Getting around Istanbul: transport, taxis and data

Turkey eSIM plans

Plan your first journey from the airport

Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) are connected with central districts by metro and Havaist airport buses. Routes and timetables change, so check current information online before setting out.

Whether your first stop is Sultanahmet, Beyoğlu, Galata or Kadıköy, Google Maps can be useful for comparing route options as you travel. Keep in mind that mobile coverage varies by place and building.

Use apps for transport, ferries and taxis

Mobile data helps you check Istanbulkart top-up options, view ferry timetables and follow route changes without depending on a hotel or café connection. Download the apps you expect to use before travelling where possible, then check for updates after arrival.

For taxis, travellers may look at BiTaksi or Uber, but availability, app features and local rules can change. Check each app directly for current access, payment choices and booking conditions rather than assuming the same options will apply throughout your stay.

Choose data for maps and day-to-day travel

For light route checks, allow around 150 MB a day. Regular map use, transport searches and taxi bookings can sit closer to 400 MB a day, while heavier daily use may reach around 1000 MB.

Volt Mobile plans include 1 GB for 7 days at €1.39, 3 GB for 15 days at €3.99, 5 GB for 30 days at €6.99 on Vodafone 5G only, 10 GB for 30 days at €9.99, and 20 GB for 30 days at €22.99. The supplier listing includes Vodafone 5G and Türk Telekom 5G, but coverage is not guaranteed.

Turkey is outside the EU/EEA, so travellers should check their own operator's tariff before relying on their usual mobile plan.

Choose data for 3 days

Estimate your data use for maps, messages and video, then choose your Turkey plan. Actual usage depends on your apps and Wi-Fi availability.

• Light use (150 MB a day, about 0.45 GB in total): 1 GB Turkey, €1.39, 1 GB for 7 days.
• Moderate use (400 MB a day, about 1.2 GB in total): 3 GB Turkey, €3.99, 3 GB for 15 days.
• Heavy use (1000 MB a day, about 3 GB in total): 3 GB Turkey, €3.99, 3 GB for 15 days.

Networks and device compatibility

Plan details updated 2026-10-17. Vodafone 5G and Türk Telekom 5G are listed for Turkey plans; 5 GB supports Vodafone 5G only. Reception and speeds vary by location and device. All plans are data only, with no Turkish phone number. Check compatibility before purchase.