Free Public Transport in Türkiye on New Year's Day 2026
Nationwide Free Travel Details
According to a presidential decree published in the Official Gazette, all ministry-operated rail systems will operate free of charge from 00:00 to 23:59 on January 1. These include:
- Marmaray
- The Gayrettepe–Istanbul Airport–Arnavutköy metro line
- The Sirkeci–Kazlıçeşme rail line
- Başkentray in Ankara
- İZBAN in Izmir
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In addition to central government services, city-operated public transport systems in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir will also follow the traditional New Year practice of free travel.
Key Information for Istanbul: All municipal transport services — including IETT buses, Metro Istanbul lines, trams and Şehir Hatları ferries — will be free for passengers using personalized Istanbulkart cards.
Istanbul Expands Transport Services on New Year’s Eve
The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) has announced an extensive operational plan to manage the expected increase in passenger numbers on New Year’s Eve. From the evening of December 31 through the morning of January 1, the city will operate 680 additional services, including 370 bus trips and 310 Metrobus services.
To ensure uninterrupted overnight mobility, the following major metro lines will run 24/7:
- M1A, M1B, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, M7, M8 and M9
Tram lines T1, T3, T4 and T5, as well as funicular lines F1 and F4, will operate until 02:00 on January 1. Şehir Hatları ferries will add extra sailings depending on passenger demand.
Authorities also confirmed that reserve vehicles will be stationed at key transport hubs to respond quickly to areas with increased demand.
Traveler Tip: While services are enhanced, expect significant crowds. Plan your journey in advance, allow extra time, and keep your personal belongings secure in busy stations and vehicles.
Emergency Services on High Alert
To maintain public safety throughout the holiday period, municipal police, fire brigades and emergency medical teams will be deployed across the city.
- Fire and rescue units will remain fully staffed to respond to potential incidents.
- Ambulances will stay on standby at medical stations throughout the night.
- Municipal police teams will monitor public order from the night of December 31 through the morning of January 1 and take action in case of any violations.
Important Reminder: Celebrate responsibly. In case of any emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from medical, fire, or police services.
Summary of Key Points: Free public transport across Türkiye on Jan 1, 2026. Major Istanbul metros run 24/7 on New Year's Eve with 680 extra services. Emergency services are fully mobilized for public safety.
