Navigating Istanbul’s public transport might feel intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to explore the city. In 2025, Istanbul’s transportation system is more connected than ever — with metros, buses, ferries, trams, and airport shuttles working together to get you just about anywhere. This guide will show you exactly how to use each option, save money with the Istanbulkart, and avoid the common mistakes first-time visitors make.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to use metro, buses, ferries, and even airport transfers in Istanbul with ease. Whether you’re staying a few days or a few weeks, this post will save you time, money, and stress.
🚇 Istanbul Public Transport: What’s New in 2025?
In 2025, Istanbul’s public transport continues to evolve. Here are the most notable updates:
- Contactless payments are now accepted on most metro and bus lines.
- Istanbulkart Mobile App allows digital top-up and QR-code entry.
- More metro lines are operational, including new airport connections.
- Most announcements and signage now support multiple languages, including English.
💳 What is Istanbulkart and How to Use It
The Istanbulkart is your golden key to the city’s transport system. It works across metro, tram, bus, funicular, Marmaray (suburban train), and ferries.
Where to Get Istanbulkart:
- Airport kiosks
- Major metro stations
- Convenience stores with “Istanbulkart” signs
How Much Does It Cost in 2025?
- Card purchase: ~₺70
- One ride: ~₺17 (with discount after first ride)
Pro Tip: Use the Istanbulkart app to top-up and check balance in English.
🚉 Types of Transport & How to Use Each One
🚇 Metro
Fast and reliable. Most lines operate 6 AM – midnight.
Tourist-friendly lines:
- M2: Taksim → Levent
- M1A: Airport (Old Atatürk area) → Aksaray
- M11: New Istanbul Airport → Gayrettepe (new as of 2023–24)
🚋 Tram
Perfect for sightseeing.
- T1: Kabataş – Sultanahmet – Eminönü – Bağcılar
- Operates every 3–10 minutes
🚌 Bus
Cheapest but slowest due to traffic. Use apps like Moovit or Trafi to avoid confusion.
🚢 Ferries
Best for Bosphorus views.
- Use Istanbulkart
- Schedule varies by season (check Şehir Hatları website)
🚊 Marmaray
Cross-continental train under the Bosphorus. Very fast and air-conditioned.
📱 Best Apps for Getting Around Istanbul
- Istanbulkart App – Manage your balance, top-up online, and enter gates with QR
- Moovit – Real-time transit directions (multilingual)
- Trafi – Another reliable transport planner with offline maps
- Google Maps – Works well for metro & ferry, but not great for buses
⚠️ Tips for Tourists Using Public Transport
- Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) unless you love crowds.
- Be aware of pickpockets, especially in T1 tram and metro stations.
- Always validate your Istanbulkart — there are random inspections.
- Some stations have no escalators — keep that in mind with luggage.
🚖 Need a Stress-Free Airport Transfer? Try Kiwitaxi
While public transport is affordable, it can be exhausting — especially after a long flight or when carrying luggage.
If you prefer comfort, speed, and peace of mind, we recommend booking an airport transfer with Kiwitaxi.
✅ English-speaking driver
✅ Fixed price, no haggling
✅ Door-to-door service to your hotel
✅ 24/7 customer support
👉 Book your Istanbul Airport Transfer via Kiwitaxi here
🧳 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can tourists buy an Istanbulkart at the airport?
Yes. Look for vending machines or kiosks near the metro station inside the terminal.
Do I need a SIM card to use the apps?
Most apps work offline once downloaded, but mobile data helps. Consider using an eSIM like Airolo or Yesim.
READ: Best eSIM for Türkiye in 2025: Airolo vs Yesim Comparison & Full Setup Guide
Is public transport safe in Istanbul?
Generally yes, but always keep your belongings close and avoid late-night commutes alone.
📌 Final Thoughts
Istanbul’s public transport in 2025 is surprisingly efficient — once you get the hang of it. With an Istanbulkart, a good app, and a basic understanding of the system, you’ll move around like a local. For those who prefer zero stress, services like Kiwitaxi offer a great alternative.
Happy travels in Türkiye — and don’t forget to watch the Bosphorus sunset from a ferry!
