How Services Operate in Turkey During Ramazan Bayram 2026
How Services Operate in Turkey During Ramazan Bayram 2026
Ramazan Bayram is one of the main religious holidays in Turkey, marking the end of the fasting month. During this period, the operating hours of transportation, government offices, and businesses change across the country, which is important to consider for both residents and tourists.
🚇 Public Transport in Istanbul
From March 20 to 22, rides on public transport are free when using a personalized İstanbulkart.
This applies to:
- Metro
- Metrobuses
- Buses
- Trams
- City ferries
🏥 Hospitals
During the holidays, only emergency departments (ACİL) and on-call services operate. Scheduled appointments and outpatient clinics will not be available.
💸 Banks and Government Offices
- March 20–22 – fully closed
- March 19 – operating on a shortened schedule
📦 Cargo and Delivery Services
Most services operate on a limited schedule. Full operations resume after the holiday.
🛒 Shops and Shopping Centers
- March 20 – open later than usual (around 12:00)
- March 21–22 – mostly standard working hours
"When planning trips or important tasks during Ramazan Bayram, it's recommended to consider the adjusted schedules of services and organizations in advance."
• public transport IST: free March 20–22 (personalized kart)
• hospitals: only emergency (ACİL)
• pharmacies: only nöbetçi eczane
• banks/gov: closed March 20–22
• shops: open later on March 20
• exchange offices: open in tourist areas
Enjoy the holiday, travel safely, and plan ahead for essential services.
