Public transport in Istanbul - metro, tram, taxi, funicular and even cable car. Istanbul tram - the ideal city tram Map of the T1 tram in Istanbul

Istanbul is known for its traffic jams, so tourists visiting it, including us, prefer public transport, which will be discussed in this article. We will try to reflect all the nuances associated with travel in public transport in Istanbul, we will tell you about paying for travel using Istanbulkart, about the cost of tickets and tokens, about all the pros and cons that you can encounter in the metro, tram, taxi and other public transport in Istanbul.

Public transport in Istanbul

Istanbul has a very developed public transport network, it includes 4 metro lines, more than 500 bus routes, 2 lines of high-speed trams and 2 regular ones, the Marmaray tunnel under the Bosphorus Strait, a whole network water transport, funicular and 2 cable cars.

Car rental prices in Istanbul

The photo below shows the updated public transport map of Istanbul.

Payment methods

There are several options for paying for public transport in Istanbul, we will look at each in detail, compare which one is more profitable and what is better to use when paying for travel on the metro, tram, ferry, and taxi.

The most common type of payment for travel on public transport is using Istanbulkart, but you can also pay with tokens, electronic tickets, and sometimes in cash.

Istanbulkart

Istanbulkart is a card, in the form of a credit card, which is used only in the city of Istanbul to pay for travel on the following types of public transport: metro, tram, buses, funicular, Marmaray tunnel, metrobus, all water transport. It can be purchased and used by anyone without presenting an identity document. For example, we bought one for two and used it in turn, the main thing was to make sure that it always had a positive balance.

The main issues that tourists visiting Istanbul face related to Istanbulkart:

- - Where to buy Istanbulkart?
  - How much does it cost to travel on Istanbulkart?
  - How and where to top up Istanbulkart?
  - How to use Istanbulkart?
  - Is it profitable to use Istanbulkart?

Buy Istanbulkart You can use special machines that are located throughout the city, as well as at train stations and airports in Istanbul. At Ataturk Airport these ATMs are located next to others, which are indicated by traffic signs. This card can also be purchased at special kiosks that will say Istanbulkart; they are mainly located in public transport areas. We bought at the Kadikoy pier, since from Sabiha Gokcen airport we took the Havatas minibus, and it only accepts cash payments. The cost of the card itself is 10 liras, but this cost is a deposit and can be returned to the same place where you bought Istanbulkart or any other.

Travel on Istanbulkart costs 2.15 liras, but since in Istanbul you have to pay again for each transfer, it is profitable to do this using a card, since each next trip costs not 2.15 liras, but less:

– 1 trip – 2.15 lira
— 1 transfer — 1.45 lira
— 2 transfers — 1.15 lira
— 3 transfers — 0.85 lira
— 4 transfers — 0.85 lira and so on.

You can find out more about the prices (though only in Turkish) on the official Istanbulkart website - http://www.iett.gov.tr

Top up Istanbulkart you can do it in several ways, using special machines or at any kiosk or store where there is a sign or it says Istanbulkart. We have replenished in different ways and have always been successful. To put money on a card using an ATM, you need to touch it to the device, insert bills (5 liras, 10 liras or 20 liras) into the receiver and wait until the ATM tells you that the procedure is completed and the balance of your card will be visible on the screen.

Use Istanbulkart It’s very simple, to do this, you just need to bring it to the turnstile in the metro, tram, funicular, or to a special reading device on buses, and then the fare amount will appear on the screen and the balance on the card and the red color on the screen will change to green.

The benefits of using Istanbulkart to pay for public transport in Istanbul are obvious, but for greater clarity let’s compare it with paying with tokens. For example, with one transfer, travel on the metro, when paying with tokens, will cost 8 liras (4 liras + 4 liras), and when paying with Istanbulkart - 3.6 liras (2.15 liras + 1.45 liras).

Tokens, etc.

You can also use tokens, electronic tickets and cash to pay for public transport in Istanbul. Tokens are sold in special machines and the cost of one token is 4 liras. Tokens can be used to pay for travel on any rail and water transport in Istanbul.

You can also purchase e-ticket , the cost of which depends on the number of trips. For example, a single trip costs the standard - 4 liras, for 2 trips - 7 liras, 3 - 10 liras, 10 - 30 liras.

In cash You can only pay in taxis and minibuses. Therefore, if you plan to get from the airport by taxi or Havatas minibus, it is better to already have some cash in Turkish lira, or change money at the airport.

Until recently, the Istanbul metro was not the most convenient public transport in the city, but after the construction of the Marmaray tunnel and the extension of several lines, the Istanbul metro was connected into a single high-speed rail transport system.

The photo below shows the updated Istanbul metro map.

There are 4 metro lines in Istanbul, which, for the convenience of passengers, each have their own specific color and easy-to-remember name, in the form of a serial number: red line (M1), green (M2), blue (M3) and pink (M4).

M1, M2 and M3, located on the European part of Istanbul, are interconnected, and with M4, which is located on the Asian part of Istanbul, they are connected by the Marmaray tunnel. Let's look at each metro line in more detail.

