Istanbul runs three distinct bus systems: IETT regular buses covering 757 routes across every neighborhood, the 24/7 Metrobus on dedicated lanes between the European and Asian sides, and the tourist-focused Busforus hop-on hop-off service.

Istanbul bus options at a glance

Regular buses

IETT (Istanbul Electric Tram and Tunnel Company) runs 757 numbered bus routes and 12,285 stops across Istanbul, reaching neighborhoods the metro and tram do not cover. Fares are paid with an Istanbulkart, and buses are numbered with clearly marked stops throughout the city.

Key features

• Coverage reaches every corner of Istanbul, from the city center to outer suburban areas.
• Many buses have low floors for step-free boarding, useful for passengers with mobility issues.
• Bus fares are among the cheapest fares in the city when paid with an Istanbulkart.

Tips for using regular buses

• Get an Istanbul Card; the card works on all public transport, including buses.
• Rush hours run roughly 7–9 AM and 5–7 PM, when buses can be crowded.
• Check routes and schedules on the IETT website or the official mobile app "Otobüsüm Nerede" (Turkish for "Where's my bus").

Metrobus

The Metrobus is a high-speed bus service that runs on dedicated lanes between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, operates 24/7, and is one of the few transport options that links the two continents directly. Metrobus fares are distance-based and deducted automatically from an Istanbulkart.

Key features

• Metrobus runs on its own lanes, bypassing the heavy traffic that often clogs Istanbul's roads.
• Service runs around the clock, which is useful for late-night or early-morning travel.
• The line connects the European and Asian sides directly, one of the few bus services in the city that does so.

Tips for using the Metrobus

• Metrobus can get extremely crowded during rush hours, so expect standing room only.
• Major transfer points include Zincirlikuyu, Mecidiyeköy, and Söğütlüçeşme, where you can switch to other modes of public transport.
• Metrobus fares vary by distance traveled, with deductions made automatically from an Istanbulkart.

Hop-on hop-off (city sightseeing) buses, aka Busforus

The Hop-on Hop-off Istanbul City Sightseeing Bus Tour, locally called Busforus, covers both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul with audio commentary in multiple languages. Riders can hop on and off at any stop, and the route passes Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

Tour highlights

• Hop on and off at any designated stop to see sights at your own pace.
• Audio commentary is available in multiple languages, with history and culture notes along the route.
• The open-top deck gives wide views of Istanbul's skyline, the Bosphorus Strait, and major landmarks.
• Stops cover Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar.

Ticket information and tips

• Buy tickets online for convenience and possible discounts.
• Plan a rough itinerary in advance so you can use your day-pass time well.
• Check the bus schedule and frequency before you set out.
• Use the audio guide at each stop to get background on the attractions.