G Turkiye

Category: Transportation

  • Rail Travel in Turkiye

    Turkey has a well-developed railway network that connects many of the country’s major cities, cultural destinations, and regions. Operated primarily by the Turkish State Railways (TCDD Taşımacılık), the network includes conventional rail services, modern high-speed trains, regional routes, and urban metro systems, offering travelers a comfortable and scenic way to explore the country.

    Whether you’re traveling between vibrant cities or discovering the Anatolian countryside, rail travel provides a convenient alternative to road and air transportation.

    National Railway Network

    Turkey’s railway system links many of its principal population centers across Anatolia and Thrace. Major rail corridors connect:

    • Istanbul
    • Ankara
    • İzmir
    • Eskişehir
    • Konya
    • Sivas
    • Adana
    • Gaziantep
    • Samsun
    • Zonguldak
    • Kars
    • Van (via ferry connection across Lake Van on some eastern routes)

    Conventional trains continue to serve many regional destinations, offering comfortable overnight and daytime journeys through some of Turkey’s most beautiful landscapes.

    High-Speed Trains (YHT)

    Turkey has one of the largest high-speed rail networks in Europe and the Middle East.

    The Yüksek Hızlı Tren (YHT) network provides fast, modern services between several major cities, including:

    • Istanbul – Ankara
    • Istanbul – Eskişehir
    • Istanbul – Konya
    • Ankara – Konya
    • Ankara – Sivas
    • Ankara – Karaman
    • Konya – Karaman

    High-speed trains feature modern seating, air-conditioned carriages, onboard catering services, Wi-Fi on selected routes, and significantly reduced travel times compared with conventional rail services.

    International Rail Connections

    Turkey maintains international railway connections with neighboring countries, allowing travelers to continue their journeys into Europe and parts of Asia.

    International services have historically linked Turkey with destinations such as:

    • Bulgaria
    • Romania
    • Hungary
    • Serbia
    • Iran

    Availability of international routes may vary depending on operational schedules, infrastructure works, and international agreements. Travelers should always check current services before planning cross-border rail journeys.

    The Marmaray Railway

    One of Turkey’s most significant transportation projects is the Marmaray railway, which connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul through a tunnel beneath the Bosphorus Strait.

    The Marmaray line has transformed urban and intercity travel by allowing passenger and freight trains to cross between continents without using ferries. It also provides seamless connections with Istanbul’s metro, tram, ferry, and suburban rail networks.

    Urban Rail Systems

    Several Turkish cities operate modern urban rail networks that make getting around easy and efficient.

    Cities with metro, light rail, or tram systems include:

    • Istanbul
    • Ankara
    • İzmir
    • Bursa
    • Antalya
    • Adana
    • Gaziantep
    • Eskişehir
    • Kayseri
    • Konya
    • Samsun
    • Kocaeli

    These systems provide convenient access to airports, business districts, tourist attractions, shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods.

    Comfortable and Scenic Journeys

    Rail travel offers one of the best ways to experience Turkey’s diverse landscapes. Travelers can enjoy panoramic views of mountains, lakes, fertile plains, historic towns, and dramatic coastlines while relaxing in comfortable train carriages.

    Popular scenic routes include journeys through Central Anatolia, Eastern Anatolia, and the Black Sea region, where spectacular natural scenery accompanies much of the journey.

    Why Choose Rail Travel?

    Traveling by train in Turkey offers several advantages:

    • Comfortable and spacious seating
    • High-speed connections between major cities
    • Scenic routes through diverse landscapes
    • Affordable ticket prices
    • Environmentally friendly transportation
    • Convenient connections with metros, buses, ferries, and airports

    Discover Turkey by Train

    From the high-speed trains linking Istanbul and Ankara to scenic regional rail journeys across Anatolia, Turkey’s railway network provides an enjoyable, reliable, and sustainable way to discover the country’s rich history, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether traveling for business or leisure, rail transport offers a comfortable and memorable travel experience.

  • How to Get to Turkiye

    Türkiye is one of the world’s most accessible travel destinations, strategically located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Thanks to its extensive transportation network, visitors can easily reach the country by air, road, rail, or sea from numerous international destinations. Whether you are planning a short city break in Istanbul, a beach holiday along the Mediterranean coast, or an adventure through the country’s rich historical sites, traveling to Türkiye is convenient and straightforward.

