Exploring the famous landmarks of Istanbul can be tiring, especially with long walks and heavy traffic. Visitors often miss out on scenic views while navigating the busy streets. Fortunately, cable cars of Istanbul, Macka-Taskisla and Eyup-Piyer Loti Hill, offer a unique way to see the city from above while bypassing the congestion. This guide will show you how to easily use these cable cars, so you can enjoy stunning views of the Golden Horn and Macka Park without the hassle.
What are the main cable car lines in Istanbul?
Istanbul has two main cable car lines: the TF1 Macka-Taskisla line and the TF2 Eyup-Piyer Loti line. The TF1 line connects Maçka Park to Taşkışla, offering scenic views of the Bosphorus, while the TF2 line takes passengers to Pierre Loti Hill, providing panoramic views of the Golden Horn. Both lines are accessible with an Istanbulkart and run throughout the day with seasonal schedule adjustments.
Cable Car Lines of Istanbul
TF1 Macka-Taskisla Line
The Macka-Taskisla Cable Car (TF1) was built to provide easier access between Macka Park and Taskisla, helping commuters avoid hilly terrain. The line offers not just convenience, but also stunning views of Macka Park and the Bosphorus.
Key Features
- Route: The cable car connects Demokrasi Park and Beyoglu Marriage Office, providing stunning views of Macka Park and the surrounding area.
- Length: 0.3 km
- Duration: The ride takes around 3.5 minutes.
- Capacity: Each cable car can carry up to 8 people, with 4 cars operating at any time.
- Departure Frequency: Every 5 minutes during peak hours, with up to 90 trips per day.
Operating Hours
The Macka-Taskisla Cable Car runs:
- Summer Schedule: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Winter Schedule: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
These hours can occasionally vary due to maintenance or local events, so it’s a good idea to check before you go.
Nearby Attractions
- Maxka Park: A peaceful green space perfect for picnics or a leisurely stroll.
- Dolmabahce Palace: One of the most stunning palaces in Istanbul, located just a short ride from Taskisla.
- Nisantasi: Istanbul’s luxury shopping district is just a few minutes from the Macka station.
Ticketing
You can use your Istanbulkart for the TF1 cable car. The ride costs the same as a regular metro or tram fare, making it an affordable option for tourists looking to explore Istanbul’s sights from a unique vantage point.
TF2 Eyup-Piyer Loti line
The Eyup-Piyer Loti Cable Car (TF2) provides easy access to the popular tourist destination Pierre Loti Hill, known for its panoramic views of the Golden Horn. Built with tourists in mind, the cable car saves visitors from the steep climb and offers a relaxing way to enjoy the city’s beauty.
Key Features
- Route: The cable car runs between Eyup and Pierre Loti Hill, offering incredible views of the historic Golden Horn.
- Length: 0.42 km
- Duration: The ride lasts approximately 2.75 minutes.
- Capacity: Each car holds up to 8 passengers, with a total of 4 cars in operation.
- Departure Frequency: Every 5 minutes, with 200 trips per day.
Operating Hours
The Eyup-Piyer Loti Cable Car runs:
No Regrets Booking Advice
- Summer Schedule: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Winter Schedule: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Due to its popularity with both locals and tourists, you may want to avoid peak times to get the best views and avoid crowds.
Nearby Attractions
- Eyup Sultan Mosque: A historically significant mosque, attracting both tourists and pilgrims.
- Pierre Loti Café: Located at the top of the hill, offering a serene spot to enjoy Turkish tea or coffee with a spectacular view of the Golden Horn.
- Golden Horn: A natural inlet, perfect for sightseeing and photography.
Ticketing
Like the TF1, the TF2 line accepts the Istanbulkart. It costs the same as a standard fare, making it an affordable option for those looking to visit Pierre Loti Hill without the hike.
How to Buy Tickets for Istanbul Cable Cars
Using Istanbulkart is the easiest and most cost-effective way to ride the cable cars. Here’s how you can use it:
- You can buy an Istanbulkart at vending machines located at most metro stations, ferry terminals, and kiosks around the city.
- Once you have your card, top it up with credit using Biletmatik machines, which accept both cash and credit cards.
- Simply tap your card at the turnstile when boarding the cable car.
If you don’t have an Istanbulkart, single-use tokens are available at the stations, but they tend to be more expensive per ride.
Scenic Benefits of Istanbul Cable Car Lines
The TF1 and TF2 cable car lines offer some of the most spectacular views in Istanbul:
- TF1 Macka-Taskisla: Enjoy sweeping views of Macka Park, the Bosphorus, and Istanbul’s skyline. It’s perfect for a scenic ride during the day or at sunset.
- TF2 Eyup-Piyer Loti: The Golden Horn shines at all hours, offering a unique vantage point of Istanbul’s historic waterway. The view from Pierre Loti Hill is iconic and a must-see for visitors to Istanbul.
Best Times to Ride for Optimal Views
- Early Morning: To avoid crowds, try riding the cable cars early in the morning when they first open.
- Sunset: The views are especially stunning as the sun sets over the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.
Tips for Using Istanbul Cable Cars
To make the most of your cable car journey, keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid peak hours (especially weekends and holidays) to have a more relaxed ride with better views.
- Both lines are equipped with elevators and ramps, making them accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
- Operating hours differ between summer and winter, so double-check before planning your trip.
Comparison of Istanbul Cable Car Lines
TF1 Macka-Taskisla
- Best For: City skyline views, quick trips between Nisantasi and Taksim.
- Attractions Nearby: Dolmabahçe Palace, Macka Park, Nisantasi.
TF2 Eyup-Piyer Loti
- Best For: Scenic views of the Golden Horn, visiting Pierre Loti Hill.
- Attractions Nearby: Eyup Sultan Mosque, Pierre Loti Café, Golden Horn.
Both lines offer unique experiences, but your choice may depend on your sightseeing itinerary and which part of the city you plan to explore.