Turkey
General train travel information for TURKEY. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
In 1856, construction of the first railroad in Turkey began, and by 1922, more than 8,000 km of railroads had been built. At the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, there were about 3,660 km of railroad lines, which continued to expand. At the end of the 20th century, railroads became relevant again and several major projects were introduced, including the construction of high-speed lines and the planning of 5,000 km of new tracks. Turkish State Railways (TCDD) is planning a reorganization with the separation of passenger and freight traffic.
General Information and Statistics
The Turkish State Railways operate most trains in the country. In 2019, almost 150 million people travelled by train in Turkey. Turkey has about 850 railway stations.
There are a total of 12532 km of railroads in Turkey, of which 3304 km are electrified.
What connections to other countries there are.
Turkey has daily international trains from Istanbul to Bulgaria and Romania.
Are trains fast in Turkey in general? How much time to cross the country?
In 2009, Turkey began offering high-speed rail transportation services under the name "Yüksek Hızlı Tren" or "YHT", which translates as "High-Speed Train". These trains can reach speeds of up to 250 km/h (and in some sections on the Ankara-Konya railway line, up to 300 km/h)
The high-speed train (YHT) between Istanbul and Ankara takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.
The high-speed train (YHT) between Ankara and Konya takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Traveling from Istanbul to Konya by high-speed train typically takes around 4 to 5 hours.
What railway companies are available?
In addition to TCDD, there are also plans to introduce private train operators on certain railway lines in Turkey, allowing for increased competition and potential expansion of rail services.
What train types are available in Turkey
The types of passenger service are:
High-speed (Hızlı Tren): High-speed rail services and TCDD's premier service.
Mainline (Anahat): Intercity trains operating between major cities.
International (Uluslararası): Trains operating on international routes, toward Europe or the Middle East.
Regional (Bölgesel): Trains operating within their respective districts.
Commuter (Banliyö): Commuter trains, currently operating in Ankara and İstanbul.
Are there high-speed-trains available?
The high-speed train service in Turkey is known as "Yüksek Hızlı Tren" or "YHT" in Turkish. These trains operate on specific high-speed railway lines and offer faster travel times between major cities.
Most important train stations / hubs.
The main railway hubs in Turkey are Ankara, Istanbul, Konya, Izmir, Eskisehir.
Websites to buy train tickets for Turkey?
https://ebilet.tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr/
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Turkey?
TCDD has its own app where you can buy tickets.
Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Turkey?
You can buy train tickets at many train stations from a ticket agent or a Trenmatik ticket machine; at an authorized Turkish post office (PTT); or from a good travel agency.
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
You can purchase tickets, available online, also through the call center (444 82 33). English-speaking staff is available.
Return the ticket.
The change/refund rules are as follows:
A maximum of 3 changes are possible on HST tickets. Refunds are possible only in case of purchase of a "flexible ticket" with additional payment.
For mainline train tickets, a maximum of 3 changes and/or refunds are possible.
No changes or refunds are allowed on regional trains.
It is possible to change/refund the ticket, if it is allowed, 30 minutes before the departure of the train (15 minutes at the departure station).
Refunds, if allowed, are subject to a reduction of %10 before the departure date and 20% on the day of departure.
In case of missing connecting trains due to a TCDD train, substitutions/refunds are accepted for all types of trains without reduction.
Train ticket prices
TCDD offers discounts on round-trip tickets as well as age discounts. For frequent travelers, TCDD also offers travel passes (TrenKart).
Abonman is for passengers who travel daily between two stations on mainline/regional trains (e.g. for daily commuting).
Binis paketi is for travelers who travel between two stations on high-speed trains very frequently (at least 5 times in 2 months).
You can buy a ticket from Ankara to Istanbul for only 9.75 €.
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
Tickets for international trains can only be bought at the railway stations, can't find actual centers.
Where to find timetables.
Find train schedules on www.tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train
You can buy your Turkish train ticket just before you travel, but it is wise to book your seat(s) if possible a day or two before your trip.
On holidays, it is very important to book tickets in advance to secure the seat or compartment on the train you prefer.
