A practical guide for visitors arriving at the airport and needing a quick ride into the city.
🚖 Just Landed in Istanbul? You Have 4 Options:
Once you’ve landed at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen, your next move is getting to your destination. You’ll typically have 4 options:
- Metro – Cheapest and fastest for many areas
👉 See our detailed metro guide here - HAVAIST (Airport Shuttle Buses) – Comfortable and affordable with large luggage
- Private Transfers / VIP Cars – Direct and relaxing but more expensive
- Taxi – Convenient, but can be risky if you don’t know how it works
This article will walk you through the safe way to use taxis in Istanbul.
✅ 1. Are Taxis Safe in Istanbul?
Yes and no. While most taxis are official and safe, some drivers, especially around airports and touristic areas (Taksim, Sultanahmet, Galata), overcharge tourists or take longer routes.
Be cautious when:
- There’s no meter
- You’re offered a fixed price
- The driver refuses card payment
🛡️ 2. Use Taxi Apps: BiTaksi & Uber
The safest way to take a taxi in Istanbul is by using a mobile app:
Benefits:
- Transparent pricing before your ride
- Full driver details & license plate
- GPS-tracked route
- Credit card payment possible
- In-app support and complaint options
🧾 3. Always Check the Taximeter
If you choose a taxi from the street:
- Make sure the meter starts running when the ride begins
- Do not accept “fixed prices”
- Average pricing (2025):
- Opening fare: ₺42
- Per km: ₺28
✈️ 4. Extra Caution at Airports & Touristic Spots
Airports are hotspots for overpriced and unlicensed taxi offers.
If not using an app, only take a taxi from official stands (look for yellow, turquoise, or black taxis).
Better yet:
Use metro or HAVAIST buses unless you really need a car.
💳 5. Payment Options
- Most street taxis only accept cash (TL)
- Apps like BiTaksi/Uber allow credit card payments
- Always ask for a receipt if you pay in cash
🆘 6. What If You Get Scammed?
- Note the taxi license plate number
- Report via the app or to:
- 153 (Municipal Helpline)
- 112 (Emergency)
- 155 (Police)
🧭 Summary
Using a taxi in Istanbul is easy — but only if you know what you’re doing.
✅ Prefer BiTaksi or Uber
✅ Use the meter
✅ Be extra alert at the airport
✅ Carry small cash
✅ Never accept prices without a meter
⚠️ Warning:
To avoid scams and stay safe in Istanbul, follow our Telegram channel and check out our latest tips and guides.