    Arriving by Air

    Flying is the fastest and most popular way to reach Türkiye. The country is served by several modern international airports offering direct connections to hundreds of destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas.

    Türkiye’s flag carrier, Turkish Airlines (THY), operates one of the world’s largest international flight networks, connecting travelers from more countries than any other airline. In addition to Turkish Airlines, numerous international airlines provide regular scheduled and seasonal flights to Türkiye throughout the year.

    Major international airports include:

    • Istanbul Airport (IST)
    • Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), Istanbul
    • Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)
    • İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB)
    • Antalya Airport (AYT)
    • Dalaman Airport (DLM)
    • Milas–Bodrum Airport (BJV)
    • Adana Şakirpaşa Airport (with services transitioning to Çukurova International Airport)
    • Trabzon Airport (TZX)

    These airports provide convenient access to Türkiye’s most popular tourist destinations, including Istanbul, Cappadocia, the Aegean Coast, the Mediterranean Riviera, and the Black Sea region.

    Arriving by Road

    Driving to Türkiye is an excellent option for travelers exploring Europe or neighboring countries. The country’s well-maintained highway network connects directly with several international border crossings.

    Popular driving routes include:

    Northern European Route

    This route generally passes through:

    • Belgium
    • Germany
    • Austria
    • Hungary
    • Romania
    • Bulgaria
    • Türkiye

    Southern European Route

    Travelers may also drive through:

    • Belgium
    • Germany
    • Austria
    • Italy

    From Italy, vehicle ferries operate across the Adriatic and Mediterranean, allowing motorists to continue their journey into Türkiye via several coastal ports.

    The distance between London and Istanbul is approximately 3,000 kilometers, making it a popular overland journey for road trip enthusiasts.

    International coach operators also offer scheduled bus services connecting Türkiye with several European and Middle Eastern countries, including:

    • Austria
    • France
    • Germany
    • Italy
    • Netherlands
    • Greece
    • Iran
    • Iraq
    • Jordan
    • Kuwait
    • Saudi Arabia

    Services and routes may vary depending on seasonal demand and border regulations.

    Arriving by Rail

    International rail services provide another comfortable way to reach Türkiye from Europe. Istanbul is connected to several European cities through international railway networks, with services operating directly or via connecting routes through neighboring countries.

    Traveling by train offers a scenic alternative for visitors wishing to experience the landscapes of southeastern Europe before arriving in Türkiye.

    Arriving by Sea

    Türkiye’s extensive coastline along the Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara, and Black Seas makes sea travel an attractive option for many visitors.

    International Passenger Ferries

    Regular international ferry services and cruise ships connect Türkiye with nearby countries and islands. Major Turkish ferry ports include:

    • Istanbul
    • İzmir
    • Çeşme
    • Kuşadası
    • Bodrum
    • Marmaris
    • Antalya
    • Alanya
    • Mersin
    • İskenderun
    • Dikili
    • Samsun
    • Trabzon

    During the cruise season, many Mediterranean cruise ships also include Turkish ports as part of their itineraries.

    Car Ferries

    Travelers touring Europe with their own vehicles can take advantage of international car ferry services operating between various Mediterranean ports and Türkiye. These ferries offer a convenient way to combine a European road trip with a holiday along Türkiye’s spectacular coastline.

    Ferry Routes to Northern Cyprus

    Regular ferry services connect southern Türkiye with Northern Cyprus, offering both passenger and vehicle transportation.

    Popular routes include:

    • Taşucu – Girne (Kyrenia)
    • Alanya – Girne (Kyrenia)
    • Mersin – Gazimağusa (Famagusta)

    Schedules vary throughout the year and are often increased during the summer tourist season.

    Ferry Routes to the Greek Islands

    The Turkish Aegean coast offers numerous short ferry crossings to nearby Greek islands, making island-hopping a popular holiday option.

