How to Get Around in Turkey by Train, Plane, Bus or Car
Over 100+ hours of expert travel research on Turkey, now presented to you in a short and easily digestible format for Free. Bookmark and save this page for future reference and updates.
Getting Around Turkey
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Most popular: Turkey's extensive rail network includes high-speed trains connecting major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Konya. The service is reliable and efficient, offering a scenic way to travel between cities.
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Cost-effective: Buses are the most economical and popular means of long-distance travel in Turkey. Companies like Metro and Varan offer extensive routes covering even small towns.
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Time-efficient: Domestic flights connect major cities and popular tourist destinations like Antalya and Izmir, with carriers such as Turkish Airlines and Pegasus offering frequent services.
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Water transport: Ferries and sea buses are a pleasant and often necessary way to travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, and to the coastal towns and islands.
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Local transport: Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable, but make sure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.
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Warning: Traffic can be congested, especially in Istanbul. Allow extra time for travel and consider using public transportation during peak hours.
🚗 Car
- In Turkey, you drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Car rental is available in all major cities and airports, offering flexibility for exploring more remote areas.
- The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is zero for new drivers and 0.05% for experienced drivers.
- Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on motorways.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, and children must be in appropriate car seats.
🚕 Taxi
- Taxis in Turkey are yellow and equipped with meters. It's advisable to ensure the meter is used or negotiate a fare beforehand.
- Ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi are available in larger cities and can be a convenient way to book a ride without a language barrier.
🚌 Bus
- City buses are plentiful and cover extensive routes within cities as well as between regions. Istanbul's Metrobus is a rapid transit option that avoids much of the city's traffic.
- Payment for buses is typically made with a transportation card, which can be topped up at various points around the city.
🚇 Metro
- Cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have metro systems that are clean, efficient, and usually faster than traveling by road during peak hours.
Transport Tips for Turkey
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Rural Transport: In rural areas, options can be limited. Renting a car is often the best choice for flexibility and reaching off-the-beaten-path destinations.
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Toll Roads: Many of the highways are toll roads. Electronic toll collection systems like HGS or OGS are needed to pass without stopping.
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Traffic Law Compliance: Traffic laws are strictly enforced in Turkey. Speeding and other violations can result in heavy fines.
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Vehicle Restrictions: In major cities, restrictions can apply during peak hours to reduce congestion and pollution.
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Air Travel: Consider internal flights for quick travel between regions, especially to tourist destinations like Cappadocia or the Mediterranean coast.
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Scooters and Motorbikes: These are a popular choice in coastal towns. Renting one can be an enjoyable way to explore, but always wear a helmet and drive safely.
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Walking: Walking in smaller towns and historical areas like Istanbul's Sultanahmet can be very rewarding. Be mindful of traffic when crossing roads as pedestrian rights may not always be respected.