price ranges, seasonal trends, and factors that influence rental rates.
On average, a standard economy car suitable for 4 to 5 people with basic luggage costs around USD 33 to 52 per day during the low season. Larger vehicles such as SUVs or premium cars are more expensive, typically ranging from USD 55 to 110 or more per day.
These prices usually reflect base rates and include basic insurance coverage. Choosing optional extras such as GPS navigation, child seats, or upgrading to a luxury model will increase the overall cost. In general, economy and compact cars offer the best value, while SUVs, vans, and luxury saloons are at the higher end of the price range.
Car hire rates in Belgrade vary with supply and demand throughout the year. Summer (June through August) is the busiest travel period, and prices are usually highest in July and August. During these months, daily rates can rise noticeably compared with quieter times of year.
Outside the main tourist season, prices tend to be much lower. Late autumn (October and November), winter (January and February), and early spring (March and April) are generally the most affordable periods to rent a car, while December often sees mixed pricing due to holiday demand.
Rates can also increase during public holidays and major events, when demand rises sharply. If you are planning to visit in August or during the Christmas and New Year period, higher prices are likely, and availability may be limited. Booking in advance during these periods is recommended to secure better rates and a wider choice of vehicles.
Renting a car at Belgrade Airport is a straightforward process. In this section, we’ll walk you through each step, from booking your car to returning it.
The first step is to reserve your car hire before you travel. Booking online in advance is strongly recommended, as it helps secure the vehicle category you want and often results in better prices. It also allows you to compare car rental deals in Belgrade ahead of time and choose the option that best suits your needs.
Booking early gives you time to review rental terms, select optional extras such as GPS or a child seat, and avoid unnecessary stress after arrival. While it is possible to rent a car on the spot at the airport, last-minute bookings usually come with higher prices and a more limited choice. After completing your reservation, you will receive a confirmation email or voucher. Keep this on your phone or as a printed copy, as you will need it when collecting the car.
After landing at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport and collecting your luggage, follow the clearly marked signs for Car Rentals or Rent a Car in the Arrivals Hall. All car hire desks are located on the ground floor of the arrivals areas in both terminals.d.
Go directly to the counter of the company you booked with. If you did not book in advance, you can inquire about availability and prices at several desks.
When it is your turn, you will need to present the required documents. These usually include your driving licence, which must be the physical card, and a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. An International Driving Permit is generally not required if your licence uses Roman script, but it is wise to check this in advance. If you booked online, also show your booking confirmation or voucher, either printed or displayed on your phone.
You will then review and sign the rental agreement. At this stage, a security deposit will be placed on your credit card. This is a temporary hold, often amounting to a few hundred USD, and it is released once the car is returned in good condition. Ensure your card has sufficient available credit to cover this hold.
The staff will confirm key details, including the vehicle category, any extras requested, and the return date and time. If you have questions or need to adjust your plans, this is the best moment to discuss them. You will then receive your keys and directions to the vehicle collection area.
Before heading to the car, take a moment to review the rental agreement and familiarise yourself with the key terms. This document outlines important details, including insurance coverage, fuel policy, mileage allowance, and the excess, which is the amount you would be responsible for if the vehicle is damaged or stolen. Airport rentals usually include unlimited mileage, but it is still wise to confirm this.
Check that all extras you requested, such as an additional driver or navigation system, are listed correctly along with their costs. Ensure the total price and any security deposit match your expectations. If anything is unclear, ask for an explanation before signing. Common points worth confirming include whether collision damage cover and theft protection are included, the exact excess amount, and whether there are exclusions for certain parts of the car.
Pay attention to the fuel policy. The most common and fairest option is full to full, meaning you return the car with the same fuel level it had at collection. Also, confirm whether there is any grace period for late returns. Once you are satisfied, you can sign the agreement and proceed to collect the vehicle.
The rental agent will direct you to the car park or to a specific parking space where your hire car is located. At Belgrade Airport, rental parking is very close to the terminal. In some cases, a staff member may walk with you to the vehicle.
Before leaving, walk around the car and look for existing damage, such as scratches, dents, or marks on the windscreen. Compare what you see with the damage report provided by the rental company. If anything is missing from the report, request that it be recorded before you drive off. Taking photos of the exterior and interior with your phone is strongly recommended, as this can help avoid disputes later.
Check the tyres, confirm the fuel level matches what is stated in your paperwork, and make sure essential items such as the spare tyre and tools are present. Adjust the seat and mirrors, and familiarise yourself with the controls, including lights and wipers. In winter months, confirm the car is fitted with winter tyres, as these are required by law. Before departing, ensure you have the rental agreement and the company’s emergency contact details.
Plan to return the car on time, as specified in your rental agreement. Most companies allow a short grace period of around 30 minutes, but returning later may result in an extra day being charged. The drop-off location is usually the same place where you collected the vehicle, unless you arranged a different return point in advance. At Belgrade Airport, returns are typically made in the rental car parking area or a designated drop-off zone near the arrivals area.
Before arriving, ensure the fuel level matches the agreed-upon policy. The nearest petrol station is close to the airport access road, and refuelling beforehand helps avoid expensive refuelling charges unless you select a prepaid option. It is wise to arrive around fifteen minutes earlier than your airport check-in time to allow for the return process.
An agent will typically inspect the car for its condition and fuel level. Walk around the vehicle with them if possible. If there is no new damage and the fuel level is correct, the security deposit on your credit card will be released, although it may take a few working days to appear.
Renting a car at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is a convenient and flexible way to start your journey in Serbia. With rental desks located directly in the arrivals area, you can collect your vehicle shortly after landing and avoid the cost and limitations of taxis or public transport.
Book your car in advance with Final Rentals to secure better rates and a wider selection of vehicles. With Final Rentals, booking a car online is fast and simple. Select Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport as your pickup location, enter your travel dates, and choose a vehicle for your trip. Book and manage your car rental at any time. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
