Area guides
Istanbul Neighbourhoods by Public Transport
How to reach six of the city’s most visited districts, and the stations and piers to know in each.
European side
Taksim
The modern heart of the city, with İstiklal Avenue, restaurants and nightlife.
European side
Sultanahmet
The historic peninsula. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace are all within walking distance.
Asian side
Kadıköy
Lively and local, with market streets and cafés a short ferry ride from the old city.
European side
Beşiktaş
A busy waterfront district near Dolmabahçe Palace, with a lively market area and a student feel.
Asian side
Üsküdar
A traditional district with historic mosques, tea gardens and views of the Maiden’s Tower.
European side
Bakırköy
A residential seaside district west of the old city, with shopping streets and a long promenade.
European side
Taksim
The modern heart of the city, with İstiklal Avenue, restaurants and nightlife.
Getting there
- M2 metro: Taksim station
- F1 funicular from Kabataş (connects with the T1 tram)
- T2 nostalgic tram along İstiklal Avenue to Tünel
European side
Sultanahmet
The historic peninsula. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace are all within walking distance.
Getting there
- T1 tram: Sultanahmet stop
- Marmaray: Sirkeci station, then a short walk or tram ride
- Ferries arrive at Eminönü, a short tram ride away
Asian side
Kadıköy
Lively and local, with market streets and cafés a short ferry ride from the old city.
Getting there
- Ferries from Eminönü, Karaköy and Beşiktaş
- M4 metro to Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Marmaray: Söğütlüçeşme station
- T3 heritage tram to Moda
European side
Beşiktaş
A busy waterfront district near Dolmabahçe Palace, with a lively market area and a student feel.
Getting there
- Ferries to Üsküdar and Kadıköy
- Buses along the Bosphorus shore
- T1 tram to Kabataş, then about [XX] minutes on foot
Asian side
Üsküdar
A traditional district with historic mosques, tea gardens and views of the Maiden’s Tower.
Getting there
- Marmaray: Üsküdar station
- M5 metro
- Ferries to Eminönü, Karaköy and Beşiktaş
European side
Bakırköy
A residential seaside district west of the old city, with shopping streets and a long promenade.
Getting there
- Marmaray: Bakırköy station
- M1A metro
Before you go
Rush hour, late nights and what to do if you lose your card.