Getting Around Istanbul
Istanbul has an extensive public transportation network connecting the historic center, modern districts, the European and Asian sides of the city and both major airports.
Metro, tram and ferry services are especially useful for visitors. Most public transportation can be used with Istanbulkart, the city's reusable transport card.
Istanbul Transportation Guides
Start with these guides if you are visiting Istanbul for the first time.
Learn where to buy Istanbulkart, how it works and how to use it on public transportation around Istanbul.
Istanbulkart guide → Metro Istanbul Airport Metro M11Find out how the M11 metro connects Istanbul Airport with the city's metro network.
M11 Metro guide → Airport Bus Havaist Airport BusesHavaist operates airport bus services between Istanbul Airport and several important areas of the city.
Havaist guide → Arriving in Istanbul Istanbul Airport TransportationCompare the main ways to travel between Istanbul Airport and central areas of the city.
Airport transportation →How to Get Around Istanbul
Istanbul's metro network is useful for longer journeys across the city and connects many major districts.
The T1 tram is especially useful for visitors because it connects Sultanahmet, Eminönü, Karaköy and Kabataş.
Ferries are one of the easiest and most scenic ways to travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Istanbul has an extensive bus network covering areas that are not directly served by metro or tram.
Short funicular lines connect important areas including Taksim with Kabataş.
Taxis can be useful for direct journeys, luggage or areas that require several public transport connections.
Using Istanbulkart
Istanbulkart is the main reusable transport card used across much of Istanbul's public transportation network. Visitors can use it for metro, tram, ferry and many bus journeys.
We have several separate guides covering where to buy the card, how to add credit and what to do if the card is not working.
Istanbulkart GuideIstanbulkart Guides
Find answers to common questions about buying and using Istanbulkart.
Transportation Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Use the tram for many journeys around Sultanahmet, Eminönü and Karaköy.
- Ferries are often a convenient way to travel between Europe and Asia while avoiding road traffic.
- Metro is usually more predictable than road transport during busy traffic periods.
- Check your route before travelling because Istanbul's transport network includes several metro, tram, ferry and bus operators.
- Keep enough balance on your Istanbulkart before beginning a longer journey with several connections.
Getting from Istanbul Airport to the City
Istanbul Airport is located northwest of central Istanbul. Visitors can reach different parts of the city using the M11 metro, Havaist airport buses, taxis and private transportation.
The best option depends on your destination, luggage, arrival time and how many people are travelling together.
