Istanbul Public Transport – Everything You Need To Know

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Istanbul is a huge city. First of all, you have to know everything about transport in Istanbul, as moving around is not always easy. Istanbul, the vibrant and bustling city that spans both Europe and Asia, can be an overwhelming place to navigate, especially when it comes to public transportation. There is currently a major project in the city to develop public transport. There are few additional metro lines under construction, they are expanding the existing ones and they are working on a connections between Europe and Asia.

With its extensive network of buses, trams, metros, and ferries, getting around Istanbul can seem like a daunting task. However, with a little knowledge and guidance, navigating Istanbul’s public transport system can be a breeze. This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to confidently travel through Istanbul, including tips on fares, routes, and the best modes of transportation to get to your desired destination. So, whether you’re a tourist exploring the city or a local trying to find the most efficient way to commute, read on to discover the ins and outs of Istanbul’s public transport system.

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How to get to the city?

It all starts with a transfer from the airport to the city centre. The airport is located in the northern area of Arnavutköy and it should take around 50 minutes to reach Taksim in the city centre. To get from the airport to the city, there are a few different options.

HAVAIST Bus

There are 11 different routes from the airport to multiple destinations.  For a ride you will need a ticket that can be bought in the ticket office (located exactly where the bus stop/shuttle is), your Istanbulkart or credit card for payment. You can access the bus floor by going down with elevators located by the arrival gate. The ride will cost you around 130 and 210 TL (with baggage included) and the trip duration is around 80 – 100 minutes (prices from March 2024). You should check the price before your trip, because prices in Türkiye are changing a lot.

Taxi

Taxis are comfortable and safe option to get from Istanbul New Airport. The journey will likely be affected by traffic, so the ride might be much longer in peak hours, however for now expect around 45 – 60 minutes to reach the city centre. Taxis are available 24/7 from the airport. Taxis are metered, which means that you might find yourself paying more if there is traffic (and you should be prepared that there is a lot of traffic – unless you arrive around or after midnight).

Private transfer

Another comfortable option is private transfer. If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a private transfer. For private transfers, you will be met outside the airport (when you book your transfer, you will be told which exit number you will be met at, as they are no longer allowed to wait inside the airport).
The price is 40-50€ per vehicle and it is fixed.

Metro M11

The most convenient, fastest and also the cheapest option is certainly a metro connection. In January 2023, the new M11 metro line was opened, running from Istanbul Airport to Kağıthane station. In 2024, Gayrettepe station was opened, where now is possible to change to the M2 line. The metro runs every 20 minutes between 06:00 and 00:00. The ride from the airport will take about 30 minutes.

istanbul metro m11

🛫 For more information on how to get from Istanbul Airport to the city centre, read my article where I describe the different travel options in more detail.

Public transport in Istanbul

Istanbul’s public transport system is an extensive network that connects all parts of the city, making it convenient and efficient for residents and tourists alike. he system consists of various modes of transportation, including buses, trams, metros, and ferries. Each mode has its own routes and schedules, but they are interconnected, allowing passengers to easily transfer between them.

I recommend that you use public transport in Istanbul – it will allow you to move around quickly and cheap. Istanbul is really congested and the traffic can get sooo crazy! You will save a lot of time by using the metro, tram and ferries to commute. During rush hours, it is a good idea to avoid buses and taxis, as the short journey can be quite long.

A short overview of Istanbul’s public transport system

Buses are the most common and widely used mode of transport in Istanbul. They operate throughout the city, covering both the central areas and the suburbs. Trams, on the other hand, are a great option for traveling within the city center, as they provide a fast and convenient way to get around.

To access more distant areas, the metro is your best bet. Istanbul’s metro system is constantly expanding, and it is a reliable means of transportation, especially during peak hours. Lastly, ferries are a unique way to travel across the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

Istanbulkart – your bestie

Firstly, you will need an Istanbulkart, which you can use for all public transport around Istanbul. You can buy it on all yellow and blue machines that are located in metro & tram stations and piers. A few years ago, when I was first in Istanbul, you could buy Istanbulkart in small kiosks, but now I’m not sure how it works anymore.

