Getting around Istanbul as a buyer: why the metro line sets your flat’s value
In short
In Istanbul, being close to a rail line (metro, Marmaray or tram) or to the Metrobüs decides much of your daily comfort and your property’s value, because the roads are congested at rush hour. The network includes many metro lines, the Metrobüs on the motorway, Marmaray under the Bosphorus and ferries between the two shores, all on one card (Istanbulkart). The city has two airports: Istanbul Airport in the European north and Sabiha Gökçen in the Asian east, each served by a metro line.
Written by Abdulhadi Bukhari, Real estate consultant
Last reviewed October 7, 2026
In Istanbul, distance is measured not in kilometres but in rush-hour minutes. A flat ten kilometres from your work but close to the metro can be nearer than one five kilometres away that depends on the road. That is why choosing a property in Istanbul starts with the transport map.
What the network includes
Metro and tram
Many metro lines on both sides, historic and modern trams, and short cable cars and funiculars in some places.
Metrobüs
Fast buses in a dedicated lane on the motorway, from Beylikdüzü in the west to the Asian side over the Bosphorus Bridge. See the Beylikdüzü and Büyükçekmece guide.
Marmaray
A commuter railway that crosses under the Bosphorus and runs along the coast on both sides.
Ferries
Between the two shores and the Bosphorus piers: a comfortable and beautiful way to commute every day.
Roads
Three Bosphorus bridges and the Eurasia Tunnel for cars, with heavy traffic at rush hour.
The two airports
- Istanbul Airport (IST): in the European north, served by a metro line.
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): in the Asian east, served by a metro line from Kadıköy.
Istanbulkart
One card for all public transport, topped up at stations and in apps.
Transport and property value
- Near a rail line: stronger rental demand and an easier resale.
- Existing lines, not promised ones: lines under construction can be delayed.
- Your daily route: time your trip to work or school at rush hour, not at midnight.
- Noise: being right next to the motorway is not an advantage.
Example districts and lines
- Asian side: Marmaray, metro and ferries. See the Asian side guide.
- Başakşehir: a metro line. See the guide to living in Başakşehir.
- West of the city: the Metrobüs. See the Esenyurt guide.
The bottom line
In Istanbul, buy near an existing rail line or the Metrobüs, time your daily trip at rush hour, and do not base your decision on a promised line. It saves you hours every week and protects your property’s value. For prices, read the Istanbul price guide.
Contact us and we will suggest properties near the transport lines you need.
Sources
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