Taxi in Turkey - a comprehensive guide for tourists

A million-dollar taxi or a penny-pinching Dolmus? In Turkey, choosing a means of transport is more than just a matter of price.

Here, every decision can change the course of your journey – literally.

Is it better to trust the classic "Taksi", order a ride via the app, or maybe get on a bus that only leaves when it is full?

This guide will take you behind the scenes of Turkish transport – with practical tips, local curiosities and proven ways to get around the country without stress and… without overpaying.

1. Is it worth using taxis in Turkey?

2. Types and functioning of taxis in Turkey

3. Ordering a taxi in Turkey – from the street, via an app or from your hotel?

4. What are the prices of taxis in Turkey - an overview of rates and sample routes

5. How to pay for a taxi ride in Turkey – cash, card or via app?

6. Airport Transfers in Turkey – When is it Best to Book Your Transfer in Advance?

7. Turkish Taxis Safety – How to Avoid Scams and Stay Vigilant

8. How to Order a Taxi and Talk to the Driver – Language, Customs, Practical Phrases in Turkish

9. Taxi or Dolmus – which is more profitable?

Is it worth using taxis in Turkey?

Planning a trip to Turkey and wondering how to most conveniently move around the city or from the airport to your hotel? You've come to the right place! This guide will help you discover all the secrets of taxis in Turkey - from prices, through mobile apps, to practical tips on safety and driving culture.

There is no denying that taking a taxi is a very convenient option, especially when you are not familiar with the local routes, have heavy luggage or simply want to get to your destination quickly. In Turkey, the taxi system is well-developed, but at the same time full of nuances that are worth knowing so as not to be surprised.

In this article, I will take you step by step through everything you need to know about taxis in Turkey . You will learn the current prices of taxis in Turkey , how to order rides through apps like BiTaksi or Uber , when it is worth using a Dolmus , and when it is better to choose a VIP transfer from a proven operator like Kiwitaxi .

Types and functioning of taxis in Turkey

Turkey offers not only the classic yellow taxis, but also other forms of local transport that are worth knowing before you hit the road. In this section, you will learn about the taxi system, how a Dolmus differs from a regular taxi, and why you don’t have to worry about night fares.

Classic taxis: what do they look like and how do they work?

In most Turkish cities, taxis in Turkey are easy to recognize by their characteristic yellow color and the illuminated "Taksi" sign on the roof. After getting in the car, the driver should turn on the taximeter - the meter counts the base fare and the cost for each kilometer traveled.

Interestingly, there is no longer a distinction between night and day taxis in Turkey – in most cities the tariff is the same around the clock.

There are three classes of vehicles in Istanbul: yellow , turquoise and black . Yellow is the cheapest and most common, black is premium with a higher rate per kilometer. The choice is yours – it all depends on the expected comfort and budget.

What are Turkish Dolmus? – a local shared transport phenomenon

Turkey is famous for its original mass transit system, the Dolmus , an equivalent of the Russian marshrutkas , small shuttle buses that run on designated routes. It's a type of minibus that sets off when it has enough passengers, with no fixed schedule.

The advantage of Dolmusha is its low price and dense network of routes, especially in cities such as Antalya or Alanya. You can get to the city center and nearby attractions. You get on and off with a wave of your hand - just tell the driver where you want to get off.

If you don't need a door-to-door ride but appreciate the authentic atmosphere of travel, Dolmus is the way to go.

Day and night taxis in practice

Although many cities have officially abolished the distinction between night and day taxis in Turkey , some drivers may still try to charge extra "after dark".

Remember: there is no longer a night fare in Istanbul, Antalya or Izmir! If someone suggests a higher rate for an evening ride, ask for a receipt from the meter or politely end the ride.

If in doubt, it is worth using applications (e.g. BiTaksi , iTaksi ), where the tariffs are known in advance and comply with the city regulations.

Ordering a taxi in Turkey – from the street, via an app or from your hotel?

If this is your first visit to Turkey, you will probably ask yourself: what is the easiest and most reliable way to order a taxi ? There are many options – you can simply wave your hand on the street, ask the receptionist at your hotel or use popular mobile apps. Each method has its advantages and pitfalls that are worth knowing about.

