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Getting Around Diyarbakir

Getting Around Diyarbakir

Diyarbakir Province Turkey Travel Guide

City Transit Options

Diyarbakır mainly uses a municipal bus network and "dolmuş" (shared taxis). The city does not have a metro or tram system.

The Diyarbakır Kart, a rechargeable smart card, is applied for public buses. Purchase and top it up at kiosks. It is most useful and cost-effective option for numerous rides.

Diyarbakır Kart & Hubs

  • Required for public bus fares.
  • Purchase and top up at kiosks.
  • Fares are low, typically TRY 10-25 per ride.
  • Key centers include Dağkapı and the Ofis area.

Route Coverage

The bus network covers the entire city, connecting historical and modern areas.

Operating Hours

Buses typically run from early morning (6:00 AM) until late evening (midnight).

Dolmuş Routes

Dolmuş operate on fixed routes, offering more flexibility for pick-up/drop-off.

Efficient Navigation

Route Planning
  • Google Maps is invaluable for planning bus routes.
  • Ask locals for directions or bus numbers.
  • Utilize dolmuş for quicker trips on specific routes.
Fare & Accessibility
  • Dolmuş usually accept cash payments directly to the driver.
  • Accessibility for mobility challenges on public buses is limited.
  • Not all bus stops are designed for easy access.

Ticketing and Accessibility

Diyarbakır Kart

Required for public bus fares.

Dolmuş Payments

Cash payments directly to the driver.

Operating Hours

Buses run all day long; Dolmuş often run more frequently.

Mobility Access

Limited accessibility for people with mobility challenges aboard buses.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient and direct way to travel in Diyarbakır, especially when carrying luggage or traveling late at night.

Licensed Taxis

  • Yellow cars with "TAKSI" signs and visible meters.
  • Hail on the street, find at stands, or call a company.
  • Cash is the preferred payment method.
  • Always ensure the driver turns on the meter.

Ride-Sharing Availability & Safety

  • International ride-sharing apps like Uber do not operate widely or legally.
  • Local taxi apps may have limited presence. Rely on traditional taxis.
  • Confirm destination with the driver before starting a journey.
  • Licensed yellow taxis are generally safe.

Car Rental & Driving

  • Rental Requirements: Valid driver's license (IDP recommended), passport, credit card.
  • Minimum Age: Usually 21-25, with the potential for additional fees for younger drivers.
  • Companies: International and local companies at airport and city center.
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right-hand side; seatbelts are required.
  • Road Conditions: Major roads good; old city roads narrow plus tough.
  • Parking: Limited in Sur district; lots on periphery.

Motorcycle, Scooter, and Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common instead of widely available for tourists. Not recommended for city traffic.

Bicycle Rentals

No widely established public bicycle systems. Not a prominent tourist activity.

Specialty Vehicles

No specific specialty vehicle options (like tuk-tuks or jeepneys).

Niche Transport & Accessibility

Diyarbakır does not feature many specialized transportation options for tourists. Access for travelers with mobility issues on public buses is limited.

Tour Services

  • Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not common features.
  • Guided excursions usually utilize private minibuses or cars.
  • Boat taxis and water transportation are not applicable.
  • Cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport are not available.

Accessibility Services

  • Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited.
  • The historical nature of a lot of places, with uneven terrain and stairs, has challenges.
  • Newer hotels and modern areas may offer better accessibility.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

The historical Sur district and City Walls are best explored on foot.

Gazi Caddesi is pedestrian-friendly.

Walking Tour Options

Both guided and self-guided walking tours are available. Local guides offer insights.

Self-guided tours with a good map allow flexible exploration.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Dedicated bicycle infrastructure in Diyarbakır is limited.

Not a prominent tourist activity.

No-Go Areas & Safety

Pedestrian Cautions
  • Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night.
  • Use caution when walking or cycling in areas with a lot of vehicle traffic.
  • Old city (Sur district) cobblestone streets and bumpy trails.
Cycling Safety
  • Dedicated bicycle limited infrastructure.
  • Not a recommended mode of transport for general sightseeing due to metropolitan traffic.
  • Regional driving customs can be assertive.

Mobility Challenges

  • Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited.
  • Historical sites with uneven terrain and stairs present challenges.
  • Not all bus stops are designed for easy access.
  • Newer hotels and modern areas may offer better accessibility.
  • Taxis can supply direct transfers to specific points.
  • The historical quality of the city's older districts complicates accessibility.
  • Uneven surfaces like the city walls are tough for mobility challenges.

Walking Comfort

When walking in the Sur district, wear comfortable shoes with good grip.

Cobblestones and paths that are not level are common.