By Bus and Metro

By Bus and Metro

Bus service is frequent, and drivers and riders tend to be helpful, so you should be able to navigate your way to major tourist stops like Sultanahmet, Eminönü, Taksim, and Besiktas. The fare is about $1.10 and you can purchase tickets at kiosks near major stops or on buses. The Istanbul metro is continually expanding, though the two lines still don't meet and they mostly take people out to the suburbs. One line goes north from Tünel and Taksim, and another connects the Aksaray, west of Sultanhmet, with the airport and the main bus station. The historic Tünel funicular, in operation since 1875, connects Karaköy and Tünel Square: it's a short trip, but if you're walking the hill is steep; a similar funicular takes you up the hill from Kabatas on the tram line to Taksim.