For sleeper coaches, it is recommended that you book your seats a few days in advance if possible. If you can book a seat a week or two in advance, do so, just to be sure.
Types of tickets.
There are two ticket types – standard and flexible.
A standard ticket: is paid in full at the time of booking and cannot be refunded. However, you can change or cancel your ticket up to three times before your journey.
A flexible ticket: offers you the option to be refunded, make changes, or even suspend your ticket up to three times. This is a good option if you want to book your ticket ahead of time to avoid disappointment, but your travel plans aren’t set in stone yet. Remember, you will pay a little more for a flexible ticket as a result.
Interrail/Eurail Passes in Turkey
Interrail/Eurail Passes are available in Turkey
The best option is to buy your Eurail or Interrail Pass on the official website using their app.
Saver price.
There is a 20% discount on round-trip tickets.
You can also save money by purchasing a Train Tour Card, which entitles you to unlimited travel on trains for 30 days.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
There is a 20% discount on round-trip tickets.
Flexible tickets.
Flexible ticket: gives you the option to refund your money, make changes or even suspend your ticket up to three times. This is a good option if you want to book your ticket in advance to avoid disappointment, but your travel plans are still undetermined. Keep in mind that in this case you will pay a little more for a flexible ticket.
Rules of boarding.
When traveling long distances, you must have your ID card with you.
Discounts for group travel.
TCDD Tasimacilik is offering 15% discounts on express and mainline trains for groups of at least 12 people.
Age groups and discounts.
The following types of discounts are also available:
Children up to 6 years old can travel for free provided that a seat is not requested
50% for passengers 7-12 years old
15% for passengers 13-26 years old
15% for passengers 60+ years old
50% for passengers 65+ years old
Age limitations for minors.
A minor can travel to Turkey without his parents only if he has his own foreign passport and consent of both adults for such travel.
Handicapped passengers.
Intercity Trains
The opening of high-speed train lines between Istanbul, Ankara and Konya has improved travel accessibility among those cities as the trains, platforms and stations are up to European standards.
Older, traditional intercity trains, however, are still boarded by narrow steps, not through platform-level wide doors. Major stations may have ramps (initially installed to facilitate baggage handling) or curb cuts, but smaller ones may not.
Seat reservations in trains in Turkey.
High speed and main line train tickets are valid only for the given date, train, wagon and seat number. In regional trains, there's no seat reservation, and ticket is only valid on the day of sale. In some routes, trains are full and you may have to travel on foot.
Comfort classes on the trains.
The high-speed train offers two classes of service: Economy and Business. Business class provides a more luxurious experience, with more comfortable seating options. Economy class, on the other hand, offers a standard seating arrangement. Additionally, Business class passengers are treated to special amenities.
Sleeping-cars (yatakli wagon in Turkish). Private 1 & 2-bed air-conditioned compartments with washbasin.
Couchettes (kuşet in Turkish). Shared 4-bunk air-conditioned compartments.
Food and drink in trains / train restaurant in Turkey.
There used to be railcar restaurants, but no up-to-date information is available.
Night trains in Turkey?
The night trains in Turkey, TCDD, are great trains. They have a variety of sleeping arrangements. For example, simple straight seats or shared compartments. Traveling on night trains has a certain charm.
Within Turkey, you can reach places located all over the country. You can visit amazing places like Ankara, Ani, Istanbul and Cappadocia.
All overnight trains require a sleeper supplement at Interrail fares.
Important train routes in Turkey.
Ankara - Istanbul / from 4:01 hours / from 8.74 EUR / every 60 to 90 minutes
Ankara - Konya /from 1:46 hours / from 4.90 EUR / 6 trains a day
Ankara - Izmir / from 12:37 hours / from 9.90 EUR / 2 trains a day
Ankara - Kars / 26:32 hours / from 9.34 EUR / 1 train a day
Ankara - Sivas / from 2:33 hours / from 10.50 EUR / 7 trains a day
International train routes.
Turkey has daily international trains from Istanbul to Bulgaria and Romania.
Tourist / scenic routes in Turkey.
