IstanbulKart Guide: How to Get, Load, Our Best Tips

Istanbul’s public transport system is vast, covering metros, trams, buses, ferries, Metrobus, and Marmaray. The easiest way to navigate the city is with an Istanbulkart, a prepaid Istanbul public transport card that offers cost savings, convenience, and seamless transfers across all transportation options. Whether you’re a tourist exploring the city or a local commuting daily, this Istanbul transportation card is a must-have.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to get an Istanbulkart, where to use it, top-up methods, costs, and the best options for tourists.

At a Glance: Istanbulkart

If you’re visiting Istanbul, an Istanbulkart is a must-have. It makes public transport faster, cheaper, and more convenient, eliminating the need to buy tickets for every ride.

✔ Works on all public transport (metro, tram, buses, ferries, Marmaray).
✔ Saves money with discounted fares & transfers.
✔ Easy to buy, top up, and use.
✔ Perfect for tourists and locals alike.

What is Istanbulkart and Why Do You Need It?

The Istanbulkart is a contactless, prepaid smart card that allows users to access all forms of public transportation in Istanbul. Instead of purchasing single-use tickets, you simply tap the card at the turnstile or scanner, and the fare is automatically deducted from your balance.

Istanbulkart Benefits:

• Works on all public transport – Metro, trams, buses, Metrobus, ferries, and Marmaray.
• Cost-effective – Offers discounted fares compared to single tickets.
• Seamless transfers – Get discounted second rides within a two-hour window.
• Tourist-friendly – Ideal for visitors staying multiple days in Istanbul.
• Easy to use – Just tap and go without needing to buy tickets for every ride.

By using an Istanbul public transport card, travelers can save time and money while avoiding long ticket queues.

Where to Buy an Istanbulkart?

You can purchase an Istanbulkart at multiple locations across the city. The process is quick and hassle-free.

Istanbulkart Purchase Locations:

• Metro, tram, and ferry stations – Yellow vending machines are available near transport hubs.
• Airport kiosks – Both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) sell Istanbulkarts.
• Convenience stores – Look for shops with the “Akbil Dolum Noktası” sign.
• Online purchase – Some services allow online pre-orders, but most require physical pickup.

💳 Istanbulkart cost: The standard card price is 130 TL, but it does not include credit, so you need to add funds before using it.

For tourists planning multiple rides, purchasing the card immediately upon arrival is recommended to avoid delays and extra costs.

How to Top-Up Your Istanbulkart?

To use the Istanbul public transport card, you must load credit onto it.

Istanbulkart Top-Up Methods:

• Vending machines at metro, tram, and bus stations (accept 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 TL).
• Akbil Dolum Noktası kiosks at local convenience stores.
• Istanbulkart mobile app (for online top-ups).
• Website: Load credit at istanbulkart.istanbul (for registered cards).

💡 Tip: Estimate your travel costs and load a reasonable amount to avoid carrying excessive credit. If you expect 20 rides, top up 540 TL for seamless travel.

Please cross check “Fees and Limits” page to get information about fares.

Where Can You Use Istanbulkart?

One of the biggest Istanbulkart benefits is that it works across all major public transport modes.

Transport Modes Covered:

• Metro & Tram: Tap at the turnstile to enter; transfer discounts apply.
• Buses & Metrobus: Scan your card when boarding. Metrobus fares are distance-based.
• Marmaray: Tap at the entry and exit gates; fares vary based on the distance traveled.
• Ferries: Works on all Bosphorus ferries and Princes’ Islands ferries.

💡 Transfers within two hours receive discounted fares, making Istanbulkart cost-effective for frequent travelers.

See more on official bireysel.istanbulkart.istanbul

Istanbulkart for Tourists: Best Options

Tourists visiting Istanbul have two great options when it comes to transportation cards:

1. Standard Istanbulkart

• Ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
• Works across all public transport.
• Pay-as-you-go with top-ups.

2. Istanbul City Card (Alternative to Istanbulkart)

• Unlimited public transport for 1, 3, 5, 7, or 15 days.
• Includes museum access and Bosphorus tours.
• Best for travelers planning to visit multiple attractions.

💡 Which one to choose? If you travel frequently and use public transport often, the Istanbulkart is better. If you plan museum visits and sightseeing, the Istanbul City Card offers better value.

Istanbulkart Mobile App: Manage Your Card Easily

The Istanbulkart mobile app allows users to manage their card digitally, making it even more convenient.

App Features:

• Check your balance anytime.
• Top-up your Istanbulkart online.
• Use QR codes for select transport services.
• View travel history and recent transactions.

📲 Download the app on the App Store or Google Play by searching “Istanbulkart.”

Istanbul Public Transport Fares with Istanbulkart

Using an Istanbul public transport card offers discounted fares compared to single-use tickets.

Current Istanbul Public Transport Fares:

• Metro/Tram: 27 TL per ride, with transfer discounts.
• Marmaray: Up to 46 TL, depending on distance.
• Metrobus: 27 TL – 40 TL, based on the number of stops.
• Ferries: 27 TL – 80 TL, depending on route.

💡 Transfers within 2 hours offer fare reductions, making Istanbulkart cost-effective for multiple daily rides.