Red metro line (M1)

This is the most popular metro line among tourists and visitors to Istanbul, as it can be used to get from Ataturk Airport to almost anywhere in the city. And by transferring from the Zeytinburnu metro station to the T1 high-speed tram (about which later), you will find yourself in the historical center of Istanbul, the Sultanahmet district.

Green (M2) and blue (M3) metro lines

Not tourist destinations, metro M2 and M3, is mainly used by local residents to get to the center from the residential areas of Istanbul.

Pink metro line (M4)

M4 is located on the Asian peninsula of Istanbul and connects the popular area of the city - Kadikoy with the residential areas of the Asian part.

The operating hours of the metro in Istanbul are from 6:00 to 24:00.

There are 4 tram lines in Istanbul. All lines differ in color on the map (blue, orange, light green and brown) and, like the metro, have simple numbering T1, T3, T4 and T2 (the historical red tram that moves along Istiklal Street).

All tram stops in Istanbul on Google map:

One of the most popular types Getting around Istanbul for tourists is a high-speed tram route T1, which passes through the Sultanahmet district, with the main attractions of the city. The length of the T1 tram line is 19 km; it takes more than an hour to travel from the starting to the final stop.

Using this line you can get to Ataturk Airport by changing to the metro (Aksaray or Zeytinburnu stop). The tram also goes to a popular area in Istanbul -.

Travel time T1 from 6:00 to 24:00.

The famous red tram in Istanbul (route T2)

Tram route T2 runs along the main street of Istanbul - . Red trams moving from Taksim Square to the Tunel stop have long become a symbol of the city. It's definitely worth a ride on it.

The historical tram (Nostaljik Tramvay) is a whole lot of fun on Istiklal Street. They stop in the middle of the street for drivers to talk to each other, children hang out outside for a ride.

You can ride the historical tram from 7:00 to 21:00.

Tram in Kadikoy - route T3

A small ring tram line of route T3 is located in. This tram is a great way to explore this area of Istanbul. In appearance, the trams in Kadikoy are somewhat reminiscent of those plying along Istiklal, only they are yellow.

Tram operating hours in Kadikoy are from 7:00 to 21:00.

The fourth tram line (T4) is not the most popular among tourists, but it significantly helps local residents of Istanbul’s residential areas get to the center and metro.

Operating hours are similar to route T1: 7:00 - 24:00.

We believe that taxis are also full-fledged public transport and Istanbul is no exception. However, due to huge traffic jams, taking a taxi can result in a long wait. But, if you still choose a taxi to get around Istanbul, you need to remember the following:

- - Official taxi drivers have yellow cars (as in most countries) and the inscription on the car is Taksi.
  - In Istanbul, you are allowed to stop or catch a taxi in any place you need.
  - Payment in a taxi is made strictly according to the meter and only in cash.
  - There are no night tariffs in Istanbul taxis; the tariff is the same at any time of the day.
  - In Istanbul taxis, just like in any other city, there is human factor, so be careful and try not to fall for the bait of unscrupulous taxi drivers.

Taxi cost in Istanbul next: 3.25 liras per landing and 2 Turkish liras for each additional kilometer.

Buses in Istanbul

Buses in Istanbul are the most common form of public transport in the city. There are a lot of routes plying around Istanbul. There is no point in listing everything here, but there is an excellent Turkish Internet resource harita.iett.gov.tr, where you can navigate online route bus traffic in Istanbul.

But when choosing to travel around Istanbul by bus, keep in mind that sometimes it can take a long time, since traffic jams in the city are very common and buses stand in them for hours.

Metrobus or rapid bus

Also in Istanbul, the high-speed bus (metrobus) is very popular, all because this type of public transport is not afraid of traffic jams, since special lanes are allocated for metrobus traffic. To increase the speed of movement around the city, the metrobus also has an advantage when crossing city intersections. So, traveling by this type of transport is fast and very convenient.

There are also buses running around the city that provide excursions around Istanbul; on such a bus you can get to know this wonderful city in a few hours.

Istanbul water transport

Water transport in Istanbul is not only an exciting boat trip along the Bosphorus, but also a full-fledged form of public transport in the city, which carries thousands of people by water every day.

In the photo below you can see Istanbul's water transport links between the piers.

Or a ferry service between the Asian and European parts of Istanbul.

You can also get to the popular tourist area Asian part of Istanbul - Kadikoy.

Or get to the Princes' Islands, where you can relax on the beach and swim in the sea.

All piers from which public ferries operate can be seen on the Google map below:

We will also tell you a little about the water transport itself that exists in Istanbul.

Water transport is very popular in Istanbul; a ferry ride on the Bosphorus for city residents is not entertainment, but a daily action that citizens perform when moving to work in the morning and home in the evening. Another huge advantage of water transport is the absence of traffic jams.

There are the following types of water transport in Istanbul: ferries, vapours and sea buses.

Ferries

What makes this type of transport interesting is that it can transport not only people, but also cars, buses, etc. Ferries run both between city piers and go to cities neighboring Istanbul.

Vapurs

Vapurs are urban water transport that transports exclusively people between the city piers of Istanbul.

