Bakırköy-İncirli is one of Istanbul’s busiest metro interchanges, a two-level underground complex in the northern Bakırköy district where multiple rapid transit lines converge. Originally opened in 1994 as part of the M1A line extension from central Istanbul toward Atatürk Airport, the station gained added significance in 2024 when the new M3 line opened, adding a second rail connection and creating a major transit hub.
The station sits on the east side of the D.100 state highway and handles commuters traveling between the airport, downtown Istanbul, and the newer residential and commercial areas on the Asian-side extension of the M3. It is also a gateway to the nearby İncirli Metrobus station, which serves the fast bus rapid transit network covering the suburbs.
Current access notice: As of October 2026: The M1A line operates daily from 06:00 to 00:30 (last train departs Yenikapı at 23:45). The M3 line operates daily from 06:00 to 00:00 with no night service. Check the official Metro Istanbul website for any service changes or weekend alterations.
Lines and interchanges: M1A, M3. Interchange: Bakırköy-İncirli (M1A), İncirli (M3) (M3).
Quick Facts
| Built / opened | 1994 (M1A); 2024 (M3) |
|---|---|
| Address | Olgunlar Sk. 22/2A, 34146 Bakırköy, İstanbul, Turkey Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps |
| District | Bakırköy |
| Interchanges | Bakırköy-İncirli (M1A, Multiple exits; follow signs for your direction) İncirli (M3) (M3, Transfer via underpass to M3 platform, or surface exit for Metrobus) |
| Opening hours | M1A: Daily 06:00-00:30; M3: Daily 06:00-00:00 |
| Best time to visit | Weekday early mornings (before 07:00) and mid-afternoon (13:00-16:00) see lighter crowds. Avoid peak hours on weekdays (07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:00) and mid-morning on weekends when tourist traffic increases. Service runs daily with no seasonal variation. |
Why Visit Bakırköy-İncirli?
Bakırköy-İncirli is not typically a destination for sightseeing but an essential transport node if you are traveling by metro across Istanbul. It connects passengers heading to or from Atatürk Airport on the M1A line with those traveling on the new M3 line toward Başakşehir and beyond. The station is modern and well-signposted, with clear transfers between levels and lines. For visitors based in Bakırköy or traveling through the western European side of the city, this interchange is a practical hub that reduces travel time across the metropolitan area.
Tickets and Booking for Bakırköy-İncirli
Bakırköy-İncirli is a metro station, not a ticketed venue. All fares are paid at the station entrance using contactless payment methods or prepaid cards. Foreign visitors can purchase a single-journey ticket at machines in the station or use a reloadable Istanbulkart prepaid card purchased at metro booths or selected retailers. Most ATMs accepting international cards are located near station exits. Peak-hour crowding occurs 07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:00 on weekdays. For current fares and payment options, visit the official Metro Istanbul website (metro.istanbul).
How to Get to Bakırköy-İncirli
Metro Station Entrances: The station has multiple street-level entrances around Olgunlar Street on the north side of the D.100 highway. Signage in Turkish and English marks the main entrance.
From Central Istanbul: Take the M1A line from Yenikapı (central European side) directly to Bakırköy-İncirli. Travel time is approximately 20-25 minutes from Sultanahmet.
From Atatürk Airport: Take the M1A line toward Yenikapı; Bakırköy-İncirli is the station before the final terminus at Atatürk Havalimanı. Journey time is roughly 35-40 minutes from the airport.
Transfer to M3: Follow underpass signs from the M1A platform level to reach the M3 platform one level below.
Nearby Bus Connections: The İncirli Metrobus station is approximately 250 meters (5-minute walk) south across the D.100 highway. Many local buses also stop at nearby street-level stops.
Accessibility
The station is fully wheelchair accessible. Lifts (elevators) connect all levels, and platform-edge tactile guidance is provided for visually impaired passengers. Accessible entrances are clearly marked. Accessible toilets are available. Companion passes are issued free to guide dogs and registered assistance animals. Seating areas are located near entrances.
Food Nearby
The immediate station area does not include restaurants or cafés. However, street food vendors and small kiosks typically operate on the street level near the main entrance. The nearby D.100 highway commercial strip has convenience stores and tea vendors. Larger food options are located in the Bakırköy town center and along İsmail Erez Boulevard, a 10-15 minute walk away.