Ordering a taxi from the street

This is the simplest and oldest method. On the streets of Turkish cities you will see a lot of yellow cars with the "Taksi" sign. Just wave your hand and you're done. Just make sure that the car is free (the light on the roof is green) and that the driver starts the taximeter right after driving off.

Remember to be as specific as possible when entering your destination – it’s best to show the location on a map on your phone.

It is worth knowing that some drivers may refuse short trips or driving in traffic jams. Although this is against the law, in practice it happens. In such a situation, do not get into a discussion - simply find another taxi in Turkey , preferably from a taxi rank or ordered via an app.

Through the hotel or reception

Hotels in Turkey often work with local taxi companies. Just tell the reception where you want to go and the staff will order a car on your behalf.

This is a good option if you want a trusted driver and avoid unfair practices. Some hotels also cooperate with companies offering vip transfers or individual transfers from the airport, e.g. through Kiwitaxi .

Mobile applications: BiTaksi, iTaksi and Uber

In larger cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, taxi ordering apps are operating successfully. The most popular ones are BiTaksi , iTaksi , and of course Uber .

• BiTaksi is a Turkish app similar to Uber – it allows you to order a taxi ride , choose the class of vehicle and pay by card or cash. It also supports Contactless payment for taxi rides .

• iTaksi is the official app of the city of Istanbul – it works very similarly and also allows you to order a ride without having to talk to the driver.

• Uber operates in Turkey to a limited extent – there is no classic ride-sharing, but you can order official taxis in Turkey through the app.

When using the app, you see the price of the ride right away, which protects you from ripping off and fraud. In addition, you can rate our driver , and sometimes even choose the option of transporting an animal (in BiTaksi).

What are the prices of taxis in Turkey - an overview of rates and sample routes

How much does a taxi ride cost in Turkey? It depends on the city, route, and vehicle class. One thing is for sure – knowing the basic rates can save you from overpaying and help you plan your travel budget more easily.

Adopted indicative exchange rate (April 2025): 1 TRY ≈ 0.13 PLN 1 TRY ≈ 0.03–0.032 EUR (average 1 € ≈ 31–33 TRY)

How are fees charged?

In each city, local tariffs are set by the city authorities and taxi drivers' associations. The standard fare consists of three elements:

• initial fee (so-called "slam the door"),

• rates per kilometer,

• any parking fee (e.g. for waiting in a traffic jam).

Many regions also have a minimum fare , regardless of distance. Colloquially called "indi-bindi," even a very short ride can cost more than the meter shows.

Taxi prices in major cities and resorts

Taxis in Istanbul

• Initial fee: 42 TRY ≈ 5.50 PLN / 1.30 €

• Rate per km: 28 TRY ≈ 3.65 PLN / 0.85 €

• Minimum fee: TRY 135 ≈ PLN 17.55 / € 4.05

• Example fare (Sultanahmet → Taksim, approx. 5 km): ~182 TRY ≈ 23.70 PLN / 5.50 €

Please note that tolls for bridges (e.g. Bosphorus) or tunnels (Eurasia) are charged separately.

Taxis in Antalya

• Start: 25 TRY ≈ 3.25 PLN / 0.75 €

• Per km: 30 TRY ≈ 3.90 PLN / 0.90 €

• From Lara to the city center (approx. 10 km): ~325 TRY ≈ 42 PLN / 10 €

• From the airport to the old town (15 km): ~475 TRY ≈ 61.75 PLN / 14 €

For longer routes (e.g. Belek, Side, Kemer) it is better to consider a Turkish transfer or an individual transfer .

Taxis in Side and Belek

• Short course (100–130 TRY): 13–17 PLN / 3–4.20 €

• Longer trip to Alanya or Antalya (2000 TRY): PLN 260 / €60–65

In Belek , as in Side, the price of the ride depends mainly on the distance, but prices can be inflated due to the tourist season.

Taxis in Marmaris

• Minimum fare: TRY 90–110 ≈ PLN 11.70–14.30 / € 2.70–3.50

• Rate in the city centre: 150–200 TRY ≈ 19.50–26 PLN / 4.50–6.30 €

During the season, it is worth using the Dolmus or booking a Kiwitaxi in advance.

