Nostalgic Tram Istanbul
Ride through history on Istanbul's charming Nostalgic Trams, a vibrant red icon on İstiklal Street and a scenic route on the Asian side.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed ride
Nostalgic Tram Istanbul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed ride
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride through history on Istanbul's charming Nostalgic Trams, a vibrant red icon on İstiklal Street and a scenic route on the Asian side.
"A must-do for a taste of old Istanbul, these trams offer a delightful journey through iconic streets. 
🎯 Get an Istanbulkart
Essential for seamless travel on trams and other public transport. Load it up for easy hopping on and off.
🚶♀️ Walk İstiklal Street
The tram is great, but walking İstiklal Street allows you to explore shops and cafes at your own pace.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
İstiklal Street Tram
Beyoğlu District
Ride this iconic red tram along the bustling İstiklal Street, a vibrant hub of shops and cafes.
Kadiköy-Moda Tram
Asian Side (Kadiköy)
Experience the charm of Istanbul's Asian side on this scenic tram route connecting Moda and Kadıköy.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Istanbul's Trams
Best Areas to Explore
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Get an Istanbulkart
Essential for seamless travel on trams and other public transport. Load it up for easy hopping on and off.
🚶♀️ Walk İstiklal Street
The tram is great, but walking İstiklal Street allows you to explore shops and cafes at your own pace.
📸 Capture the Red Tram
The vibrant red trams are incredibly photogenic, especially against the backdrop of Istanbul's streets.
💰 Avoid Taxi Scams
Taxis can overcharge tourists. Use the trams or other public transport for a more reliable and affordable experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get an Istanbulkart
Essential for seamless travel on trams and other public transport. Load it up for easy hopping on and off.
🚶♀️ Walk İstiklal Street
The tram is great, but walking İstiklal Street allows you to explore shops and cafes at your own pace.
📸 Capture the Red Tram
The vibrant red trams are incredibly photogenic, especially against the backdrop of Istanbul's streets.
💰 Avoid Taxi Scams
Taxis can overcharge tourists. Use the trams or other public transport for a more reliable and affordable experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Nostalgic Trams a charming and essential part of the Istanbul experience, offering a delightful way to see key areas like İstiklal Street and Kadıköy. While some note crowds can be an issue, the historical ambiance and scenic routes are consistently praised. It's a must-do for a taste of old Istanbul.
"Nice tram ride of just under a mile down from Taksim to Tunel ( or vice versa) if you don’t fancy walking the full length of Istikal Street. As a Brit, it is annoying that people do not queue orderly so it can become a bit of a free for all to get on the tram if there are a lot of people waiting for it!"
Toxteth O' Grady
"A pleasant experience, lucky to have gotten a seat on the tram, I recommend it❤️❤️❤️"
Andrei Tirziman
"A small tram from the turn of the 20th century that travels up and down Istiklal Street, serving as a popular tourist attraction while adding charm and energy to the row of magnificent historical buildings that line the street."
Simeon Goranov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nostalgic Tramways are integrated into Istanbul's public transport system. The European side tram runs along İstiklal Street, accessible via Taksim Square. The Asian side tram connects Kadıköy and Moda. You can reach these areas using the metro or ferries.
Yes, an Istanbulkart is highly recommended for riding the nostalgic trams. It's a rechargeable card that works on most public transport in Istanbul, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to pay fares.
Avoid airport taxis which can be expensive. Consider the Havaist bus service or pre-arranged private transport. For a budget-friendly option, the metro system is also available, though it may require transfers. +1
To minimize the risk of being overcharged, it's advised to use taxis found at designated taxi stops rather than hailing them randomly on the street.
For first-time visitors, areas like Sultanahmet, Fatih, and Beyoğlu are generally recommended for their proximity to attractions and safety. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The fare for the Nostalgic Tram is typically the same as a standard public transport ride in Istanbul, payable with an Istanbulkart. Check current fares for the most up-to-date pricing.
The nostalgic trams generally operate throughout the day, but hours can vary. It's best to check the latest schedules, especially if you plan to ride early in the morning or late in the evening.
While some public transport allows cash payments, using an Istanbulkart is the most efficient and often required method for trams. It's advisable to have your card topped up before boarding.
The Istanbulkart is the primary travel card for tourists. It offers flexibility and can be used across various modes of transport, making it a cost-effective option for exploring the city.
The İstiklal Street tram typically starts near Taksim Square, making it a convenient point to begin your journey along this historic avenue.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length of İstiklal Street offers great photo opportunities with the red tram. On the Asian side, the coastal areas of Kadıköy and Moda provide scenic backdrops.
During peak hours, crowds can make it challenging to get unobstructed photos. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can improve your chances.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for tram photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities for capturing the tram's vibrant color.
Experiment with low angles to emphasize the tram's size and presence, or shoot from a slightly elevated position to capture more of the street scene.
Yes, you can take photos from inside the tram. Capturing the interior details and the view through the windows can offer a unique perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed experience, the Kadıköy-Moda tram on the Asian side offers a pleasant journey with beautiful views. It's generally less crowded than the İstiklal tram, making it easier to manage with young children. Remember to keep an eye on your belongings and ensure children stay seated during the journey.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine tram rides with walking to discover hidden gems and local eateries. For example, after riding the İstiklal tram, explore the side streets for more affordable dining options. Similarly, on the Asian side, the Kadıköy market area offers a variety of budget-friendly food stalls and local shops.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Two Nostalgic Tramways
+1The second line operates on the Asian side of Istanbul, connecting the vibrant neighborhoods of Kadıköy and Moda. This tram offers a more relaxed journey, winding through charming streets and along the scenic coastline. It's a fantastic way to explore the distinct atmosphere of Istanbul's Asian side, away from the main tourist hubs.
Both trams are more than just a mode of transport; they are living pieces of Istanbul's history, offering a nostalgic journey through the city's diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. Riding them provides a unique perspective that complements the more modern public transport options available.
Navigating Istanbul's Public Transport
When it comes to taxis, be cautious. As highlighted by travelers, taxi drivers may try to overcharge tourists. It's recommended to use taxis from official stands or to use ride-sharing apps if available and preferred. For longer distances or airport transfers, services like Havaist buses offer a more reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis.
Beyond the trams, Istanbul's metro and ferry systems are efficient ways to cover larger distances. Understanding the network and utilizing your Istanbulkart will make exploring the city much smoother, allowing you to easily access areas like Taksim Square for the İstiklal tram or Kadıköy for the Asian side tram.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit