Istanbul is the largest city and most popular in Turkey, which in recent years has become a tourist destination for many foreigners.

Due to the popularity of this city, In this article we intend to provide a complete guide about Istanbul transportation system.

So if you are planning a visit to Istanbul, join us on this not so bumpy road trip.

Introduction to Istanbul transportation system

The city of Istanbul has a unique geographical location, where the Bosphorus strait divides the city into two parts, one European and the other Asian, connected by 3 huge hanging bridges.

This special natural and geographical location has led to the formation of a diverse sea and land transportation system in this city, that allowed people to travel between different districts of Istanbul.

Today it is possible to navigate Istanbul by ferry and boat between the famous city piers, as well as old tram lines, newly built metro lines, and public bus lines.

When choosing a vehicle for transportation in Istanbul, you should pay attention to certain things. Such as traffic hours, costs, the amount of luggage you have, the number of people, and the destination you want to travel to.

If you plan to use public transportation in Istanbul, it is recommended that you use the Istanbul card.

We explained in detail how to buy an Istanbul card and the benefits of using it in previous articles.

Istanbul Metro Line

The Istanbul Metro system operates under the auspices of the city council and its oldest line is the M1, which was opened in 1989.

The Istanbul Metro system currently has 7 lines M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, M7.

The metro system in this big city is always in the process of development and M9, M10 lines will be built in the near future.

Istanbul Metro is open from 6 am to 12 midnight and trains arrive at the stations every 6 to 10 minutes.

Busy lines, such as the M2 line, take off every 3 minutes during peak hours.

Istanbul Metro lines routes

Line M1:

departs from Yenikapi in the city center to Atatürk Airport/Kirazili, the metro operates from 6:00 am to 12:00 am.

Line M2:

Departs from YeniKapi and arrives at Hacıosman.

People who want to go to Taksim Square and Şişli district can use this metro line. The metro operates from 6:15 am to 12 am.

Line M3:

It starts from Kirazli / Basaksehir all the way to the Kent / Olympia metro.

It can be said that Kirazli is one of the most important stations within Istanbul.

This Metro line operates from 6 am to 12 am.

Line M4:

It starts from Kadikoy and reaches Tavşantepe.

This line operates in the Asian part of Istanbul and starts from the Asian shore of the Bosphorus.

The metro line operates from 6 am to 12 am.

Line M5:

It goes from Uskudar to, and operates from 6 am to 12 am.

The journey from Uskudar to Şekmeköy takes about 17 minutes.

Line M6:

This metro line starts from Levent district / Bogazici University and reaches Hisarosto.

It is a small line and takes only 7 minutes, it also operates from 6 am to 12 am.

Line M7:

It starts from Mecidiyeköy and reaches Mahmutbey, it runs from 6 am to 12 am.

Its journey takes 32 minutes.

Line M9:

This line starts from Atakoy and reaches the Olympiat. This metro line operates from 6 am to 12 am, and the journey takes about 10 minutes.

Istanbul Metro map

In all metro stations in different parts of Istanbul, you will find metro line maps available for passengers. The map below shows the route of different subway lines in different colours.

Metrobus Istanbul

The Metrobus is a fast and non-traffic public transport service in Istanbul.

Anyone using the Istanbul Card can easily use the Metrobus line.

It is distinguished by having a single line in the middle of the E5 highway, as it does not fall within the severe traffic in the city.

The Metrobus line extends over a distance of 52 km with a total of 44 stations.

From Beylikdüzü in the west of the European part of Istanbul to Söğütlüçeşme in the Asian part of the city.

Buses carrying passengers on this route have a high passenger capacity and are equipped with summer cooling and winter heating.

The Metrobus also enjoys greater safety and comfort than other public transport vehicles and its design makes it accessible to all groups of residents, including the disabled and the elderly.