What to Bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes for navigating the station and transferring between lines. Station temperatures can be cool in winter (the platforms sit underground). No bags are restricted, but secure backpacks for crowded periods. Bring a valid metro payment card or cash for ticket machines.
Photography Rules
Photography is permitted in metro stations, including interiors and platforms, for personal use. Tripods and commercial filming require prior permission from Metro Istanbul authorities. Flash photography is not restricted in public areas.
Family Suitability
The station is suitable for families with children and strollers. All platforms and corridors are barrier-free, and lifts accommodate strollers or wheelchairs. The station is well-lit and clearly marked. Peak-hour crowding can make maneuvering difficult with a stroller, so travel during off-peak times (mid-afternoon or early morning). Accessible restrooms are available on the main level.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- If you are transferring between M1A and M3, allow 5-10 minutes. Follow the underpass signs from the M1A platform level; the M3 platform is not visible from M1A platforms, but transfers are clearly signposted.
- Buy a reloadable Istanbulkart prepaid card if you plan multiple metro journeys during your stay. It is cheaper per journey than single tickets and works across all metro lines, trams, buses and ferries throughout Istanbul.
- On weekday mornings, avoid arriving between 07:30 and 08:30 when commuter crowding is at its worst, especially on the M1A line toward the airport.
- The M3 line is new (opened March 2024) and extends across Bakırköy and into Başakşehir, making it useful for accessing neighborhoods not served by earlier metro lines. Its opening added capacity to this busy station.
- If you miss a train during peak hours, the next train usually arrives within 7-10 minutes. During off-peak, waits may be up to 15 minutes, so check platform displays.
- The station's M1A section (opened 1994) now shares the complex with the newer M3 section (opened 2024), but they operate as separate systems at separate fares. Check which line you need before paying.
Explore Nearby Bakırköy-İncirli
Metro stations near Bakırköy-İncirli
Zeytinburnu – about 1.3 km away (~21 min walk)Open daily 06:00–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Bahçelievler – about 1000 m away (~16 min walk)Open daily 06:00–00:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
İncirli – about 50 m away (~1 min walk)Open 24 hoursMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Train stations and river piers near Bakırköy-İncirli
Bakırköy Railway Stationabout 1.9 km away (~31 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
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FAQ: Bakırköy-İncirli
How do I get from Bakırköy-İncirli to Atatürk Airport?
Stay on the M1A line in the direction of Atatürk Havalimanı. Bakırköy-İncirli is the second-to-last stop; the final stop is Atatürk Havalimanı terminal. Travel time is approximately 8-10 minutes from Bakırköy-İncirli to the airport.
Can I transfer between M1A and M3 at this station?
Yes. Both lines stop at the same station complex, but their platforms are at different levels. M1A is at the upper level; M3 is one level below. Transfers require using the underpass, adding 5-10 minutes to your journey. Both are part of the İncirli Transfer Center.
How far is Bakırköy-İncirli from downtown Istanbul?
From Sultanahmet (central old city), travel time is 20-25 minutes via M1A. From Yenikapı interchange, it is 15-20 minutes. The station is on the western edge of central Istanbul's metro coverage.
Is there parking at the station?
No. Bakırköy-İncirli has no parking facilities. However, Park and Ride facilities are available at nearby Merter station (one stop toward the city center on M1A).
What time does the metro stop running from Bakırköy-İncirli?
M1A: Last trains depart at 00:30. M3: Last trains depart at 00:00 (midnight). The station ticket offices close once final trains have departed.
Is the station wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entire station is wheelchair accessible with functioning lifts at all levels, accessible restrooms, level boarding, and tactile guidance for visually impaired travelers. Accessible entrances are clearly marked.
How do I connect to buses or Metrobus from this station?
Multiple local bus lines stop at street-level stops outside the metro station entrances. The İncirli Metrobus rapid transit station is a 5-minute walk (approximately 250 meters) south across the D.100 highway; follow street-level signs or ask at the information booth.
Can I buy a metro card at the station?
Yes. Istanbulkart prepaid cards can be purchased and loaded at the station's ticket booth. Single-journey tickets can be bought from automated machines. Both accept Turkish lira cash and some international payment cards.
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