Turkish Phrasebook · Taxi · 2026
10 phrases for Istanbul taxis
The exact Turkish that prevents 90% of taxi scams. Pronounce them confidently — driver knows you know the rules.
| Turkish | English | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| Taksimetreyi açın lütfen. | Please turn on the meter. | If meter is off when you sit. |
| POS var mı? | Do you have a card machine? | Ask before getting in — refuse if no. |
| Yetkili durak nerede? | Where is the official taxi rank? | When approached by touts inside terminal. |
| Bu adres mi? | Is this the address? | On arrival — confirm before paying. |
| İki yüz lira veriyorum. | I am giving you 200 lira. | State out loud to prevent bill switch. |
| Fiş alabilir miyim? | May I have a receipt? | Always — receipt has plate number. |
| Bozuğunuz var mı? | Do you have change? | Before paying with large bill. |
| Türk lirası, değil mi? | Turkish lira, right? | Confirm currency before paying card. |
| Polis çağırın. | Call the police. | Emergency. Or dial 112 yourself. |
| Google Maps ile gidin lütfen. | Please follow Google Maps. | If route looks wrong. |
Emergency phrases
Polis çağırın!
"Call the police!" — say this if the driver refuses to follow the meter or threatens you. Dial 112 yourself if not safe to wait.
Yardım edin!
"Help!" — if outside the taxi and need help from passers-by.
Çıkıyorum.
"I'm getting out." — exit immediately at next safe stop. Pay only the legal meter amount.