Turkiye's High-Speed Train Routes (2025 Update)
Current Services
Istanbul–Ankara
High-speed YHT trains run about 15 times daily. They travel between Istanbul and Ankara in about 4 to 4.5 hours. Passengers can choose economy or business class. Economy fares are around 405–780 ₺ depending on distance, and business class costs more
Ankara–Konya
High‑speed trains connect in about 1 h 45 min. Many travelers go on to Konya from Istanbul. The total travel time is around 4 h 40 m
Ankara–Sivas
Opened in April 2023, this line reduces travel time to about 2 h 50 m from the previous 12 hours. Istanbul to Sivas takes roughly 7 hours via Ankara.
Ankara–Kayseri (under construction)
A 142 km branch from Yerköy to Kayseri will open by 2026. It will cut travel time from Ankara to Kayseri to under 2 hours at 250 km/h.
Osmaneli–Bursa–Bandırma (under construction)
This line will connect Istanbul–Ankara main line to Bursa and Bandirma. It is set for a 2026 opening and will run at 200 km/h.
Istanbul–Edirne–Kapıkule (in progress)
The link from Halkalı (Istanbul) to the Bulgarian border at Kapıkule is expected to open in 2025. Trains will run at 200–215 km/h.
Ankara–İzmir
This high-speed line over 624 km is planned to open in 2027 and reduce travel time to about 3 h 30 m.
Can You Go from Istanbul to Cappadocia by Train?
Currently, no direct train goes to Cappadocia (Goreme region). A common route is:
- High-speed train from Istanbul to Ankara (4–4.5 h).
- Bus from Ankara to Goreme (4–5 h).
After 2026, take the Yerköy–Kayseri high-speed line to Kayseri, then a bus to Cappadocia (1 h). This will cut travel time and improve comfort.
Ticket Prices (2025)
Economy class: 5–20 EUR (€) depending on route and class—similar to low-cost flights but with more comfort .
Istanbul–Ankara: ~780 ₺ for economy (approx. €15).
Eskişehir–Ankara: 405 ₺ economy, 610 ₺ business.
It is best to book 10–30 days before departure to get best prices.
Scenic Routes for Tourists
The Ankara–Sivas line crosses clear plain and soft hills.
Eastern Express (Ankara–Kars) is a famous overnight service through snowy mountains.
Anatolian Express runs nightly between Istanbul and Ankara, with sleeper compartments.
Travel Tips
Book trains through TCDD website or at stations. Buy YHT tickets 15 days ahead. Tourist sleeper cars fill fast.
Often no luggage fee and seats are comfortable with power sockets and café cars .
For regional buses and trains, book 15–30 days early.
Future Connections
- Yerköy–Kayseri spur opens 2026.
- Bursa and Bandırma link opens 2026.
- Halkalı–Kapıkule link aims for 2025, enabling high-speed travel to Bulgaria.
- Ankara–İzmir route expected in 2027
These will create new tour options and scenic services between Istanbul, Cappadocia, Bursa, Izmir and European destinations.
High-speed rail in Türkiye is growing fast. The new lines will connect more cities by train. You can already enjoy rides to Ankara, Sivas, and soon Kayseri and Bursa. Ordering tickets early gets you better prices. Choose economy for savings or business for comfort. Don’t miss scenic train experiences like the Eastern Express.
Book your ideal rail trip soon. Contact us to plan your perfect train tour from Istanbul to Cappadocia or any route. Start your journey today.