The cost of the card is 70TL and you load the credit on the card. When you run out of credit, you just top it up again. One card can be used by up to 5 people, but I would recommend that 2 or maximum 3 people use it together. The card has a monthly top-up limit of 500 TL, so you won’t be able to top it up till the next month if you exceed this limit. The Istanbulkart is valid for 3 years if it is not recharged in the meantime.

For most rides you will pay 17,70 TL.

You can also use the Istanbulkart to pay the toilets (3TL) and it is very convenient when you don’t have any coins with you.

How to buy Istanbulkart for the first time?

If you don’t have a card yet, you will need to buy a new one. Here are my steps for buying a card, which I hope will help you.

  • On the first screen, select the language you are most familiar with.
  • Choose the third option to buy a card that you can later top up. The price of the card is TL 70. Confirm step.
  • Choose the first option if you want to pay in cash, or the second if you want to use a card.
  • Insert the money and confirm again. Your card is ready, so just take it out of the bottom drawer and you’re ready to conquer the city.

As I said, you can use all public transport in Istanbul with Istanbulkart. So, let’s find out more about transportation options. We will take a closer look at each mode of public transport in Istanbul and provide you with more information on routes, schedules, and fares. This will help you better understand and utilize the city’s extensive public transport network.

Metro

Navigating Istanbul’s metro network is one of the most efficient ways to get around the city. The metro system in Istanbul is well-developed, extensive, and connects various parts of the city, making it convenient for both locals and tourists.

The metro network consists of several lines, each marked with a different color. Each line serves different areas and landmarks of Istanbul, so it’s essential to know which line to take depending on your destination. You can easily find maps of the metro network at the stations or online to help plan your journey.

The metro in Istanbul operates between 6am and midnight, with frequency varying depending on the time of day and whether it is a weekday or a weekend. The metro operates between 5 and 10 minutes, during peak hours the intervals could be reduced to 3 to 4 minutes. On weekends, certain metro lines run all night.

Here is a brief overview of the metro lines:

  • M1A: Yenikapı – Atatürk Havalimani: This metro leaves the old airport, passes the Zeytinburnu interchange station and the grand bus station of Istanbul, and has Yenikapı, a connection hub closer to the city center, as its final destination. 
  • M1B: Kirazlı – Yenikapı
  • M2: Yenikapı – Hacıosman: This is the first real metro Istanbul had and you will probably use it during your visit. The most important stops are: Yenikapı, Vezneciler (interchange station to the T1 tram line with a short walk to the tram station), Şişhane (Istiklal Caddesi, Galata Tower), Taksim (connection to Kabataş via funicular F1 and Eminönü/Sultanahmet via tramway T1), Osmanbey (a short walk to Nişantaşı, a fashionable shopping area with lots of nice cafes and restaurants), Şişli/Mecidiyeköy & Gayrettepe (interchange station for M11 line to the IST airport)
  • M3: Bakırköy – Kayaşehir Merkez
  • M4: Kadıköy – Sabiha Gökçen Havalimanı: this one may be useful if your flight is arriving to Sabiha Gökcen airport (SAW)
  • M5: Üsküdar – Samandıra Merkez
  • M6: Levent – Boğaziçi Üni. – Hisarüstü
  • M7: Yıldız – Mahmutbey
  • M8: Bostancı – Parseller
  • M9: Bahariye – Olimpiyat
  • M11: Kağıthane – Istanbul Havalimani

Buses

Firstly, let’s explore the bus system. Istanbul has a vast network of buses that cover both the central areas and the suburbs. With numerous routes operating at regular intervals, buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. While the metro covers most areas, the expansive bus network allows you to reach even the more remote or residential neighborhoods. The only place that is not accessible by bus is the Sultanahmet Square.

