Transportation in Istanbul


Istanbul’s a crowded and complex city. Because of that, traffic is one of the biggest problems. For a longer stay you should purchase Akbil, a debit card that can be used for most kinds of public transportation within the city. There’re different kinds of public transportation in Istanbul.

Bus

Private and public buses are very common. According to the traffic time tables can change. So you may wait 10,15 or 20 minutes for a bus. There’re three kinds of buses: The blue-green buses are privately owned and you pay money to get on. Foreign currency’s not accepted. The second kind of buses belong to municipality and are generally crowded. However they’re cheap

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What is AKBIL ? - Getting around in Istanbul


Akbil
Akbil, the 'smart card', is an electronic travel pass that can be used on all public transport except dolmus and minibuses. You get a 10 per cent discount on fares. Akbils are available for a small refundable deposit (TRL6) from booths at all main bus, sea bus and metro stations. To use it, firmly press the circular metal stud into the socket on the orange machine located next to the driver on buses, or to the left of turnstiles at all metro, light rail, tram and ferry stations.

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