Istanbul Taxi Apps, Fares, Routes, Price & Tips (2024)

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Istanbul taxi services in 2024. As a bustling metropolis, Istanbul has a complex taxi system that can be challenging for first-time visitors. In this article, we’ll provide you with valuable tips, insider information, and the most up-to-date taxi fares to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience in this magnificent city. From taxi apps to airport transfers, we’ve got you covered.

Istanbul’s Yellow, Turquoise & Black Taxis: Know the Difference

Yellow Taxis in Istanbul

Yellow taxis are the most common type in Istanbul, with over 18,000 available throughout the city. These are standard, local taxis and typically include C Segment cars like Fiat Aegea, Renault Clio, and Dacia Sandero.

Turquoise Taxis

Turquoise taxis are considered luxury taxis and feature D segment cars such as the VW Passat, Skoda Superb, and Opel Insignia. They are more expensive than yellow taxis, with a 15% higher fare.

Black Taxis

Black taxis are the VIP taxis, featuring E segment and luxury vehicles like the Mercedes E180 and Mercedes Vito. These taxis are the most expensive option, with fares 100% higher than those of yellow taxis.

Istanbul Taxi Fares in 2024

In January 2024, Istanbul taxi fares are as follows:

• Yellow taxis fares: 24,55 TL opening fee and 17,61 TL per kilometer
• Turquoise taxis fares: 28,24 TL opening fee and 20,25 TL per kilometer
• Black taxis fares: 41,74 TL opening fee and 32,50 TL per kilometer

Keep in mind that there is no distinction between day and night tariffs, and if your taxi needs to pay a toll (for bridges, tunnels, or highways), the cost will be added to your fare. You are not responsible for the taxi’s return fees.

Taxi Bridge Tolls in Istanbul and Its Prices

When crossing from one side of Istanbul to the other, passengers are responsible for paying bridge and highway tolls. As of 2024, the toll fees for different crossings are as follows:

• Eurasia Tunnel: 80 TL
• Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge (3rd Bridge): 35 TL
• 15 July Martyrs’ Bridge (Bosphorus Bridge): 15 TL
• Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (2nd Bridge): 15 TL
• Osmangazi Bridge: 290 TL
• Anatolian Highway Camlica tolls: 76 TL

Starting from 2024, the toll from the 15 July Martyrs Bridge will be collected from both sides.

Remember to factor in these tolls when calculating your taxi fare for a more accurate estimate of your total cost.

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Be Prepared: Know How to Avoid Taxi Scams in Istanbul

When exploring Istanbul, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and be aware of common taxi scams. Some drivers may take longer routes or tamper with the meter to charge higher fares. How to avoid taxi scams in Istanbul? To be safe and stress-free, we recommend to read:

Outsmarting Taxi Scams in Istanbul: Your Ultimate Guide for 2024

Personalized Tours: Private Transportation and Car Hire in Istanbul

We recommend choosing tours with private transportation or car hire services in Istanbul as a more comfortable and personalized alternative to taxis. These options allow you to explore the city at your own pace while enjoying the added convenience and safety that tailored transportation provides.

Taxi Apps in Istanbul

Some popular taxi apps in Istanbul are iTaksi, Bitaksi, and Uber. These apps allow you to book a taxi, track your ride, and pay securely through your smartphone.

Airport Taxi Fares in Istanbul (2024)

Here are the approximate taxi fares for trips from Istanbul’s airports to popular destinations:

Taxi Price from/To New Istanbul Airport

• New Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet: 1 300 TL (best case scenario, no traffic)
• New Istanbul Airport to Taksim: 1 200 TL (best case scenario, no traffic)

Taxi Price from/To Sabiha Gökçen Airport

• Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Sultanahmet: 1 400 TL (plus bridge or tunnel toll)
• Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Taksim: 1 300 TL (plus bridge or tunnel toll)

Approximate Istanbul Taxi Fares (Prices for Popular Routes)

Here’s a summary of approximate taxi fares in Istanbul from popular locations, provided in Turkish Liras (TL):

Istanbul Taxi Fares from Sultanahmet to

These are prices for March 2024, due to inflation in Turkey by 2024, multiply prices by 3 or use the Uber or Bitaxi app to find out the price of the trip.

