What is Istanbul Card (İstanbulkart)?
The Istanbul Card, or İstanbulkart, is a popular and convenient smart card used for public transportation in Istanbul. It can be purchased from various centers throughout the city and is used for payment across multiple forms of transportation, including buses, trams, ferries, metrobuses, and trains. This smart card system prevents time wastage and offers several benefits.
Types of Istanbul Card
- Anonymous Card:
Description: Anyone can buy and use this card without any conditions. It is not registered to any individual’s name.
- Availability: Can be purchased from vending machines or kiosks at stations.
- Limitations: Does not offer the annual subscription system.
- Discount Card:
- Description:Available for teachers, students, and people over 60 years old.
- Requirements:To get a student discount card, present a photo taken within the last six months and an ID card at an Istanbulkart application point.
- Blue Card (Subscription):
- Description: A monthly subscription card for those not eligible for discounted or free cards.
- Requirements: To obtain a Blue Card, visit the application office with an ID card and a passport photo taken in the last six months.
- Limited Use Card:
- Description: Ideal for people spending a limited time in Istanbul.
- Versions: Available in single pass, two pass, three pass, five pass, and ten pass versions.
- Availability: Can be purchased from ticket machines throughout the city.
- Free Card:
- Description: Available to people over 65, disabled individuals, families of martyrs, companions, yellow press, municipal police, athletes, veterans and their families, and mothers with children under 4.
- Requirements: To get a Free Card, visit an İstanbulkart application point with a passport and an ID card obtained in the last six months.
Cost of Istanbul Card
The cost of the Istanbulkart varies based on the type of card and the mode of public transport used. The card itself is inexpensive and provides access to all public transportation lines and types of vehicles in Istanbul.
Usage of Istanbul Card
The İstanbulkart can be used across all public transportation options in Istanbul, including buses, metrobuses, trams, and ferries. It is also accepted for payment at water vending machines, Ispark parking services, and various markets such as Migros, A101, Carrefour SA, Shock market, BİM, and petrol stations like Opet, Petrol Ofisi, and Shell.
How to Charge and Renew Istanbul Card
- Charging the Card:
- Use ticket machines located throughout the city and at many stations. These machines accept paper or coins.
- Use the mobile application of contracted banks or smartphones with NFC support to top up the balance.
- Renewing the Card:
- Renewal is done at İstanbulkart application centers, operational from 08:30 to 17:30.
Istanbul Card Mobile Application
The İstanbulkart also has a mobile application, allowing users to check their card balance online. The app can be downloaded by searching for “istanbulkart” on the App Store or Google Play.
Conclusion
The İstanbulkart is an essential tool for navigating Istanbul’s public transport system, offering fast and safe payment options. It is also useful for various services like parking lots, iTaksi, IBB social facilities, Belltor cafes and restaurants, bazaar stores, and city beaches. Using the Istanbul Card, especially on the subway, can result in discounts on subsequent trips, making it a cost-effective option for both residents and visitors.
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