Similar to the metro, buses run regularly, often arriving every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. The majority work until midnight. Buses are very easy to use in Istanbul. It says where they’re going and there’s a list of the stops inside the bus.

The only issue is that the buses get stuck in the traffic often and the bus ride can take you a lot of time (especially during weekends and rush hours).

Tram

Moving on to trams, I will highlight the specific tram lines that operate within the city center. These trams offer a quick and efficient way to travel between popular attractions and key areas in Istanbul. By understanding the tram system, you can save valuable time and effortlessly explore the city’s bustling streets.

Trams are an excellent option for exploring the historical areas of Istanbul, such as Sultanahmet is. The trams run frequently, and the stations are well-marked, making it easy to navigate and hop on and off at various attractions.

On the European side there are 4 lines in service:

  • T1: Kabataş–Bağcılar: this line allows easy access to Sultanahmet Square. You can reach the main attractions of the city with T1 line. I recommend that you use it as is really cheap and fast and definitely easiest way to get to the old town. Stations you may find interesting are: Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı (Grand Bazaar), Sultanahmet (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque), Gülhane (Topkapi Palace), Sirkeci (interchange station to Marmaray), Eminönü (Egyptian Spice Bazaar + change to ferry service), Karaköy, Tophane (Galataport), Kabataş (interchange station to F1 to Taksim, ferry service and short walk to the Dolmabahçe Palace).
  • T2: Taksim – Tünel: historical tram that runs down the Istiklal Street to Taksim Square.
  • T3: Kadıköy – Moda: this one is running in the Asian side
  • T4: Mescid-i Selam – Topkapı 
  • T5: Alibeyköy Cep Otogarı‎ – Eminönü: this line is interesting if you want to visit Balat, Fener or Eyüp (interchange station to TF2 to Piyer Loti)
  • T6/U3: Sirkeci–Kazlıçeşme

istiklal tram

Metrobus

These buses generally run around the outskirts of the city and they are not really important if you visit Istanbul like a tourist. This bus can get you from the European side to the Asian side. However, you won’t find the metro buses in the tourist zones.

Funicular

There are 4 funicular lines in Istanbul:

  • F1: Taksim – Kabataş: It allows you to go from Taksim Square to Kabataş. From there you can take the tram T1 to get to the old town and the boat to the Asian side or Princes Island.
  • F2: Karaköy – Beyoğlu / Tünel: This is actually the third oldest passenger underground railway system in the world. This funicular takes you in 90 seconds 573 meters uphill to Tünel, at the end of Istiklal Caddesi. From there you can easily reach Galata by walking downhill or have a stroll on Istiklal Street.
Tünel Funicular
  • F3: Seyrantepe – Vadistanbul
  • F4: Boğaziçi Üni. – HisarüstüAşiyan

Marmaray

Marmaray is a railway tunnel project in Istanbul. It consists of an underwater railway tunnel under the Bosphorus Strait and the modernisation of the existing suburban railway lines along the Marmara Sea from Halkali on the European side to Gebze on the Asian side. The name Marmaray is a combination of the name of the Sea of Marmara, which lies to the south of the project site, and the word ray, the Turkish word for railway.

There are three underground stations, Yenikapı, Sirkeci and Üsküdar. The following stations on the Marmaray line are of particular interest to tourists:

  • Florya Aquarium:
  • Yenikapı: Yenikapı is the interchange station for M1 and M2 metro line
  • Sirkeci: Eminönü area and ferry docks
  • Üsküdar
  • Ayrılık Çeşmesi: M4 metro line interchange

Marmaray begins running at 06:00 am. Trains run every 5 to 10 minutes during most of the day, every 15 to 20 minutes late at night. (On Sunday and holidays, trains run every 10 minutes all day.) The last trains run at 00:00 (12:00 midnight).

