Getting around Istanbul

Tram

The T1 tram runs from Kabataş via Karaköy, Eminönü, Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar (Beyazıt) to the western suburbs, linking almost every Old City sight.

Trams are packed at rush hour; keep bags in front of you.

Metro

The M2 metro connects Taksim with Şişhane (for Galata and Istiklal) and crosses the Golden Horn Metro Bridge to Vezneciler and Yenikapı. Marmaray trains run under the Bosphorus between Sirkeci and Üsküdar in a few minutes.

The F1 funicular links Kabataş with Taksim Square in about two minutes.

Ferry

Public ferries link Eminönü, Karaköy, Kabataş and Beşiktaş with Kadıköy and Üsküdar on the Asian side, run up the Bosphorus and along the Golden Horn, and serve the Princes' Islands.

Ferries take Istanbulkart and are often faster than crossing by road.

Taxi

Yellow taxis are plentiful but traffic is slow; insist on the meter and know your route, as some drivers in tourist areas overcharge.

Hailing a taxi through the BiTaksi app or a hotel desk reduces the risk of disputes.

Walking

Sultanahmet, Galata, Karaköy and Beyoğlu are walkable, but Istanbul is very hilly, with steep lanes and stairs between the waterfront and the ridges.

Bus

City buses reach areas without rail, such as Balat, Fener and the upper Bosphorus villages, and accept Istanbulkart.

Istanbulkart

The rechargeable contactless card used on metro, tram, Marmaray, funiculars, buses and public ferries. Buy and top it up at machines in stations and piers; one card can pay for several people.

Museum Pass Istanbul

A multi-day pass for a group of state-run museums and sites. The list of included places has changed over time, so check it against your plans before buying.