A guide to the best way to get around Istanbul

Istanbul, where East meets West, boasts many transportation options for visitors. Whether crossing the Bosphorus Strait from Europe to Asia, exploring historic streets, or uncovering hidden gems, knowing the best way to get around Istanbul is essential for maximizing your trip.

This guide provides everything you need to navigate the city like a pro, including public transportation, taxis, and the Istanbul travel pass. Iconic sites like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar are all easily accessible, making it convenient to experience the best things to do in Istanbul.

Getting around Istanbul: tips and tricks

Extensive public transportation: Istanbul offers a comprehensive network of trams, subways, buses, and ferries, making it convenient to visit popular landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

Travel pass options: For visitors staying multiple days, travel passes like the Istanbulkart offers unlimited public transport, eliminating the need to buy individual tickets.

Efficient for tourists: The tram and subway systems cover key tourist areas, providing quick access to must-see sites and reducing travel time.

Useful apps

Google Maps: An essential tool for anyone looking to explore Istanbul, providing public transport directions, schedules, and real-time updates.

Citymapper: Helps plan your journey with the fastest, easiest, or cheapest routes. It even suggests the best exits and which part of the train to board.

Metro Istanbul: The Metro Istanbul app provides real-time schedules, route planning, and service alerts for Istanbul’s metro and tram system. It also includes an interactive map and station info.

1. Getting around Istanbul with trams, metro, and Metrobüs

The Istanbul tram, metro, and Metrobüs are the heart of the public transportation in Istanbul. The tram connects major tourist areas, while the metro lines can quickly take you to further destinations. The Metrobüs is another efficient option, operating on a dedicated bus lane that runs across the city from the European side to the Asian side.

How to buy and use bus tickets in Istanbul

You can purchase a reusable Istanbulkart at any vending machine in metro, tram, and Metrobüs stations. It works on all public transport, including trams, subways, buses, ferries, and Metrobüs.

2. Getting around by ferry in Istanbul

Ferries are a scenic way to travel between the European and Asian sides of the city. The views of Istanbul from the water are breathtaking. The ferries are part of the city’s public transportation network so you can use your Istanbulkart to board.

How to buy ferry tickets

As with other public transport in Istanbul, the Istanbulkart can be used on ferries, making it one of the best ways to enjoy getting around Istanbul without a car. You can top up your card at ferry terminals before boarding.

3. Getting around Istanbul by bus

The bus network in Istanbul complements the metro and tram lines, serving areas that are harder to reach via other public transport. Buses are often crowded and slower than trams, especially during rush hour. Nonetheless, they are convenient for getting around Istanbul on a budget.

How to buy and use bus tickets

Use your Istanbulkart to board the bus. Tap your card on the reader when you enter, and your fare will automatically be deducted.

4. Getting around Istanbul by bike

While not as popular as other forms of transport, cycling is growing in popularity in Istanbul, especially along the waterfront. You can rent a bike from local rental companies or use the city's public bike-sharing service, İsbike.

Where to cycle in Istanbul

The best places to cycle include the shores of the Bosphorus Strait and the Princes’ Islands. Both of these areas are car-free and perfect for a day of biking. There are multiple options for a guided bike tour, including renting e-bikes.

5. Using taxis and ride-sharing services in Istanbul

Taxis are widely available in Istanbul, but traffic can be unpredictable, particularly during rush hour. To avoid fare disputes, it’s best to use ride-sharing apps like Uber or BiTaksi, which are reliable and offer fixed fares.

Tips for using taxis in Istanbul

To save time and money, ensure the meter is running when you enter the taxi and avoid taking rides during peak traffic hours. Taxis can be a quick and convenient option for short distances.

6. Hourly car rental services in Istanbul

Hourly car rental services like Zipcar and YoYo are available if you prefer driving. However, driving in Istanbul is not for the fainthearted due to traffic congestion and narrow streets. These services are useful if you venture outside the city to nearby attractions like the Black Sea coast or the Princes' Islands.

7. Buy a travel pass in Istanbul

One of the best ways to explore the city is to use the unlimited Istanbul public transportation card combined with the Istanbul tourist pass. The first one offers unlimited access to public transportation, while the tourist pass gives you free entrance and discounts on top attractions. With both passes, you can hop on and off trams, buses, and ferries without worrying about buying individual tickets, making it ideal for discovering the city.

FAQs

What’s the best way to get from Istanbul Airport to the city center?

The quickest option is the Havaist airport shuttle service, which takes about 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the metro (M11 line) to the city center, which is part of the public transportation in Istanbul.

Is public transport accessible in Istanbul?

Most of Istanbul’s public transportation is accessible for people with disabilities, including newer trams and metro lines. However, older parts of the city may still present challenges for people who use wheelchairs.

Does public transport run all night in Istanbul?

Some bus lines and ferries run 24/7, especially on the main routes. Metro services, however, typically close around midnight.

Is it safe to use public transport late at night?

Yes, public transport in Istanbul is generally safe, even at night. However, like in any major city, it’s advisable to be vigilant of your surroundings.

What’s the best mode of transport for tourists in Istanbul?

The tram and ferry services are the best transportation in Istanbul to get around the city’s top attractions. Combining these with the Istanbulkart for easy access makes public transport the best way to get around Istanbul.