In 2024, Marmaray fares are as follows:

DistanceFare
1 – 7 stations17,70 TL
8 – 14 stations22,26 TL
15 – 21 stations26,27 TL
22 – 28 stations30,30 TL
29 – 35 stations35,39 TL
36 – 43 stations39,18 TL

Ferry

Lastly, we will delve into the unique experience of traveling by ferry in Istanbul. These iconic boats are not only a practical means of transport but also offer breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait and connect the European and Asian sides of the city. These mode of transportation provides a scenic and unique way to get around Istanbul while avoiding the city’s notorious traffic.

I will give you information about the different ferry routes, schedules, and fares, ensuring you can embark on a memorable journey across the shimmering waters.

The main piers on the European side are Eminönü, Beşiktaş, Kabataş, Karaköy and Kadiköy and Üsküdar on the Asian side.

Ferries, operated by Istanbul Sehir Hatlari (Istanbul City Lines), Turyol and Dentur Avrasya, connect various parts of the city and are particularly useful for crossing the Bosphorus Strait. Whether you want to visit the Asian side of Istanbul or explore the Princes’ Islands, ferries offer a convenient and enjoyable means of transportation. The frequency of the ferries depends on the destination, but they generally run every 15-30 minutes.

istanbul ferry

You can use the ferry service in the same way as other types of public transport – by using your Istanbulkart at the gate. It is also a great replacement for a Bosphorus cruise – you will get the same views for a lot less money.

As mentioned above, with public transport you can also reach the Princes Islands – just keep in mind that you can’t pay the ride with Istanbulkart.

Bosphorus

Taxi & rideshare / dolmuş

While public transportation in Istanbul is efficient and reliable, there may be times when you prefer to use taxis or rideshares for convenience or to reach certain destinations not covered by the public transport network. Here are some tips for using taxis and rideshares in Istanbul:

  • Choose reputable companies: Stick to well-known taxi companies such as Istanbul Taxi or BiTaksi. They have reliable drivers and use meters to calculate fares, ensuring transparency and fair pricing.
  • Use a rideshare app: Uber and other popular rideshare apps operate in Istanbul and provide a convenient way to book a ride. They often offer competitive pricing and the ability to track your driver’s location.
  • Check for shared taxis: Istanbul has a unique system called “dolmuş” which are shared taxis that follow specific routes. They are cheaper than regular taxis and can be a good option if you’re traveling within a particular neighborhood or district.
  • Know the fare structure: Familiarize yourself with the fare structure to avoid being overcharged. Taxis in Istanbul charge a base fare plus a per-kilometer fee. Make sure the meter is running and request a printed receipt at the end of your ride.
  • Have small change: It’s a good idea to carry small denominations of Turkish Lira to pay for your taxi or rideshare fare. Drivers may not always carry sufficient change for larger bills.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when using taxis and rideshares in Istanbul, complementing your exploration of the city’s public transport network.

Planning your Istanbul journey

Before setting off, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the public transport schedules. Different modes of transport may have varying frequencies, especially during off-peak hours or weekends. By checking the schedules in advance, you can schedule your journeys accordingly and avoid unnecessary waiting times.

Additionally, consider using online journey planners or mobile applications that provide real-time updates on routes, schedules, and unexpected delays. These tools can be particularly helpful when navigating unfamiliar areas or during times of high traffic. I consider Google maps to be my best assistant and use it regularly on every trip to Istanbul.

Another aspect to consider when planning your journey is to identify any interchange points or transfers between different modes of transport. Istanbul’s public transport network is well-connected, but it’s essential to know when and where to switch from one mode to another. This will ensure a seamless transition and prevent any potential confusion or delays.

Lastly, it’s always advisable to have a backup plan. Familiarize yourself with alternative routes or modes of transport in case of any disruptions, such as road closures, construction, or unexpected service suspensions. By being prepared, you can easily adjust your journey and continue exploring the beautiful city of Istanbul.

Is Istanbul public transport safe?

Yes, public transport in Istanbul is very safe. Metro, tram, and funicular lines in the city center are well maintained and constantly supervised by security personnel. The only thing you should watch out for is pickpockets, just like everywhere in the world.

