Where to Top Up Istanbulkart: Full Guide for 2025 Travelers

If you're unfamiliar, the Istanbulkart is the universal travel card for nearly all forms of public transportation in Istanbul:

• Istanbul Airport Metro, Tram, Funicular

• Havaist Shuttle at Airport

• Metrobus

• Public Buses

• Ferries (Şehir Hatları, IDO)

• Cable cars

• Even some public restrooms and vending machines!

It offers huge savings over single-ride tickets and is the #1 must-have for navigating Istanbul like a local.

• Don’t rely on taxis or Uber alternatives if you’re on a budget

• Don’t assume credit cards are accepted at every kiosk

• Don’t throw away your istanbulcard — you can reuse it or gift it