Metrobus lines in Istanbul

• BZ34: It is the longest line that connects Beylikdüzü and Zencirlikoy stations in Besiktas.
  It consists of 37 stations, at a distance of 40 km, and takes about an hour.
• C34: Cevizlibağ station. It is one of the main stations in the city, where you need to change buses.
  It is also one of the stops that intersect with the tram line.
• AS34: it is the station that connects Avcılar and Söğütlüçeşme, and extends for 32 km.
• BC34: The station that connects Beylikdüzü and Cevizlibağ.

Buses in Istanbul

The bus is one of the most common means of public transportation in Istanbul.

Bus lines in Istanbul extend in different neighborhoods of the city, passing through a number of stations.

The important thing about using the bus is that it is not suitable if you are in a hurry to reach your destination, as it usually gets stuck in traffic jams in Istanbul.

The positive point of this Istanbul bus system is that it passes through different and important routes that cannot be reached by Tram or Metro.

Istanbul buses are divided into two types: private buses and city buses.

Private buses are green and blue and their destination is marked with yellow and non-digital signs.

While public buses look different and in different colours, for example the old buses are red and the newer buses are green.

Istanbul Tram

Another popular means of public transportation in Istanbul is the tram.

Trams run through the old city streets, giving you the opportunity to explore the real Istanbul.

In terms of speed, the tram is not very fast.

In fact, the tram stops near most of Istanbul’s tourist attractions, which is a good way to visit these famous attractions.

Istanbul Tram Lines

Tram line T1:

Kabataş-Bağcılar

Tram line T3:

Kadıköy-Moda

Tram line T4:

Topkapi – Selim I Mosque (Topkapı – Mescid-i Selam)

Tram line T5:

Cibali-Alibeyköy

 Istanbul Tram map

Taxis in Istanbul

Taxis in Istanbul are more expensive than other public transportation, but can be affordable if more than two people share the cost.

You will have no problem finding a taxi in the streets of Istanbul or the airport as there are more than just enough taxis.

To use the taxi, be sure to pay attention to the distance and traffic so that you do not spend a long time reaching your destination.

Another very important point when using a taxi in Istanbul is to review the cost before boarding and agree on the fare with the driver so that you are not charged extra.

Taxi prices vary day and night, and you have to pay for the taxi fare in Turkish lira, so if you don’t have a lira be sure to exchange the currency before taking a taxi.

Expenses related to tolls on the bridge or highways when transporting by taxis are paid by the passenger.

If the driver pays the toll, it will be added to the fare later, so be sure to pay attention to the cost of the transit fee.

Online taxi

Perhaps you are familiar with the online taxi system.

In Turkey, you can use the online taxi services by installing its app to your smartphone.

The price of these taxis is not much cheaper than regular taxis, but it is convenient to get a taxi quickly.

Uber and iTaxi are good options for using online taxis in Istanbul.

Boats and ferries in Istanbul

As mentioned, Istanbul is located on both sides of the Bosphorus, so many piers were built in different parts of the city.

In addition to recreational cruises, boats are also used for daily transportation.

You can use boats and ferries to transport between different parts of Istanbul, but they may cost more, and boats take a relatively longer time.

Istanbul piers

• Eminonu Pier
• Kabataş Pier
• Yenikapi Pier
• Beşiktaş Pier
• Ortakoy Pier
• Kadikoy Pier

Each of these piers has specific boat routes and times.

These piers are commonly used for trips to the Princes Islands and Bosphorus tours.

To be honest, tourists rarely use these routes as a means of transportation in Istanbul.

Some dock ships are privately owned and sell traditional tickets, while others are run by the public sector where you can use the Istanbul Card.

Minibuses (Dolmuş) in Istanbul

Dolmuş are 10 seater yellow vans that route on certain lines and routes and are priced by the state.

Dolmuş is more expensive than a bus, but less than a taxi.

Note that these buses do not have specific stops, and they stop at the request of the passenger.

They are more common in the Asian part of Istanbul, and you must have cash to pay for them, as they do not support Istanbul Card.

Istanbul Railways

In addition to being a means of transportation in Istanbul, it is also known as a tourist attraction.