It’s also worth mentioning that the metro is known for its cleanliness and safety, which are vital factors to consider when using public transport. As a traveler in a foreign city, knowing that you’re in a secure environment can greatly enhance your experience.

Safety precautions

When navigating Istanbul’s comprehensive public transport network, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and be mindful of proper etiquette. Here are some important safety precautions and etiquette tips to keep in mind:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Stay vigilant and mindful of your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas like metro stations and buses. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets.
  • Hold on to handrails: Public transportation can get crowded, especially during rush hours. To maintain balance and prevent accidents, always hold on to handrails when standing in buses, trams, or metro trains.
  • Give up your seat: Istanbul’s public transport often gets crowded, and it is customary to give up your seat to elderly, disabled, or pregnant passengers. Practice common courtesy and be respectful of those who may have a greater need for a seat.
  • Queue properly: When waiting for buses or boarding a tram or metro, form proper queues. Avoid pushing or cutting in line, which can cause confusion and delays.
  • Avoid rush hours if possible: Istanbul experiences heavy traffic during morning and evening rush hours, which can make public transport more crowded and hectic. If you have flexibility, try to plan your journey outside these peak times to ensure a more comfortable and hassle-free experience.

By following these safety precautions and practicing proper etiquette, you can navigate Istanbul’s public transport system confidently and smoothly. Remember, prioritizing your safety and respecting others’ needs contribute to a positive commuting experience for everyone.

Useful phrases & vocabulary for navigating Istanbul

To enhance your experience navigating Istanbul’s public transport network, it is beneficial to familiarize yourself with some essential phrases and vocabulary. While English is spoken in many tourist areas, knowing a few basic Turkish phrases can go a long way in communicating with locals and making your journey more seamless. Here are some must-know phrases:

  • Merhaba (Mehr-HAH-bah) – Hello
  • Teşekkür ederim (teh-shehk-KOOR ed-AIR-im) – Thank you
  • Lütfen (LOOT-fen) – Please
  • Hangi yön? (hahn-gee yon) – Which direction?
  • Bilet almak istiyorum (bee-LET ahl-MAHK is-TEE-YO-room) – I want to buy a ticket.
  • Metro istasyonu nerede? (MEHT-roh is-TAH-syo-NOO neh-REH-deh) – Where is the metro station?
  • Otobüs durağı nerede? (oh-TOH-boos doo-RAH-uh neh-REH-deh) – Where is the bus stop?
  • Kaç para? (KAHCH pah-RAH) – How much?
  • Saat kaç? (SAAHT kahch) – What time is it?
  • Ben <destination> gitmek istiyorum (ben <destination> GIT-mek is-TEE-yo-room) – I want to go to <destination>.

By familiarizing yourself with these essential phrases, you can confidently communicate your needs and navigate Istanbul’s public transport with ease. Remember, even attempting a few words in the local language shows respect and can lead to positive interactions with the locals.

Whether you’re asking for directions, purchasing a ticket, or simply trying to understand the time or cost, knowing these essential phrases will make your journey more seamless. So, before you embark on your Istanbul adventure, take some time to familiarize yourself with these phrases.

Is Istanbul public transport comfortable?

Yes, except buses. Metro, tram, funicular and train vehicles are relatively new and air conditioned. Turks tend to leave their seat for pregnant women and senior citizens. There are also designated areas for prams and people using a wheelchair. Istanbul is making efforts to improve accessibility to platforms and vehicles for handicapped people. Major stops are equipped with elevators. Avoid rush hour to skip very crowded vehicles.

In conclusion, public transport in Istanbul is safe, clean, comfortable and easy to use, so don’t hesitate to use it. Happy exploring!

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21 Comments
  • Mr. Lersan
    September 6, 2022

    By havaist bus
    From IST Airport to Beyoglu District
    Please show your route

    Thanks

    • Jasmina
      September 17, 2022

      IST Airport with HAVAIST bus 16. – Airport – Taksim & then metro Taksim to Şişhane.