Istanbul Taxi Fares from Taksim to

Payment Methods for Taxis in Istanbul

When taking a taxi in Istanbul, it’s advisable to have cash on hand. Although some taxis may accept credit or debit cards, many drivers do not have the necessary card terminals. Additionally, paying in Turkish liras is recommended to avoid potential issues with exchange rates. Here’s a summary of payment methods:

• Carry cash: Many taxis do not have card terminals, so having cash on hand is a safe option.
• Use Turkish liras: Pay in the local currency to avoid potential problems with exchange rates.
• Advanced bookings and apps: If you book your taxi in advance, you may be able to use a credit card as a payment method.

Don’t Forget about Public Transport in Istanbul

To make the most of your Istanbul visit, we highly recommend utilizing the city’s extensive public transportation network. With a variety of options including buses, trams, ferries, and the metro system, you can easily navigate the city while avoiding potential taxi scams. Embrace the local experience and enjoy a hassle-free journey as you explore the fascinating sights and sounds of Istanbul. Read more >>

Useful Tips for Using Istanbul Taxis

Here’s a summary of useful tips and information about taxis in Istanbul:

1. Tipping is not required for taxi drivers.
2. Drivers usually round up the final fee.
3. Check taxi fares to popular destinations and use a navigation app to avoid unnecessary detours.
4. Don’t accept rides from unofficial vehicles or individuals.
5. Check the taximeter is zeroed and on when entering the taxi.
6. Carry small notes to prevent confusion with change.
7. Don’t agree on a fixed fare unless you know the exact cost; the taximeter may show a lower price.
8. Night rides don’t have separate fares.
9. Ensure the taximeter is zeroed and on when entering the cab.
10. Avoid accepting rides from unofficial vehicles or individuals.
11. The final charge is per ride, not per person.
12. Be mindful of pedestrian-only areas when choosing a drop-off location.
13. Pay tolls when crossing the Bosphorus bridges from the European side to the Asian side, but not on the return trip.
14. Carry cash in Turkish Liras, as many drivers may not have card terminals or may deceive you with exchange rates.
15. If booking a taxi transfer in advance, credit cards are generally accepted.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when traveling in Istanbul, it’s essential to be aware of the different taxi types and their respective pricing structures, as well as the various payment methods and tolls. By following the useful tips provided, you can ensure a pleasant and hassle-free taxi experience during your stay in this vibrant city.

FAQ: Istanbul Taxi Prices

What are the different types of taxis in Istanbul?

There are three types of taxis in Istanbul: yellow taxis, turquoise taxis, and black taxis. Yellow taxis are standard, local taxis, while turquoise taxis are considered luxury taxis. Black taxis are VIP taxis and are the most expensive option.

How much do Istanbul taxis cost?

In January 2024, the fares for Istanbul taxis are as follows:

• Yellow taxis fares: 24,55 TL opening fee and 17,61 TL per kilometer
• Turquoise taxis fares: 28,24 TL opening fee and 20,25 TL per kilometer
• Black taxis fares: 41,74 TL opening fee and 32,50 TL per kilometer

How do I pay for an Istanbul taxi?

It is advisable to have cash on hand when taking a taxi in Istanbul, as many drivers do not have the necessary card terminals. Paying in Turkish liras is recommended to avoid potential issues with exchange rates.

Can I use a taxi app in Istanbul?

Yes, several taxi apps have emerged to make your transportation experience more convenient. Some popular taxi apps in Istanbul are iTaksi, Bitaksi, and Uber. These apps allow you to book a taxi, track your ride, and pay securely through your smartphone.

Is it necessary to tip my Istanbul taxi driver?

No, tipping is not required for taxi drivers in Istanbul. However, drivers usually round up the final fee.

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