Complete Istanbul Taxi Guide: Fares, Apps, Tips to Avoid Scams

Finding a reliable taxi in Istanbul can be tricky for tourists. While taxis are a convenient way to travel, not knowing the local fare system or common taxi scams can result in tourists paying more than they should. Luckily, there are ways to avoid these pitfalls and make your taxi journeys smooth and hassle-free. This guide will break down taxi types, fares, booking apps, scam prevention, and tips for using taxis safely in Istanbul.

Table of Contents

Quick Insights

Taxi Fares: Yellow taxis start at 30 TL, turquoise taxis at 34.50 TL, and black VIP taxis at 51 TL, with rates per kilometer depending on the type of taxi.
Use Taxi Apps: Apps like BiTaksi and iTaksi ensure fare transparency, route tracking, and safe taxi booking, avoiding scams.
Avoiding Scams: Always insist on using the meter, track your route, and avoid paying with large bills to prevent common taxi scams.
Airport Taxi Costs: A taxi from Istanbul Airport to Taksim typically costs around 1.000-1.250 TL depending on traffic.
Alternative Options: Consider public transport like metros or ferries during rush hour to avoid traffic and save money.

Types of Taxis in Istanbul

Istanbul offers different types of taxis, each catering to varying levels of comfort and budget. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best option for your trip.

1. Yellow Taxis (Sarı Taksi)

Most common and budget-friendly.
Starting fare: 30 TL, with 20 TL per kilometer.
Widely available throughout the city, from airports to busy streets.

Yellow taxis are the go-to choice for most travelers. However, some drivers may attempt to take longer routes, especially with tourists, so it’s good to have a basic idea of the route beforehand.

2. Turquoise Taxis (Turkuaz Taksi)

Mid-range option with slightly higher prices but newer and more comfortable cars.
Starting fare: 34.50 TL, with 23 TL per kilometer.

Turquoise taxis offer better service and more comfort, making them an attractive option for tourists who want a smoother ride but don’t want to pay premium prices.

3. Black Taxis (Siyah Taksi)

Luxury option with the highest fares, typically using high-end vehicles like Mercedes.
Starting fare: 51 TL, with 34 TL per kilometer.

Black taxis provide luxury and extra space, making them perfect for larger groups or those who prioritize comfort and privacy.

Taxi Fares in Istanbul

As of 2024, taxi fares in Istanbul are standardized across the city:

Yellow Taxis: Starting fare of 30 TL, with 20 TL per kilometer.
Turquoise Taxis: Starting fare of 34.50 TL, with 23 TL per kilometer.
Black VIP Taxis: Starting fare of 51 TL, with 34 TL per kilometer.
Short Ride Fee: If you take a very short ride, there’s a minimum indi-bindi fee of 100 TL.
Hourly Waiting Fee: 235 TL per hour.

Some Facts

There’s no difference between day and night rates, and all official taxis in Istanbul must have meters running during the ride. Always check that the meter is on when your ride starts.
If you will take a taxi from Istanbul’s European side to Asian side or vice versa, the taxi has to pay a toll and you will be charged for the toll.
It can be bridges on the Bosphorus, tunnel underwater or some highways. And you are not responsible for the return fees of the taxi.
You can calculate the approximate taxi fare for your journey with the above rates.
You can pay by credit card in any taxis in Istanbul.
Also note that the rates we mention above apply if you hail a taxi in the streets of Istanbul. There might be different rates when you book a taxi online or through an app.

Airport Taxi Fares

Istanbul New Airport (IST) to Taksim: 1.000-1.300 TL for yellow taxis, with variations depending on traffic.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) to Sultanahmet: 1.150-1.450 TL.

Always check the taxi meter and ensure that it is running from the start of the trip.

Bridge Toll and Avrasya (Eurasia) Tunnel Fee

There are three bridges on the Bosphorus. Locals mostly call them 1st (15 Temmuz Sehitler), 2nd (Fatih Sultan Mehmet) and 3rd (Yavuz Sultan Selim) bridge.

You will need to cross 1st or 2nd bridge to get around Istanbul. 3rd bridge so far away so that yo should never use it. Bridge toll is both ways.

And there is an underwater tunnel (Avrasia) for vehicles from Yenikapi to Haydarpasa. Very fast and convenient way to pass the Bosphorus. But it is kinda expensive.

Bridge Toll for taxis & automobiles

1st and 2nd bridge – 33 TL
3rd bridge – 70 TL

Avrasya tunnel fee for taxis & automobiles

156 TL (Day 05:00 – 23:59) – 78 TL (Night 00:00 – 04:59) (double check on avrasyatuneli.com)

How to Get a Taxi in Istanbul?