Istanbul Water Transport - Vapur

Traveling by public transport - a fascinating walk along the Bosphorus

Sea bus

The third type of water transport in Istanbul is the sea bus, which, unlike the Vapur, transports people not only between city piers, but also to neighboring cities.

Funicular and cable car in Istanbul

By using these types of public transport in Istanbul, you can not only get from point A to point B, but also have a wonderful time exploring the nearby nature and attractions.

The map below shows the funicular and cable car stops in Istanbul.

It runs from the Taksim stop to the Kabatas stop, and it is very convenient to use this type of urban public transport if, for example, you need to transfer from the red metro line (M1) to the light rail (T1) and vice versa.

Cable cars There are two in Istanbul. One of them is the most popular among tourists, as it can be used to get to the historical cafe “Pierre Lotti”, from the terrace of which a stunning view of the city opens. The stop is called Pierre Loti, and the other stop is Eyup pier.

Another branch of the cable car is less popular, but also deserves attention. This is Maska - Taskisla, which is located near the Besiktas district in Istanbul and passes over the Maska park of the same name.

It turned out to be a voluminous post, but we wanted to collect and tell you, in one article, all detailed information about public transport in Istanbul. Well, in conclusion, remember, whether you travel by metro, tram, taxi, bus, funicular, sail on a ferry or even in the sky on a cable car, the main thing is that your journey is enjoyable.

Istanbul metro- this is the very first type of transport that you will encounter when arriving at Ataturk Airport, unless, of course, you decide to order a transfer to the hotel (see). Your second encounter with the Istanbul metro will happen when you go to the airport again on your way home. That's all! This is exactly what happens to 99% of tourists who come to Istanbul. This is also confirmed by the fact that on metro trains outside the route from/to the airport, meeting foreigners is very rare.

Metro station at Ataturk Airport. As you may have already guessed, the metro in Istanbul goes all the way to Ataturk Airport. It is very comfortable. You can get to the metro station either from the airport building itself (follow the signs from the arrivals area) or from the street.

Important! The metro to Istanbul's second Sabiha Gokcen Airport has not yet been built. It's inconvenient to get there. You need to go by public transport or. In general, Sabiha Gokcen Airport is quite inconvenient. However, we must pay tribute that, as a rule, they fly there very rarely. Keep this in mind when choosing your arrival airport (see).
Working hours Istanbul metro: from 06.00 am to 00.00.
Motion intervals trains change depending on the load. Normal mode: 7-10 minutes. During rush hours - up to 5 minutes of waiting.
Full scheme Istanbul metro can be downloaded. However, such a scheme is not very valuable. The most important metro stations for tourists - vitally important - only a few. These stations are marked in the diagram below and are described in detail at the end of the article.

Metro lines vary in color and have designations: M1, M2, M3, etc. Some metro lines in Istanbul have forks, that is, they bifurcate, and are then designated as follows: M1A, M1B.
Payment best to produce transport card(Istanbul Card) - this is much more economical. Read the cost and details here: Transport map. The card is purchased and topped up at terminals at metro stations. Payment occurs when passing through the turnstile, when you place your card on the reader. You can also go through single ticket, which is also sold in the terminal, but travel will be 1.5 times more expensive than using a card. This is very unprofitable.
Metro stops (stations) different: there are shallow underground ones, there are surface ones, vaguely reminiscent of platforms for a high-speed tram.
In general, the metro in Istanbul is neat, at some stations you can see musicians. Most often I noticed them at stations closer to the historical center of the city.

Metro map available at every station and inside trains. On every train in the metro, the light board says which station it goes to. On the train, the announcer announces stations in Turkish. Sometimes what he says is not clear, so watch the signs at the stations where you are going.
Keep in mind! Some metro lines, as I already said, bifurcate, that is, they have forks. They are then designated by an additional letter: M1A or M1B. You need to use such lines like this: look at the final stop of the branch you need, and take the train that has this station written on it. The train will go in the right direction. You can also do this: get to the fork, get off there and wait for the train in the right direction.
Metro Tünel. Sometimes the metro in Istanbul includes an old line (opened in 1875), which is called the “tunnel”. In fact, this is one of the threads funicular. It does not have any particular practical significance for tourists, since it is located far from the main tourist routes. See more details. Funicular in Istanbul.

Metro Marmaray. This is also part of the metro, but it passes under the Bosphorus Strait. Depth of occurrence - 60 meters from the surface of the Bosphorus. Travel time under the strait: 4 minutes. To reach the main attractions is not particularly important. However It’s worth a ride because it’s a unique landmark of Istanbul - the metro runs under the Bosphorus Strait and is one of the deepest underwater tunnels in the world, and it also connects Europe and Asia. Most convenient way take a ride on the “underwater metro”. We take the tram to the Sirkeci stop. You can, however, take a walk – from Sirkeci it’s about 900 meters. You need to go down along the tram line. Next to the tram stop is the famous old Sirkeci railway station. There is also the entrance to Marmaray station, which is also called Sirkeci. We go down, pay for the fare with a transport card and drive under the Bosphorus Strait to the Uskudar station.

