Istanbul has two historic railway stations: Sirkeci Railway Station in Eminonu, which historically served European destinations, and Haydarpasa Railway Station on the Asian side, which served Anatolian destinations. The two stations are connected by frequent ferry services (20–30 minute intervals during peak hours). Haydarpasa has been undergoing restoration in recent years and is no longer the primary terminal for long-distance trains. Most intercity and high-speed services now operate from new stations, including Sogutlucesme and Pendik on the Asian side and Halkali on the European side.
Since the 2010s, Turkey has invested heavily in its rail network. The flagship Yüksek Hizli Tren (YHT) high-speed rail network now connects Istanbul with Ankara and Konya, offering a fast and comfortable alternative to flying or driving on these routes. Outside the high-speed corridors and some lines to the east and west, train travel in Turkey is limited and though clean and comfortable on many routes, it is quite slow compared to European rail networks.
The Ankara–Istanbul high-speed line runs between Sogutlucesme (on the Asian side of Istanbul) and Ankara. The journey takes around 4.5 hours. From Ankara, the YHT continues to Konya, making the Ankara–Konya journey approximately 1.5 hours. A direct high-speed service from Istanbul to Konya also operates, with a travel time of around 4.5 hours.
The high-speed trains are modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with wi-fi and catering. They offer economy and business class seating, and advance online purchase is recommended, especially on weekends and public holidays. These YHT lines are currently the best mode of rail transport in Turkey and are highly recommended for travellers moving between Istanbul, Ankara, and Konya.
The Istanbul–Izmir line uses a conventional route that includes a ferry crossing to Bandirma, followed by a train from Bandirma to Izmir. A new high-speed line between Ankara and Izmir is under construction and will further expand the network once complete.
The Marmaray tunnel, opened in 2013, is a rail tunnel beneath the Bosphorus that connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul by rail for the first time. It is used by commuter trains and also forms part of the YHT route, allowing high-speed trains to cross between continents.
For train timetables and online ticket purchases, the official website of Turkish State Railways (TCDD) is the primary source. The English-language ticketing site is available at ebilet.tcdd.gov.tr. Tickets for YHT services should be purchased online in advance, as popular services sell out quickly, particularly during holiday periods.
Do not pay anyone approaching you claiming to carry your luggage at train stations. Use official porters or handle your own bags. As with any major transport hub, keep an eye on your belongings and validate your ticket before boarding if required.