The metro and the tram system of Istanbul have a wide network and provide easy access to many of the major points both in the European and Asian sides. The metro system of Istanbul operates from Aksaray – Atatürk Airport to Kirazli (M1 line), Haciosman to Yenikapi (M2 line) and Kirazli to Olimpiyat, Basaksehir (M3 line) on the European side. And operates from Kadikoy to Tavsantepe (M4 line) and Uskudar to Yamanevler (M5 line) on the Asian Side as its mentioned in istanbul metro map. Istanbul metro is open from 6:15 to midnight, there are currently two lines on the European side. Unfortunately, these two lines are not connected yet. There is also a line on the Asian shore but it is not of great interest to you because it is not connected to Sabiha Gökçen Airport yet.

 

Atatürk airport – Aksaray (M1): This metro line mainly allowed tourists to get to the center of Istanbul from the old airport on the European shore – Atatürk Airport – via Yenikapı station to reach the M2 metro as you can see in istanbul metro map. From now on, Atatürk Airport only accepts cargo and VIP passenger flights. As the new Istanbul airport (IST) is not served by the metro yet, this line is not essential for walking in the city of Istanbul.

 

Yenikapi-Hacıosman (M2): It is the longest metro line in Istanbul and the one you will use the most as its shown in istanbul metro map. This is the one you need the most during your stay. Since the beginning of the year, this istanbul metro line has been lengthened, it is now possible for example to get to the old city from Taksim Square and more. This is especially useful for businessmen residing in the district of Levent, or for travelers who have chosen to reside in more Turkish and less touristy areas like Nisantasi. Taksim Square is now only 2 stop Eminönü district where the spice market is located.

 

Marmaray: After long years of work, the European side and the Asian side are now connected by the istanbul metro which passes under the Bosphorus as its mentioned in istanbul metro map. Marmaray metro line allows you to go to the Asian shores from Yenikapı or Sirkeci. Two stops from the Asian side are Üsküdar and Ayrılık Çesmesi. You can use the istanbul metro M4 to get to the Kadıköy district.