Istanbul is a vast city straddling two continents. Very few people are aware of its size when they come here for the first time. To navigate this huge metropolis with ease, an introduction to the Istanbul public transportation guide is essential.
To explore Istanbul conveniently, the best travel tip is to choose central accommodations. For example, The Marmara Taksim Hotel is located at the historic Taksim Square in the very heart of Istanbul. Its central location ensures accessibility to multiple modes of public transportation. The Istanbul public transport map includes IETT public buses, metrobus, trams, metro, and ferries.
First of all, the IETT public buses are a commonly used city transport option. They come under the name of “İstanbul Elektrik Tramvay ve Tünel İşletmeleri”. Their routes cover most of the city.. Public bus routes have more flexible coverage of local neighborhoods. Passengers can pay with an Istanbulkart.
On the other hand, the metrobus is a Rapid Bus Transit Line, operated by IETT. It has its own separate lane along the D-100 highway and runs from the European side to the Asian side of Istanbul. Due to its exclusive line, it is not affected by normal traffic congestion. For most routes on the metrobus, regular Istanbulkart fare applies.
When we look at tram, the lines (T3, T4, T5) in the city are operated by Metro Istanbul. They connect the famous tourist sites to the city’s urban centers. Trams can get affected by traffic congestion, especially in areas where the tracks go over public roads. Standard Istanbulkart fares apply.
Compared to the other methods, the Istanbul metro (train system) runs both above and below ground. It is operated by Metro Istanbul. It is a high-speed and reliable mode of transportation that covers most of the city. You can use Istanbulkart to pay your fee. Single-use tickets are also available.
Driven in the sea, Istanbul ferry boats connect the Asian and European sides, offer Bosphorus tours, and transport passengers to the Princes’ Islands. Most ferries are operated by the Şehir Hatları A.Ş., while some are owned by private operators. Public ferries accept Istanbulkart. Private ferries may have a separate payment or ticket system.
If you are not a part of the taxi crowd, then you may wonder how to get around Istanbul. Istanbul is a city that enjoys consistent public transport connectivity. It is easy to navigate, even for non-Turkish speakers, as nearly all transport guides and applications have the “English language” option.
For visitors who want to use public transportation, Istanbulkart is the best payment method. If you are staying at The Marmara Taksim, you can easily access Istanbulkart in Taksim metro station. The “Biletmatik” vending machines at the metro station also provide single-use tickets for people without an Istanbulkart, but it costs more.
The fare system is standard for all modes of public transport, and it works everywhere.
Popular places that are easily accessible by public transport in Istanbul include:
Even though Istanbul has a diverse city transportation system, where you are staying still matters. Having a reliable base like The Marmara Taksim in the heart of Istanbul means that you are within walking distance of most public transport hubs.
Istanbulkart is a rechargeable transportation card for the Istanbul public transport system. You can get it at kiosks near metro stations or from the “Biletmatik” vending machines inside or near metro stations.
Most metro lines in Istanbul operate from 06:00 AM to 12:00 AM on weekdays. During weekends, selected lines run continuously with the Night Metro from Friday morning to Sunday midnight.
Tram lines that go to popular Istanbul destinations include the T1 (Bağcılar ↔ Kabataş), T5 (Eminönü ↔ Alibeyköy), and T4 (Topkapı ↔ Mescid-i Selam). Many buses go to famous tourist spots. Exact timings are available at the IETT website, the IETT Mobile App, the IBB Mobile App, and the bus stop boards at major stops.