What is the Istanbul Card?

The Istanbul Card is a contactless payment card featuring a 16-digit code. Its primary purpose is to pay for public transportation fees in Istanbul. First introduced in 2009, the Istanbul Card is the same size as the bank cards, making it easy to carry in your wallet. The card is rechargeable and highly convenient for daily use.

What is the Istanbul Card used for?

Initially designed for public transportation, the Istanbul Card has evolved into more than just a transit card. It can be used to pay for various forms of public transport, such as buses, metro, ferries, and more. The card has additional uses as well, such as paying for things like admission to some museums and tourist attractions, using specific markets, and public toilets and water vending machines in Istanbul.

Types of Istanbul Cards

Istanbul Cards are issued in various types and colors, each with a different purpose. Below, you will get to know each of these cards and their features:

1.       Red Istanbul Card

This type of card is issued for tourists, regular citizens, and the general public. It is rechargeable at card vending machines. This card is suitable for tourists planning a short stay in Istanbul.

2.       Green Istanbul Card (Discounted)

The discount card is only available for students, teachers, and individuals over 60 years old. To obtain a student card, you need to provide a recent photo of yourself and your ID to one of the Istanbul Card application centers. Individuals over 60 years old can obtain their discount card by presenting their ID and a recent photo taken within the past six months.

3.       Blue Istanbul Card

This card is issued for institutional individuals and residents of the islands. The Blue Card is suitable for those who frequently use the card throughout the day. To obtain a Blue Card, you need to visit authorized centers with your ID and a recent photo. The monthly subscription cost of the Blue Istanbul Card is 50 TL for students, over 170 TL for teachers, and 275 TL for others.

4.       Free Istanbul Card (Yellow)

Individuals with this card can use transportation services completely free of charge. People with disabilities, government employees, families of martyrs, journalists, municipality staff, national athletes, veterans and their families, and mothers with children under 4 years old can use this card. It is worth mentioning that these cards do not need recharging.

5.       Limited-Use Cards

Single-use cards are suitable for those who rarely use public transportation. These cards are issued as paper-based and are non-rechargeable. The “Limited-Use Card (Sınırlı Kullanımlı)” is mostly for people who spend a short time in Istanbul. You can purchase these cards from automatic vending machines located in various parts of the city.

6.       Istanbul City Card

This card is designed specifically for domestic and international tourists, allowing them to easily pay for entry to museums, tourist attractions, and various historical sites. Tourists using this card can benefit from special discounts and advantages, making their travel experience more convenient and cost-effective.

How to Buy an Istanbul Card

You can purchase an Istanbul Card from authorized representatives or Biletmatik machines. However, there’s no longer a need for complex procedures to get this card. In other words, you don’t necessarily need to apply in person for a transportation card.

You can now order the Istanbul Card online or get the physical card from supermarkets and accessible stores. For discounted cards, Blue Cards, or free cards, you can also use online systems to upload the necessary documents and submit your application.

If you’re looking for the fastest way, it’s recommended to purchase an “Anonim Card” from specialized machines. These machines are available at bus and metro stations in Istanbul and allow for an easy purchase process. Here's how to buy an Istanbul Card from a machine:

Find a vending machine: Locate a vending machine at transportation stations. On the machine’s screen, search for the option labeled “Istanbulkart – 130 TL.” If this option is not available on the list, try another machine, as some are only used for recharging existing cards.

Select the card purchase option: Once you find the “Istanbulkart – 130 TL” option, press the corresponding button. A new screen will appear, showing the following information:

·         Para: 0.00 TL (Amount entered)

·         Adet: 1 (One card)

·         Süre: 19 (Remaining time: 19 seconds)

Insert cash into the slot marked "Kağıt para girişi": Insert cash into the machine. It’s recommended to insert an amount higher than the non-refundable 130 TL cost of the card. The extra amount will be added to your card balance and can be used for public transportation. As you insert money, the total amount will be displayed incrementally in the “Para” section.

