Public transportation in Istanbul, a guide for tourists

Istanbul is not only the largest city in Turkey, but also a transportation hub between Europe and Asia. Thanks to a well-developed public transportation network, it is possible to move around the metropolis conveniently, quickly and economically. In this material we will tell about each type of transportation separately, how to use it, how much it costs, what applications will help and how to build routes better.

Apps for routes

The most important thing that you need to move around Istanbul, except for liras of course, is the applications on your smartphone, there are many of them both on IOS and Android, but we can distinguish 4 main ones:

• Moovit: in Russian, shows routes and connections
• Yandex Maps: clear interface, works in Istanbul
• Google Maps: accurate routes, especially convenient for tourists
• Trafi: shows when transportation is coming

Istanbulkart - universal transportation card

The next thing you need is a universal transportation card. Almost every transport can be paid with Istanbulkart, except for Dolmush, where unfortunately only cash.

• Where to buy: machines at subway stations, Istanbulkart kiosks, airports
• Cost of the card: about 70 liras (without balance)
• Top-up: machines, Istanbulkart Mobil app
• Where to use: metro, streetcar, buses, ferries, metrobus, cable cars, cable cars, cable cars

Metro

The subway in Istanbul is one of the fastest ways to get around, especially during rush hour. The system is actively developing, covering both European and Asian parts of the city.

• Popular lines: M1 (from the airport to the center), M2 (Şişli, Taksim, Halic), M4 (Kadıköy - Tavşantepe)
• Cost: from 17.70 liras per trip
• Payment: Istanbulkart
• Advantages: no traffic jams, high frequency of traffic
• Apps: Moovit, Google Maps, Yandex Maps

Streetcar

The modern streetcar is a great solution for tourists who want to explore the city center and sights.

• Routes: the T1 line passes through Sultanahmet, Eminönü, Galata and Kabataş
• Cost: 17,70 liras
• Payment: Istanbulkart
• Features: scenic views, high accessibility for tourists
• Apps: Moovit, Google Maps, Yandex Maps

Metrobus

Metrobus is a dedicated line bus connecting the eastern and western parts of the city. It is traffic-free and runs 24 hours a day.

• Route: from Beylikdüzü to Sogutlüceşme (across the Bosphorus Bridge)
• Cost: from 17.70 to 34 liras (depending on the length of the route)
• Payment: Istanbulkart
• Advantages: fast, convenient for crossing the city

Buses

The city bus network covers even the most remote areas. During peak hours, delays due to traffic jams are possible.

• Cost: 17.70 liras
• Payment: Istanbulkart
• Apps: Trafi, Moovit, Istanbulkart Mobil
• Tip: For new residents, it's convenient to take the subway or streetcar from dormitory districts

Ferries

Ferries are not only a means of transportation, but also a way to enjoy the beauty of the Bosphorus Strait. They connect the Asian and European parts of the city.

• Popular routes: Kadıköy - Eminönü, Kadıköy - Beşiktaş
• Cost: 17.70-30 liras
• Payment: Istanbulkart
• Advantages: no traffic jams, beautiful views

Dolmushi (minibuses)

Dolmushi are minivans on fixed routes. They stop on demand and pay in cash.

• Cost: from 15 to 40 liras
• Payment: cash only
• Features: convenient for traveling between neighborhoods, especially where there is no subway or streetcar

Funiculars and elevators

Funiculars are vertical lines connecting the lower and upper city. Particularly useful in areas with altitude differences.

• Example: the Tünel line between Karaköy and Beyoğlu
• Cost: 17.70 liras
• Payment: Istanbulkart
• Advantages: quick and convenient way up hills

Cable cars

There are several cable cars in Istanbul that operate as part of the transportation system as well as tourist routes.

• Example: Teleferic to the Pierre-Loti observation deck
• Cost: 17,70 liras
• Payment: Istanbulkart
• Tip: a great way to get to panoramic points of the city

How to get from the airport

Istanbul Airport (IST)

• M11 Metro: directly to the city center
• Havaist buses: to Taksim, Beşiktaş, Kadıköy: from 90 to 150 liras
• Cabs: from 500 liras and up

Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

• Havabus: to Kadıköy or Taksim - about 90 liras
• M4 subway: with transfers
• Cabs: from 400 liras

PEMLAK will not only help you find the perfect accommodation, but also help you adapt to Istanbul. Public transportation is your key to getting around the city freely!