The train is divided into two lines:

• The T or Karaköy-Tünel line that goes down Istiklal Street.
• The F1 or Taksim-Kabataş line that runs between Taksim Square and Kabataş.
  If you want to go to Sultanahmet, or reach ships sailing to the Princes’ Islands, you should use this line.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hours are the low traffic jams in Istanbul?

The peak hours of traffic jams in Istanbul are between 7 to 10 in the morning & 4 to 6 in the evening.

So if you want to go out during these hours, it is recommended that you use the Metro.

Is public transportation in Istanbul safe?

Yes, Transportation in Istanbul is subject to security and safety controls, however you must be careful of your valuables when using public transportation.

The post Istanbul transportation system complete guide – All you need to know appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

Transportation will be free for students, parents, and teachers who will take the Higher Education Institutions Examination (YKS) which will be held in Ankara on June 26-27.

According to the statement issued by Ankara Metropolitan Municipality, EGO buses, metro and Ankara will run at 06.00-22.00 on exam dates.

Students, parents, and teachers who will take the exam will be able to benefit from the free public transportation service by showing their exam documents.

The post Transportation is free for students who will take the exam in Ankara appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

Firefighters put out the fire that broke out in a car on the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge.

Where a fire broke out on the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in the engine part of the car that passed from the Anatolian side to the European side, and its license plate and driver’s identity have not yet been determined.

Firefighters were also sent to the area to put out the fire in the car pulled by the driver to the right of the road, and the fire was quickly put out with the help of firefighters.

While security measures were taken around the vehicle due to the fire, traffic control began on the bridge.

A long line of vehicles was observed at the entrance to the bridge from the Anatolian side.

The post Car fire on the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in Istanbul appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

High-speed trains, regional trains, Marmaray and Başkentray services will be in service from May 17th according to the departure times before complete closure.

TCDD General Directorate Tasimacilik AS has made arrangements for YHT, Marmaray, Baskentray and regional passenger train services with effect from May 17th.

50 percent capacity in YHTs

Accordingly, YHTs will operate in Ankara-Eskisehir-Istanbul and Ankara-Konya-Istanbul lines with a capacity of 50 percent within the social distance base and will make 22 flights per day.

The presentation of the HES code will also be mandatory while providing train tickets, and YHTs will make trips according to their tariffs prior to submitting a full closure request.

The joint transfer will be conducted with the YHT link between Konya and Karaman.

Marmara and Bashkentray

Regional trains will also operate according to a pre-lockdown schedule.

Marmaray will serve at intervals of 30 minutes on ban days, 8 minutes between Zeytinburnu-Maltepe and 15 minutes between Halkalı-Gebze on other days.

On the other hand, Başkentray will run at 15-minute intervals between Sincan and Kayaş on days when there is no curfew.

And 30-minute time periods on days when there are restrictions, and due to the complete lockdown between April 29 and May 17.

While the YHT, Marmaray and Başkentray train schedules and times have changed, regional train services have been suspended.

The post How will the trains operate after a complete shutdown? appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

Within the scope of the new type of Coronavirus (COVID-19) measures, and in view of the “complete lockdown” that will start tomorrow.

Istanbul metro, tram and cable car services have been arranged, as it is in the statement made by Istanbul Metro.

It was recalled that the curfew will be applied from 19:00 on Thursday, April 29th, until 05:00 on Monday, May 17th, with the circular of the Ministry of Interior.

The statement stated that the trips were arranged from April 29, 2021, in order to prevent health care workers and citizens from working due to their mandatory duties during the restriction period.

Available stations during restriction:

• M1A Yenikapı-Ataköy / Şirinevler
• M1B Yenikapı – Kirazlı
• M2 Yenikapı – Hacıosman
• M3 Kirazlı-Olimpiyat – Başakşehir
• M4 Kadıköy – Tavşantepe
• Miye-Kirazlı.

Mescid-i Selam and T5 Cibali-Alibeyköy Cep Otogarı lines will also be in operation at intervals.

Its duration is 15 minutes between 06.00 – 21.00, and the flights will end at 21.00.

The companies will also follow the arrangements made on a daily and hourly basis, and if necessary, the frequency of flights will be adjusted.