Confirm and collect the card: After inserting the amount, press the Onay (Confirm) button at the top of the screen and wait to receive your card.

How to Recharge an Istanbul Card

The To recharge your Istanbul Card, you can use the same vending machines available at transportation stations:

Place the card on the white pad: Place your Istanbul Card on the white pad located on the right side of the machine.

View card information: The machine will display the following details:

·         Para: 0.00 TL (The amount you are recharging)

·         Bakiye: 12.75 TL (The current balance on the card)

·         Süre: 29 (Seconds remaining to complete the transaction)

Insert cash: Insert cash into the slot marked "Kağıt para girişi." The vending machines accept Turkish lira banknotes in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200.

Confirm and complete the recharge: After inserting the money, do not remove the card until the green check mark appears on the screen. Once the recharge is complete, the added amount and the new card balance will be displayed on the screen.

Note: The maximum monthly recharge limit for an Istanbul Card is 2,750 Turkish lira.

How to Buy an Istanbul Card at Istanbul New Airport

Although you can use the Istanbul Card to pay for your expenses at Istanbul Airport, for a more comfortable and flexible travel experience, car rental in Istanbul is an ideal option.

One of the best ways to do this is to use the services of the GoToSafar group. They offer services like renting cars in Turkey, booking flights and hotels, and providing airport transportation around the world, making sure that your trip goes perfectly and without any problems.

However, if you want to purchase an Istanbul Card at Istanbul New Airport, you can easily use the following methods and enjoy the benefits of public transportation.

·         Vending Machines and Kiosks

Vending machines are located on the second basement floor of the airport. These machines make it easy for travelers to buy an Istanbul Card. The required amount is around 50 TL, and the machines also allow you to recharge your card. It is recommended to load at least 100 TL onto the card for using public transportation.

·         Purchase from the Airport Shuttle Station

In addition to the vending machines, you can also purchase the Istanbul Card from ticket counters at the airport shuttle bus stations, located on the same floor (second basement). This method is ideal for those who prefer in-person service. You can pay for the card and receive it from the sales staff.

Is the Istanbul Card Valid Forever?

The expiration date of the Istanbul Card is only valid for 2 years from the date of purchase, and after 2 years, any remaining balance on the card will be lost. Therefore, it is recommended to recharge the card as needed each month. If you have purchased a tourist Istanbul Card, recharge it for the number of days you will be in Istanbul, as the validity of the Istanbul Card is limited and can only be used within the city of Istanbul.

How to Check the Expiration Date of the Istanbul Card

To check the expiration date of your Istanbul Card, you can place the card on the card charging machine, and the details, including the expiration date, will be displayed. Another method is to visit the official Istanbul Card website or app, enter your card number, and view the related information, including the expiration date.

How Many People Can Use One Istanbul Card?

Each Istanbul Card is designed for one person, and when you scan the card on the device, the fare for one person is deducted. However, it is possible to temporarily share the card among several people, but any discounts that may apply will only be valid for the cardholder. For convenience, it is recommended that each individual has a separate card.

If you are traveling to Istanbul with your family, there is no need to buy multiple cards. You can purchase one Istanbul City Card and use it for all family members. For group use, after paying the fare for the first person, allow them to board, wait briefly, and then scan the card again for the next person.

Istanbul Card App

The Istanbul Card app provides easy access to public transportation services for both travelers and residents of Istanbul. Using this app, users can recharge their cards online and enjoy various services such as metro, tram, bus, and ferries.

Additionally, the app allows users to view their travel history, check card balances, and find nearby stations. This system simplifies the travel process for individuals, reduces the need for cash, and enhances the efficiency of public transportation.

How Much is the Istanbul Card in 2024?

The current price of the Istanbul Card is 70 Turkish Lira ($1.99). However, the price may vary over time and in different years. Therefore, the converted value of this card might change depending on economic conditions and currency fluctuations. The mentioned price is valid for 2025 January.