How to Get from Esenler Bus Terminal to Eyup Sultan Mosque: A Guide for Intercity Travellers
04 November 2026 - Eyüp Sultan Camii
Most visitors who come to Istanbul by intercity coach from all over Turkey arrive at the Big Istanbul Bus Terminal (Esenler Otogarı). As the crow flies, Eyup Sultan is quite close to the terminal, but since there is no direct rail line, knowing the best option saves time.
Option 1: Taxi (Fastest)
The road distance between the terminal and Eyup Sultan is about 10-12 km. Depending on traffic, the journey takes 20-40 minutes. After a long coach journey, especially if you have luggage, it is the most comfortable option. We recommend using the terminal's official taxi ranks and making sure the meter is on.
Option 2: M1 Metro + T1 + T5 Tram (By Rail)
- Take the M1 metro: From the M1 Otogar station in the middle of the terminal, board a train towards Yenikapı.
- Get off at Aksaray: Leave Aksaray station and walk a few minutes to the Yusufpaşa stop of the T1 tram.
- Ride the T1 to Eminönü: Board the T1 towards Kabataş and get off at Eminönü.
- Transfer to the T5 tram: At the T5 stop on the Golden Horn side of Eminönü, board a tram towards Alibeyköy.
- Get off at Eyüpsultan Teleferik.
Total time: About 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes including transfers. Although this route looks long, it is unaffected by traffic and passes through the Historic Peninsula.
Option 3: Minibus and Bus
There are also minibus and bus lines from around the terminal towards Eyupsultan. These may not require transfers, but routes, stop locations and frequencies vary. Ask at the terminal information points or check a transport app for the current line.
If You Have Luggage
- There may be left-luggage services at the terminal; leaving your large bags and travelling light to Eyup makes the visit more enjoyable.
- Although the stations on the rail route have lifts and escalators, there are walking distances at the transfer points.
- If you are thinking of staying near Eyup, see our Hotels and Accommodation Guide Around Eyup Sultan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct metro from the terminal to Eyup?
No. There is no direct rail line from the terminal to Eyup Sultan. To travel by rail you need to use the M1, T1 and T5 lines.
What if I arrive very early in the morning?
Public transport starts early in the morning. If you arrive very early, you can take a taxi and perform the dawn prayer at Eyup Sultan Mosque. See our prayer times page for current times.
The Last Step: From the Stop to the Mosque
For those arriving by the T5 tram, the closest stop to Eyup Sultan Mosque is Eyüpsultan Teleferik. From this stop it is a short walk to the mosque, the tomb and the Eyup bazaar; simply follow the signs or your map app. The lower station of the cable car to Pierre Loti Hill is also in this area. Those arriving by ferry reach the mosque with a short walk from Eyup Pier.
Important: The M7 metro line does not have a station next to Eyup Sultan Mosque. Metro travellers should transfer to the T5 tram at Alibeyköy station.
Before You Set Off
- Get an Istanbulkart: The Istanbulkart is valid on metros, trams, buses and ferries. Card sale and top-up machines are available at airports, major stations and piers.
- Check current information: Timetables and routes can change. Before travelling, check Metro Istanbul, Şehir Hatları (city ferries) or IETT, or use apps such as Moovit, Google Maps or İstanbul Senin.
- Know the busy times: The area is very crowded before Friday prayer, on weekend afternoons, on holy nights (kandil) and during Eid holidays.
- Plan around prayer times: If you want to arrive in time for a prayer, check our prayer times page. For tomb visiting hours, see Tomb Visiting Hours and Rules.
- Dress modestly: Women are expected to cover their hair when entering the mosque, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair users can read our guide Accessibility and Facilities.