    Common international ferry routes include:

    • Ayvalık – Lesbos (Midilli)
    • Çeşme – Chios (Sakız)
    • Kuşadası – Samos (Sisam)
    • Bodrum – Kos (İstanköy)
    • Marmaris – Rhodes (Rodos)
    • Datça – Symi (Sömbeki)

    Most routes operate seasonally between spring and autumn, with additional sailings during peak summer months.

    Travel Tips

    • Carry a valid passport and check visa requirements before departure.
    • Travelers arriving by road should ensure they have valid vehicle registration, insurance, and, where required, an International Driving Permit.
    • Ferry and international coach schedules may change depending on weather conditions and seasonal demand.
    • Booking flights and ferry tickets well in advance is recommended during the busy summer tourism season.
    • Always verify the latest entry requirements and customs regulations before traveling, as international travel policies may change.

    Getting Around After Arrival

    Once in Türkiye, visitors can easily continue their journey using an extensive transportation network that includes domestic flights, high-speed trains, intercity buses, rental cars, ferries, taxis, and public transportation systems. This excellent infrastructure makes exploring the country’s diverse regions both convenient and enjoyable.

  • Transportation in Turkiye

    Turkiye has one of the most comprehensive transportation networks in Europe and the Middle East, making it easy to travel between its vibrant cities, historic landmarks, coastal resorts, and natural attractions. Whether you choose to fly, travel by high-speed train, take an intercity bus, rent a car, or explore by ferry, modern infrastructure allows visitors to move comfortably throughout the country.

    Domestic and International Air Travel

    Flying is the fastest way to travel across Türkiye, particularly between major cities and popular holiday destinations.

    Türkiye is served by numerous international airlines, while Turkish Airlines operates one of the world’s largest route networks, connecting hundreds of destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas.

    Major international airports include:

    • Istanbul Airport (IST)
    • Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), Istanbul
    • Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)
    • İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB)
    • Antalya Airport (AYT)
    • Milas–Bodrum Airport (BJV)
    • Dalaman Airport (DLM)
    • Çukurova International Airport (serving Adana and Mersin)
    • Trabzon Airport (TZX)

    Frequent domestic flights connect nearly every region of the country, making it possible to travel from Istanbul to destinations such as Antalya, Cappadocia, İzmir, Bodrum, Van, Trabzon, and Gaziantep in just a few hours.

    High-Speed and Conventional Rail

    Türkiye has invested heavily in its railway network, including an expanding high-speed rail (YHT) system.

    High-speed trains operate on several major routes, including:

    • Istanbul – Ankara
    • Istanbul – Eskişehir
    • Ankara – Konya
    • Ankara – Sivas
    • Konya – Karaman

    Conventional rail services continue to connect many other cities across the country, while international rail links provide connections with parts of Europe through neighboring countries.

    Train travel offers a comfortable and scenic alternative for visitors who prefer a more relaxed pace.

    Intercity Buses

    Türkiye’s extensive coach network is considered one of the best in Europe. Modern buses connect virtually every city, town, and tourist destination, often operating several departures each day.

    Most long-distance coaches offer:

    • Comfortable reclining seats
    • Air conditioning
    • Complimentary refreshments
    • Wi-Fi on many services
    • Entertainment systems on selected routes
    • Frequent rest stops

    For many destinations not served by rail, intercity buses are the most convenient and economical option.

    Dolmuş and Minibuses

    The dolmuş is a shared minibus or shared taxi operating on fixed routes for fixed fares. It is one of the most popular forms of local transportation throughout Türkiye.

    Dolmuş services are:

    • Affordable
    • Frequent
    • Easy to use
    • Available in cities, towns, and coastal resorts

    Passengers simply signal the driver to stop and pay the fare before leaving the vehicle.

    Ferry Services

    Surrounded by the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Sea of Marmara, Türkiye offers an extensive network of passenger and vehicle ferries.

    Popular ferry services include:

    • Crossings between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul
    • Ferries across the Sea of Marmara
    • Coastal routes in the Aegean
    • Services to nearby Greek islands (seasonal)
    • Ferries to Northern Cyprus

    Boat travel provides not only convenient transportation but also spectacular coastal scenery.

    Cruise Ships

    Türkiye is a major destination for Mediterranean cruise itineraries.

