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.

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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.

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 a popular choice, there are several Uber alternatives in the Turkish market. These include local apps like BiTaksi and iTaksi, offering similar services with a range of vehicles, from regular taxis to larger vehicles for groups.

Most locals in Turkey, especially in Istanbul, don’t tend to use Uber as much as BiTaksi and iTaksi. These are two alternative apps that run in a very similar way to Uber and are a little cheaper.

You pay your fare before your journey begins, as the overall price is calculated before, and you get to see it, pay it, and know that your car is on its way. You can, however, pay in cash to the driver once they arrive, if that is preferable for you.

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.