Istanbul Metro: Lines, Schedule, Maps, Fares & Tips for Safe Trip (2024)

In 2024, Istanbul’s metro system offers an efficient and convenient way for both residents and visitors to explore this magnificent city. Our Istanbul Metro guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the metro lines, stations, opening hours, and more. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Istanbul explorer, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the city with ease.

Istanbul Metro Lines: A Comprehensive Overview

Istanbul’s metro system comprises 11 lines connecting the European and Anatolian sides of the city, with three lines on the Anatolian Side and seven on the European Side. The metro lines are named M1A through M11, and serve various districts and attractions across Istanbul.

Metro Istanbul Lines and Its Opening Hours

When does the metro close in Istanbul? Great question! The Istanbul Metro operates daily, with varying hours and frequencies for different lines. Most lines run between 06:00 and 00:00, with some lines having different start and end times. Here are the operating hours for each line:

• M1A: Yenikapı – Atatürk Airport Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M1B: Yenikapı – Kirazlı Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M2: Yenikapı – Seyrantepe – Hacıosman Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M3: Kirazlı – Başakşehir / Metrokent Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M4: Kadıköy – Sabiha Gökçen Airport Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M5: Üsküdar – Çekmeköy Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M6: Levent – Boğaziçi University / Hisarüstü Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M7: Yıldız – Mahmutbey Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M8: Bostancı – Dudullu – Parseller Metro Line: 06:30 to 21:30
• M9: Bahariye – Olympic Metro Line: 06:00 to 00:00
• M11: Istanbul Havalimani – Kagithane *Gayrettepe under construction: 06:00 to 00:00

Read also: Istanbul transport at night >>

Weekends Night Time Istanbul Metro Lines (Friday-Sunday):

• M1A Yenikapi-Ataturk Airport,
• M1B Yenikapi-Kirazli,
• M2 Yenikapi-Haciosman (Not in operation in between Sanayi Mahallesi and Seyrantepe Stations),
• M4 Kadikoy-Sabiha Gokcen Airport,
• M5 Uskudar-Cekmekoy,
• M6 Levent-Bogazici University/Hisarustu,
• M7 Mecidiyeköy-Mahmutbey,

Istanbul Metro Map 2024

For those who prefer a visual representation of the metro system, various Istanbul Metro maps are available online and at the stations. Or see the official Metro map below with all the routes, transfers, and stations.

Find all maps of transport system of Istanbul >>

Must-Know Istanbul Metro Lines for Tourists

• M2: Yenikapı – Hacıosman Metro Line: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Taksim Square, Istiklal Avenue, Galata Tower, and Istanbul Technical University
• M4: Kadıköy – Tavşantepe Metro Line: Kadikoy district, Moda district, Haydarpasa Train Station, Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
• M11: Gayrettepe – Istanbul Airport Metro Line: New Istanbul Airport, Kagithane district, and Istanbul Olympic Stadium
• M7: Mecidiyeköy – Mahmutbey Metro Line (connects to major business and shopping districts) and has a change with M11.

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How to Use and Pay for Metro in Istanbul

To use the metro in Istanbul, passengers must have a ticket, Travel City Card or Istanbulkart, a rechargeable smart card that can be used for public transportation throughout the city, including buses, trams, and ferries.

Paying for Istanbul Metro with Istanbulkart

To purchase an Istanbulkart, passengers can go to ticket booths or vending machines at metro stations. Once the card is obtained, it must be loaded with credit before each use.

The fare for a single journey on the metro with Istabulkart is 17,70 TL, which is automatically deducted from the Istanbulkart when the passenger enters the station.

Paying for Istanbul Metro with Pass Tickets

In addition to the standard Metro fare, passengers can also choose to purchase limited-use tickets, which offer a discounted fare for multiple trips. As of the latest update, the tariff for limited-use tickets is as follows:

• 1 Pass Card: 25,00 TL
• 2 Passes Card: 45,00 TL
• 3 Passes Card: 70,00 TL
• 5 Passes Card: 105,00 TL
• 10 Passes Card: 200,00 TL

When boarding the metro, passengers must tap their Istanbulkart or ticket on the card reader at the turnstile to enter the station. Upon exiting the station, passengers must repeat the process to exit, and the fare will be automatically deducted from the card’s balance.

Paying for Istanbul Metro with Travel City Card

The Istanbul City Card comes with 1-3-5-7-15 day options for you to choose from, so you can tailor your experience to the length of your stay and explore Istanbul to your heart’s content. Say farewell to ticket queues and embrace the freedom to roam, as this indispensable pass propels you on an unforgettable urban adventure.

Easily purchase it online and have it delivered to your hotel for ultimate convenience. To buy a transport card, click on the link below:

Metro Lines in Istanbul 2024

M1a Yenikapı – Atatürk Airport Line

The M1a Yenikapı – Atatürk Airport Line was once a crucial line for tourists visiting Istanbul, providing easy access between Ataturk Airport and Sultanahmet and Taksim. It was possible to reach Taksim Square by transferring from the airport via metro, tram, and funicular.

The M1a line remains significant in terms of providing access to hotels and shopping centers in the former airport area. There are still many 5-star hotels in districts such as Yeşilköy, Bakırköy, and Ataköy.

Integration • To M2 Yenikapı – Hacıosman Metro Line and Marmaray from Yenikapı Station, • To Metrobus from Aksaray, Merter, Zeytinburnu, Bahçelievler and Atakoy – Sirinevler stations, • To T1 Bağcılar – Kabataş Tram Line from Aksaray and Zeytinburnu stations.

M1A: Yenikapı – Atatürk Airport Metro Line Stops

The M1A metro line starts from Yenikapı and passes through the Bayrampaşa area and reaches the Otogar Station. From here, it moves in the direction of Merter and reaches Atatürk Airport in Zeytinburnu. It passes through a total of 18 stations.

M1B: Yenikapı – Kirazlı Metro Line

M1B: Yenikapı – Kirazlı Metro Line is a crucial part of Istanbul’s public transportation system, providing quick and efficient transportation for commuters. The M1B line is a vital link in Istanbul’s transportation network, connecting major residential and business areas while offering easy access to other metro and tram lines. The M1B line operates with a journey time of 25 minutes, covering a distance of 26.8 km. During peak hours, the frequency of the M1B line is every 4 minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

Integration

• Yenikapı Station offers transfers to the Marmaray Line and M2 Yenikapı-Hacıosman Metro Line.
• Aksaray and Bağcılar Meydan stations provide a convenient transfer point for T1 Bağcılar-Kabataş Tram Line.
• Kirazlı Station connects with M3 Kirazlı-Olympic-Basaksehir Metro Line.

M1B: Yenikapı – Kirazlı Metro Line Stops

The line spans a total of 13 stations, starting from Kirazlı-Bağcılar and passing through Bağcılar Meydan, Üçyüzlü, Menderes, Esenler, Bus Terminal, Kocatepe, Sağmalcılar, Bayrampaşa-Maltepe, Topkapı-Ulubatlı, Police-Fatih, Aksaray, and Yenikapı.

M2 Yenikapı – Hacıosman Metro Line

M2 Yenikapı – Hacıosman Metro Line is the most frequently used metro line in Istanbul, connecting the city’s major business centers and tourist attractions. The line starts from Yenikapı, the transport hub of the European Side, and runs through a total of 16 stations, covering a distance of 23.49 km. The M2 line passes through major shopping centers such as Cevahir, Kanyon, and IstinyePark, making it a popular choice among tourists visiting the city.

Integration

The M2 line offers convenient transfers to other metro, tram, and shuttle lines at various stations along the route. Passengers can make transfers at the following stations:

• Yenikapı Station: Transfer to Marmaray Line, M1A Atatürk Airport Metro Line, and M1B Kirazlı Metro Line.
• Vezneciler-Istanbul University Station: Transfer to T1 Bagcilar-Kabatas Tram Line.
• Şişhane and Taksim stations: Transfer to T2 Istiklal Street Tram Line.
• Şişhane Station: Transfer to F2 Karaköy-Beyoğlu Historical Tunnel Line.
• Taksim Station: Transfer to the F1 Kabataş Funicular Line.
• Şişli-Mecidiyeköy Station: Transfer to M7 Mecidiyeköy-Mahmutbey Metro Line.
• Şişli-Mecidiyeköy and Gayrettepe stations: Transfer to Metrobus Line.
• Levent Station: Transfer to M6 Metro Line.
• Sanayi Mahallesi Station: Transfer to Seyrantepe Shuttle Operation.

M2 Yenikapı – Hacıosman Metro Line Stops

The M2 line passes through 16 stations, starting from Yenikapı and stopping at Vezneciler-Istanbul University, Golden Horn, Şişhane, Taksim, Osmanbey, Şişli-Mecidiyeköy, Gayrettepe, Levent, 4.Levent, Sanayi Mahallesi, Seyrantepe, ITU-Ayazaga, Ataturk Auto Industry, Darüşşafaka, and Hacıosman.