Link between metro and light rail

The metro itself in Istanbul would not be of particular importance if it were not connected by transfer stations with other modes of transport. The point is that, for example, it is impossible to get from Ataturk Airport to the city center by metro alone. This can only be done by transferring to a high-speed tram. However, don't be alarmed - it doesn't cause problems., because in this direction the metro and tram are very harmoniously connected. In fact, not everyone even immediately understands that they are traveling on a different type of transport.

Actually light rail lines are an extension of the metro. There are two types of transfers between the metro and tram.

Short transfer- the most convenient. You get to the desired station, get off the metro train, follow the signs to the tram line, go through the turnstile, paying for the passage with a transport card. That's all! You are already on the tram line. Everything is organized as if you are moving from one metro line to another, only at the same time you pay for the change. (By the way, payment for transfers is at a discount!). Thus, for example, a transfer was organized at Zeytinburnu station. This transfer station is useful to us because through it we will travel from Ataturk Airport to the hotel to the Sultanahmet area (historical city center).

Long transfer– not very convenient, but overall also uncomplicated. Its essence is that you completely leave the metro station and find yourself on a city street. Now you need to walk down the street to the light rail station. Enter the high-speed tram platform through the turnstile and present your card. The pass will also be counted at a discount. This transfer is called long because sometimes you have to walk quite far along the street. For example, the distance between Aksaray metro station and Yusufpaşa light rail station is about 350 meters. This transfer connection is interesting to us if we are traveling from the main bus station of Istanbul (Otogar) to the hotel to the Sultanahmet area (historical city center). You need to understand that you need to allow more time for such a transfer when planning your route, because you not only need to get to the place, but also figure out where exactly to go.

By the way! The Istanbul metro is connected not only with the high-speed tram, but also with the metrobus. This is something like a high-speed bus that moves along a special dedicated lane, bypassing city traffic jams. However, this type of transport is largely useless for tourists; it is important for city residents who travel from residential areas. Most often you will use by light rail, metro and ferries.

Important metro routes in Istanbul for tourists

Most metro destinations are of absolutely no interest to tourists because they lead to residential areas of Istanbul. There are only two important routes.

Ataturk Airport – Istanbul Historical Center. This route is the most popular, as tourists get from Ataturk Airport (Ataturk Havalimani station) to Sultanahmet station.

At Ataturk Airport we go to the metro station Ataturk Havalimani(Ataturk Havalimani). This is a metro line M1A. Let's go to the metro station Zeytinburnu(Zeytinburnu). We get out of the car and transfer to a high-speed tram, the station of which is also called Zeytinburnu(Zeytinburnu). This tram line T1. Next we go to the tram stop Sultanahmet(Sultanahmet).

Bus Station – Istanbul Historical Center. This route is useful if you came to Istanbul by bus, or if you plan to travel further around the country after visiting Istanbul, for example, to.

At the main bus station of the city we go to the metro station Otogar(Otogar). This is a metro line M1A. Let's go to the metro station Aksaray(Aksaray). We leave the metro station onto the street. Next, at the traffic light we cross Adnan Menderes Vatan Blvd. There will be a park on the other side. Go around the park on the right and exit onto Murat Pasha Sok street. Follow this street until it intersects with Turgut Ozal Millet Cad. There will be a light rail stop right at the intersection of these streets. Yusufpasha(Yusufpaşa). Transfer time (if you know how to go) is 5 minutes. If you are going for the first time, then allow another 15 minutes to “figure out how to go.” The distance you need to walk along the street is about 350 meters. Now we take the high-speed tram and go to the stop Sultanahmet(Sultanahmet).

Important metro stations for tourists

Ataturk Havalimani(Ataturk Havalimani) – located here main airport Istanbul, named after Ataturk.
Otogar(Otogar) – here is the main bus station of Istanbul, which is called Otogar. From here you can go travel around the country, for example, or to the center of the country in.
Aksaray(Aksaray) – This metro station in Istanbul has a transfer to the Yusufpaşa light rail station. Useful when we travel from the historical center to the main bus station of the city.
Zeytinburnu(Zeytinburnu) – this metro station has a transfer to the light rail station, which is also called Zeytinburnu. Useful when we travel from Ataturk Airport to the hotel in the historical city center in the Sultanahmet area.

Buses, metro, high-speed and tourist trams, commuter trains, above-ground and underground funiculars, taxis, ferries and boats - all these are links in the urban transport chain of Istanbul. This article contains a description main types of urban transport in Istanbul. Also presented here helpful information about Features of moving around the city, which will allow you to easily and conveniently travel around the eastern metropolis.

Istanbul metro map, public transport routes

Tram and metro in Istanbul

T1 – tram route, deftly gliding through the narrow streets of the historical center and passing by all the main city attractions. Sitting comfortably near the stained glass window, you can enjoy views of Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, etc.

M1 - red metro line. This is also called the metro hafif metro, translated as a light metro, since its route is mainly above ground. Most travelers arriving in international Airport named after Ataturk, begin their journey around the city on this metro. So, having traveled 6 stops to the Zeytinburnu station, you can transfer to the T1 tram and get to the historical part of the city of Sultanahmet, to the Russian district of Laleli, to commuter trains Sirkeci Station and other important transport hubs.