    International cruise ships regularly visit ports such as:

    • Istanbul
    • Kuşadası
    • Bodrum
    • Marmaris
    • Antalya

    These ports provide easy access to world-famous attractions including Ephesus, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and the Turkish Riviera.

    Car Rental and Driving

    Renting a car is an excellent way to explore Türkiye independently, particularly when visiting coastal regions, national parks, rural villages, or archaeological sites.

    The country’s highway network is modern and well maintained, with high-quality motorways linking major cities.

    Drivers should remember that:

    • Traffic drives on the right-hand side.
    • Seat belts are mandatory.
    • Speed limits vary by road type and vehicle.
    • International visitors may need an International Driving Permit, depending on their country of residence.

    While driving in rural areas is generally enjoyable, visitors should remain alert for agricultural vehicles, livestock crossings, cyclists, and changing road conditions, especially in mountainous regions during winter.

    Driving in Major Cities

    Traffic congestion can be significant in large metropolitan areas such as Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir, particularly during morning and evening rush hours.

    Finding parking in busy city centers can also be challenging and expensive.

    For urban sightseeing, many visitors prefer using public transportation, taxis, or ride-hailing services instead of renting a car.

    Taxis

    Licensed taxis are readily available throughout Türkiye and provide a convenient way to travel within cities and towns.

    Most taxis:

    • Operate with taximeters
    • Accept cash, and many now also accept credit or debit cards
    • Can be hailed on the street or booked through mobile applications

    Passengers should ensure that the meter is activated at the beginning of the journey and confirm the estimated route if traveling a longer distance.

    Public Transportation

    Major cities offer efficient public transportation systems that include:

    • Metro lines
    • Trams
    • Light rail
    • Public buses
    • Suburban rail services
    • Funicular railways
    • Ferry services

    Contactless transportation cards are available in many cities, making travel convenient and cost-effective for visitors.

    Cycling and Walking

    Many coastal towns and tourist destinations feature scenic promenades and cycling paths, allowing visitors to explore beaches, marinas, and historic districts at a leisurely pace.

    Historic city centers, including those in Istanbul, Safranbolu, Bursa, and Antalya’s Kaleiçi district, are also ideal for exploring on foot.

    Travel Tips

    To make the most of your journey around Türkiye:

    • Book domestic flights during peak holiday periods in advance.
    • Use high-speed trains where available for fast and comfortable travel.
    • Consider intercity buses for destinations not served by rail.
    • Carry small amounts of cash for local transportation in smaller towns.
    • Use licensed taxis or trusted ride-booking applications.
    • Allow extra travel time in major cities during rush hour.
    • Rent a car if you plan to explore remote coastal areas, mountain villages, or archaeological sites.

    Getting Around with Ease

    From world-class airports and high-speed trains to comfortable coaches, scenic ferry routes, and modern highways, Türkiye offers travelers a safe, efficient, and flexible transportation system. No matter where your journey takes you—from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the turquoise bays of the Mediterranean or the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia—you will find reliable transport options that make exploring this diverse country simple and enjoyable.

  • Adana Airport (ADA), Turkey

    Adana Airport (ADA), Turkey

    For nearly nine decades, Adana Sakirpasa Airport served as the gateway to Turkey’s fertile Cukurova region. As the oldest public airport in Turkey, it witnessed the evolution of aviation from propeller planes to modern jets. However, in a significant shift for regional travel, this historic hub has now transitioned to a new role.

    This article provides a comprehensive overview of the former Adana Airport, its facilities, its operational history, and its replacement by the state-of-the-art Cukurova International Airport .

    Key Facts About Adana Sakirpasa Airport

    Before its closure to commercial traffic, Adana Sakirpasa Airport (IATA: ADA, ICAO: LTAF) was a bustling hub. Here are the essential statistics from its final years of full operation:

    Feature Detail
    Full Name Adana Şakirpaşa Airport
    Opened 1937
    Location Sakirpasa area, 2.3 km west of Adana city centre 
    Elevation 65 ft (20 m) above sea level 
    Runway 05/23 (2,750 m × 45 m) Asphalt
    Terminals Domestic (1984), International (1997), Cargo (1993) 
    Operator General Directorate of State Airports (DHMİ)
    Status Active (General Aviation / Cargo only as of Aug 2024) 

    A Rich History: The Oldest Airport in Turkey

    Adana Airport holds a unique place in Turkish aviation history. Built on farmland, it was originally opened in 1937 as a joint civil-military facility . It remained the only airport in the region for decades, officially transitioning to a fully civilian airport in 1956.

