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.
Uber, the popular ride-hailing app, has had a turbulent history in Turkey. While Uber is currently available in some major cities in Turkey, the service has been banned multiple times due to backlash from local taxi companies. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Uber’s availability in Turkey, the different types of Uber rides, payment methods, safety concerns, and alternative options.
Overview of Uber in Turkey
Uber first launched in Istanbul in 2014, but was met with protests from local taxi drivers who felt it was unfair competition. After multiple legal battles, Uber suspended service in Turkey in 2019. However, in late 2020, an Istanbul court overturned the ban and Uber was allowed to resume operations.
As of 2023, Uber is available in 3 cities in Turkey
- Istanbul
- Ankara
- Izmir
However, the fate of Uber in Turkey remains uncertain due to ongoing conflicts with local taxi companies. Uber could face further legal challenges that may force them to pull out of the Turkish market once again.
Types of Uber Rides in Turkey
The types of Uber rides available in Turkey include
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Uber Taxi: The standard Uber service in Turkey connects you with local yellow or turquoise taxis. This is the most commonly available Uber option.
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Uber XL Uber XL provides larger vehicles that can accommodate up to 6 passengers
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Uber Black: The premium Uber Black service offers high-end black cars and professional drivers.
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Uber Van: Minivans and other large vehicles that seat up to 8 passengers.
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Uber Moto: Uber Moto offers quick trips around the city on the back of a motorcycle.
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Uber English: With Uber English, you can request an English-speaking driver. This is useful for tourists.
Payment for Uber in Turkey
You can pay for Uber rides in Turkey using these methods:
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Cash: Pay your driver directly in cash at the end of each ride.
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Credit/Debit Card: Add your card details to the Uber app for quick and easy payments.
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Apple Pay: Use Apple Pay to seamlessly pay for your Uber trip.
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Google Pay: Android users can scan their phone to pay with Google Pay.
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PayPal: Link your PayPal account to pay from your Uber app wallet.
Tips are not required for Uber rides in Turkey, but are certainly appreciated by drivers.
Safety Using Uber in Turkey
While Uber offers some safety features, using ridesharing services in foreign countries still comes with risks. Here are some tips for staying safe with Uber in Turkey:
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Confirm the vehicle and license plate before getting in.
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Share your trip details and location with a friend.
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Enable GPS tracking and share your ETA.
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Use only the front seat and wear your seatbelt.
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Report issues and inappropriate behavior to Uber immediately.
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Avoid using Uber at night in unfamiliar areas.
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Research your route beforehand to avoid scams.
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Carry your own mobile data so you don’t lose connection.
Alternatives to Uber in Turkey
Some rideshare alternatives used in Turkey include:
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BiTaksi: A popular Turkish ride-hailing app similar to Uber.
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iTaksi: Another Turkish app offering taxi-hailing services.
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Public Transportation: Cities like Istanbul have trams, buses, trains, and ferries.
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Regular Taxis: You can still hail traditional street taxis in most areas.
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Private Transfers: Arrange rides with a professional chauffeur service.
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Rental Cars: Useful for trips between cities or to remote sites.
While cheaper, local apps like BiTaksi have been associated with taxi scams targeting tourists. Public transportation is very affordable but can be challenging to navigate. When in doubt, Uber still remains a convenient and recognizable option for foreigners visiting Turkey.
The Bottom Line
Uber availability in Turkey remains inconsistent due to disputes with local taxi companies. Currently, Uber is active in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, providing rides through regular taxis, private cars, motorcycles, and minivans. Payment can be made by cash, credit card, mobile payment apps, or PayPal. While generally safe, it’s important to take precautions when using rideshares in Turkey. With alternatives like public transit, traditional taxis, rental cars, and local apps, travelers have a few options to get around, but Uber is the most straightforward for visitors.
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.
Istanbul Taxi and Uber Troubles! Steer Clear!
FAQ
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Why did Turkey ban Uber?
Well after the globally-loved taxi app was introduced in Turkey, it began making an unexpected impact on the local taxi operations of the country. Naturally, this led to the local taxi service communities ( Turkey’s United Taxi Drivers Association) teaming up to ban Uber from Turkey. It was successful for a while.
What Uber vehicles are available in Turkey?
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.
Is Uber A Good Company in Turkey?
Historically, the company Uber has had a rough time in this Turkish city. Uber first launched in 2014 and received mostly positive feedback. Locals and foreigners started to love its convenience and began to favor Uber over traditional yellow taxis of the city.
Are there uber alternatives in Turkey?
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.