Estimate Taxi Fares in Istanbul
Use our Istanbul taxi fare calculator to get quick price estimates for rides in Istanbul, Türkiye. Plan your trip with confidence and avoid surprises at the meter.
Fare Estimator
Istanbul Taxi Fares Explained
In Istanbul, taxi fares start with a flat rate of 42 Turkish Lira (TL) when you enter the cab and the meter is activated. After this initial charge, the fare increases by about 28 TL for every kilometer traveled.
If the taxi is caught in traffic or must wait more than five minutes for you, a waiting fee of 4.5 TL per minute applies. The minimum fare is 135 TL to discourage very short rides, ensuring fair charge for drivers.
Tolls for bridges or tunnels, such as the Bosphorus Bridge or tunnels, are added to the meter and must be paid by the passenger. Examples include a 47 TL toll for the first two bridges and 225 TL for the tunnel under the Bosphorus.
Day and night rates no longer differ; the fare structure is consistent around the clock. Taxi fare scams such as detours or meter manipulation are common, so being aware of standard rates helps avoid being overcharged.
About Taxis in Istanbul 🚕
To get a taxi in Istanbul, look for the yellow taxis that are the most common city cabs, identifiable by their color and rooftop signs. You can hail them on the street or at taxi stands found around busy areas.
Several types of taxis operate: standard yellow taxis, turquoise colored taxis with higher fares, and black luxury taxis that charge even more. Taxi companies like BiTaksi and iTaksi offer app-based booking with GPS tracking.
You can pay in cash, but many taxis also accept credit card payments. Always confirm the payment method with the driver before starting the ride to avoid any confusion at the end.
For safety, insist that the driver uses the meter to calculate your fare transparently. Avoid getting into taxis that refuse to turn on the meter or suggest a fixed fare beforehand.
Taxis are widely available throughout Istanbul day and night, especially near airports, tourist spots, and major transportation hubs. Waiting times are generally short due to their frequency.
Main taxi companies provide reliable service options, including phone booking and app-based hailing with digital payments. These companies include official city taxis as well as private services offering fixed pricing and better English communication.
Tips for Taxi Riders
- Always check if the meter is running before your ride starts.
- Carry small change in the local currency for convenience.
- Be aware of possible surcharges like night rides or airport fees.
- If traveling with friends, split the cost to save money.