Taxis in Kemer

• In the city: 100–150 TRY ≈ 13–19.50 PLN / 3–4.50 €

• To Antalya: ~1500 TRY ≈ 195 PLN / 45–48 €

In such a situation, a Turkish VIP transfer or a group transfer may be more advantageous.

What else should I pay attention to?

• Most cities have abolished night fares, but some drivers still try to "smuggle" them.

• In apps like BiTaksi or Uber you can check the price of your ride before it starts.

• Prices are usually higher in summer resorts, and taxi prices in Turkey can vary even within one city.

With this knowledge, you won't be surprised when our driver gives you the cost of the trip. In the next chapter, you will learn how and what is the best way to pay for a taxi in Turkey so as not to get ripped off.

How to pay for a taxi ride in Turkey – cash, card or via app?

You already know how much a taxi ride costs, but what is the best way to pay without being surprised or ripped off? There are various forms of payment in Turkey, but it is worth knowing their pros, cons and a few safety tricks.

Cash still reigns supreme in Turkish taxis

The most common form of payment is cash . The official currency is the Turkish lira (TRY) and it is the best to pay for your ride in it. Drivers usually prefer cash to cards, especially outside of large cities.

Remember:

• carry small denominations with you (10, 20, 50 TRY),

• when paying, say out loud which banknote you are giving,

• avoid paying in euros or dollars (exchange rates can be very unfavourable).

If our driver says he won't give you a tip, don't let yourself be fooled into an unwanted tip. You decide how much you leave.

Payment by card or app

In large cities, more and more drivers have POS terminals, although it is not yet the standard. Therefore, always ask if you can pay by card before getting in .

A much safer and more convenient solution are mobile applications such as:

• BiTaksi – allows you to pay with a card linked to the application or in cash,

• iTaksi – mobile or traditional payment option,

• Uber – operates similarly to other countries, but only operates licensed taxis in Turkey .

If you want to pay safely in taxis , choosing an app is the best option. You can see the price of the ride right away, rate the driver, and even get an electronic receipt.

Scams and How to Defend Them

In tourist areas, there are still some well-known tricks:

• the driver says you gave too little and shows another banknote,

• says that the terminal is not working, only after the course,

• demands an additional fee for overnight stay, luggage or return.

To avoid this:

• always have the exact amount of cash ready,

• use the app (where there is no discussion about rates),

• demand a receipt – in Turkish "fiş lütfen".

In the event of obvious fraud , it is worth writing down the taxi number or reporting the matter via the app or the city hotline (e.g. 153 in Istanbul).

Airport Transfers in Turkey – When is it Best to Book Your Transfer in Advance?

If you are organising your holiday on your own or your tour operator does not provide airport transfers, it is best to book a private airport transfer in advance. It is an easy way to avoid stress upon arrival and get to your hotel without any worries.

It is especially worth it when:

• you arrive in the evening or at night,

• you have a lot of luggage,

• you are relaxing in a remote resort (e.g. Side, Kemer, Alanya),

• a child or elderly person is traveling with you.

Booking in advance gives you the certainty of a fixed transfer price , regardless of traffic or arrival time. The driver will wait with a sign, help with your luggage and take you directly to the address you specify. You can choose from different car classes - from sedans, through vans, to premium options.

Many companies also offer flexible terms, such as free cancellation 24 hours before arrival. This option is especially recommended if you want comfort, punctuality and a peaceful start to your vacation.

Turkish Taxis Safety – How to Avoid Scams and Stay Vigilant

Although most Turkish drivers are honest people, it is worth knowing a few universal rules to avoid unpleasant situations during a taxi ride . A little vigilance and preparation is enough to feel safe and comfortable.

Before setting off

• Always check that the taxi is marked and has a visible taximeter.

• Ask for it to be turned on right after takeoff. Refusal is a signal to get off.

• It is worth knowing the approximate route and price of the ride (you can check in the app or ask the hotel reception).

While driving

• Use Google Maps or other navigation to follow your route and avoid "circles" made by the driver.

• Keep your bag or backpack close to you, preferably away from doors and windows.