The service will not be available on some lines

During restriction, the following line service will not start:

• M6 University Metro Levent-Hisarüstü / Boğaziçi
• F1 Taksim – Kabataş funicular
• T3 Kadıköy – Moda
• TF1 Maçka – Taşkışla
• TF2 Eyüp – Piyer Loti fonts.

The statement stated that the operation will start on all lines as of 05:00 on Monday, May 17th.

Citizens will also be able to use IETT vehicles that operate on the same roads as closed lines.

The post Measures of “complete closure” of metro services in Istanbul appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

The Istanbul Card is a card that reduces transportation costs by 20%!

You may wonder how can we see a reduction in the cost of the trip to Istanbul by buying a card that we have to pay a fee for?

Millions of people travel to Istanbul every year, and have difficulty estimating costs related to transportation, tourism and online shopping, to meet this challenge.

The Turkish government has introduced smart tourism cards so that travelers can buy them so that they have a clear and detailed plan for their travel expenses, so we assure you that after reading this article, you will keep your card even after your return from Istanbul.

What is the Istanbul Tourist Card or Istanbul Card ?

The truth is that by buying and shipping a tourist card in Istanbul, you can see a decrease in transportation costs, attractions, online services around the clock, and Internet use in this Turkish city. Given the importance of the Istanbul Card for travelers, we have decided to answer all questions related to buying an Istanbul Card.

The Istanbul Tourist Card is a smart card used to pay public transport fees, this card was introduced in March 2009 and eventually replaced the Akbil electronic ticket, the size of this card resembles a credit card, so it can be easily placed in the wallet, and the recharge amount is paid in advance and can be recharged easily.

Benefits and applications that benefit you with the Istanbul Tourist Card :

Among the facilities provided by the Istanbul Card for travelers:

• Free internet citywide
• Online guide 24 hours a day
• Free service from airport to accommodation
• Free entertainment experience specified for the card
• Free shipping or with special citywide discounts
• Free visit to the attractions and museums specified for the card

How to buy the Istanbul Card ?

There are many ways to obtain this card, you can buy this card in kiosks inside metro stations, buses, airports, newspaper kiosks in the city, and also online from sites selling Istanbul cards, and we will talk about the conditions in each of the mentioned centers, so there is no need to worry.

What is the price of the Istanbul Card ?

As you can see by purchasing this card, you can achieve a significant reduction in costs, and the cost that you have to pay to buy a tourist card in Istanbul is equal to 6 liras, and it should be noted that there is no fee in this card, of course, this means that you can charge the card is as much as you need after purchase.

Ways to charge Istanbul card :

Charging Istanbul Card through ATMs :

One of the ways to charge the tourist card is to use ATMs, you can easily charge your tourist card in Istanbul inside metro stations through these devices, but how?

First, you have to place your Istanbul card in the glass place of the device, which also contains the image of the card. To recharge, you can enter the largest number of banknotes you want and watch the balance of the card and recharge, which is done automatically after placing the banknotes, and the point that you should pay attention about the banknotes that are in a good situation and without any folds and are necessarily in the Turkish lira currency.

Charging the Istanbul Tourist Card in metro kiosks and newspaper shops :

Another way to buy this tourist card is to go to newsstands or the metro and buses and buy a tourist card in Istanbul, you won’t have any difficult process of buying or shipping, you can easily do your business by paying the Turkish lira.

Is it possible to charge the Istanbul Card online ?

Yes, if you want to buy this card online, you can go to the following website http://istanbultouristpass.com.

The way to get the card is that after the purchase process on the site, an email is sent to the buyer containing a link and code to activate the card.

What vehicles can be used with the Istanbul Card ?

For the convenience of the passengers, all public transportation in Istanbul are eligible to use the Istanbul Card, and these means include Metro trains, trams, metrobus, buses, boats, TCS, airports (or Havabas, which is the airport bus), and cruise ships including sightseeing tours and denture.

What is the effect of using the Istanbul Card on transportation in Turkey ?

