Subway Map

Transit card guide

Istanbulkart is essential in Istanbul because it, not cash, is what you tap for the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and the Marmaray commuter rail — most vehicles won't take cash at all. You can buy one from the bright yellow Biletmatik vending machines at almost any station or from small kiosks near transit stops for a small non-refundable card fee, then top it up the same way or through the Istanbulkart app. One thing worth knowing: the discount Istanbulkart normally gives for transferring between lines within a couple of hours only applies to personalized cards registered to a Turkish ID or residence permit, so the anonymous card tourists actually get charges full fare on every single leg, even a same-station transfer.