3 min read · Published May 2025 · Updated December 2025
Turkey Public Transport Guide
Istanbul transit
Metro, tram and Marmaray connect airports to Sultanahmet. Ferries cross the Bosphorus — scenic and practical.
Istanbulkart setup
Buy at airport or metro station — reload at machines. Works metro, tram, ferry, bus. One card can be shared by tapping twice.
Ferries as sightseeing
Eminonu–Kadikoy and Karakoy–Uskudar routes — cheap Bosphorus views. See /tours/istanbul/asian-side-tour for guided Asian side.
Intercity buses
Metro Turizm, Kamil Koc — overnight Istanbul–Cappadocia exists but we recommend flying — bus wastes a day.
High-speed train
YHT Ankara–Konya–Kayseri axis growing — useful for Konya Mevlana stop. Istanbul–Ankara YHT under 5 hours.
When private transfer wins
Airport arrival, Ephesus from hotel, cruise port days — public transport impractical with luggage or tight timing.