  • Where Bhatti
    November 2, 2022

    What is the route from Istanbul Airport to Senatus hotel in sultanahmet On HAVAIST BUS and metro?

    • Jasmina
      November 22, 2022

      You have to take the bus to AKSARAY – BEYAZIT MEYDAN and then the tram from station Beyazit to Sultanahmet. From there you have to walk about 10 minutes to the hotel.

  • Alanna
    November 4, 2023

    Great tips and insight! I’m traveling to Istanbul later this year so this has been a true help!

    • Jasmina
      December 26, 2023

      I’m so glad to hear that!

  • Emily
    November 5, 2023

    This is so helpful! Istanbul is really high on my bucket list but I had never thought about how to get around it. Will remember these tips for when I eventually visit (which will hopefully be sooner rather than later!)

    • Jasmina
      December 26, 2023

      It’s so easy to get around Istanbul with the use of public transport. I usually try to avoid buses because sometimes it takes you so much time!

  • Linda (LD Holland)
    November 5, 2023

    We always like to use public transit when it is good when we travel. Istanbul is on our travel wish list so this post is great to keep for future reference. So many different options are available. And good to know they are working on increasing the public transit. I like when transit cards can be shared. And so cool that the transit card can be used for toilets!

    • Jasmina
      December 26, 2023

      I also like to use public transit – I do a lot of walking but in some cities it’s impossible to only walk. Istanbul really has so many transportation options and it’s really efficient.

  • Anna
    December 28, 2023

    Hi! Thank you for the guide, it’s quite helpful indeed. I have a few questions if you dont mind:

    – I’ve read somewhere that I can only pay for the Istanbulkart with cash. Do you think that’s true? Even at IST airport? (That would mean we need to take cash with us, as I want to avoid crazy airport exchange rates.)
    – How is the Istanbulkart used on buses? Is there a gate everywhere? Or is there some machine on the bus? And if 2 people are using the same card, we just tap twice, right?
    – Also, you say that we should avoid buses. Google tells me, that from the airport we should take the metro to Kağıthane, then bus 46T to our hotel. Do you think it’s a stupid idea and we should do metros 11, 7 and 2 instead? (We’ll land at 11.30 am on a Sunday if that matters)
    I read a lot of discouragement when it comes to using the public buses (not just on your blog, but also elsewhere), and I just don’t understand how heavy traffic is an issue with public buses, but everyone feels comfortable recommending the Havaist buses. Aren’t those also in the same traffic?

    • Jasmina
      December 30, 2023

      Hi Anna! First of all, thanks and second of all I’ll be very glad to answer 🙂

      – No, this is not completely true. You can also pay with debit/credit card, but not on every machine – it says clearly credit & debit cards accepted, so you can’t miss it. You can pay with card on IST airport – the machine is located on the -2 floor of the arrival hall.
      – If you are using the bus, there is a machine on the bus. If 2 people are using the same card, you just tap twice, like you said. When you are using the metro/tram/ferry you tap at the gate and you can pass the Istanbulkart to the second person. If you will face any problems with topping up the card, that means that the monthly limit has been exceeded and you will need another Istanbulkart.
      – Google is very helpfull when it comes to public transport in Istanbul, so I think that this is the best option. If you would want to take a metro, you would have to go on three metros and even do some walking between the station. The bus station is directly where is the Kağithane metro station, so this is the best option. Keep in mind that Google maps is your best friend when it comes to route planning in Istanbul. Buses run pretty frequently, so if you come to Istanbul during the day, this is the best you can do.
      – The thing about the public buses and heavy traffic is that everything takes so much longer when there’s a lot of traffic. With metros/trams/ferries you can reach everything in a shorter period of time. But this is the only minus about the buses. The buses are safe, reliable and usually on time – if they are running late, they are probably stuck somewhere in the traffic.
      The Havaist buses are in the same traffic, but most of the time you are driving on a highway and the traffic there is not so heavy.

