Where Can You Buy an Istanbulkart in Istanbul?
Istanbulkart is the most convenient and cost-effective way to pay for public transportation in Istanbul, allowing you to access metros, trams, buses, ferries, funiculars, and even some public toilets. Purchasing an Istanbulkart is easy, as it is available at various locations throughout the city, including airports, metro stations, and kiosks near transportation hubs.
Places to Buy an Istanbulkart
- Istanbulkart Vending Machines – These are the most common and convenient places to buy an Istanbulkart. They can be found at metro stations, tram stops, ferry terminals, and major bus stations across the city. Most machines offer language options, including English, making it easy for tourists to use. You can purchase a new Istanbulkart and load credit onto it at these machines using cash.
- Kiosks & Convenience Stores – Many newsstands, small kiosks, and convenience stores near transportation hubs sell Istanbulkart. These locations are particularly useful if you are in an area without a vending machine nearby. While most vendors accept cash, some may also allow payments via card.
- Istanbulkart Application Centers – If you need a special discounted Istanbulkart (such as student or resident cards) or require assistance with registration, you can visit an Istanbulkart Application Center. These centers are located in major districts and provide customer support for Istanbulkart users.
- Supermarkets & Chain Stores – Some larger supermarkets and retail stores also sell Istanbulkart. If you are staying in Istanbul for a longer period, checking with Migros, CarrefourSA, or Şok supermarkets can be an alternative place to buy one.
It’s important to note that Istanbulkart is reusable, so once you buy a card, you can continue using and reloading it instead of purchasing a new one each time.
Can You Get an Istanbulkart at the Airport?
Yes, you can purchase an Istanbulkart at both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). This is especially useful for travelers who plan to use public transportation right after landing.
Where to Buy an Istanbulkart at Istanbul Airports?
- Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Vending Machines – Located near the Istanbul Metro entrance and transportation exits.
- Newsstands & Kiosks – Several small shops inside the airport sell Istanbulkart and allow balance top-ups.
- Transportation Desk – Some airport information desks may assist travelers in purchasing an Istanbulkart.
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
- Public Transport Area Vending Machines – These are positioned near bus stops and metro station exits.
- Convenience Stores & Kiosks – You can find small stores near the exit gates where Istanbulkart is sold.
It’s recommended to purchase and load credit onto your Istanbulkart before leaving the airport, as some metro and bus stations do not have ticket offices or English-speaking staff to assist with buying one. If you plan to take the metro, Havaist Airport Shuttle, or public buses upon arrival, having an Istanbulkart ready will save you time.
How to Recharge Your Istanbulkart?
To continue using Istanbulkart, you must reload your credit when your balance is low. Fortunately, Istanbul offers several ways to top up your card, making it convenient for both locals and tourists.
1. Vending Machines
- Available at metro stations, tram stops, ferry docks, and major bus stations.
- Accept cash only (Turkish Lira), so make sure to have small banknotes available.
- Easy to use with multiple language options for international travelers.
2. Kiosks & Stores
- Many newsstands, convenience stores, and small kiosks provide top-up services.
- Some supermarkets also allow Istanbulkart reloading at checkout.
- Usually accepts cash payments, and in some cases, credit/debit cards may be an option.
3. Istanbulkart Mobile App
- Available on iOS and Android, allowing you to check your balance and top up online.
- Payments can be made using credit or debit cards, making it an easy option for those without Turkish Lira.
- Some tourists may experience issues with foreign cards, so it’s always good to have a backup method for topping up.
4. ATMs & Bank Services
- Certain Turkish bank ATMs offer Istanbulkart top-up options.
- Some banks allow users to transfer money directly to their Istanbulkart balance via mobile banking apps.
It’s always a good idea to check your balance before getting on public transportation to avoid delays. You can do this at any vending machine or through the Istanbulkart mobile app.
Public Transportation Options with Istanbulkart
What Public Transport Can You Use with an Istanbulkart?
Istanbulkart is the most convenient payment method for public transportation in Istanbul, offering seamless access to multiple transport systems across the city. Instead of buying individual tickets for each ride, travelers can use a single Istanbulkart to pay for various modes of transport.