You can easily take a taxi on the street by waiving your hand. On central Istanbul, you won’t have to wait more than a few minutes for an official yellow taxi in the street.
Look for the cabs that have an illuminated “TAKSİ” sign on the roof, which means they are available.
You can pick up a taxi at a taxi stop, where you will see line of taxis on the side of a road.
You can see them in front of the main squares, railway, metro and bus stations, ferry ports, shopping malls, plaza’s, or restaurants.

How to get a taxi from Istanbul Airport?

There are taxi stands outside of the Istanbul Airport terminals, which is very handy. Simply follow the cab signs in the arrivals area of the airport to get to the right taxi stands.
Most of the time, there are plenty of taxis at these stands, but the wait time can change based on demand and the number of people using the stands.
Depending on where you’re going and how busy the roads are, the taxi ride from Istanbul Airport to the city center or your specific location can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.

How to get a taxi from Galataport?

At Istanbul’s Galataport ship Port, there is a taxi stand right outside the exit for the ship terminal.
The people who work at the port work with local cab companies to make sure there are enough taxis for people getting off of cruise ships.
Galataport Cruise Port is located in Galata, very center of Istanbul.
Taxis can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes to get from Galataport Cruise Port to your hotel, based on where you’re going and how busy the roads are.
The taxi ride from Galataport Cruise Port to Istanbul Airport usually takes about 40 minutes, but this can change based on how busy the roads are at the time of your trip.

How do you recognize an official Istanbul taxi?

Most official taxis in Istanbul are yellow. There are also turquoise and black taxis giving VIP services.
Taxis in Istanbul have an official “TAKSİ” (Taxi) sign on the roof that is lit up. This sign will light up when the cab is ready for hire.
The license number of every legal taxi should be posted on the front doors, roof, and back of the car. Check that these numbers are the same.
A real taxi has a taxi meter inside that works and can be seen easily. Based on time and distance, the meter figures out how much to charge.
The official cab company’s logo or brand name should be on the doors or back of the car.
Taxis that are officially licensed and listed in Istanbul should have a sticker from the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce.

Popular Taxi Apps in Istanbul

Using taxi apps in Istanbul can be a safe and reliable alternative to hailing taxis on the street. Two main apps dominate the market:

BiTaksi:

Features: Allows passengers to book taxis, see estimated fares, and track their ride in real-time. You can pay with cash, card, or through the app itself.
Advantages: Clear pricing and route tracking, making it easy to avoid scams.
Availability: Widely available across both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

iTaksi:

Operated by the Municipality: Offers yellow, turquoise, and black taxis, with pricing determined by the color of the taxi.
Security: Tracks rides and offers fare transparency.
Sea Taxi Option: iTaksi also offers sea taxis for those who want to cross the Bosphorus by water.

Both apps are available in English and Turkish, providing a convenient way for tourists to book taxis with peace of mind.

When to Take a Taxi in Istanbul?

It is very easy to get around Istanbul by public transport options. Especially in the rush hours, and in the city center, taxis can be impractical.

We suggest you take taxi in Istanbul if:

You’re in a big hurry (airport, meeting, etc),
There is heavy rain,
If you’re a group of family or friends of at least three or four and go for a short distance, where the price difference is negligible when compared to public transport,
Your company pays.

Also, taxis are good at night when buses run less frequently and you will need extra time to relax or sleep. And it might worth extra money to save yourself dragging your luggage in the city.

Avoiding Taxi Scams in Istanbul

Taxis in Istanbul are convenient, but tourists should be aware of common scams that can lead to overcharging. These scams typically involve drivers refusing to use the meter, taking longer routes, or even giving incorrect change. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid these situations and ensure a fair ride.

Common Scams:

Not Using the Meter: Some drivers may claim the meter is broken or refuse to turn it on, instead offering a fixed price that’s significantly higher than the metered fare.
Taking Longer Routes: Drivers might take detours or use traffic-heavy streets to increase the fare.
Exchanging Money: A common scam is drivers switching large bills with smaller ones and claiming you gave them less than the correct amount.

How to Avoid Taxi Scams:

Insist on the Meter: Make sure the driver uses the meter from the start of your trip. If they refuse, it’s best to exit the taxi and find another one.
Use Taxi Apps: Apps like BiTaksi and iTaksi offer fare transparency and track your route, helping to avoid overcharges.
Know the Route: Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps to track your journey in real-time, ensuring the driver follows the most direct route.
Carry Small Bills: Having the correct fare in small denominations minimizes the risk of money-switching scams.

