Antalya, a city on Turkey’s southern coast, is known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture. But what about its public transportation? The city offers a variety of options for getting around, including trams, buses, minibuses (dolmu?), and taxis. These systems are run by the Antalya Metropolitan Municipality and private companies. For expats living in Antalya, it’s entirely possible to live comfortably without a car, relying on these public transportation systems and walking. However, the convenience and necessity of a car can depend on your specific needs and lifestyle.
Trams
The Antalya Tram, also known as Antray, is a modern and efficient light rail system that connects the city center with the suburbs. It’s a safe and reliable mode of transportation, operating from early morning until midnight. The trams are clean, air-conditioned, and equipped with free Wi-Fi. They are also wheelchair accessible. A single journey costs 3.20 Turkish Lira (approximately $0.40), and tickets can be purchased at kiosks at each station. The tram system is particularly useful for expats living in the city center or near the tram line, as it provides easy access to shopping centers, hospitals, and the airport.
Buses
Antalya’s bus system, run by the Antalya Metropolitan Municipality, is extensive and covers most areas of the city. The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with free Wi-Fi. They operate from early morning until late at night, with reduced service on weekends and public holidays. The fare is 3.20 Turkish Lira (approximately $0.40) per journey, and tickets can be purchased on board or at bus stations. The bus system is a good option for expats living in areas not served by the tram, although it can be crowded during peak hours.
Minibuses (Dolmu?)
For shorter distances within the city, minibuses, or dolmu?, are a popular option. These are small buses that operate on fixed routes but without fixed schedules. They stop wherever passengers want to get on or off. The fare varies depending on the distance, but it’s usually between 2 and 5 Turkish Lira (approximately $0.25-$0.65). Dolmu? are a convenient and flexible mode of transportation, but they can be crowded and may not be the best option for those with mobility issues.
Taxis
Taxis are plentiful in Antalya and can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone or app. They are metered, and the fare is based on the distance traveled. Taxis are a convenient option for getting around, especially for trips that are not well-served by public transportation. However, they are more expensive than other modes of transportation, and traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
In conclusion, Antalya’s public transportation system is diverse and well-developed, making it possible for expats to live comfortably without a car. However, the best mode of transportation for you will depend on your specific needs and lifestyle. Whether you prefer the convenience of the tram, the flexibility of the dolmu?, or the comfort of a taxi, Antalya has you covered.
Expats talk about Public Transportation in Antalya
“here in Istanbul you do not really need a car. There are plenty of public transport facilities, with costs very reasonable. This includes, buses, taxis, metro and ferries. Long distance coach journeys are also very cheap with the coaches very comfortable. On all my years of using public transport I have never had any safety concerns,” commented an expat living in Antalya.