    For many years, it was known for being exceptionally close to the city center – just 3.5 to 4 km away – making it one of the most accessible airports in Turkey for travelers heading to downtown Adana. Passenger traffic steadily grew over the years, hitting a record high of 5.63 million passengers in 2018 .

    The Transition: “Ceased Operations” Explained

    This is the most critical update for travelers to know: As of 10 August 2024, Adana Sakirpasa Airport officially ceased handling commercial airline flights .

    All scheduled passenger services – including Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and AJet (formerly AnadoluJet) – have been relocated to the newly constructed Cukurova International Airport (COV). The final commercial passenger flight departed from the old airport shortly after midnight on 11 August 2024 .

    What is happening at the old site now?

    While it no longer serves tourists flying in for vacation, the site is not abandoned. Adana Sakirpasa Airport has been repurposed into a General Aviation Airport .

    • Private Jets & Business Aviation: The facilities remain open for private travel.

    • Pilot Training: The runway is used by flight schools for training purposes.

    • Air Sports: The airfield supports hobbyist aviation activities.

    Airlines and Destinations (Historical Context)

    Before its closure, Adana Airport was a vital hub connecting Southern Turkey to the world. At its peak, it offered nearly 300 weekly departures .

    • Domestic Hubs: The busiest routes were to Istanbul (both IST and SAW airports) and Ankara, with nearly half of all flights heading to these two cities .

    • International Links: Due to the large Turkish diaspora in Europe, key international destinations included Cologne, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, and London .

    • Regional: Frequent flights connected Adana to Northern Cyprus (Ercan) and Beirut, Lebanon .

    Note: If you hold a ticket with “ADA” as the arrival airport, you must now go to the new Cukurova Airport (COV). Always check your ticket for the updated airport code.

    Ground Transportation (Historical)

    For those curious about the old airport’s accessibility (or if you are visiting the general aviation area):

    • Location: It was located in the Seyhan district, very close to the D400 state road .

    • Buses: Local municipality buses #135 and #159 served the terminal, connecting to the city center and the Central Railway Station .

    • Rail: Sakirpasa railway station was approximately a 20-minute walk from the terminal, offering regional train services .

    The Future: Cukurova International Airport

    With the shift of commercial traffic, the new Cukurova International Airport (COV) is now the primary entry point for the region. Located further outside the city center (near the Tarsus border), it was built to accommodate higher capacity and modern international standards, replacing the constrained, 87-year-old infrastructure of the Şakirpaşa site.

    Adana Sakirpasa Airport served as a loyal workhorse for Turkey’s Mediterranean region for over 80 years. While it is no longer an option for commercial flyers, its legacy as the “oldest airport in Turkey” remains secure. Travelers heading to Adana should now look for flights landing at the brand-new Cukurova Airport (COV) , leaving the historic ADA site to the quiet hum of private planes and student pilots

  • Postal System in Turkey

    Turkish post-offices are easily recognized by their black PTT letters on a yellow background. Major post offices are open from 8:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m., Monday/Saturday, and 9:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m., Sunday. Small post-offices have the same hours as the government offices.

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    Postal charges vary for different services depending on destination. Post restante letters should be addressed “postrestant” to the central post-office Merkez Postanesi, in the town of your choice. You have to show your identification card to collect your letters.

    All PTT branches have the facilities to exchange money at the current international exchange rates, as well as international postal orders and travellers’ cheques. There is also an express postal service (APS) operating to 90 countries for letters , documents and small packages. A wide variety of special stamps are available in all PTT centers for philatelists.

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    To phone from PTT telephone booths, which are extensively found in all areas; telephone cards , and tokens (“;jeton”) in three sizes are used. Local, inter-city and international calls can be made from all PTT offices. Besides these main offices there are also mobile PTT services in the touristic areas. For the area codes of major cities and touristic areas in Turkey, please see the “Area Codes” list. Foreign countries area codes are indicated in the International Telephone Codes list.

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