If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, one of the first things you’ll want to sort out is how to get around the city. Istanbul is huge, spread across two continents, and its public transport network is the easiest and most affordable way to explore. From metros and trams to buses, ferries, and even funiculars, everything connects seamlessly. The key to using it all is the Istanbulkart.
The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable travel card that works across almost every type of public transport in the city. Instead of buying separate tickets for each ride, you simply top up your card, tap it once at the turnstile or bus entrance, and you’re ready to go. It is cheaper than buying single tickets, saves time, and even allows transfer discounts if you switch from one mode of transport to another within a short period.
For tourists, the Istanbulkart is more than just convenient. With one card, you can ride the metro, trams, buses, ferries, metrobuses, and funiculars. In some places, it can even be used for public toilets. Whether you’re staying for a couple of days or a few weeks, having an Istanbulkart in your pocket makes exploring the city smooth and stress-free.
Where to Buy Istanbulkart
Getting an Istanbulkart is very easy, and you can purchase it almost as soon as you arrive in the city.
At the airport
Both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) have vending machines, kiosks, and convenience stores where you can buy the card. This is the most convenient option if you want to use public transport right after landing.
Metro stations and ferry terminals
All major metro and tram stations across the city have Istanbulkart vending machines. You can also find them at ferry terminals and busier transport hubs. These machines are usually yellow or blue and easy to spot.
Street kiosks and small shops
In many neighborhoods, small newspaper stands and corner shops also sell Istanbulkart. Look for the “Istanbulkart” sign outside.
Cost of the card
As of 2025, the card itself costs around 70–100 Turkish Lira. This is just the purchase price of the card. After that, you need to load balance onto it in order to travel. The top-up amount is flexible, so you can add as much as you need depending on how many rides you plan to take.
Buying the card once is enough. You can then keep recharging it throughout your stay, which makes it more practical and budget-friendly than buying single-use tickets.
How to Load or Recharge Istanbulkart
Once you have your Istanbulkart, the next step is adding balance so you can start using it. The process is simple and takes only a minute.
Using vending machines
The most common way to recharge is through the yellow or blue vending machines found at metro stations, bus stops, and ferry terminals. These machines usually accept cash in Turkish Lira only, so it’s a good idea to carry small notes or coins with you.
At kiosks and shops
Many small kiosks and convenience stores across the city also offer top-up services. Some of these shops may accept credit or debit cards, which can be useful if you don’t have cash on hand.
Step-by-step process at vending machines
- Place your Istanbulkart on the card reader.
- Insert the amount of cash you want to load.
- Wait for the machine to confirm the balance update.
- Take your card back, and it’s ready to use.
The recharge is instant, and you’ll see your updated balance on the machine’s screen. You can load as little or as much as you like, depending on your travel plans.
How to Use Istanbulkart
Using the Istanbulkart is straightforward and designed to make traveling across the city quick and easy.
At turnstiles and bus entrances
When entering the metro, tram, or ferry stations, simply tap your card on the electronic reader at the turnstile. For buses, the card reader is located next to the driver. Once you hear a beep and see the green light, the fare is deducted and you can continue your journey.
Sharing one card
An Istanbulkart can be used by more than one person, which makes it convenient for families or groups traveling together. For example, if two people are traveling, you can tap the same card twice, and the fare will be charged separately for each passenger.
Important to remember
- Every tap counts as one fare, so make sure you have enough balance if multiple people are using the same card.
- The card must be tapped for each passenger before entering.
- Some transfer discounts may only apply if the same card is used by the same person, so when sharing, not everyone may receive the discount.
This flexibility makes Istanbulkart a practical choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group.
Public Transport Covered by Istanbulkart
One of the biggest advantages of the Istanbulkart is that it works almost everywhere in the city’s public transport system. With just one card, you can access multiple types of transport without the need to buy separate tickets.
Metro
The Istanbul metro network connects key areas of the city, including routes from the airport to the city center.
Tram
Trams are one of the most popular ways for tourists to move around historic areas such as Sultanahmet, Eminönü, and Beyoğlu.
