Istanbulkart for Cruise Passengers: How to Use Public Transport from Galataport

If you're arriving in Istanbul by cruise and docking at Galataport, you're in a great spot to explore the city! But how do you get around easily from there?

In this guide, we'll explain how cruise passengers can buy and use the Istanbulkart from Galataport, and how to reach top attractions using public transport like trams, funiculars, and ferries — all with one simple card.

Need to know what Istanbulkart is? Read the full guide here: https://turkeytraveljournal.com/istanbulkart/

Where Is Galataport?

Galataport is Istanbul’s new cruise port, located right on the European side in the Karaköy neighborhood. It’s close to major tourist spots like:

• Taksim Square

• Galata Tower

• Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia)

• Grand Bazaar

• Istiklal Avenue

And the best part? Public transport options are right next to the port.

Buy an Istanbulkart Near Galataport

Once you exit the cruise terminal:

Walk 2–3 minutes to:

• Karaköy Tram Station (T1 Line)

• IETT bus stops nearby

• Or head up to Tünel Square for the historic Tünel funicular

There are yellow Istanbulkart machines at the tram station and nearby kiosks.

Machines accept cash (Turkish Lira) or cards. You can:

• Buy a new Istanbulkart (130TL deposit)

• Top it up with extra balance (recommended: 150–200 TL for short trips)

Getting Around from Galataport

Once you have your Istanbulkart, you can easily reach any part of the city. Here are the top routes:

To Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia)

• Take T1 Tram from Karaköy → get off at Sultanahmet Station

• ~15 minutes ride

• One card tap per person

   

To Grand Bazaar

• Stay on the T1 Tram → get off at Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı Station

• Then walk 3–5 minutes to the Grand Bazaar gate

 To Taksim Square

• Walk 10 minutes to Karaköy Tünel Station

• Take the Tünel funicular up to İstiklal Avenue

• From there, either walk to Taksim or take the nostalgic tram

 To Asian Side

• Take the ferry from Karaköy Pier to Kadıköy or Üsküdar

• Ferries accept Istanbulkart too!

• Enjoy amazing Bosphorus views during the ride

Top Up and Check Balance

You can check your balance and top up at:

• Any tram or metro station

• Ferry terminals

• Istanbulkart machines near tourist areas

 Top up early to avoid lines later!

Extra Tips for Cruise Visitors

• Trams are perfect for cruise passengers — easy to use, scenic, and go straight to key spots.

• Istanbulkart works on all public transport — no need to buy individual tickets.

• Save your time and money by loading enough credit at the beginning.

• One card can be used for up to 5 people if you’re traveling as a group.

With your Istanbulkart, you can explore Istanbul’s treasures without needing taxis or expensive tours. From Galataport, trams and ferries take you to all the main attractions — fast and budget-friendly.

Buy your card, tap and go — it’s that simple!

You can also take the Havaist shuttle — here’s the guide.
If you prefer the metro, see our Istanbul Airport Metro tutorial.
Don’t forget, you’ll need an Istanbulkart to ride the metro or bus.