How to get around Turkey
Navigating Turkey is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
Turkey offers several efficient ways to travel between cities. Buses are widely available, connecting almost all cities and towns, and are generally an affordable option. A 6-hour bus journey can cost around 600 Turkish Liras (TRY), while a 12-hour journey might be around 1000 TRY. Shorter intercity trips could range from 50-150 TRY, and longer routes from 200-400 TRY or more.
Buses are often equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and sometimes offer complimentary snacks and beverages. For a more comfortable experience, luxury bus companies provide amenities like reclining seats and personal entertainment systems, though they are more expensive than standard services.
Trains offer a comfortable and often scenic way to travel, particularly on high-speed lines connecting major cities like Istanbul and Ankara. A one-way high-speed train ticket from Istanbul to Ankara costs around 430 TRY for second class and 645 TRY for first class.
Night trains with sleeping cars or couchettes are available for longer distances, such as between Izmir and Konya, with a private sleeper costing approximately 1,215 TRY. Domestic flights provide the fastest way to cover long distances across Turkey, which is a vast country.
Prices for domestic flights are generally budget-friendly, typically ranging from $25 to $60 USD for a one-way ticket. Full-service airlines like Turkish Airlines usually include a checked bag and offer snacks, while budget airlines like Pegasus Airlines might have lower base fares but charge extra for services like luggage and seat selection. Flights are often about double the price of bus tickets.
Travel Within Cities
Within Turkish cities, a variety of transport options are available, catering to different budgets. Public transport, including metros, trams, and city buses, is the most economical way to travel. In Istanbul, an Istanbulkart is essential for public transport, costing a non-refundable 130 TRY for the card itself. A single ride using Istanbulkart costs 27 TRY.
Alternatively, single tickets can be purchased for 40 TRY, with options for multiple rides (e.g., 2 rides for 70 TRY, 10 rides for 305 TRY). Fares for Metrobuses and Marmaray trains in Istanbul vary by the number of stops, ranging from 20 to 80 TRY with Istanbulkart. Ferries in Istanbul cost between 30 TRY and 45 TRY depending on the route.
Dolmuş (shared minibuses) are a common and affordable option, particularly for shorter distances and in rural areas. They operate on set routes, picking up passengers along the way. Fares typically range from 35 to 50 TRY per person, depending on the distance, and cash payment is usually preferred directly to the driver.
Taxis are a more expensive but convenient option. In Istanbul, the base fare is around 30 TRY, with an additional 20 TRY per kilometer. Waiting time charges apply, and the hourly rate is approximately 235 TRY during traffic. A 10-15 minute taxi ride might cost between 80 to 200 TRY. Airport taxi fares from Istanbul Airport to the city center can range from 250 to 350 TRY.
