Istanbul (IST) (Ataturk, formerly Yesilkoy) (website: www.ataturkairport.com) is 24km (15 miles) west of the city (journey time - 30 to 50 minutes). To/from the airport: Havas runs a regular bus service between the airport and the city center. Taxis are available. Facilities: Duty-free shops, bank/bureau de change, bar, restaurant and car hire.
Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) (website: www.sgairport.com) is 40km (25 miles) from Istanbul, on the Asian side. To/from the airport: There are shuttle bus services to Taksim Square in the city (journey time - 45 minutes) and to Ataturk International Airport (journey time - 60 to 70 minutes). Taxis are available 24 hours. Facilities: Duty-free sh
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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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A dolmus (which means 'full') is basically a shared taxi that sets off once every seat is taken. Dolmus run fixed routes (starting points and final destinations are displayed in the front window) but with no set stops. Passengers flag the driver down to get on (if there's room) and holler out to be let off (Inecek var!). For local journeys, there's one fixed fare. Ask a fellow passenger how much it is or just watch what everyone else is paying. Dolmus run later than buses, oft
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