Public Transportation Options Covered by Istanbulkart
- Metro – Istanbul’s extensive metro network connects key districts and provides a fast alternative to road traffic.
- Trams – Ideal for reaching historical areas, such as Sultanahmet and Eminönü, without the hassle of traffic congestion.
- Buses – Public buses cover nearly every neighborhood in Istanbul, making them an essential transport option.
- Ferries – Istanbul’s ferry system allows easy travel between the European and Asian sides, as well as to the Princes’ Islands.
- Marmaray – A high-speed rail system connecting the European and Asian continents via an underground tunnel under the Bosphorus.
- Metrobus – A rapid transit bus system with dedicated lanes that help commuters bypass heavy city traffic.
- Funiculars – These short railways connect key locations, such as Taksim and Kabataş, or Karaköy and Beyoğlu.
- Cable Cars (Teleferik) – Istanbulkart can be used for scenic cable car rides, such as the one at Pierre Loti Hill, offering a panoramic view of the Golden Horn.
With an Istanbulkart, passengers enjoy lower fares than purchasing single-use tickets, making it a cost-effective option for both tourists and locals.
How Does Istanbulkart Work on Metro, Trams, and Buses?
Using an Istanbulkart on metros, trams, and buses is straightforward, making travel across the city efficient and hassle-free.
Metro & Tram System
- Where to Use It: Istanbulkart is valid on all Istanbul Metro and tram lines, including M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, M7, and T1, T3, T4, and T5 tram lines.
- How to Pay: Simply tap your Istanbulkart on the yellow card reader at the metro or tram entrance gates.
- Fare Calculation: The fare is deducted automatically based on the distance traveled (longer distances may require an additional fare adjustment when exiting).
Buses
- Where to Use It: Istanbulkart is accepted on all IETT public buses as well as private city buses operating under the Istanbul Municipality.
- How to Pay: When boarding the bus, tap your Istanbulkart on the card reader near the driver.
- Fare System: Unlike metros and trams, buses charge a fixed fare, regardless of the distance traveled.
For travelers using multiple types of transport within a short period, Istanbulkart offers discounted transfer fares, making it a cost-effective option for frequent commuters.
Does Istanbulkart Work on Ferries and Marmaray?
Yes, Istanbulkart can be used to pay for fares on ferries and Marmaray, two of the most important transportation modes for traveling between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Ferries
- Where to Use It: Istanbulkart is valid on all Şehir Hatları (City Line) ferries, as well as private ferries operating under the Istanbul transport network.
- How to Pay: Tap your Istanbulkart at the turnstiles before boarding the ferry.
- Advantages: Ferries provide scenic routes across the Bosphorus and Golden Horn, making them a relaxing alternative to road transport.
Marmaray
- Where to Use It: Istanbulkart is accepted on the Marmaray railway, which connects Halkalı on the European side to Gebze on the Asian side via an underground tunnel beneath the Bosphorus.
- How to Pay: Istanbulkart users must tap their card at the entrance and exit gates, as Marmaray operates a distance-based fare system.
- Why Use Marmaray? It’s one of the fastest ways to travel between continents, avoiding traffic congestion on bridges.
Using an Istanbulkart for ferries and Marmaray makes traveling between Istanbul’s European and Asian sides both affordable and efficient.
What Are Some Other Top Attractions in Istanbul?
Istanbul is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks, and with the Istanbul E-pass, exploring these top attractions becomes even more convenient and cost-effective. The pass provides access to a wide range of sites, including skip-the-line privileges, making it an excellent choice for tourists.
Start your journey with the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel that blends Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Blue Mosque, celebrated for its stunning blue-tiled interior and impressive domes.
For those who love shopping and cultural immersion, the Grand Bazaar is a must-visit, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with traditional Turkish goods.
The Dolmabahçe Palace showcases the grandeur of Ottoman architecture with its lavish interiors and breathtaking waterfront views. Descend into history at the Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel with a mystical ambiance.
Finally, visit the iconic Topkapi Palace, the former home of Ottoman sultans, which houses invaluable artifacts and breathtaking courtyards.
The Istanbul E-pass simplifies your visit by including these attractions in its package, allowing you to save money and time. With access to landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Dolmabahçe Palace, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace, the pass ensures a seamless and memorable Istanbul experience.