And if you take the M1 at Aksaray station, then after 5 stops you can find yourself at the new, huge Forum shopping center, where there is also an ice museum and a large aquarium, or to the Otogar intercity bus station.

M2 – regular underground metro line, which will take you from Taksim Square to the business district of the city - Levent. When you exit the metro, you will be surprised to see a completely different Istanbul. Skyscrapers, wide avenues, cars constantly plying along them - a real modern metropolis. At station 4 Levent there is the tallest building in Europe - shopping mall Saphire, from the 54th floor of which you can once again admire the scale of this endless city.

Istanbul funiculars

F1 is an underground funicular. Its design is very similar to how we imagine a regular cable car - 2 cabins move towards each other along a rope due to gravity. But this happens not by air, but underground, and the cabins are comfortable trailers. It's amazing that the trailers move towards each other through a narrow tunnel and disperse in the middle of the tunnel, where it widens. Each trailer covers a distance of 700 meters per minute, moving up and down respectively. The funicular solves the problem of moving through mountainous terrain. For example, you can take it to Istiklal shopping street or Taksim Square. At the final stop of the T1 tram, you just need to go down into the underground passage, where you will easily find the entrance to the funicular.

There is another such funicular in Istanbul (marked in gray on the map), only it is several times older than the F1 line. Like his follower, he can also take you to Istiklal Street, albeit from the other side. Right at the exit of this funicular, if you don’t want to walk 30 minutes to the base of the street, you can have time to drop into Nostajik tramway– a bright red tourist tram. Some Istanbul residents still use it as a form of public transport, although it has long since become a tourist attraction.

Teleferik – above-ground funicular. There are 2 of these in Istanbul. The most famous one is located in the Eyup Cemetery area - cafe Pierre Lotti. 2 small cabins, accommodating up to 6 people each, and similar to those used for transportation on ski slopes, continuously ply up and down centimeters above the white tombstones and deliver local residents and tourists to the very top of the hill. There is Observation deck with madly beautiful view overlooking the city and the historic cafe Pierre Lotti.

Sea, land and other transport

Feribot – regular sea ferry routes, which can be boarded at the main piers of Eminönu, Karaköy and Kabatas. They can get you to the Asian side of the city in 15 minutes.

You can also go from Eminonu Pier to boat trip along the Bosphorus on a private boat or municipal ferry.

City buses, which will certainly be useful to you in exploring the city, are also based near the Eminönu and Kabatas marinas. It is convenient to get by bus, for example, to Miniaturk Park, where small copies of the main attractions are located Ottoman Empire, or in fashionable area Ortakoy to the foot famous bridge through the Bosphorus and Dolmabahce Palace.

Sometimes, if your journey is not very far and you are traveling with a group, it is more profitable to take Istanbul taxi. The fare for these yellow cars, which are dotted throughout the city, depends on the mileage. But be very careful, experienced Istanbul taxi drivers, having chatted with you, can circle around the desired place for a long time, winding through narrow, “one-on-one” streets, winding up kilometers.

Suburban trains in the European part of Istanbul they depart from Sirkeci Station, in the historical center. This train can easily reach textile factories in the suburbs and the Olivium outlet. Keep in mind that the travel token here is different from the tokens for public transport and costs a little more - 3 Turkish lira one way per person.

Friends, hello everyone!

Istanbul today is a huge anthill with a population already close to 15 million people, a good half of whom are simply forced to move from one part of the city to another almost every day.

For those who live in big cities and are familiar with the daily routine of “to and from work,” you should understand what we are talking about. Despite the very, very modern public transport system here, according to statistics, each average person spends 91 minutes on transport during the day.

And this, excuse me, wow Time is running out for personal self-development! 1.5 hours a day doesn’t mean running to the next stall for bread or driving to the market across the road. It takes more time than necessary.

Light metro and lines M1A and M1B

This is “our answer to Chamberlain” and a modern solution to the issue “How to get to Ataturk Airport from the center of Istanbul” in one bottle. It is this metro that I bet on when I close the issue of transfer from/to Ataturk Airport in the article.

The project started in 1989, and in 2002 this line reached the airport.

Why is M1 called the light metro? This is because it mostly has above-ground stations, unlike the traditional underground metro. At its core, it is no different from the T4 tram line, but has slightly different declared characteristics.

Branch M1 is split into 2 components: M1A And M1B . Look at the diagram (if it’s not very clear, then your eyes should run wide at the station Otogar ):

The more popular M1A branch comes from Ataturk Airport straight to the station Yenikapi. This knight's move, today in conjunction with the modern Marmaray project, solves the problem of reaching the country's most important airport from the Asian part of the city.

Branch M1A has 18 stations and has main transit crossings at the stops:

Merter– wholesale trade center. Transfer to metrobus.
Zeytinburnu– Big hub. Transfer to metrobus or tram T1 (the best option) and buses in almost all directions in the European part of the city.
Otogar– Istanbul’s main bus station. Here it intersects with the second branch M1B.
Aksarai– former final. Intersection with a tram line T1(a worse option), as well as a lot of bus routes.
Yenikapi– the final station in a large seaport. You can change trains Marmaray, which under the Bosphorus will take you to the Asian part of the city and to ferries heading to Bursa or Yalova.

