How to call a taxi in Istanbul

There are four common ways to get a taxi in Istanbul: an official rank, hailing one on the street, a taxi app and booking in advance. The best choice depends on where you are and when you travel.

Official taxi rank

Airports, large squares, hotels and some bus station exits have official taxi ranks. Taking the first taxi in the queue is the safest option.

At airports the rank is outside the terminal, at the arrivals exit. Do not follow people inside the terminal who offer to take you to a car.

Hailing on the street

On busy streets you can wave down an empty taxi. Before you get in, check that the meter is running and note the plate.

Hailing is harder in the rain, late at night and at busy times.

Taxi apps

Apps such as BiTaksi and Uber can be used to call a taxi in Istanbul. The taxi types and areas they cover can change over time, so check the app for current information.

Some apps show an estimated fare. The estimate can differ from the meter; the final amount is what the taximeter shows.

Booking in advance

You can book a taxi in advance for a flight, a bus or an appointment. You do not have to wait on the street, and you agree the pick-up point and time beforehand.

This site covers rides within Istanbul only; we do not offer intercity transfers. Enter the pick-up, drop-off, date and number of passengers in the request form. We confirm the request on WhatsApp.

If you cannot find a taxi

Walk to the nearest official rank. Even if no taxi is waiting, the rank is the safest place to wait.
Ask hotel staff to call a taxi; they usually know the nearby ranks.
If you have not booked, go to the nearest large avenue and try to hail an empty taxi there.

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FAQ

How do I book in advance?

Fill in the request form. We confirm your request on WhatsApp and agree on the meeting point.

Is it hard to get a taxi at night?

Taxis are usually available at airports and major squares at night. Hailing on the street can be harder, so booking in advance saves waiting.

Why is the app estimate different from the meter?

Apps estimate the fare from the route and average time. Traffic waiting time and the actual route change the taximeter amount.