Getting There & Away in Istanbul

Good to Know

• Purchase an Istanbulkart at the airport immediately upon arrival; it's required for metro, buses, trams, and ferries throughout Istanbul.
• Metro M11 runs until midnight only—if arriving after midnight, use Havaist (24/7) or taxi.
• Traffic during rush hours (7–10 am and 4–7 pm) can double journey times for buses and taxis; metro avoids traffic entirely.
• Havaist buses require a separate ticket (not Istanbulkart); don't confuse with regular public buses.
• Ferry rides on the Bosphorus and Golden Horn are affordable commuter services, not tourist-oriented cruises; a genuine local experience.
• Official taxis use meters; always ask driver to turn it on or negotiate a fixed price before departure.
• Yellow taxis ('C-type') are the cheapest; turquoise ('D-type') and black ('E-type') charge more.
• Arriving at Halkali station for international trains? Connect via Marmaray suburban line to reach central Istanbul.
• High-speed trains (YHT) require reservations and can sell out; book ahead.
• No luggage storage on metro; keep bags with you if traveling by rail.
• Ferry terminals can have long queues during peak hours; allow extra time.
• Private transfers cost more than taxis but offer fixed pricing, English-speaking drivers, and reduced stress after long flights.