M2 Yenikapı – Hacıosman Metro Line Time and Frequency

The journey time for the M2 line is 32 minutes, and the frequency of trips is every 8.5 minutes, operating all day long.

Tours Using Public Transport to Unveil City Wonders

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M3: Kirazlı – Olimpiyat – Başakşehir Metro Line

M3 Kirazlı – Olimpiyat – Başakşehir Metro Line is an important transportation option for Istanbul residents, especially those living in the Başakşehir area. The line connects to the Olympic Stadium and Mall of Istanbul, two major destinations in the city. The journey time for the M3 line is 20 minutes, covering a distance of 11.8 km. During peak hours, the frequency of the M3 line is every 3 minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

Integration

• Passengers can transfer to other metro lines at several stations along the M3 line.
• İkitelli Sanayi Station offers transfers to M9 Bahariye-Olympic Metro Line.
• Mahmutbey Station provides a convenient transfer point for M7 Mecidiyeköy-Mahmutbey Metro Line.
• Kirazlı Station connects with M1B Yenikapı-Kirazlı Metro Line.

M3: Kirazlı – Başakşehir / Metrokent Metro Line Stops

The line spans a total of 9 stations, starting from Başakşehir-Metrokent and passing through Başak Residences, Sites, Turgut Özal, İkitelli Industry, İSTOÇ, Mahmutbey, Yenimahalle, and Kirazlı-Bağcılar.

While the M3 line may not be as important for tourists, it provides a vital link for Istanbul residents to access important destinations and business areas in the city.

M3: Kirazlı – Olimpiyat – Başakşehir Metro Line Time and Frequency

The journey time for the M3 line is 20 minutes, covering a distance of 11.8 km. During peak hours, the frequency of the M3 line is every 3 minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

M4 Kadıköy – Sabiha Gokcen Airport Line

M4 Kadıköy – Sabiha Gokcen Airport Line is the most important transportation option on the Asian side of Istanbul, providing quick and efficient transportation for commuters. The M4 line connects Kadıköy to Sabiha Gokcen Airport, spanning a total of 23 stations and covering a distance of 33.5 km. The journey time for the M4 line is 52 minutes. During peak hours, the frequency of the M4 line is every 5 minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

Integration

• Passengers can transfer to other metro and tram lines at several stations along the M4 line.
• Kadıköy Station provides transfers to T3 Kadıköy-Moda Tram Line, city lines, sea buses, and marine engines.
• Ayrilik Cesme Station offers transfers to the Marmaray Line.
• Ünalan Station provides a convenient transfer point for Metrobus Line.
• Kozyatağı Station connects with M8 Bostancı-Parseller Metro Line.
• Pendik Station offers transfers to Pendik High-Speed Train Station with IETT buses.

M4 Kadıköy – Sabiha Gokcen Airport Line Stops

The M4 line passes through the Kadıköy-Kartal route, reaching Sabiha Gokcen Airport from Tavşantepe. The line spans a total of 23 stations, starting from Kadıköy and passing through Ayrılık Fountain, Acıbadem, Ünalan, Göztepe, Yenisahra, Kozyatağı, Bostancı, Küçükyalı, Maltepe, Nursing Home, Gülsuyu, Esenkent, Hospital-Courthouse, Soğanlık, Kartal, Yakacık-Adnan Kahveci, Pendik, Tavşantepe, Fevzi Çakmak-Hospital, Yayalar-Sheikhli, Kurtkoy, and Sabiha Gokcen Airport.

While the M4 line is particularly useful for those traveling to Sabiha Gokcen Airport, it also offers access to popular shopping malls such as Akasya, Optimum, Palladium, Piazza, and Neomarin on the Asian side of Istanbul. Passengers can also conveniently transfer to other modes of transportation at various stations along the line.

M5 Üsküdar – Çekmeköy Metro Line

The M5 Üsküdar – Çekmeköy Metro Line is an important transportation option for Istanbul residents, connecting major residential areas and business centers. The line spans a total of 16 stations, covering a distance of 20 km and with a journey time of 32 minutes. During peak hours, the frequency of the M5 line is every 4 minutes and 40 seconds, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

Integration

• Passengers can transfer to other transportation options at several stations along the M5 line.
• Üsküdar Station offers transfers to the Marmaray and IETT buses, as well as sea piers.
• Altunizade Station provides a convenient transfer point for the Metrobus Line.
• Dudullu Station offers a transfer to M8 Bostancı-Parseller Metro Line.

