Getting Around in Istanbul

Overview

Finding your way about Istanbul is easy for a medical tourism traveler – the public transportation system here is efficient thanks to the widespread availability of the Akbil card which can be used on buses, trams, the metro, and ferries. Taxis are plentiful as well.  

Buses

The city’s bus network is efficient, and buses run frequently.  All buses should display their stops clearly on the windshield - check these before you hop on.  To be doubly sure, ask your driver if your stop is covered before getting on the bus. Tickets can be purchased on the bus.  

The Metro

The city’s underground subway system is quite basic in the services it offers, and it’s still undergoing a slow process of expansion.  This makes sense. After all, this is a city that has untold treasures beneath its streets.  Every time they break new ground, they stumble upon ruins, artifacts, and other remnants of the past.  Trains run from Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 9 pm.  Services are inexpensive, and new stops are being added, albeit slowly. 

Taxis

Even if you consider yourself a competent and aggressive driver, you’re better off not renting a car on your medical tourism vacation.  The rental process isn’t the problem; rather, it’s navigating your way around the insane traffic that turns off most out-of-towners.  Plus, parking is always an issue.  Stick to taxis instead – the city’s yellow taxis are plentiful and can be flagged down on the street. They also congregate around market centers, commercial districts, and tourist attractions.  However to avoid getting fleeced, ask the hotel desk clerk at your medical tourism hotel to call one for you.  

Ferries