Through this article, we insisted on helping you reduce the average cost of your trip, especially transportation with the tourist card, now we want to prove that.

In general, the cost of each metro line for the passenger is 2.6 Turkish liras, and with this tourist card this cost decreases by up to 50% on the same day.

For example, when riding the subway, 2.6 liras is deducted from your card at the first gate, but with the difference that for the second time only 1.8 lira is reduced, and if it was in the same day and in a period of time less than two hours from each gate that you pass by using the same card, only 1.4 Turkish liras will be deducted from your card.

In this way, for your fourth and fifth trip on the same day, the cost will be less than one lira.

With all these descriptions, isn’t this an economic solution to get an Istanbul card from for your trip?

Is it possible to use the Istanbul Card as a group ?

Yes, you do not need to buy several cards, because with one card, five people can travel.

After the first passenger pays his fare with this card, he must wait a few seconds and then the next person uses this card again, of course we advise not to use more than three  Persons for this card.

Does the Istanbul Card expire ?

Yes, this card is valid for two years from the time it was obtained.

What do you do with your card after the flight ?  Bring it back or keep it ?

Now the question is what to do with the Istanbul card after returning from the trip? You could sell your card at the end of the trip, but why would you do that?

If you are one of the people interested in Istanbul, you can keep your card to use on your next trip.

Note that this card is valid for two years, if you do not want to go to this city anymore, you can give it to your friends and acquaintances.

In addition to the Istanbul card, to reduce the cost of your trip to Istanbul, you can also use the Istanbul Museum card and buy it to pay less for tourism and visit the museums of this city.

The post What is the Istanbul Card? How do we save on our costs? appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

Istanbul Metrobus, is a fast and non-traffic public transport service in Istanbul. Anyone using the Istanbul Card can easily use the Metrobus service.

It is characterized as a single line in the middle of the highway. as it does not get stuck in the traffic.

The metrobus extends over 52 kilometers with a total of 44 stations. from Beylikdüzü, west of the European side of Istanbul, All the way to Söğütlüçeşme in the Asian side of the city.

Don’t forget to mention that the Metrobus is located in the middle of the E5 highway. and you have to use pedestrian bridges to get into the station, but do not worry, most of these bridges are equipped with elevators and electric stairs.

Buses carrying passengers on this road have a high passenger capacity and are equipped with summer cooling and winter heating.

The metrobus also has greater safety and comfort conditions than other public transportation vehicles. and its design makes it accessible to all groups of the population, including the disabled and the elderly people. All the buses are also equipped with alert screens to display the stations before they arrive.

Once you leave the gate and get off the station, you can recover the rest of the value of your trip by specialized machines. which calculate the number of stations that you crossed by the Metrobus, to return the rest to your Istanbul Card.

The metrobus contains 4 main lines, each of which runs in the same path, but with different destination:

• BZ34: It is the longest line that connects the two stations of Beylikduzu and ZencerliKoy in Besiktas region. and it consists of 37 stations, with a distance of 40 kilometers (25 Miles), with about an hour.
• C34: Cevizlibağ station, it is one of the main stations in the city. where you need to change the bus, and it is one of the stations that intersect the tram line.
• AS34: this line connects between Avcılar and Söğütlüçeşme, and runs for 32 kilometers.
• BC34: The station links between Beylikduzu and Cevizlibağ.

The main stations of the Metro line, which also contain Istanbul metro stations:

• Şirinevler
• Bahçelievler
• Zeytinburnu
• Merter
• Yenibosna
• Mecidiyeköy
• Zencerliköy
• Şişli

The main Metrobus stations that intersect the tram line:

• Zeytinburnu
• Topkapı
• Cevizlibağ
• Bayrampaşa

The most important shopping centers along the metro bus line:

• Marmara Park Mall in Beylikdüzü
• Marmara Forum Mall in Zeytinburnu
• Airport Mall in Yenibosna district
• Metro Port Mall in Bahcelievler
• Istanbul Cevahir Mall in Şişli
• Zorlu Center at Zencerliköy Station

The post Istanbul Metrobus, the best way to transport in Istanbul appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.