Istanbul has always been counted among the most beautiful cities in the world. Its deep cultural roots, cool sea breezes, and centuries-old architecture give it a truly unique charm. However, Istanbul’s taxi drivers, much like some drivers back home in Pakistan, have become rather mischievous.
I recently travelled to Turkey and, upon arrival, decided that this time I would take the metro into the city instead of a taxi. I wanted to experience the local atmosphere up close. After some inquiries, I managed to reach near the central part of the city by metro. My destination was a hotel near Taksim Square, and I thought I would cover the remaining short distance by taxi.
That is where my real experience began.
The driver immediately recognized the name of my hotel, but as soon as we started moving, I realized he was not taking the direct route. The map repeatedly instructed him to turn right, but he kept going straight; when it indicated a left turn, he headed in the opposite direction. A short three-kilometer ride was stretched into six or seven kilometers. It became clear that he was deliberately extending the route to increase the fare. What should have been a ten-minute journey turned into twenty to twenty-five minutes. It felt as though all the time I had saved by taking the metro was lost right there.
Unfortunately, this was not a one-time incident. Over the next two days, two more drivers did almost exactly the same thing. One journey of just one and a half kilometers was turned into six kilometers. In another case, the same tactic was used. Surprisingly, even if you agree on a fare beforehand, they still try to demand extra money upon arrival, offering various excuses. If the meter is running, they lengthen the route. If the meter is off, they start arguing. Tourists, in their eyes, seem to be easy targets—and perhaps that is why such behavior has become routine.
The most troubling incident occurred when one driver skillfully attempted to take fifty dollars from me. I had some Turkish lira folded together, and by mistake, a fifty-dollar note was mixed in. When I took out the money, he examined each note and began saying, “This is not correct, this is fake, this is not acceptable.” I was confused about what the problem was. He kept asking me to change the note, finding a new objection each time. Suddenly, he snatched the bundle of cash from my hand and, with remarkable finesse, separated the fifty-dollar bill and tossed it onto the front seat.
Fortunately, I noticed what he had done. I immediately confronted him. Within seconds, he appeared embarrassed, picked up the note, and returned it to me. I paid him the appropriate fare and ended the matter there, but the thought lingered in my mind: these incidents are not just minor inconveniences—they have become a genuine problem for tourists.
Despite this, Istanbul remains a stunning city. Yet such experiences can dampen a traveler’s joy. On my flight to London, a young Turkish flight attendant sitting next to me expressed regret after hearing about my experience. He admitted that even locals are frustrated with Istanbul’s taxi drivers. With some disappointment, he said that if the city’s traffic and taxi system were properly regulated, Turkey would truly rank among the world’s best tourist destinations. It was clear that this issue affects not only visitors but Turkish citizens themselves.
In every country, first impressions begin at the airport—and taxi drivers are often the first people tourists encounter. If that initial interaction is unpleasant, it can cast a shadow over the entire trip. For a beautiful country like Turkey, this situation is damaging.
There is a need for stricter regulations, effective monitoring, and clear accountability within the taxi system. Such measures would not only make things easier for tourists but would also strengthen the country’s reputation.
This piece is not written to criticize any nation but to highlight, through personal experience, an issue that can be resolved. Turkey is breathtaking and filled with unforgettable memories. However, the behaviour of a few individuals can negatively impact tourism.
It is worth mentioning that such problems are far less common outside Istanbul. In places like Anatolia, Izmir, Cappuccino, and Kinya, I did not encounter such deception.
If addressed seriously, Istanbul can become a city people wish to visit not just once—but again and again.
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