🚍 Check latest fares on: iett.istanbul

Istanbulkart Refunds & Validity

Many travelers ask: What happens if I have leftover balance?

Istanbulkart Refund Policy:

• Refunds are not available for anonymous Istanbulkarts.
• Registered Istanbulkarts may allow balance recovery (via vending machines).
• The card remains valid for years, so you can reuse it on future trips.

💡 If unsure about how much to load, start with a small amount and add more as needed.

FAQs About Istanbulkart

I don’t have an Istanbulkart. How can I travel?

If you don’t have an Istanbul public transport card, you can still use public transit by:

• Downloading Istanbulkart Mobile and using QR codes to enter.
• Purchasing limited-use tickets (1, 3, 5, or 10 rides) from Biletmatik machines.
• Using SMS QR entry by sending a text message.
• Paying contactless with your bank or credit card using BİRgeç limited-use tickets.

What is the difference between Istanbulkart and Istanbul City Card?

The Istanbulkart is a pay-as-you-go transportation card, allowing users to top up and pay for individual trips. It works across all public transport modes. The Istanbul City Card, on the other hand, offers unlimited travel for a set number of days and may include museum access and Bosphorus tours. Istanbulkart is best for long-term use, while the City Card is ideal for tourists exploring multiple attractions.

Where can I load my Istanbulkart?

You can load credit onto your Istanbulkart using:

• Istanbulkart Mobil app
• Istanbulkart official website
• Biletmatik machines at metro, tram, and ferry stations
• Authorized dealers and corporate representatives
• Banking apps and affiliated financial services

Where can I check my Istanbulkart balance?

You can check your Istanbulkart balance at vending machines located at metro, tram, and ferry stations. Simply place your card on the scanner, and the screen will display your remaining balance. You can also check it through the Istanbulkart mobile app, which allows you to track recent transactions and top up your card online.

Can I make payments with my bank or credit card?

Yes, you can use your contactless debit or credit card to pay for public transport. However, these payments are processed at BİRgeç ticket rates, which are typically higher than standard Istanbulkart fares. For the lowest fares, it’s still best to use an Istanbulkart.

How long is an Istanbulkart valid?

An Istanbulkart does not expire and can be used for multiple trips over time. If you visit Istanbul again in the future, you can reuse your card as long as it still has credit. However, to access online features like balance transfers or refunds, you may need to register your card on the official website.

Why should I use an Istanbulkart instead of buying single tickets?

An Istanbulkart is significantly cheaper and more convenient than buying single-use tickets. It provides discounted fares and reduces transfer costs within two hours. With a single ticket, you must pay full fare for every ride, while Istanbulkart users enjoy reduced rates on multiple trips, making it the best option for regular commuters and tourists.

Who can use the discounted Istanbulkart?

Certain groups, such as students, seniors, and disabled individuals, can apply for discounted Istanbulkart types. These require registration with official documentation at designated application centers. Tourists do not qualify for discounted cards, but they can still benefit from standard fare reductions on transfers within two hours.

Will my Istanbulkart work at vending machines if it has no credit?

Yes, but only to top up your balance. If your Istanbulkart has no credit, you won’t be able to pass through turnstiles or board public transport. However, vending machines will still recognize your card, allowing you to load funds before your next ride. Always check your balance before boarding.

What should I do if I lose my Istanbulkart?

If your Istanbulkart is registered in your name (personalized, discounted, free, blue), you can:

• Block your card immediately via the Istanbulkart Mobile app or by calling ALO 153.
• Secure your balance and transfer it to a new card.

Anonymous Istanbulkarts (unregistered cards) cannot be blocked or refunded if lost. To protect your balance, personalize your Istanbulkart through the Istanbulkart website or mobile app.

Can I get a refund for my Istanbulkart?

No, Istanbulkart is non-refundable and does not require a deposit. If you have leftover balance, it cannot be cashed out or transferred unless you have a registered card with balance protection enabled.

Can non-Turkish citizens with a Foreign ID Number use Istanbulkart Mobile?

Yes, non-Turkish citizens with a Foreign ID Number (Yabancı Kimlik Numarası or YKN) can register for Istanbulkart Mobile and use the app for top-ups, QR code entries, and balance tracking.

How many people can use one Istanbulkart?

One Istanbulkart can be used by multiple passengers, but only one discounted transfer is applied per trip. If you’re traveling with a group, it’s best for each person to have their own card to maximize transfer discounts.

Where can I use Istanbulkart outside of public transport?

In addition to metros, trams, buses, ferries, and Metrobus, Istanbulkart is accepted at select public restrooms, İBB city parking lots, and even some grocery stores and cafes operated by the municipality. Check the official Istanbulkart website for a full list of locations where the card is accepted beyond public transport.

How much money should I load onto my Istanbulkart for a short trip?

If you’re staying in Istanbul for 3-4 days, loading around 250-400 TL should be enough for public transport rides within the city. If you plan on visiting Princes’ Islands or taking long Metrobus or Marmaray rides, you may need to add extra funds. Since refunds aren’t available, it’s best to start with a lower balance and top up as needed.