Getting Around Antalya is easy for international patients: the centre is compact, trams and buses use one travel card, and taxis and transfers fill the gaps. This guide explains the AntRay tram, the nostalgic tram, buses, dolmuş minibuses, taxis and walking, with tips for the first days after a hair transplant.
Trams, buses, dolmuş, taxis and walking, explained for medical tourists.
Getting Around Antalya is simple once you know the basics: one card for trams and buses, metered taxis for door-to-door trips, and short walks in the centre.
In the first days after a procedure, comfort comes first: transfers and taxis for clinic visits, then gentle walks and the scenic nostalgic tram when your clinic says you are ready.
AntalyaKart works on trams and city buses.
Metered taxis and apps are best for clinic visits.
Kaleiçi and the seafront are made for short strolls.
Getting Around Antalya With AntalyaKart
AntalyaKart is the city’s reloadable travel card for trams and municipal buses. Fares are deducted when you tap in, and transfers within a short time window are usually discounted.
- Buy and top up the card at machines and kiosks near main stops.
- Contactless bank cards can be used on many trams, often at a higher fare.
- Buses do not usually accept cash on board.
- Check current fares and routes on the official AntalyaKart site.
Getting Around Antalya by AntRay Tram
The modern AntRay light-rail network links key parts of the city, including the airport, the city centre, the main bus station (Otogar) and the Antalya Museum area.
Airport line
Connects the airport with central stops such as Meydan and Ismetpaşa, the stop for Kaleiçi.
City line
Runs through the centre to the Otogar, hospitals and the museum side of town.
Hours
Trams run from early morning until around midnight; there is no all-night service.
Comfort
Trams are air-conditioned, but can be busy at rush hour.
The Nostalgic Tram: A Scenic Ride
The single-track nostalgic tram, about 4.7 km long, runs along the main seaside boulevard from the Antalya Museum through Kale Kapisi (for Kaleiçi), past Hadrian’s Gate and Karaalioğlu Park.
- It runs roughly every half hour, so it is more scenic than fast.
- It uses the same card as other public transport.
- It is a calm way to see the coast without walking far.
When your clinic says it is fine to go out, it is one of the gentlest ways of getting around Antalya.
Getting Around Antalya: Buses, Dolmuş and More
Beyond the trams, three options cover almost everywhere.
An extensive network across the city and coast; pay with AntalyaKart.
Shared minibuses on set routes; usually paid in cash by distance. Ask your hotel which route to take.
Metered taxis everywhere, plus taxi apps such as BiTaksi in many areas.
Which Option Suits You?
| Option | Best for | Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Clinic transfer | Procedure day, first wash, airport | Often included in packages |
| Taxi or app | Door-to-door, evenings, luggage | Use the meter or the app price |
| AntRay tram | Centre, airport, Otogar in daytime | Busy at rush hour; no night service |
| Nostalgic tram | Scenic seafront ride | Slow, every half hour |
| Bus or dolmuş | Budget trips, coastal areas | Crowded at times; routes take practice |
| Walking | Kaleiçi, seafront, short distances | Choose shaded routes and cooler hours |
Taking Taxis in Antalya
- Use official taxis from ranks or call through your hotel.
- Ask the driver to switch on the meter at the start of the trip.
- Taxi apps show a price and route before you ride.
- Keep your destination written down or on your phone.
- Carry some Turkish lira, as card payment is not always possible.
- Your hotel reception can book a reliable driver.
Getting Around Antalya on Foot
Central Antalya is pleasant to walk: Kaleiçi’s lanes, the cliff-top parks and the seafront promenades are all close together.
- Walk early in the morning or in the evening, in the shade.
- Kaleiçi has cobbles, slopes and steps; wear comfortable shoes.
- Pavements can be busy in summer; take your time.
Read Where to Stay in Antalya to choose a base close to the places you want to walk.
Getting Around Antalya After a Hair Transplant
A few simple habits keep the first days comfortable and protect the grafts.
Transfers for clinic days
Use the clinic transfer or a taxi on procedure day and for the first wash.
Avoid crowds early on
Busy trams and buses raise the risk of bumping your head.
Stay out of the sun
Wait in shade and travel at cooler times; wear a loose hat only when allowed.
No beach trips yet
Sea, pools, saunas and hammams usually wait several weeks.
Recovery varies from person to person; always follow your clinic’s instructions.
Should You Hire a Car?
For a short medical stay, a hire car is rarely needed. Central traffic and parking can be stressful, and your clinic may advise against driving on procedure day.
- Ask your clinic when it is safe to drive after your procedure.
- Transfers and taxis are simpler for clinic visits.
- If you add a holiday later, a car helps for day trips along the coast.
- Check your licence and insurance requirements before booking.
Before You Travel: Check the Clinic
- Is the facility licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health?
- Does it hold an international health tourism authorisation certificate?
- Are airport and clinic transfers included in writing?
- Who is the responsible doctor for your procedure?
Warning signs
- Transfers “to be arranged later”
- Guaranteed results
- No named doctor
- Pressure to pay quickly
Transfers and packages: for detailed price information, please contact us; see also our Costs & Planning guides.
Getting Around Antalya: A Shortcut in Kaleiçi
The old town sits high above its harbour, but there is an easier way down than the steep lanes. More ideas in Discover Antalya.
The lift to the old harbour
Near Cumhuriyet Square, a public panoramic lift runs down the cliff face to the old harbour, saving a long climb on steep steps. The short ride opens wide views over the marina and the bay.
It is a handy, low-effort way to reach the harbour cafés and boats once you are out and about.
Kaleiçi and central Antalya
Kaleiçi, Cumhuriyet Square and the seafront boulevard are close together, with tram stops at Ismetpaşa and Kale Kapisi.
Getting Around Antalya: FAQ
01What is the easiest way of getting around Antalya?
For short stays, taxis and transfers are easiest; in the centre, the tram and walking work well.
02Do I need an AntalyaKart?
It is the simplest way to pay for trams and buses. Some trams also accept contactless bank cards, usually at a higher fare.
03Can I pay cash on buses?
City buses usually do not accept cash on board. Dolmuş minibuses are usually paid in cash.
04Is the nostalgic tram worth riding?
Yes, as a relaxed scenic ride along the seafront between the Antalya Museum and the city centre.
05Are taxis metered in Antalya?
Yes. Ask for the meter at the start, or use a taxi app that shows the price in advance.
06Can I use public transport after my hair transplant?
In the first days, transfers or taxis are safer to avoid crowds and bumps. Later, quiet off-peak trams are fine if your clinic agrees.
07Does public transport run at night?
Trams stop around midnight. Some buses run later; otherwise use a taxi.
08Should I rent a car?
Usually not for a short medical stay. Ask your clinic when driving is safe after your procedure.
Plan the Rest of Your Trip
Transfers, taxi, tram and buses from Antalya Airport.
Read the guide 1:1 Free ConsultationSend your photos and travel dates for a preliminary review.
Request a review UK GOV.UK travel adviceOfficial travel advice for visitors to Turkey.
Open GOV.UKHelpful independent sources:
AntalyaKart (public transport) · Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health · ISHRS
Final Thoughts
Getting Around Antalya is easy with one travel card, metered taxis and a walkable centre. For clinic days, transfers are the most comfortable choice; for gentle sightseeing later, the nostalgic tram and shaded walks are hard to beat.
Routes, timetables and fares can change; check current information before travelling. This article is general information and does not replace medical advice.