Turkey offers several scenic train routes that are popular among tourists for their breathtaking views and unique experiences. Here are some of the most notable tourist and scenic train routes in Turkey:
• Eastern Express (Doğu Ekspresi): This iconic route runs between Ankara and Kars in Eastern Anatolia. The journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and beautiful plateaus.
• Pamukkale Express: Operating between Denizli and Eskişehir, this train passes through the stunning landscapes of the Aegean region. It offers views of fertile plains, olive groves, and the famous travertine terraces of Pamukkale.
• Toros Express: The Toros Express travels between Adana and Konya, providing a scenic journey through the Taurus Mountains, with captivating views of canyons and gorges.
• Lake Van Express: Running from Ankara to Tatvan on the eastern shores of Lake Van, this route takes passengers through the picturesque Anatolian countryside and offers glimpses of the largest lake in Turkey.
• Izmir Blue Train: Operating between İzmir and Ankara, the Izmir Blue Train showcases the picturesque landscapes of Western Anatolia.
These scenic train routes allow tourists to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Turkey, making train travel an exciting and memorable way to explore the country.
Luggage information.
Brief information on luggage on trains in Turkey:
1. Cabin luggage (small hand luggage): Passengers with a valid ticket for Turkish State Railways (TCDD) trains can carry cabin luggage in the following sizes free of charge on High-Speed Trains (YHT):
• No more than 1 item up to 65x50x35 cm in size,
• No more than 2 items up to 55x40x23 cm each.
2. Large luggage (battal boy): Passengers may carry large baggage at an additional cost, in the following sizes:
For the first item larger than 65x50x35 cm, a flat fee of 70.00 TL,
For the second item larger than 65x50x35 cm - a fixed fee of 185.00 TL.
The total weight of luggage for each passenger on Anahat and Bölgesel Trenler (intercity and regional trains) must not exceed 30 kg.
Certain types of baggage that may cause danger, inconvenience to other passengers or damage to company property are prohibited.
Additional fines may be levied for baggage that does not comply with these rules or is dangerous, and in some cases the passenger may be diverted from the train without the right to a refund.
Bicycle on the train.
Rail trains in Turkey offer the possibility of transporting bicycles to support green and healthy ways of traveling. On Banliyö Trenleri (suburban trains) and Marmaray Trenleri (trains under the Bosphorus), bicycles can be transported free of charge at all times except during peak hours. On YHT (High-Speed Train) and intercity trains, only folding bicycles are allowed in the carry-on baggage compartment and transportation is also free of charge.On intercity (Anahat) and regional (Bölgesel) trains in Turkey, folding bicycles that can fit in the luggage compartment are allowed to be carried free of charge with the passenger as cabin luggage. However, bicycles that cannot be folded are not allowed for transportation on these trains.
Ski or snowboard on the train.
No up-to-date information was found.
Luggage lockers on the stations in Turkey.
Turkish State Railways (TCDD) has done away with left-hand lockers at all of its stations, but has installed bright yellow lockers at several major stations.
Lost and Found Items.
Information on lost and found items was not found, but you can call or write to the post.
Tel. for inquiries (telephones for inquiries are open from 06.00 to 23.30).
TCDD TAŞIMACILIK AŞ Passenger Transportation Department Fax: 0312 311 13 06.
For inquiries and complaints: You can visit the Solution Center or contact cozum@tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr.
Pets on the trains.
You can bring your small pets - cats, dogs and songbirds! However, there are a few important conditions that must be met.
First, your pet must be placed in a designated cage or carrier that is no larger than the size of your knee. This limited size is necessary to make traveling comfortable for both you and your pet.
Secondly, make sure your pet is in good health and has had all necessary vaccinations, including rabies, within the last year. Providing a veterinary certificate or certificate confirming the health of your pet is mandatory.
So, if you meet all the above conditions and provide the necessary documents, you will be able to travel for free with your faithful friend! However, don't forget to buy a train ticket for your pet at a 15% discount from the full price, which is indicated in the "evcil hayvan" (pet) category. This way, you can enjoy the journey with your pet without having to worry about extra charges.
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