Here is all you need to know about Turkish train travel. We have information on Turkey train ticket options & more.
If you want to get around Türkiye, there are a few different options available to you. That’s handy because Turkey is HUGE. It’s a much bigger country than people realize, and if you want to see all the good stuff, you need to think about how you’re going to get from A to B.
Your options are: driving, bus, domestic flights, private transfers, and of course, Turkish railways.
Now, Turkish trains are the lesser-known option as most people love to travel by bus, but the railway system in Turkey is very high quality and is expanding all the time. So, it’s possible that in the coming years, there will be more train connections between major towns and cities.
The beauty of traveling by train in Turkey is that you get to see so much of the country’s stunning landscapes as you travel. You also save time because you’re not going to get stuck in traffic – which is the big cities can be a gigantic time waster. However, do be aware that some rail journeys can take longer than driving, yet prices tend to be a little less or at least comparable.
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About The Turkish Rail Network
TCDD is the company responsible for train travel in Turkey, and this covers regular trains and the high-speed train network. Both are still developing, so as before, the hope is that in a few years, more places will be connected by train.
At the moment, the high-speed Turkish railways network only connects eight major cities in Türkiye:
Regular trains also connect other cities, such as Izmir to Denizli, which passes the must-see stops of Ephesus and Pamukkale. This could be a useful connection if you’re planning on visiting either of these very famous touristic spots.
On a high-speed train, you can pre-book the carriage you want at the time of paying for your ticket (more on that shortly). Carriages vary according to comfort level and luxury.
Standard Carriage
The most basic choice is the standard carriage, which is still very comfortable and offers plenty of legroom. These tickets are obviously lower in price.
Business Carriage
You can then choose a business carriage, which has more legroom and slightly more luxury
First-Class Ticket
Or, you can opt for a first-class ticket, which really does what it says on the tin.
All these train options have food carts available for snacks and refreshments.
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How To Buy Turkey Train Tickets
Due to the fact that the train network in Türkiye isn’t as extensive as it could be and it’s still developing, that means there are only so many tickets available. Add to that the high comfort level and convenience of traveling by train, and you can imagine that most tickets sell out in advance.
The best starting point is to research train times on the TCDD website. You can purchase your ticket directly on the site, or you can go to the nearest train station and book your ticket in person by paying with a card or cash.
It’s not the best idea to purchase your ticket on the day; as before, tickets sell out, especially if you’re going for a high-demand route. So, try to book at least a few days before for peace of mind.
What Types Of Turkey Train Tickets Are There
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.
Costs Of Trains In Turkey
We’ll skip this as by the time you read it, the prices will be outdated – the price increases in Turkey get higher by the day sadly.
Is It Worth Travelling By Train In Turkey
There are many reasons to consider traveling by train in Turkey. The scenery is beautiful, the experience is unique, and it can be a great way to save money. The first thing to consider is the scenery. Train travel in Turkey offers some of the most stunning views in the world. The landscapes vary from snow-capped mountains to sandy beaches, and there is always something new to see. This is one of the main reasons that people choose to travel by train – it’s a great way to see the country.
Another reason to take the train is for the experience. It’s not like any other mode of transportation, and it can be a lot of fun. You get to meet new people, see new places, and learn about different cultures without having to drive. It’s an adventure that you won’t soon forget.
Finally, traveling by train can be a great way to save money. If you plan ahead, you can often find discounts on tickets and accommodation. This means that you can explore more of Türkiye without breaking the bank.
All things considered, yes. If you can find a train service that runs between destinations close to where you are and where you want to go, traveling by train is a great idea. Costs are relatively low, comfort is high, and you’ll get to see so much scenery as you’re passing by.