On par with the tram T1, light metro line M1A is of decisive importance for visiting travelers.

Attention! Be careful when departing towards the airport from any station before the two branches split (Otogar station) the final direction on the leading car should be Ataturk Havalimani, but not Kirazli .

Operates from 06:00 to 00:30. The movement interval is 3-10 minutes. Fare 5.00 lira or 2.60 Istanbulkart. More details about.

Underground metro – lines M2, M3, M4, M5 and M6

Following the appearance of the first metro line M1 in 1989, the next branch M2, this time fully underground, opened only in 2000. And its southern continuation reached the port Yenikapi only in 2013.

In general, I want to note that only over the last 3 years has Istanbul transport acquired its versatility. In general, the development of all transport as a whole, as a single system, happened literally before our eyes already in the 21st century. Before this, all transportation was carried out by buses and ferries. Can you imagine this traffic jam?

M2 metro line connects sea port Yenikapi , old town center Aksairai , center of the new city Taksim and northern areas of Istanbul, passing through the Golden Horn on a metro bridge.
Line M3 transports residents of residential areas to the intersection with the light metro line M1B. Probably none of the tourists have ever been here))
M4 metro line is located entirely on the Asian side of Istanbul and connects the piers and Kadikoy bus station with remote densely populated areas of the city.
Line M5 on the Asian side carries passengers away from the piers Üsküdar .
M6 short branch, soiled from the branch M2 at the station Levant .

Basic diagram of all lines:

Today, the Istanbul metro has about 70 stations and about 30 more are in the process of construction. There are several new branches in line: M7 - M13.

The average speed is 60 km/h, and the interval is from 3 to 10 minutes. Open from 06:00 to 00:30. Fare 5.00 lira or 2.60 Istanbulkart .

For a more up-to-date status of Istanbul metro stations today, visit the official website: www.metro.istanbul/en

Mainline trams

Interesting fact - trams in Istanbul received their rebirth only in 1990, when Istiklal Street was launched a tourist route. The people received the project with a bang and further fate revival of the tram system got on wheels.

From 1872 to 1912, trams in the city were horse-drawn. In 1912, they acquired electric motors and became the main means of transportation until 1966.

The reasons for the tram leaving the scene at that time were the increased traffic flow and the lack of traffic lanes dedicated specifically for them. For some time, trams were replaced by more low-speed trolleybuses , but this idea also had to be abandoned later. But just like in Buenos Ares and Tunisia, the authorities were forced to return trams to the stage.

So, today in Istanbul there are 2 main tram routes T1 and T4.

Tram T1

T1– the most popular public transport route for tourists. Firstly, it works in conjunction with the metro M1A in the diagram "get there from the airport" , and secondly, it passes through the most interesting places in the old city center right up to the final station Kabatash .

But tourists have something to do there too! Dolmbahce Palace, piers for pleasure boats and a funicular to Taksim Square and the adjacent Istiklal pedestrian street.

Driving route on the map T1 indicated by the blue line.

Tram T4

Tram T4 less popular with tourists, but vital for residents northern regions European part of the city. This is the only way, without traffic jams and literally in half an hour, they can get to central regions cities.

Tram T4 moves along a separate section of the road and, accordingly, traffic jams have no power over it. The route came to life only in 2007. It is also called the light metro because 11 of its 22 stations are underground.

The operating schedule is the same: From 06:00 to 00:00 every 2-5 minutes. In addition, trams have a separate dedicated lane, which clearly affects the advantages of their use, especially during rush hours. The payment is the same as in the metro: 5.00 lira and 2.60 lira by card.

On some diagrams you can find the T2 tram, which represents today's route T5 along Istiklal Street on official diagrams. I don’t know how legal it is to make such designations, but in fact, the T2 route merged with the T1 route and seemed to disappear from the scene.

Historical trams T3 and T5 (T2)

Historical tram T5 along Istiklal Street was put on rails in 1990 as an experiment. The success of this venture served as the “second arrival” of tram lines on the streets of Istanbul.

The route has only 5 stations and the tram runs on the line from 7.00 to 20.00. The movement interval is 30 minutes. You'd rather ride than get somewhere.

In addition to the entertainment load, the tram serves as a good help for those who want to loop the route using 2 funiculars. After all, the final stations Taksim And Tunel are also finite for funiculars F1 and F2 , which we will talk about a little later.

For some reason he was not on the route during our visit. Therefore, we walked the entire descent along the pedestrian street.

Movement tram T3 laid in the Asian part of the city and made in the shape of a ring. The 10-station route runs around the popular Moda shopping area in the Kadikoy part of the city.

The service schedule is every 10 minutes from 07.00 to 21.00. The payment is the same as everywhere else: 2.60/5.00 lira.