      Have a nice trip to Istanbul!

      • Anna
        December 30, 2023

        Thank you so much Jasmina for your detailed answer! Happy new year!

        • Jasmina
          December 30, 2023

          Happy new year to you too!

  • Jorma
    January 13, 2024

    Thank you Jasmina, your guide helps a lot!

    Now I am using Google to test how much I need to load on my Istanbulkart. Google says that the journey from Kabatas to Istanbul Airport is 34,35 TL, using F1+M2+M7+M11 (funicular and metro). But if I take each leg separately, the cost is 64,35 (=15+15+15+19,35). Can you explain the difference? Is there some kind of discount when I only change from one metro line to another?

    • Jasmina
      January 14, 2024

      Glad to hear that!

      The journey from Kabatas to IST airport should be 34,35 TL if you would take the bus to Kagithane and then the M11 metro. In case you take the F1+M2+M7+M11 you will have to pay more. Every time you switch a metro line, you need to buy a new ticket.

      When I was there a few years ago, there was a discounted fare when you were changing lines, but during my last two visits in 2023 it wasn’t like that anymore.

  • Jorma
    January 15, 2024

    Thank you Jasmine for the quick reply! Perhaps I must be prepared to pay 15 TL for each leg downtown and some more in the airport metro.

    It seems that Google shows the right fare 34,35 TL for the cheapest option bus+metro (62+M11). But it also shows the same fare for many other available options, which is not right.

    Another service Citymapper gives 39,04 TL for the funicular+metro (F1+M2+M7+M11) and 25,74 TL for the bus+metro (62+M11). So you should not rely too much on their fares either.

    My visit is on March 4th. Is there any hope of the airport Metro Line M11 finally reaching the Gayrettepe Station by then?

    • Jasmina
      January 25, 2024

      Jorma, I’m very sorry to reply that late. I totally overlooked your comment. I don’t have any clue or information about the line M11 finally reaching the Gayrettepe station. I’m flying to Istanbul ob February 6th and I’ll be able to give you some more information about this.

    • Jasmina
      February 17, 2024

      Hi Jorma! I just came back from Istanbul and I can tell you that the Gayrettepe station has been opened!

  • chifa
    March 24, 2024

    Hello love I appreciate your efforts in guiding people, Im used to take taxis years back in IST, but lately I’ve been hearing some negative feedbacks ant taxi drivers that impose colossal amounts to pay, and that only if they stop for you, so I can say I’m a bit motivated to take public transportations, as I’m coming beginning of May, so my question is about routes, I ll be staying in uskudar and wd defo want to go to European side, where re ferries stations found as well as metro stations in that area? or should I just google it, and also what’s the right route to go from uskudar to Istanbul airport,, thank you so much Jasmina

    • Jasmina
      March 30, 2024

      Hello, so glad to hear that! Where the ferry terminal is located, there is also a metro station – M5 and Marmaray station – both of this stations are located near Üsküdar Square. How you get to these stations depends on where your accommodation is on Üsküdar. So you can take the M5 metro at Uskudar, which runs through the Asian part of Istanbul, but to get to the European side, one option is to take the Marmaray towards Halkali/Ataköy or the ferry. I always use Google maps to plan my route around Istanbul, as it really shows the best public transport options.
      Üsküdar is quite far from Istanbul Airport, and Üsküdar is also very large. Again, Google Maps may be useful in showing you the optimal route from your accommodation to the airport. The public transport option that I know is as follows: Marmaray from Üsküdar station to Yenikapi, where you change to the M2 metro and ride to Gayrettepe station, where you change to the M11 line to the airport. It is a few minutes walk from the M2 to the M11, but the route to the metro station is quite well signposted.
      I hope that this is helpful. If you have any further questions, you can email me at jasmina@theelegantwanderer or on Instagram (@theelegantwanderer). Have a great trip to Istanbul!