Does Uber Works in Istanbul?

Uber is one of the most popular apps around the world in which you can easily call for a taxi. It really works very well in most major capitals, so it is just common sense that the first thing that tourists wonder about Turkey is if Uber works properly in Turkey.

Is Uber available in Istanbul?

The app was first introduced in Turkey in 2014. Not only tourists but also citizens of Turkey were using it, people started to prefer Uber vehicles than cabs, and it caused some tension among the local taxi drivers and taxi companies. Consequently, in March 2019, Turkey’s United Taxi Drivers Association opened a lawsuit against Uber, and finally, on October 15, 2019, the Turkish court determined to block access to Uber’s application to offer transportation services.

 After some legal challenges, the Turkish Court of Appeals decided that Uber’s application could resume operations with yellow and turquoise taxis.

Since its relaunch in 2021, Uber has been fully operational in Turkey. Furthermore, in February 2022, Uber relaunched its Black Taxi service, offering luxury, large-capacity vehicles that can accommodate up to 8 passengers, making it much easier for larger groups to travel around the city.

How to Pay on Uber Application? Does Uber in Turkey Accept Credit cards?

Uber app charges payment for the trip you will take. Before requesting a ride, you’ll be asked to add a payment method of your choice to your account, thus, when a trip ends, your preferred payment method will be charged. You can pay with credit card or in cash according to your preference.

Furthermore, because the application is connected to local taxi regulations, the driver manually enters the price from the taximeter into the app. It is always advised to verify the price shown on the taximeter before the driver finalizes the charge in the application.  

Does Turkey Have Other Transportation Apps?

Uber is not the only mobile application that you can call for a cab or vehicle, there are also Uber alternative applications in Istanbul such as Bitaksi and Itaksi, which are the applications mostly used by locals in need of a yellow taxi.

 What is the Best Way to Get Around in Istanbul?

Although there are so many options of transportation in Turkey, due to the high demand and potential lack of available taxis during rush hours, we recommend our private van service. It is the safer and hassle-free way to get around in Istanbul and will make your visit more relaxed.

We, as Guided Istanbul Tours, do not offer our tours with private van service beforehand as you may also walk to the desired sites depending on your hotel’s location.

Still, you will definitely need a vehicle which will be used for transportation facilities for certain routes. We strongly suggest booking our private van service for your tours which will ease your tours, make them more comfortable and flexible as well. Particularly for larger groups, it will be much more reasonable as we have different sizes of vans and buses, which are all nonsmoking and air-conditioned.

You may also get in touch with us regarding any of your transportation needs, including Istanbul airport and intercity transfers.