• Don't reveal too much information about yourself, especially if you're traveling alone.

Common tricks of scammers

• False information about a closed road or bridge.

• Taxi meter not turned on and no offer of a "better" price.

• Claiming you have to pay for the driver's return.

In each of these cases, you can calmly ask for the car to stop and the trip to end. Don't hesitate to report the situation to the city hotline (e.g. 153 in Istanbul).

Additional tips

• Take a photo of the license plate or side number of the car.

• If you're driving alone at night, sit in the back and let someone close to you know you're on the road.

• Use mobile apps to order a taxi – then you have the driver's details, rating and the option to report a problem.

How to Order a Taxi and Talk to the Driver – Language, Customs, Practical Phrases in Turkish

Ordering a taxi in Turkey is not difficult, but it is worth knowing a few local customs and basic Turkish words that can make it easier to communicate with the driver. Even a few sentences in Turkish make a good impression and often translate into a comfortable ride .

How to order a taxi?

The easiest ways:

• ask for help at the hotel reception,

• order via app (e.g. BiTaksi , iTaksi , Uber ),

• walk up to a stop or wave your hand in the street.

In smaller towns or in the evenings, it is best to use the phone or app to avoid waiting.

What to tell the driver?

Give your exact destination : the name of a hotel, street or place (e.g. airport). It's good to have it written down on a piece of paper or shown on a map. Turkish drivers are much better at figuring out names visually than phonetically.

Useful phrases:

• "Merhaba" – good morning / hello (pronounced merhaba)

• "Lütfen [place]" – please come to... (pronounced lutfen)

• "Sağa" – right (pronounced sa-a)

• "Sola" - left (pronounced sola)

• "Düz" – straight (pronounced dyz)

• "Burada dur, lütfen" – please stop here (pronounced burda dur, lutfen)

• "Teşekkür ederim" – thank you (pronounced teszekkür ederym)

• "Ne kadar?" – How much does it cost? (pronounced ne kadar)

Places you can indicate as your travel destination:

• "Otogar" – bus station (pronounced otogar)

• "Havalimanı" – airport (pronounced hawalimanɯ)

• "Otel" – hotel (pronounced otel)

• "Merkez" – center (pronounced merkez)

• "Plaj" – beach (pronounced beaches)

• "AVM" – shopping mall (pronounced a-we-me)

• "Hastane" – hospital (pronounced hastane)

Example sentence: "Lütfen havalimanına" – Please go to the airport (pronounced lutfen hawalimanɯna)

Etiquette and customs

• A smile and a little conversation are welcome. Many drivers will ask where you are from and if you like Türkiye.

• Avoid political and religious topics.

• Men often choose the front seat, while women usually sit in the back.

• You can leave a small tip at the end (e.g. round up to a whole amount), but this is not necessary.

How much to tip in a taxi?

• Usually, it is enough to round the amount up – for example, if the course costs 95 TRY, you pay 100 TRY and do not wait for the change.

• If the course was longer, you can leave around 5-10% of the bill – but this is not expected as in restaurants, for example.

• No one will be offended if you take full change – it's normal and acceptable .

In other services:

• Restaurants : 5–10% is standard, with high-level service even 15%.

• Hotels : a bellboy is usually paid 20–50 TRY for helping with luggage, and a chambermaid similarly for a few days of cleaning.

• Private Transfers : Tipping is optional, but many drivers will tip you 20-50 TRY for a long route if they have been particularly helpful.

Taxi or Dolmus – which is more profitable?

If you want a quick, comfortable ride from door to door – choose a taxi . But if you want to save money and get to know the local atmosphere, choose a Dolmus .

Taxi

• advantages: comfort, air conditioning, route flexibility,

• cons: higher fare , especially on longer routes.

Dolmus

• advantages: very low cost (even 10–20 TRY), frequent courses, contact with local life,

• cons: lack of space for luggage, can be cramped and disorganized.

For city distances and short routes, a taxi is more convenient. For intercity travel, beach to hotel, or from town to tourist attractions, the Dolmus beats everything in price.

They are the Turkish equivalent of Russian marshrutkas: inexpensive, fast, and homely.