M5 Üsküdar – Çekmeköy Metro Line Stops

Starting from Üsküdar Square, the M5 line passes through Fınıkağacı, Bağlarbaşı, Altunizade, Kısıklı, Bulgurlu, Ümraniye, Çarşı, Yamanevler, Çakmak, Ihlamurkuyu, Altınşehir, Imam Hatip High School, Dudullu, Necip Fazıl, and Çekmeköy Square. While the M5 line may not be as important for tourists, it provides a vital link for Istanbul residents to access important destinations and business areas in the city.

M5 Üsküdar – Çekmeköy Metro Line Time and Frequency

The journey time for the M5 line is 32 minutes, covering a distance of 20 km. During peak hours, the frequency of the M5 line is every 4 minutes and 40 seconds, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

M6 Levent – Boğaziçi Hisarüstü Metro Line

M6 Levent – Boğaziçi Hisarüstü Metro Line is an extension of the M2 metro line and provides easy access to the Etiler district and Boğaziçi University. The M6 line has a journey time of 7 minutes, covering a distance of 3.3 km. During peak hours, the frequency of the M6 line is every 5 minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

Integration

• Passengers can transfer to the M2 Yenikapı-Hacıosman Metro Line at Levent Station.

M6 Levent – Boğaziçi Hisarüstü Metro Line Stops

The line spans a total of 4 stations, starting from Levent and passing through Nispetiye, Etiler, and Boğaziçi University-Hisarüstü.

The M6 line provides access to Boğaziçi University, one of the most established universities in Istanbul, with a campus that offers stunning views of the Bosphorus. Etiler, accessible via the M6 line, is one of the most luxurious districts of Istanbul, home to the Akmerkez shopping mall and some of the best restaurants in the city, such as Nusr-et and Papermoon.

It is important to check the Istanbul metro map for transfer points if using the M6 line, as it can be confusing for those visiting Istanbul for the first time.

M6 Levent – Boğaziçi Hisarüstü Metro Line Time and Frequency

The M6 line has a journey time of 7 minutes, covering a distance of 3.3 km. During peak hours between 07.00-10.00 and 16.00-20.00, the frequency of the M6 line is every 5 minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

M7 Mecidiyeköy – Mahmutbey Metro Line

M7 Mecidiyeköy – Mahmutbey Metro Line is an important transportation option for commuters in Istanbul, especially those who work or live in the business centers and suburbs of the city. The line covers a distance of 20 km with 17 stations and takes approximately 32 minutes to complete its journey. During peak hours, the frequency of the M7 line is every 6 minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

Integration

• Transfer to M11 Airport line at Kagithane Station.
• Mecidiyeköy Station offers transfers to M2 Yenikapı-Hacıosman Metro Line.
• Karadeniz Mahallesi Station provides a convenient transfer point for T4 Topkapi-Mescid-i Selam Tram Line.
• Mahmutbey Station connects with M3 Kirazlı-Olympic-Basaksehir Metro Line and T5 Eminönü-Alibeyköy Mobile Bus Terminal Tram Line.

M7 Mecidiyeköy – Mahmutbey Metro Line Stops

The M7 metro line goes from Mecidiyeköy – Mahmutbey route along Mahmutbey – Yıldız wool, passing through Şişli, Kağıthane, Eyüpsultan, Gaziosmanpaşa, Esenler, and Bağcılar districts. The line spans a total of 17 stations, including Yıldız, Fulya, Mecidiyeköy, Çağlayan, Kağıthane, Nurtepe, Alibeyköy, Çırçır, Veysel Karani-Akşemsettin, Yeşilpınar, Kazım Karabekir, Yenimahalle, Karadeniz District, Tekstilkent-Giyimkent, Oruç Reis, Göztepe District, and Mahmutbey.

M8: Bostancı – Dudullu – Parseller Metro Line

The M8 metro line is an important east-west link on the Anatolian side of Istanbul, connecting major residential and business areas.

Integration

• Bostancı Station offers transfers to the Marmaray Line, city lines, and sea buses.
• Kozyatağı Station provides a convenient transfer point for M4 Kadıköy-Sabiha Gökçen Airport Metro Line.
• Dudullu Station offers transfers to M5 Üsküdar-Çekmeköy Metro Line.

