Taxis in Turkey: The Complete Guide
This guide is your essential companion for navigating taxis in Turkey, from understanding official rules and fares to avoiding scams and resolving any issues.
Good to know!
In most modern Turkish taxis, the taximeter isn't a separate device but is digitally integrated into the rearview mirror. Check the fare there!
Standard Taxi
Comfort Taxi
VIP Taxi
I. Before Your Ride – Preparation and Principles
Who Sets the Rules? (UKOME)
In Turkey, taxi fares are not arbitrary. All official tariffs – the starting fee, price per kilometer, and minimum fare – are determined by each city's Transportation Coordination Center (UKOME). This is why prices and regulations differ between Istanbul, Antalya, and other cities.
Taxi Types and Colors
Especially in Istanbul, the colors signify different service and price categories:
- Yellow/Orange (Sarı Taksi): The most common and affordable standard taxi.
- Turquoise (Turkuaz Taksi): A more comfortable and spacious vehicle, with a fare that is ~15% higher.
- Black (Siyah Taksi): A luxury-class VIP taxi, with a fare that is ~70% higher.
Pricing and Fares (2025 Forecast)
Attention! The prices below are based on 2024 data. Due to high inflation in Turkey, they will certainly be higher by the end of 2025. Use them for budget planning and check current rates before your trip.
Istanbul Yellow Taxi (as of 2024):
- Starting Fare: 24.55 TRY
- Price per Kilometer: 17.61 TRY
- Minimum Fare: 90 TRY
- Additional Charges: The passenger pays for all bridge and tunnel tolls.
Antalya/Alanya (as of 2024):
- Starting Fare: ~25 TRY
- Price per Kilometer: ~30 TRY
- Minimum Fare: ~80 TRY
The Myth of the Night Tariff (Gece Tarifesi)
Officially, the night tariff in major cities like Istanbul and Antalya has been abolished. The same rate applies 24/7. If a taxi driver tries to charge you a higher price at night, it is a scam.
Alternatives to Taxis
Dolmuş
Especially on the southern coast, this small shared minibus is the best and cheapest alternative for short trips along fixed routes.
Pre-booked Private Transfer
For many travelers, especially families, it is more stress-free and often more cost-effective to book an airport transfer in advance (e.g., via GetYourGuide, Viator). A fixed-price service eliminates scams, and the driver will wait for you at the airport with a name sign.
II. Finding and Using a Taxi
How to Find a Taxi?
- Hailing from the street: The most common method. Extend your arm to stop a free taxi (the "TAKSİ" sign on the roof will be lit).
- Taxi Stand (Taksi Durağı): Very reliable. Walk to the nearest stand or ask your hotel/restaurant to call one for you.
- Taxi Call Button: The most tourist-friendly option. Press a button on a street post, and a taxi will be dispatched to your location. No language barrier!
Using Apps (BiTaksi, Uber)
This is the safest and most transparent method. You see the estimated price in advance, the ride is tracked, and payment is handled automatically.
The app acts as an intermediary. The same official yellow, turquoise, or black taxi you would hail on the street will arrive. The difference is the registered ride and identifiable driver. The most popular local app is BiTaksi. Uber also operates in Turkey, primarily by connecting you with official city taxis.
Taking a Taxi from the Airport
- Ignore aggressive offers from individuals in the arrivals hall. These are unlicensed and overpriced drivers.
- Follow the official signs that direct you to the official taxi rank ("Taksi" / "Official Taxis").
- Use the official taxi queue, which is managed by a dispatcher. This is safe and regulated.
Communication, Etiquette, and Special Needs
Communication and Etiquette
- Address: Show your destination address in writing (on a hotel business card or your phone).
- Tipping (Bahşiş): Not mandatory, but it is common practice to round up the fare.
- Luggage: There is no official extra charge for luggage.
Special Needs
- Child Car Seats: These are not available in standard taxis. Bring your own or book a private transfer that offers them.
- Large Groups (5+): You will need a larger taxi (look for a "Doblo taxi") or order two separate cars.
III. Risks, Scams, and Peculiarities
Scam #1: The "Broken" Meter
The driver doesn't turn on the meter and demands an exorbitant price at the end. Solution: LEAVE THE CAR if the meter is not turned on immediately.
Scam #2: The "Scenic Tour"
The driver intentionally takes a much longer route. Solution: Keep a GPS app like Google Maps visible on your phone. This often discourages the driver.
Scam #3: The Currency Mix-up
The driver tries to settle the fare in Euros/Dollars at a very poor exchange rate. Solution: Always pay in Turkish Lira (TRY).
Scam #4: The Change Trick
The driver claims to have no change or discreetly swaps the 50 TRY note you gave him for a 5 TRY note. Solution: Carry small bills and pay close attention during the transaction.
Scam #5: The "Friendly" Shopping Stop
The driver takes you to his friend's shop, hoping to earn a commission. Solution: Politely but firmly refuse any unplanned stops.
Peculiarities on the Southern Coast
In resorts like Antalya and Alanya, negotiating a fixed price (pazarlık) can be more common than using the meter. Drivers there may also prefer payment in Euros, which is usually unfavorable for tourists. Always insist on using the meter and paying in Lira.
IV. What to Do in Case of Problems
Safety and Handling a Conflict
- Gather Evidence: The most important piece of information is the taxi's license plate number (plaka)! Take a photo of it.
- Stay Calm: Do not get into a shouting match.
- Say the Magic Words: The phrase "Polisi arayacağım" ("I will call the police") is often very effective.
- Safety First: Do not exit the vehicle in an unsafe or remote location.
- Extra Safety Tip: Always sit in the back seat and share your ride information (like a photo of the license plate) with a friend.
Complaint Channel 1: ALO 153 – Beyaz Masa
This is the municipal helpline and the most effective channel for filing a complaint. They often have English-speaking operators and will officially register your complaint.
Complaint Channel 2: Municipal Police (Zabıta)
This is the local law enforcement unit of the municipality that handles taxi inspections. ALO 153 often directs complaints directly to them.
Complaint Channel 3: Police
Contact the regular Police (Polis) or, in tourist areas, the Tourism Police (Turizm Polisi) for serious issues like theft or threats. The general emergency number is 112.
V. Quick Guide and Glossary
Golden Rules: A Practical Checklist
- BEFORE GETTING IN: Use an official taxi stand, button, or app. Ask about credit card payment beforehand.
- AT THE START OF THE RIDE: Insist on the taximeter. If the driver refuses, get out of the car.
- DURING THE RIDE: Follow the route with your GPS.
- WHEN PAYING: Pay in Turkish Lira and use small bills.
- IF THERE'S A PROBLEM: Take a photo of the license plate and call ALO 153.
Helpful Phrases
- Taksimetre: Taximeter
- Taksimetreyi açar mısınız?: Could you please turn on the meter?
- Kredi kartı geçerli mi?: Do you accept credit cards?
- Ne kadar?: How much (does it cost)?
- Bu adrese lütfen: To this address, please.
- Polisi arayacağım: I will call the police.
- Fiş alabilir miyim?: Can I get a receipt?
- Üstü kalsın: Keep the change.