Public transport tickets in Istanbul

In order not to be trapped in Istanbul in the tram or subway, do not forget to check with the methods of payment of public transport in the city. The first and the most important thing in public transport in Istanbul is NOT to ask for tickets. There’s no man in a blue uniform going through the cars and giving you tickets for a certain amount of money. You will need to pay in advance, otherwise you simply will not pass through a turnstile to the site.

The right to travel in Istanbul can be purchased as follows: a) by buying a token b) by buying a ticket) by buying a magnetic ticket.

All of these methods are convenient, fast, but you should choose one that fits your needs best. If you are going to make several trips - most likely it will be so - then the magnetic ticket is most suitable for you. It sounds like "akbil" in Turkish. These tickets are sold in special stands, you will see them at every tram stop. Buy akbil and pass through the turnstile. Another stands are on the terminal points of bus routes, where the same thing is written in large letters - akbil.

What is akbil? This is a keychain made of plastic with a round magnet which they charge you at the stand or in a special machine. The most convenient thing is the amount that is placed on the account in this type of ticket is determined by you. Either 100 pounds, or 50, or even 10. It’s up to you. Although, usually they don’t put less than 15 pounds on this extempore tram account. Otherwise, such kind of travel is simply nonsensical.

How to use akbil? Very simple. When passing on the dock or tram stop simply push the magnetic part of the ticket to a special place in the turnstiles and you can pass safely. At the same time on the glowing electronic scoreboard you will see how much money you have on your account.

Finally, the most important advantage of akbil is if you are leaving town you can take money from your account in case you don’t spend the full amount for transport.

Tokens best suit for single trips ot if you do not intend to use the tram or subway too often. You can buy a token at the same stop, at the officer’s stand, and then you should go to the platform and drop your token in the slot in the turnstile.

Well, the simplest kind of ticket is paper ticket. You buy a ticket, show it to the man at the entrance of the bus stop or in a vehicle (or to the driver) and go further.

Enjoy your trip!