Bus
The bus system covers every corner of Istanbul, making it useful for reaching places not connected by metro or tram.
Ferry
Ferries are not only practical for crossing between the European and Asian sides, but they also offer beautiful views of the Bosphorus. Both city ferries and private Bosphorus lines accept Istanbulkart.
Funicular
These short underground railways connect steep hillsides to the metro and tram lines, such as the Taksim–Kabataş funicular.
Metrobus
The Metrobus runs along a dedicated lane and is often the fastest option for crossing the city during traffic.
Public toilets
An interesting feature for visitors is that some public toilets in Istanbul also accept Istanbulkart as payment.
This wide coverage makes the card an all-in-one solution for almost every journey in Istanbul.
Discounts and Transfers with Istanbulkart
Another reason why the Istanbulkart is the best option for travelers is the savings it offers compared to buying single-use tickets.
Cheaper fares
Every ride with the Istanbulkart costs less than purchasing a paper ticket. Over a few days of sightseeing, this difference quickly adds up, especially if you plan to use public transport frequently.
Transfer discounts
If you switch from one type of transport to another within about two hours, the system automatically gives you a transfer discount. For example, if you take the metro and then board a bus, the second ride costs less than the full fare. This applies to most combinations of metro, tram, bus, ferry, and metrobus.
Good to know
- Discounts apply only when you use the same Istanbulkart for the transfer.
- The first tap deducts the full fare, and each transfer within the time limit reduces the price.
- Sharing one card with a group still works, but only the original user may benefit from transfer discounts.
With these features, the Istanbulkart not only makes traveling easier but also helps you save money throughout your trip.
Tourist Tips for Using Istanbulkart
To make the most of your Istanbulkart and avoid common issues, keep these simple tips in mind:
Carry cash
Most vending machines only accept Turkish Lira in cash. Foreign bank cards usually do not work, so it’s smart to keep small notes or coins with you for top-ups.
Keep your card safe
The Istanbulkart is a contactless smart card, so avoid bending, scratching, or damaging it. A damaged card may stop working at the turnstiles.
Check your balance regularly
You can see your balance on the vending machines each time you load the card. There is also an official Istanbulkart mobile app that lets you track and recharge your balance more easily.
Reuse for future visits
The card is not limited to one trip. If you plan to visit Istanbul again, hold on to your Istanbulkart. You can use the same card next time and simply add new credit.
These small tips will help you enjoy smooth and stress-free travel across the city.
Alternative Options for Tourists
While the Istanbulkart is the most popular choice for both locals and visitors, there are a few alternatives designed specifically for tourists.
Istanbul City Card
This is a prepaid card created mainly for short-term visitors. It comes with a set number of rides and can be purchased at airports, tourist offices, or online. The card is simple to use and doesn’t require topping up. However, it usually costs more per ride compared to the regular Istanbulkart.
Which one is better?
If you are staying in Istanbul for just a day or two and prefer a hassle-free option, the Istanbul City Card may be convenient. But for most tourists, the regular Istanbulkart is the better choice. It offers:
- Lower fares on every ride
- Transfer discounts within two hours
- Flexibility to top up as needed
- The option to share the card with family or friends
In short, the Istanbulkart is not only the cheapest but also the most flexible option for getting around the city.
FAQ:
Can I use Istanbulkart for multiple people?
Yes, one Istanbulkart can be shared by more than one person. You simply tap the card for each passenger, and the fare will be charged separately. Just make sure there is enough balance for everyone traveling.
Is Istanbulkart refundable?
The purchase price of the card itself is not refundable. However, any remaining balance will stay on the card and can be used on your next visit to Istanbul.
Where can I check my balance?
You can see your balance each time you use a vending machine to top up. The screen will show the updated amount. In addition, the official Istanbulkart mobile app allows you to check your balance and even recharge if you link a local payment method.
Can I use Istanbulkart for airport buses?
Yes, you can use your Istanbulkart on both Havaist airport buses and IETT city buses that connect the airports to the city center. This makes it one of the most cost-effective ways to travel between the airport and your accommodation.
