Is There Uber In Turkey? Yes. Well, Kind Of…

Is There Uber In Turkey? Yes.

Well, Kind Of.

Uber is available in Turkey, specifically in three major areas, making it a viable option for anyone visiting Turkey, including Istanbul. Uber drivers in these regions provide an alternative to regular taxis and public transportation systems.

If you are visiting Turkey, you will want to know how to get around quickly. You can definitely use public transport or taxis, but what about Uber?

Uber is widely available in many countries worldwide but is not so commonly used in Türkiye. The reason is mainly down to the fact that public transport in Turkey is very affordable and high quality.

It runs on time, and there are plenty of choices, especially in Istanbul.

What You Need To Know About Uber In Türkiye

Uber operates in major cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara. This expansion into the Turkish market, particularly after an Istanbul court’s decision in 2021, marked a significant development.

Uber vehicles in Turkey include different types, such as standard yellow taxis, which are a good option for solo travelers or smaller groups, and Uber XL-size vans, suitable for larger groups.

If you want to use Uber, or you come across a situation when an Uber is the best option, the service is available in

1. Istanbul
2. Izmir
3. Ankara

In Turkey, There Are Three Different Uber Vehicle Types

• the turquoise taxis are in the mid-priced range, and the
• black taxis or minibusses are the most expensive type, while
• the standard yellow taxis sometimes work under the Uber guise, and these offer the lowest price

You don’t have to use the taxi app for a yellow Uber taxi. The only difference is that if the taxi is an Uber taxi, it may cost slightly more than a regular one. However, the app can only book turquoise Ubers and black minibus Ubers.

When Uber Is Better Than Taking Public Transport

During peak times, especially in city centers, finding a regular yellow taxi can be challenging.

Uber offers a convenient alternative with a fixed price, making it a great option for those unfamiliar with the local language or public transportation system. Moreover, Uber’s presence in cities like Istanbul includes airport transfers, which is particularly useful for those arriving at Istanbul airport for the first time.

There are certain times of day when hailing a cab on the street or trying to find a taxi office is literally impossible. For that reason, Uber is the next obvious choice if you want to avoid public transport.

Uber is safe to use, and as it runs the same way, i.e., via the app, if you have any problems, you contact Uber themselves, and the issue will be resolved.

As for regular public transport, such as buses, sometimes these aren’t available, e.g., at night. If you’re trying to get back to your hotel after a night out, you may struggle to find a bus, and even if you do, it may not be the safest option to use if it’s incredibly late and you’re on your own. In that case, an Uber is a much safer choice.

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How To Pay For Your Uber In Türkiye

The payment method for Uber in Turkey is versatile. Users can pay with cash, credit cards, or digital wallets. It’s always a good idea to confirm the payment method before starting your taxi ride.

You pay for your Uber in Turkey exactly as you do everywhere else. You can pay by:

• Cash
• Credit, or debit card
• In most cases, you can also use Google Pay, Apple Pay, and PayPal

Note: If you decide to pay cash, make sure you pay the amount stated on the app. Taxi drivers can sometimes try to scam/trick you to pay more than the fare shown.

Alternatives To Uber In Türkiye

While Uber is widely recognized internationally, in Turkey, especially in bustling cities like Istanbul, locals often prefer using homegrown apps like BiTaksi and iTaksi. These apps offer similar ride-hailing services but come with a few notable differences that might make them more appealing to those who are familiar with the local landscape.

BiTaksi

Popularity and Usage: BiTaksi is one of the most popular taxi apps in Turkey, especially in Istanbul and Ankara. It’s widely used by locals due to its user-friendly interface and reliability.

Vehicle Options: Like Uber, BiTaksi offers a range of vehicle types, from standard yellow taxis to more spacious options. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice whether you’re traveling solo or with a group.

Payment Methods: One of the key features of BiTaksi is its flexibility in payment options. You can choose to pay via the app using a credit/debit card, or opt for cash payment directly to the driver. This is particularly convenient if you prefer to avoid digital transactions or if your card isn’t accepted for some reason.

Cost Efficiency: Generally, BiTaksi fares are slightly cheaper than Uber, making it a preferred option for budget-conscious travelers. The fare is calculated before your journey begins, so there are no surprises at the end of the ride.

Language and Accessibility: BiTaksi’s app is available in English, which makes it accessible for non-Turkish speakers. This is a significant advantage for tourists who may not be fluent in Turkish.

iTaksi

Government Backed: iTaksi is an app developed by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, which adds a layer of trust and reliability for users. It’s particularly popular among locals who prefer using services backed by the local government.

Unique Payment Feature: A standout feature of iTaksi is its integration with the Istanbul Kart, a prepaid card widely used for public transportation in Istanbul. This means you can use your Istanbul Kart to pay for taxi rides, simplifying the payment process if you’re already using the card for other forms of transport.

Availability: While iTaksi is primarily focused on Istanbul, its reach is expanding, and it’s a solid alternative to BiTaksi and Uber, especially in areas where these services might not be as readily available.

Pricing and Convenience: Like BiTaksi, iTaksi offers upfront pricing, so you know the fare before your ride begins. However, one thing to note is that iTaksi fares can sometimes be slightly higher than BiTaksi, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Comparative Overview

Availability: Uber is available in major cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara, but in smaller towns, you might struggle to find an Uber. In contrast, BiTaksi and iTaksi are more ingrained in the local transport system, especially in Istanbul.

Pricing: Uber generally tends to be more expensive than both BiTaksi and iTaksi, particularly during peak hours or in high-demand areas. Both local apps offer a more predictable and often cheaper alternative.

Safety and Security: All three apps provide a level of security and transparency through their apps, but locals might trust BiTaksi and iTaksi more due to their long-standing presence and local roots.

Ease of Use for Tourists: While Uber might be more familiar to international travelers, BiTaksi and iTaksi offer equally intuitive interfaces and additional payment options that cater well to both locals and tourists.

BiTaksi And iTaksi Apps

You can find both BiTaksi and iTaksi apps in Google Play and Apple Store for free download. 

Additional Insights On Uber In Türkiye

The introduction of Uber and similar ride-hailing services has stirred discussions about unfair competition between Istanbul’s taxi drivers and traditional taxi services.

Regular yellow taxi drivers, particularly those operating around popular destinations like Istanbul airport, have expressed concerns over unfair advantage and regulatory issues.

Uber Turkey, catering to different needs, offers a more luxurious ride in certain vehicle types, which can be a better service option during peak hours. Despite these discussions, Uber’s fastest-growing market remains a convenient transportation option for both locals and tourists.

Conclusion

Whether you’re considering a quick trip within the city center or need an airport transfer, Uber in Turkey offers a range of options. From standard yellow taxis to larger vehicles, the service caters to different groups and preferences, making it a viable choice for first-time visitors and regular Uber users alike.