Tourists in Istanbul primarily navigate the city using an extensive public transport network (trams, metros, ferries) accessed via the Istanbulkart, which provides a cheap, efficient, and traffic-avoiding way to travel. The T1 tram is essential for reaching major tourist sites in Sultanahmet, while ferries, Metrobus, and walking are also popular for traversing the city's hilly, often congested streets.
Look around and you will quickly see that the best mode of transport is the tram. They're easy to spot, fast and operate with frequency, and there are plenty of stops so you can enjoy the city and take pictures while you are travelling. They are also cheap (around TL 5 per trip, per person if you don't have a pass).
Istanbul is a largely walkable city, with major attractions like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Sultanahmet Square, all within a short walk of each other.
A single Istanbul transport card can be used for up to 5 passengers (however, we recommend using 1 for 3). After paying for the first passenger, wait a bit and then bring the card closer to the reader and repeat that for others. Claim discounts: The card offers you a 40% discount on the fare of every type of transport.
Credit cards and debit cards are accepted all over Türkiye, but it's also a good idea to have some lira with you. If you're visiting a market like the Grand Bazaar, you may find that cash is preferred.
How to buy an Istanbul Kart - The key to public transportation in Istanbul
Is Istanbulkart worth it?
The main advantages of getting the Istanbulkart are: Cheaper Transfers: with the Istanbulkart you can make up to 5 transfers in the different means of transport with a discount. 1 transfer costs 16.67 TL ( US$ 0.38), 2 transfers costs 9.62 TL ( US$ 0.22), and 3 transfers costs 6.08 TL ( US$ 0.14).
You can obtain your Istanbulkart from the 24 different İstanbulkart machines (BILETMATIK) on the lower 2nd floor at the airport (arrival public transportation floor) following the signs, the HAVAIST offices, and the contracted exchange offices at the airport.
Can I pay with credit card instead of Istanbulkart?
In 2025, the Istanbulkart costs around 165 TL without balance. You must add credit before using it. The maximum top-up and monthly limit is 2750 TL. Machines mostly take cash, though some accept cards.
Another travel card you can use while exploring Istanbul, as an alternative to the Istanbulkart, is the Istanbul City Card. With this card, you can take unlimited rides on public transportation within Istanbul throughout the day.
City bus, Metro, tram, funicular, ferry: full-fare costs 0.84 cents; the first transfer to another vehicle: 0.63 cents. Children 6 years and older must pay a fare; those younger than six years who do not occupy a seat may travel without a ticket.
The European side is generally more popular among tourists and offers a wide range of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The neighborhoods of Sultanahmet and Beyoglu are particularly popular among tourists, with their proximity to major attractions and vibrant nightlife.
Yes, tipping is expected in restaurants. In small and casual eateries, rounding up the bill is enough. For example, if the bill is 190 TL, leaving 200 TL is polite. In mid-range restaurants, leaving 5–10% is common.
The 2/3/4 rule for credit cards is a guideline, notably used by Bank of America, that limits how many new cards you can get approved for: no more than two in 30 days, three in 12 months, and four in 24 months, helping manage hard inquiries and credit risk. It's a strategy to space out applications, preventing too many hard pulls on your credit report and helping maintain financial health by avoiding over-extending yourself.
Whenever you travel abroad, it's best to take the country's official currency with you. That way, you'll avoid unnecessary exchange fees and any additional charges. The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira and each lira is divided into 100 kuruş.
How much is a taxi from Istanbul airport to city centre?
A taxi to central Istanbul usually takes 40–60 minutes. Private transfers often use the airport highway, reducing travel time. Taxi fares typically range €25–€35, while pre-booked private transfers guarantee fixed pricing and a professional driver waiting at arrivals.
What is the difference between Istanbulkart and Istanbul City Card?
Unlike the Istanbulkart, which caters to both locals and long-term visitors, the Istanbul City Card is exclusively designed for tourists, making it the ideal choice for visitors looking to explore Istanbul's iconic attractions.
The Grand Bazaar: is one of the largest shopping centres in the world with over 4,000 stalls and up to 400,000 visitors daily. Here you can find absolutely everything, at all prices and for all kinds of buyer.
Street robbery and pickpocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.
In Turkish cities, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable. Female tourists wear their usual clothing. There is no problem wearing shorts for comfort, except when you visit mosques.