If you experience any issues, note the taxi’s license plate and driver’s ID number (usually displayed near the dashboard) and report the incident to the Istanbul Municipality’s Taxi Complaint Hotline by dialing 153.

Taxi Etiquette and Tips

Navigating Istanbul’s bustling streets can be a challenge, but by understanding local taxi etiquette, you can ensure a smoother ride. Here are some essential tips for taxi use in the city.

Tipping:

While tipping isn’t mandatory in Istanbul, it’s customary to round up the fare or leave a small amount, typically 10%. Drivers appreciate this gesture, especially after a long journey or if they provide assistance with luggage.

Communication:

Most taxi drivers in Istanbul may not speak fluent English, so having your destination written down in Turkish can be helpful. Apps like Google Translate or even learning basic Turkish phrases like “Merhaba” (hello) and “Teşekkür ederim” (thank you) go a long way in creating a positive experience.

Preferred Seating:

Though there are no formal rules, sitting in the back seat is generally seen as more respectful and professional, especially if you’re traveling alone.

Airport Taxi Services

Taking a taxi from Istanbul’s airports—Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)—is one of the most convenient ways to reach your destination, but knowing the fares and options will help you avoid unnecessary costs.

From Istanbul Airport (IST):

Yellow Taxi: The most affordable option, with a starting fare of 30 TL and 20 TL per kilometer.
Turquoise Taxi: A slightly more comfortable option with a starting fare of 34.50 TL and 23 TL per kilometer.
Black VIP Taxi: Luxurious cars like Mercedes, starting at 51 TL and charging 34 TL per kilometer.
Estimated Cost: A trip to Taksim Square costs approximately 200-250 TL depending on traffic.

From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW):

Yellow Taxi: The most affordable, with a trip to Taksim costing about 300-350 TL.
Turquoise and Black VIP Taxis are also available, with higher fares.

Airport taxis have fixed prices for specific routes, and you can ask for the estimated fare before beginning your journey.

When to Use Alternatives

While taxis are convenient, there are times when alternative forms of transportation might be better suited for your needs:

Public Transport: Istanbul has an extensive public transport network, including metros, trams, buses, and the Marmaray. These options are often cheaper and faster than taxis, especially during peak hours.
Ride-Sharing: Uber operates in Istanbul but is only available in licensed taxis. This means you’ll get a standard yellow taxi, but you can book it through the Uber app for additional security and convenience.

If you’re traveling during rush hour, using the metro or Marmaray can save you time and money. Istanbul’s traffic can be notoriously slow, particularly on bridges like the Bosphorus Bridge, making taxis less efficient during these periods.

Average Istanbul Taxi Fares

from Istanbul Airport (IST):

To Sultanahmet (48.9 km): 1008 TL
To Taksim (40 km): 830 TL
To Bakirkoy (46 km): 950 TL
To Besiktas (39 km): 810 TL
To Sariyer (43 km): 890 TL
To Mecidiyekoy (37 km): 770 TL
To Kadikoy (56 km): 1150 TL (plus bridge toll)
To Uskudar (46 km): 950 TL (plus bridge toll)
To Sabiha Gokcen Airport: 1550 TL (plus bridge toll)

from Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW):

To Taksim (65 km): 1330 TL (plus bridge toll)
To Sultanahmet (62 km): 1270 TL (plus bridge toll)
To Bakirkoy (74 km): 1510 TL (plus bridge toll)
To Kadikoy (32 km): 670 TL
To Istanbul Airport: 1550 TL (plus bridge toll)

from Sultanahmet:

To Taksim square (4.8 km): 126 TL
To Bakirkoy square (13.5 km): 328 TL
To Kadikoy coast (16.3 km from Tunnel): 356 TL (plus tunnel fee)
To Galata Tower (4.1 km): 112 TL
To Besiktas square (6 km): 150 TL
To Ortakoy square (7.5 km): 180 TL
To Bebek coast (11.6 km): 262 TL
To Nisantasi (6.4 km): 158 TL
To Istanbul Forum Shopping Mall (10.6 km): 242 TL
To Florya Istanbul Aquarium (21 km): 450 TL
To Eyup Vialand Theme Park (12.6 km): 276 TL
To Akmerkez Shopping Mall (10.8 km): 245 TL
To Istinye Park Shopping Mall (16.2 km): 335 TL

from Taksim:

To Sultanahmet (4.8 km): 126 TL
To Bakirkoy square (14.9 km): 328 TL
To Kadikoy coast (16.3 km from Tunnel): 356 TL (plus bridge toll)
To Galata Tower (3.3 km): 96 TL
To Besiktas square (3.3 km): 96 TL
To Ortakoy square (4.1 km): 112 TL
To Bebek coast (8.1 km): 192 TL
To Istanbul Forum Shopping Mall (13.1 km): 285 TL
To Florya Istanbul Aquarium (24.3 km): 516 TL
To Eyup Vialand Theme Park (12.1 km): 272 TL
To Akmerkez Shopping Mall (7 km): 170 TL
To Istinye Park Shopping Mall (12.7 km): 284 TL

Note: Please note that these are the minimum prices with no traffic. You should expect to pay at least 10-15% more.

