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What is Istanbul Card (istanbulkart)?

Updated: Apr 16


istanbul card where you can get from Novelty Hotel istanbul
Istanbul Card

The Istanbul Card (Turkish: İstanbulkart) is a contactless smart card used for public transportation in Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye.) It is an integrated system that allows users to access various types of public transport services in the city, including:




  • Buses

  • Metro (subway)

  • Trams

  • Ferries

  • Funiculars

  • Metrobuses


Where to Stay in Istanbul While Using Istanbulkart

If you are planning to use public transport in Istanbul, staying in a central area like Laleli can make your trip much easier.

👉 Check availability and book your stay in Laleli here:


Closest Istanbul-Card Buying Places to Novelty Hotel Istanbul

  • The nearest metro and tram stations to the Novelty Hotel Istanbul are indicated on the map below. The upper line represents a 2-minute walk to Vezneciler Metro Station, while the lower line indicates a 3-minute walk to Laleli Tramline Station. Istanbulkart can be purchased at both stations.




Key Features:

  1. Ease of Use: The card operates on a contactless system, meaning passengers only need to tap it against a card reader when entering and exiting transportation vehicles.

  2. Rechargeable: It can be recharged at kiosks, online, or via mobile apps, making it convenient for regular users.

  3. Discounts: The card offers discounted fares compared to buying single-use tickets and provides additional discounts for students, teachers, and seniors.

  4. Integration: It can be used across all transportation modes in Istanbul, providing seamless travel around the city.

  5. Visitor-Friendly: Tourists can easily obtain the Istanbul Card at various locations like airports, metro stations, and ferry docks.

  6. Multi-Person Use: The card can be used by more than one person at a time (although this means paying for multiple rides), making it convenient for group travel.


Overall, the Istanbul Card simplifies the city's transportation system and offers affordability and convenience to both residents and visitors.


A practical tip for travelers:


Staying near tram lines makes using Istanbulkart much more convenient. Laleli is one of the best-connected areas, offering easy access to transport and historic sites.


Where you can get Istanbul Card?

You can get an Istanbul Card at various locations throughout the city. Here are the main places where you can obtain it:


1. Istanbulkart Vending Machines (Biletmatik)


  • Metro stations

  • Tram stations

  • Marmaray stations

  • Bus terminals

  • Ferry docks

  • Metrobus stations


These yellow-colored machines are located at major public transportation hubs. You can buy and reload your card from these machines. The machine interface is available in multiple languages, making it easy for tourists to use.


2. Authorized Sales Points

  • Small kiosks and convenience stores (often near transportation hubs or in crowded areas) that display the Istanbulkart logo also sell the card and offer recharging services.

3. Istanbul Airport

  • There are vending machines and kiosks at Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), where visitors can get an Istanbulkart right after landing.

4. IETT (Istanbul Electric Tram and Tunnel Company) Offices

  • IETT customer service centers in various parts of the city, including some major transportation hubs, also sell Istanbulkarts.

5. Online (for recharging)

  • You can also recharge your card online through the Istanbulkart website or mobile apps available on both iOS and Android devices. However, purchasing a card must be done in person at one of the above locations.

Cost of the Card:

  • The cost of an Istanbulkart is generally 100 TL (the value may change by the time) (as of 2025) for the card itself, but it does not come preloaded with credit. You’ll need to add money to the card after purchasing it.


Having an Istanbulkart makes traveling in the city much more convenient, especially since it can be used across all major public transportation systems in Istanbul.


SUMMARY

What is Istanbulkart?

  • A prepaid public transport card

  • Used for tram, metro, bus, and ferry

  • Saves time and money

  • Easy to use across the city



Plan Your Stay in Istanbul

If you are visiting Istanbul and planning to use public transport, choosing a central hotel will save you time and effort.

👉 Book your stay in Laleli now and enjoy easy access to the city





 
 
 

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