Istanbul taxi waiting charge and hourly rate
In Istanbul the meter charges by time while the car waits or crawls and by distance while it moves. Here are the figures and worked examples.
What is the waiting charge?
Under the 20 July 2026 tariff a yellow taxi has: opening fee ₺71.94, per km ₺47.92, waiting ₺598.90 per hour, minimum ₺230.
The meter counts time when the car stands or crawls (roughly below 12 km/h) and distance when it moves faster. Traffic, red lights and waiting for you therefore show up on the meter.
A taxi for 1, 2 or 3 hours: worked examples (estimates)
Each example is opening fee + distance + waiting time. The real amount depends on how the driving and waiting are split, on traffic and on tolls, which are added separately.
- 1 hour, 5 km driven + 55 min waiting: about ₺860
- 2 hours, 15 km driven + 105 min waiting: about ₺1,850
- 3 hours, 30 km driven + 150 min waiting: about ₺3,000
Sightseeing, shopping, hospital: how to book
Write your start point, the places you want to visit and the rough duration in the request. We plan it with you on WhatsApp at confirmation. We do not sell fixed package prices; the fare is what the meter shows.
Istanbul city taxi fares: popular rides
Waiting for you
If you want us to wait for you after an airport exit, a meeting or a hospital visit, tell us in advance. The waiting is charged on the meter at the hourly rate.
FAQ
What is the waiting charge for a taxi in Istanbul?
₺598.90 per hour for a yellow taxi (tariff of 20 July 2026). It runs while the car stands or moves very slowly.
How much is a taxi for one hour in Istanbul?
It depends on the driving and waiting; with 5 km driven and 55 minutes of waiting about ₺860. The final amount is on the meter.
Can I hire a taxi for a whole day of sightseeing?
We do not hire cars by the day, but the taxi can stay with you by the hour and the fare is what the meter shows.