Funiculars in Istanbul

Funicular F1

In historical terms, it does not carry any burden. This is a modern route, opened in 2006, which connects the terminal station of the T1 tram - Kabatas And Taksim Square . About 600 meters of tracks and 75 meters of height difference. A few minutes and you are on the surface. Unfortunately, the movement is carried out in pitch darkness.

At Taksim Square you can change to metro line M2 or stroll down to the Galata district along the never-ending Istiklal Street.

At the entrance to the metro there is an electronic dial with the time until the next departure, so it’s always easy for you to determine whether it’s worth the effort “Manya, let’s run!” or you can calmly inspect the finishing of the walls and ceilings.

The movement interval is 5 minutes.

Funicular F2

But this rare trailer, which in the old days is simply called Tunnel , is the oldest representative of the underground metro in Europe.

Only its London counterpart is older, but this Island state has nothing to do with Europe.

It began operating back in 1875 using horse traction until 1910, when the train was electrified. In 1971, the wooden upholstery was replaced with iron, in which it still flaunts to this day.

The length of the path is 580 meters, and the height difference is 60m. The trailer connects two areas Karakoy And Galata, as well as a tram station T1 Karakoy and metro lines M2 Sishane. Read more about the districts.

The movement interval is 5, 6, 7... minutes or a little more)) Payment is standard.

Cable car TF1 and TF2

A part of the Istanbul transport system that I have practically not explored. I only know that it operates on the same payment system, which is a big plus!

First row of booths TF1 takes altitude in the area Democracy Park , slightly higher than Dolmbahce Palace and stadium football team Besiktas.

The length of the suspension is 333 meters (each) along which 2 six-seater cabins slide. The journey takes 3 minutes.

I have a suspicion that this is the work of the Hilton hotel chain, so as not to run to each other over the hill. On one side is the Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus hotel, and on the other is the Hilton Parksa Istanbul.

Second line TF2 was stretched in 2005 between the coast of the Golden Horn Bay and hill Pierre Lotti . There is a famous cafe and a cemetery on the hill. So your traveling companions can be both tourists and the funeral procession.

Italian designers Leitner Group managed to build the most expensive cable car in Turkey here for 5 million Euros.

It is worth noting that on both slopes where the cable cars are located, there are also pedestrian alternatives.

In custody

Friends, no matter how hard I tried to be short and concise, I couldn’t produce a moderately well-fed text. In connection with newly discovered circumstances, I am forced to announce that we will have to devote more time to wheeled transport and maritime communication.

I promise to cover in detail and clearly all the bright and dark sides of these types of communications, as well as highlight the details for tourists in terms of “What does that matter to us?” .

Istanbul is truly multifaceted, but not as confusing as it might seem at first glance. With proper preparation and possession of equipment, which is yours the journey will pass with a bang.

Happy everyday life and amazing weekend!

How to get around in Istanbul
city transport routes, metro map

Buses, metro, high-speed and tourist trams, commuter trains, above-ground and underground funiculars, taxis, ferries and boats - all these are links in the urban transport chain of Istanbul. This article contains a description main types of urban transport in Istanbul. Also, here is useful information about Features of moving around the city. which will allow you to easily and conveniently travel around the eastern metropolis.

Istanbul metro map, public transport routes

Tram and metro in Istanbul

T1 – tram route. deftly gliding through the narrow streets of the historical center and passing by all the main city attractions. Sitting comfortably near the stained glass window, you can enjoy views of Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, etc.

M1 - red metro line. This is also called the metro hafif metro. translated into light metro, since its route is mainly above ground. Most travelers arriving at Ataturk International Airport begin their journey around the city on this metro. So, having traveled 6 stops to the Zeytinburnu station, you can transfer to the T1 tram and get to the historical part of the city of Sultanahmet, to the Russian district of Laleli, to the commuter trains of Sirkeci station and other important transport hubs.

M2 – regular underground metro line. which will take you from Taksim Square to the business district of the city - Levent. When you exit the metro, you will be surprised to see a completely different Istanbul. Skyscrapers, wide avenues, cars constantly plying along them - a real modern metropolis. At station 4 Levent there is the tallest building in Europe - the Saphire shopping center, from the 54th floor of which you can once again admire the scale of this endless city.

Istanbul funiculars

Teleferik – above-ground funicular. There are 2 of these in Istanbul. The most famous one is located in the Eyup Cemetery area - cafe Pierre Lotti. 2 small cabins, accommodating up to 6 people each, and similar to those used for transportation on the ski slopes, continuously run up and down centimeters above the white tombstones and take locals and tourists to the very top of the hill. There is an observation deck with an incredibly beautiful view of the city and the historical cafe Pierre Lotti.

Sea, land and other transport

Feribot – regular sea ferry routes. which can be boarded at the main piers of Eminönu, Karaköy and Kabatas. They can get you to the Asian side of the city in 15 minutes.

You can also go from Eminonu Pier to boat trip along the Bosphorus on a private boat or municipal ferry.

City buses. which will certainly be useful to you in exploring the city, are also based near the Eminönu and Kabatas marinas. By bus it is convenient to get, for example, to Miniaturk Park, where small copies of the main attractions of the Ottoman Empire are located, or to the fashionable Ortakoy district to the foot of the famous Bosphorus Bridge and Dolmabahce Palace.

