Originally Posted by
smooth
I used pubic transportation to get from DT to the airport. It was unbelievably easy. I assume the same applies to the reverse route, from IST to DT hotel.
Take Metro from the airport to Zetinburnu station, walk a short distance to a different platform, transfer to the Tram line, and get off at Laleli-University stop, right in front of the hotel. IIRC, it took about 45 min. total to get from the hotel to the airport. Very easy and inexpensive.
Thanks for FTers' suggestion on transportation to DT Old Town.
I had a one-night stay at this property. Took the Metro/Tram to the hotel and Taxi back to the airport. As
smooth described, it is very easy and inexpensive for the Metro/Tram combo. Once out of the arrival hall, follow the direction to Metro. Go to the machine to get a token (2 LTR for Old Town) to get on the metro. Any train will do, no worry about which route. Get off at Zetinburnu station (6 stops) and change to tram to "Kabatas" or "Eminonu" direction. Need another ticket to get in. Board the tram and get off at Laleli-University. Once walk off the platform, walk to the side walk (do not go across the big street) and DT is just few steps from the tram stop. It also took me about 45 min. Tram was a bit crowded around 4PM but I did have a seat and no problem with luggage.
On my return, I got a taxi right outside of hotel. My stay was just a layover so I totally forgot about the warning of Istanbul taxi drivers don't use meters sometimes and I got one of those
. At the airport, he asked for 35 LTR which was excessive as far as I know. This is the reason I don't like to take taxi. Public transit or arranged pickup service will be my choices from now on.