Transportation in Istanbul
Istanbul has a diverse and well-developed public transportation network. The most important means of transportation in Istanbul are
Subway (Metro)
Istanbul's metro system connects important parts of the city on both the European and Asian sides. Eg the following lines:
- M1 (Yenikapı-Atatürk/Halkalı Airport): This line splits into the M1A and M1B lines. M1A connects Yenikapı with the former Atatürk Airport, while M1B connects Yenikapı with Halkalı. This line plays an important role in accessing the western part of the European side.
- M2 (Yenikapı-Hacıosman): This line crosses the European side from south to north. It connects important business and residential areas and offers connections to other metro lines.
- M3 (Kirazlı-Olympiaköy/Başakşehir): This line runs from Kirazlı to the north and splits into two branches leading to Olympiaköy and Başakşehir.
- M4 (Kadıköy-Tavşantepe): This line serves the Asian side and connects Kadıköy with Tavşantepe. It is important for commuters who travel between the Asian suburbs and the center of Kadıköy.
- M5 (Üsküdar-Çekmeköy): Also located on the Asian side, this line connects Üsküdar with Çekmeköy. It is known for its modern technology as it is operated as a driverless metro.
- M6 (Levent-Boğaziçi Ü./Hisarüstü): This smaller line serves as a feeder to the M2 in the Levent district. It provides access to educational institutions and residential areas near the Bosphorus.
- M7 (Mecidiyeköy-Mahmutbey): This line connects the dense and lively Mecidiyeköy district with Mahmutbey in the northwest of the European side.
- M9 (Ataköy-İkitelli): This line connects the districts of Ataköy and İkitelli and serves as an important link between various residential and commercial areas.
Metrobus
The Metrobus is an express bus system that uses dedicated lanes to bypass traffic. It connects the European and Asian sides and is particularly popular with commuters at peak times as it is faster than normal road traffic.
Tramway
The streetcar is another important element of public transportation in Istanbul. There are both modern and nostalgic streetcars that run through historic neighborhoods such as Sultanahmet and Eminönü. They are a convenient way to reach many sights.
Ferries
Due to Istanbul's geographical location, ferries play a special role. They not only connect the European and Asian sides, but also offer picturesque views of the Bosphorus.
Marmaray
Marmaray is a relatively new rail link that crosses under the Bosphorus and connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul at a lower level than the ferries. It is a fast and modern means of transportation that is an alternative to crossing the Bosphorus by sea.
Dolmuş
Dolmuşe are minibuses or shared cabs that run on fixed routes. They offer a cheap and flexible way of getting around the city. Passengers are picked up on the street and dropped off at any point along the route.
Buses
The bus network in Istanbul is extensive and connects many parts of the city that cannot be reached by other means of public transport. However, buses can be overcrowded and congested, especially at peak times.
Cable cars and inclined elevators
In some hilly areas of Istanbul, e.g. in Eyüp or on the Asian side in Üsküdar, there are cable cars and inclined elevators that can be used to overcome differences in height quickly and comfortably.