Materials guide-travel.info
Publication date: 31.10..

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Source: http://guide-travel.info/turkey_istanbul_transport.html

tram route t1 in istanbul

Trams in Istanbul: history and modernity

Tram service in Istanbul dates back to 1872, when horse-drawn trams began operating in the city. The routes went even through the most remote areas of the city and were very popular among Istanbul residents. Horse-drawn trams carried people until 1912, when they were replaced by electric trams. They became the main public transport of the city right up to 1966, when the existing tram network was closed.

The peak of development of the first generation of Istanbul trams fell in 1956, when 270 trams carried 108 million passengers over the 56 lines operating at that time. In the 1950s, Istanbul saw a sharp increase in the number of cars, which reduced the popularity of public transport and also filled the city's narrow streets. This, of course, created difficulties for public transport. The active development of the city and the sharp increase in the pace of construction forced city planners to widen the streets and slow trams began to disappear from the city’s avenues. Since then, Istanbul residents have switched to faster and comfortable buses, and trams have lost their former popularity. As a result, it was decided to replace the trams with more maneuverable and quiet trolleybuses, which effectively ended the era of the first trams in Turkey.

The second generation of Istanbul trams took to the rails only in 1990, when 3 independent tram lines were opened in the city. As an experiment, the historical tram was re-launched on Istiklal Street (European side of the city), good famous to travelers like a real one business card cities. Due to its growing popularity, in 1992 it was decided to abandon it and bring back tram service in Istanbul. At the same time, the T1 line was opened, and soon the tram returned to the Asian part of the city. This line is now known as T3. In 2007, the T4 line was launched in the European part of the city.

Trams run daily from 06:00 am to midnight. Movement interval 12; 2-5 minutes depending on the time of day.

In trams, as in other types of transport, you can pay with a token and Istanbulkart. The cost of 1 token is 12; 4 Turkish lira. A trip with Istanbulkart will cost 2.40 Turkish lira. Tokens can be purchased at the entrance to all tram stations in special Jetonmatik machines.

Modern tram lines

T1
By far the most popular tram line in Istanbul among tourists. It connects the historical part of the city with the western districts of the city. The popularity of the line is ensured by the fact that it goes through the 12 most attractive areas for travelers; Beyazit, Sultanahmet, Gulhane, Eminonu, Karakoy and reaches Kabatas, in close proximity to which there is Taksim Square, Dolmabahce Palace and many other attractions of the city. The entire route takes 65 minutes. The tram line is fenced, so it does not go on public roads and does not get stuck in traffic jams.

Kabatas(the final station from which the funicular goes to Taksim Square. From here you can easily get to Besiktas, Ortakoy and other tourist places).
Findikli
Tophane
Karakoy(here is a bridge across the Golden Horn Strait, on which there are always hundreds of fishermen, and under the bridge there are fish restaurants).
Eminonu(probably one of the most visited embankments in the world. It is always very crowded, ferries to the Asian areas of the city and Bosphorus tours depart from here).
Sirkeci(and here you will find very beautiful building historical railway station, from which trains still depart).
Gulhane(after getting off here, you will find yourself at the entrance to Topkapi Park and the palace of the Ottoman sultans of the same name).
Sultanahmet(you probably don't need any introduction to this place. The square with the great Hagia Sophia and Sultan Ahmed Mosque).
Cemberlitas
Beyazit(this is where one of the largest bazaars in the world is located 12; Kapaly Charshi).
Laleli(“Russian” along with Aksaray district of Istanbul. wholesale and retail stores of all kinds 12; here).
Aksaray(a huge transport hub, one of the largest in the city).
Yusufpasa(at this station there is a metro transfer to Ataturk Airport and Marmaray).
Haseki
Findikzade
Capa-Sehremini
Pazartekke
Topkapi
Cevizlibag
Merkez Efendi
Aksemsettin
Mithatpasa
Zeytinburnu(one of the major transport hubs and the only place, where you can change to the metrobus, as well as buses and metro to Ataturk Airport).
Mehmet Akif
Merter Tekstil Sitesi(a paradise for wholesale buyers of textiles and clothing).
Gungoren
Akincilar
Soganli
Yavuz Selim
Gunestepe
Bagcilar

T4 (Light Metro 12; Hafif Metro)
Light metro line T4 connects main transport hubs the European part of the city with remote and densely populated residential areas in the north-west of the city.

Now lines T1 and T4 intersect at Topkapi station. The route takes 42 minutes. As with T1, the tram line is separated from the road, so the tram does not get stuck in traffic jams.
T3 Historical tram Kadikoy 12; Moda runs in circles on the Asian side of Istanbul.

The line includes 10 stations, between which 4 trams run. The tram runs from 07:00 am to 21:00 pm. The interval between trains is 12; 10 minutes, and the entire route takes 12; 20 minutes. The cost of travel on the historical tram 12; 1.75 TL. The line consists of only 5 stations and is just over one and a half kilometers long. Open from 07:00 am to 20:00 pm. The interval between trams is 12; 10-20 minutes. Fare 12; 1.75 TL.

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