Transport: The best and easiest way to explore the old city is on foot, but
to get to other areas, there is a cheap public transport network
consisting of buses, taxis or dolmuses (shared minibus taxis),
tramways and a new metro system that has relieved some of the
pressure of Istanbul's endless traffic. The rechargeable Akbil
electronic transit pass, available from special kiosks, is a
discounted way of using local buses, trams, metro and ferries. A
useful underground metro line runs from Aksaray to the main city
bus station at Esenler and the Ataturk Airport, and another runs
north from Taksim Square, passing the Levent districts. Buses are
slow and crowded; tickets must be purchased at outdoor kiosks, as
bus drivers do not sell them. Dolmuses and private yellow taxis are
more comfortable than the city buses and very inexpensive, but it
is advisable for foreigners to have their hotel call a private taxi
for them and check that the meter is working, as overcharging is
common. A taxi's night rate (gece) can be up to 50% more expensive
than the day rate (gündüz). Dolmuses can be hailed
anywhere along their set routes. Passenger ferries are a pleasant
way to see the city, and there is also a train network running
along the Mamara shore. Driving or hiring a car is not recommended
due to traffic congestion and poor driving standards.