M8: Bostancı – Dudullu – Parseller Metro Line Stops

The line spans a total of 13 stations, starting from Bostancı and passing through Emin Ali Pasha, Ayşekadağı, Kozyatağı, Küçükbakkalköy, İçerenköy, Kayışdağı, Mevlana, Imes, Modoko-Keyap, Dudullu, Huzur, and Parseller.

While the M8 line may not be as important for tourists, it provides a vital link for Istanbul residents to access important destinations and business areas in the city.

M8: Bostancı – Dudullu – Parseller Metro Line Time and Frequency

The journey time for the M8 line is 25 minutes, covering a distance of 14.27 km. During peak hours, the frequency of the M8 line is every 8 minutes and 40 seconds, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.

M9: Bahariye – Olympic Metro Line

M9: Bahariye – Olympic Metro Line is a short but important metro line connecting Bahariye and the Olympic Stadium in Istanbul.

Integration

The M9 line offers a convenient transfer to M3 Kirazlı-Başakşehir/Metrokent Metro Line at İkitelli Sanayi Station.

M9: Bahariye – Olympic Metro Line Stops

The M9 line passes through a total of 5 stations: Olympic, Ziya Gokalp District, Ikitelli Industry, Masko, and Bahariye. Although it may be short, the M9 line provides a crucial link for those traveling to the Olympic Stadium and other areas in the vicinity.

M9: Bahariye – Olympic Metro Line Time and Frequency

The journey time for the M9 line is only 10 minutes, covering a distance of 5.9 km. During operating hours, the frequency of the M9 line is every 10 minutes. Although it may be short, the M9 line offers a quick and efficient option for commuters traveling between Bahariye and the Olympic Stadium.

M11 Gayrettepe – Istanbul Airport Line

The M11 Gayrettepe – Istanbul Airport metro line is one of the most popular metro lines for tourists visiting Istanbul. The line was put into service on January 22, 2023, and will be fully operational by end of 2024. The M11 line provides quick and efficient transportation between Istanbul Airport and the city center.

Integration

• Passengers can transfer to the M7 Yildiz-Mahmutbey Metro Line at Mecidiyekoy stop for access to top tourist destinations such as Taksim, Besiktas, Galata, Karakoy, Sultanahmet, and Kadikoy districts.

M11 Gayrettepe – Istanbul Airport Line Stops

The M11 line stops at the following stations: Kagithane, Universite-Hasdal, Kemerburgaz, Gokturk, Ihsaniye, Istanbul Airport, and Cargo Terminal.

M11 Gayrettepe – Istanbul Airport Line Time and Frequency

The M11 line operates from 6:00 am to 12:00 am with a frequency of every 8 minutes, ensuring that commuters can travel smoothly and efficiently throughout the day. The line offers the quickest and easiest way to get to the city center and is the best value option for transportation to and from Istanbul Airport.

The fare for the M11 metro line is 17,70 TL for a short distance and 22,83 TL for the longest distance.

Read also:

• The Ultimate Guide to Transport to/from New Istanbul Airport / Istanbul (2024)
• Istanbul Airport Metro: Fast and Economic Way to Get to the City

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Conclusion

Istanbul’s metro system is an efficient and cost-effective way to get around the city, with numerous lines connecting major business areas, tourist destinations, and residential areas. With various transfer points and convenient ticketing options, the metro system provides a seamless and enjoyable commuting experience for both locals and tourists alike.

FAQ

Q: What is the Istanbulkart and how can I obtain one?

A: Istanbulkart is a rechargeable electronic card that allows you to pay for public transportation in Istanbul. You can purchase an Istanbulkart at vending machines located in metro and tram stations, or at authorized retailers such as newsstands and convenience stores.

Q: Can I use a single ticket for multiple rides on the metro?

A: No, a single ticket can only be used for one ride on the metro. You will need to purchase a new ticket for each ride.

Q: What are the most popular metro lines for tourists?

A: The M2, M4, and M11 metro lines are the most popular for tourists, as they connect to major tourist destinations and business areas in the city.

Q: Can I transfer between different metro lines with a single ticket?

A: Yes, you can transfer between different metro lines using the same Istanbulkart or single-use ticket, as long as your transfer is made within a specific time limit (currently 2 hours and 15 minutes).

Q: When does the metro close in Istanbul?

Most of the lines close at 00.00.

Q: What is the frequency of trains on the metro lines?

A: The frequency of trains varies depending on the line and time of day, but generally ranges from 3 to 8 minutes during peak hours.

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