The Istanbul Card (Turkish: İstanbulkart) is a contactless smart card used for public transportation in Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye.) It is an integrated system that allows users to access various types of public transport services in the city, including:
Buses
Metro (subway)
Trams
Ferries
Funiculars
Metrobuses
Closest Istanbul-Card Buying Places to Novel Hotel Istanbul
The nearest metro and tram stations to the Novel Hotel Istanbul are indicated on the map below. The upper line represents a 2-minute walk to Vezneciler Metro Station, while the lower line indicates a 3-minute walk to Laleli Tramline Station. Istanbulkart can be purchased at both stations.
Key Features:
Ease of Use: The card operates on a contactless system, meaning passengers only need to tap it against a card reader when entering and exiting transportation vehicles.
Rechargeable: It can be recharged at kiosks, online, or via mobile apps, making it convenient for regular users.
Discounts: The card offers discounted fares compared to buying single-use tickets and provides additional discounts for students, teachers, and seniors.
Integration: It can be used across all transportation modes in Istanbul, providing seamless travel around the city.
Visitor-Friendly: Tourists can easily obtain the Istanbul Card at various locations like airports, metro stations, and ferry docks.
Multi-Person Use: The card can be used by more than one person at a time (although this means paying for multiple rides), making it convenient for group travel.
Overall, the Istanbul Card simplifies the city's transportation system and offers affordability and convenience to both residents and visitors.
Where you can get Istanbul Card?
You can get an Istanbul Card at various locations throughout the city. Here are the main places where you can obtain it:
1. Istanbulkart Vending Machines (Biletmatik)
Metro stations
Tram stations
Marmaray stations
Bus terminals
Ferry docks
Metrobus stations
These yellow-colored machines are located at major public transportation hubs. You can buy and reload your card from these machines. The machine interface is available in multiple languages, making it easy for tourists to use.
2. Authorized Sales Points
Small kiosks and convenience stores (often near transportation hubs or in crowded areas) that display the Istanbulkart logo also sell the card and offer recharging services.
3. Istanbul Airport
There are vending machines and kiosks at Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), where visitors can get an Istanbulkart right after landing.
4. IETT (Istanbul Electric Tram and Tunnel Company) Offices
IETT customer service centers in various parts of the city, including some major transportation hubs, also sell Istanbulkarts.
5. Online (for recharging)
You can also recharge your card online through the Istanbulkart website or mobile apps available on both iOS and Android devices. However, purchasing a card must be done in person at one of the above locations.
Cost of the Card:
The cost of an Istanbulkart is generally 50 TL (the value may change by the time) (as of 2023) for the card itself, but it does not come preloaded with credit. You’ll need to add money to the card after purchasing it.
Having an Istanbulkart makes traveling in the city much more convenient, especially since it can be used across all major public transportation systems in Istanbul.
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