Getting an Istanbulkart

By Smileys Community · Updated July 2026

Where to Buy an Istanbulkart

You can purchase an Istanbulkart from:

• Yellow Biletmatik ticket machines

• Newsstands

• Kiosks near major metro, tram and ferry stations

An anonymous Istanbulkart costs 165 TRY (card only). After purchasing your card, load travel credit and you're ready to explore the city.

Most Biletmatik machines accept cash, while many also accept Turkish bank cards.

Arriving at the Airport?

Istanbul Airport (IST)

The cheapest way to reach the city is:

M11 Metro → Gayrettepe → M2 Metro

Purchase your Istanbulkart from the yellow ticket machines near the metro entrance before starting your journey.

The M11 Airport Metro uses distance-based pricing. The maximum fare is temporarily charged when you enter, and after tapping out at your destination, the difference is automatically refunded to your card.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)

Take the M4 Metro into the city and connect to Istanbul's wider public transport network.

If you plan to use airport shuttle buses such as Havaist or Havabus, keep a bank card or some cash available.

Register Your Card

Registering your Istanbulkart provides several benefits:

• Protects your balance if your card is lost

• Makes online top-ups easier

• Gives access to certain discounts and special programs

You can register your card through the official Istanbulkart app or website.

Transfer Discounts

One of the biggest advantages of using an Istanbulkart is discounted transfers made within approximately two hours.

Each additional transfer costs less than the previous one, making journeys involving multiple connections significantly cheaper than paying separate full fares.

Typical Public Transport Fares (2026)

• 🚇 Metro, Tram & Bus: 42 TRY

• 🎫 Single-Use Ticket: 60 TRY

• 🚆 Marmaray: 34–75 TRY (distance-based)

• 🚍 Metrobüs: 30–62 TRY (distance-based)

• ✈️ M11 Airport Metro (IST): Around 53 TRY (distance-based)

• ⛴️ City Ferries: From around 53 TRY

• 🏝️ Princes' Islands Ferries: From around 156 TRY

Distance-based services such as Marmaray, Metrobüs, and the M11 Airport Metro vary depending on how far you travel. Ferry fares may also vary by operator and destination.

Can I Use My Bank Card Instead?

Yes.

Most stations accept contactless payment with:

• Credit cards

• Debit cards

• Mobile wallets (where supported)

However:

• You won't receive Istanbulkart transfer discounts.

• You'll usually pay more than Istanbulkart users.

Using a bank card is convenient as a backup, but an Istanbulkart offers the best value for most visitors.

Discounts Available

Students

Eligible students receive heavily discounted fares and monthly subscriptions.

Young People Under 30

Eligible Turkish residents can apply for discounted youth cards through e-Devlet.

Seniors

Eligible residents receive reduced fares and discounted monthly subscriptions.

Children Under 6

Children under six travel free when accompanied by an adult.

The Mavi (Blue) Card

If you live in Istanbul and use public transport frequently, the Mavi Kart may save you money.

• Unlimited monthly travel

• Approximately 3,298 TRY per month

• Best suited for daily commuters

Don't Skip the Ferries

Ferries are no longer the cheapest way to cross Istanbul, but they remain one of the city's most enjoyable experiences.

Enjoy:

• Beautiful Bosphorus views

• Fresh sea air

• A more relaxing journey than crowded metro lines

For many locals, ferries are still the best way to travel between the European and Asian sides.

Common Mistakes

1. Running Out of Credit

Always keep some balance on your card before entering stations.

2. Buying Single-Use Tickets

At 60 TRY each, they quickly become more expensive than owning an Istanbulkart.

3. Forgetting to Tap Out

Distance-based services such as the M11 Airport Metro, Marmaray and Metrobüs require you to tap out to ensure you're charged the correct fare.

4. Assuming Every Machine Accepts Cards

Some ticket machines still accept cash only, so it's a good idea to carry a little cash.

5. Sharing One Istanbulkart

Each traveller should ideally have their own Istanbulkart to benefit from transfer discounts and enjoy a smoother journey.

Final Tip

If you're new to Istanbul, the public transport system may seem overwhelming at first. Once you have an Istanbulkart, exploring the city becomes simple, affordable and efficient.

And if you'd like to meet locals, expats, travellers and digital nomads while discovering Istanbul, join Smileys Community. We organise sailing trips, language exchanges, food adventures, hiking, fitness activities, picnics and social gatherings across the city.