Do it yourself
Self-Guided Istanbul Tours by Public Transport
Six easy trips you can do with just an Istanbulkart, from a Bosphorus ferry ride to the car-free Princes’ Islands.
On the water
The Bosphorus by ferry
Public Bosphorus tour ferries leave from Eminönü and sail up the strait past palaces and waterfront mansions, at a fraction of a cruise price.
Ferry from Eminönü · Check the timetable and ticket options before you go
Day trip
Princes’ Islands
Car-free islands in the Sea of Marmara. Walk or cycle around Büyükada, then catch the ferry back.
Ferry from Kabataş or Bostancı · Istanbulkart
Asian side
Kadıköy and Moda
Cross by ferry, wander Kadıköy’s market streets, then ride the T3 heritage tram to the seaside at Moda.
Ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy · Istanbulkart
Old city
Sultanahmet on foot
Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern are all a few minutes’ walk from the tram stop.
T1 tram to Sultanahmet · Istanbulkart
Hills and history
Taksim to Karaköy
Ride the F1 funicular up to Taksim, walk İstiklal Avenue, then take the historic Tünel down to Karaköy.
F1, T2 and Tünel · Istanbulkart
Two continents
Üsküdar by Marmaray
Ride under the Bosphorus to Üsküdar, then walk the waterfront for views of the Maiden’s Tower.
Marmaray to Üsküdar · Istanbulkart
Before you set off
- Top up your Istanbulkart with enough for the whole day
- Check ferry timetables on the operator’s website, especially on Sundays and holidays
- Avoid the T1 tram and Marmaray at rush hour
- Carry water and wear comfortable shoes: Istanbul is hilly
Plan the rest of your trip
Learn which metro, tram and ferry lines connect these trips.