Turkey - GDS

Local Dolmuş

Dolmuşes are minibuses or, occasionally, taksi dolmuşes (shared taxis) that operate on set routes within a city. They’re usually faster, more comfortable and only slightly more expensive than the bus. In larger cities, dolmuş stops are marked by signs; look for a ‘D’ and text reading ‘Dolmuş İndirme Bindirme Yeri’ (Dolmuş Boarding and Alighting Place). Stops are usually conveniently located near major squares, terminals and intersections.

Taxi

Turkish taxis are fitted with digital meters. If your driver doesn’t start his, mention it right away by saying ‘saatiniz’ (your meter). Check your driver is running the right rate, which varies from city to city. The gece (night) rate is 50% more than the gündüz (daytime) rate, but some places, including İstanbul, do not have a night rate.

Metro

Several cities have underground metros, including İstanbul, İzmir, Bursa and Ankara. These are usually quick and simple to use, although you may have to go through the ticket barriers to find a route map. Most metros require you to buy a jeton (transport token; around ₺2) and insert it into the ticket barrier.

Bus

For most city buses you must buy your bilet (ticket) in advance at a special ticket kiosk. Kiosks are found at major bus terminals and transfer points, and sometimes attached to shops near bus stops. The fare is normally around ₺2.