Some Recommendations

Don’t tip the taxi drivers. Though, you can leave the cashback if it is a small about like 2 to 5 TL. This is what locals most do.
If your hotel is some close to the Istanbul airports, than first ask your hotel to see if they can give you a free shuttle service.
Make sure taxi heads on the right direction. You can check it from your mobile phone’s map App.
Some tourist zones such as Sultanahmet Square and the tram line between Sirkeci and Beyazit and Istiklal Street are pedestrian-only.
Make sure you check your destination and decide a logical drop-off point to avoid the taxi driver giving you the run-around.
For passing the Bosphorus by the bridges, ask the driver which bridge he will drive. There are three bridges on the Bosphorus and the third and the latest one (Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge) is very far away from the city center, and mostly used by trucks, transporters and intercity buses. Don’t let taxi driver give you this way, or it would cost you really a lot.

FAQs

How much does a taxi from Istanbul Airport to Taksim cost?

A taxi ride from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Taksim typically costs around 830 TL. The fare can vary depending on traffic, but taxis are metered, and using taxi apps like BiTaksi or iTaksi can help ensure transparency.

What is the starting fare for taxis in Istanbul?

As of 2024, the starting fare for yellow taxis in Istanbul is 30 TL, with an additional 20 TL per kilometer. Turquoise taxis start at 34.50 TL, charging 23 TL per kilometer, while black VIP taxis begin at 51 TL, with a rate of 34 TL per kilometer. All taxis are required to use meters, and the rates apply equally during both day and night.

What is the difference between yellow, turquoise, and black taxis in Istanbul?

In Istanbul, yellow taxis are the most common and affordable. Turquoise taxis offer a more comfortable ride at a higher fare, while black VIP taxis provide luxury service at premium prices. Each has different starting fares and per-kilometer rates.

Where can I find a taxi in Istanbul?

Taxis are easily available at taxi stands, tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. You can also hail one on the street or use popular taxi apps like BiTaksi or iTaksi to book a ride.

How do I avoid taxi scams in Istanbul?

To avoid taxi scams, always ensure the driver uses the meter and choose reputable apps like BiTaksi. Avoid paying with large bills to prevent money-switching scams, and track your route using a navigation app to avoid detours.

Why is it better to use taxi apps in Istanbul?

Using apps like BiTaksi and iTaksi ensures transparency with fares, real-time tracking, and cashless payments. These apps also provide added safety features like ride-tracking, making them a reliable option for tourists.

Will I need to pay tolls when taking a taxi across the Bosphorus?

Yes, if you cross from the European side to the Asian side of Istanbul or vice versa via bridges or tunnels, you’ll need to pay bridge/tunnel tolls in addition to the metered fare. The toll is typically added to your final bill.

How much should I tip a taxi driver in Istanbul?

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip (about 10% of the fare) is considered polite. Drivers appreciate the gesture, especially for long trips or if they help with luggage.

What should I do if a taxi driver refuses a short trip?

If a driver refuses a short trip, politely insist that they take you. By law, they are required to accept all fares, regardless of distance. If they still refuse, use a taxi app or report the driver to the Istanbul Municipality via hotline 153.

How can I pay for a taxi in Istanbul?

Taxis in Istanbul generally accept cash, but many also accept credit cards or app payments through services like BiTaksi. It’s a good idea to carry small bills to avoid issues with change.

Why is my taxi fare higher during traffic?

Taxi fares in Istanbul increase in traffic due to the meter running on both distance and waiting time. When the vehicle is stationary or moving slowly, a waiting fee is added to the fare, which can make trips during peak hours more expensive.

Conclusion

Taxis are an efficient way to get around Istanbul if you understand the pricing, use reputable apps, and avoid common scams. Whether you’re traveling from the airport or exploring the city, using an app like BiTaksi or iTaksi ensures a safe and transparent experience. Stay informed, track your route, and enjoy the convenience of Istanbul’s taxi services.

Ready to explore Istanbul? Use the tips in this guide to travel safely and enjoy everything the city has to offer.