Çarşı (M5)

Çarşı Istanbul: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Çarşı Istanbul’s History and Significance

Çarşı (M5) Metro Station is a cornerstone of modern transit on Istanbul’s Asian side, nestled in the lively Ümraniye district. Beyond being a metro stop, Çarşı embodies Istanbul’s commitment to accessible, efficient urban mobility, serving daily commuters, tourists, and residents—including those with mobility needs. Strategically located underground at the intersection of Alemdağ Avenue and Tunaboyu Street, the station provides a gateway to local markets, municipal offices, and green spaces, reflecting its Turkish name “Çarşı,” meaning “market.” With the future integration of the M12 metro line, Çarşı’s importance as a transport hub will only grow, enhancing connectivity across the city (Istanbul Metro Official Website).

The station’s extended operating hours—which include early morning starts and 24/7 service on weekends—offer flexibility for all schedules. Ticketing is streamlined through the Istanbulkart smart card, ensuring seamless travel across metro, bus, ferry, and rail services. Advanced safety features such as platform screen doors and comprehensive security systems, coupled with bilingual signage and on-site assistance, make Çarşı especially welcoming for international travelers.

Çarşı’s proximity to Ümraniye’s markets, shopping districts, parks, and the historic heart of Üsküdar positions it as an ideal starting point for exploring Istanbul’s Asian side. The station’s role in reducing road congestion and supporting sustainable urban growth aligns with Istanbul’s broader vision for a modern metropolis.

For up-to-date maps and visitor information, consult the Istanbul Metro Official Website, UrbanRail.Net, and Istanbul Tourist Information.

Introduction
Çarşı (M5) Metro Station Overview
Location and Urban Context
Construction and Features
Integration with the M12 Line
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
Operating Hours
Ticket Prices and Purchase
Accessibility
M5 Line: Key Information and Travel Tips
M5 Line Overview
Travel Tips
Attractions Near Çarşı Station
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Resources
Strategic Role in Istanbul’s Urban Network
Practical Information for Visitors
Economic, Social, and Cultural Impact
Urban Planning and Future Prospects
Summary and Final Recommendations
References

Welcome to Çarşı (M5) Metro Station: Complete Visitor Guide

Overview of Çarşı (M5) Metro Station

Location and Urban Context

Çarşı (M5) Metro Station is centrally positioned in Ümraniye, one of the fastest-growing districts on Istanbul’s Asian side. Found underground at the crossroads of Alemdağ Avenue and Tunaboyu Street, it serves as a crucial link between residential zones, commercial markets, and administrative hubs.

Construction and Features

Built using both tunnel boring and cut-and-cover methods, Çarşı station boasts an island platform with two tracks. With 19 escalators and 2 elevators, passenger movement is efficient and accessible. Two of the three station entrances—Emniyet (No. 1) and Alemdağ Caddesi (No. 2)—are fully accessible, while the third entrance is currently not mobility-friendly.

A hallmark of the M5 line is the inclusion of platform screen doors, which open only when trains arrive, maximizing passenger safety. The station’s design also includes wide platforms, advanced lighting, and security systems.

Integration with the M12 Line

Çarşı is being prepared as an interchange with the upcoming M12 metro line (60. Yıl Parkı – Kâzım Karabekir), further improving access across Istanbul’s Asian districts. The M12 is projected to open in 2025.

Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information

Operating Hours

Weekdays: 6:00 AM – 12:00 midnight
Weekends: 24/7 continuous service

Ticket Prices and How to Buy

Travelers use the Istanbulkart, a rechargeable smart card valid for all Istanbul public transport. Cards are available and rechargeable at station kiosks and authorized vendors. Fares are affordable, with discounts for students and seniors, and transfers between modes are discounted within a set time window.

Accessibility

Çarşı station is designed for inclusivity:

Step-free access via elevators and escalators
Wide fare gates for wheelchairs and strollers
Tactile paving for the visually impaired
Bilingual signage (Turkish and English)
Accessible restrooms

Traveling the M5 Line: Key Information and Tips

M5 Line Overview

The M5 Üsküdar–Samandıra Merkez line is Istanbul’s first fully automated driverless metro, spanning 26.5 km with 20 stations. It connects Üsküdar, Ümraniye, Çekmeköy, and will extend to Sultanbeyli by 2025. During peak hours, trains run every 4-5 minutes, serving over 240,000 riders daily.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Travel: Avoid peak commuter hours (7:00–9:30 AM, 5:00–7:30 PM) for a more comfortable ride.
Safety: Platform screen doors enhance safety, but remain vigilant for pickpockets during busy periods.
Connections: Easily transfer to the M4 line at Ünalan or access buses and Marmaray at other stations.

Attractions Near Çarşı Station

From Çarşı station, visitors can quickly reach:

Ümraniye Çarşı: A vibrant shopping and dining district
Alemdağ Avenue Green Spaces: Parks and recreational areas
Atatürk Arboretum: A natural haven a short bus ride away
Historic Üsküdar: Accessible via the M5, offering mosques, waterfront promenades, and ferry access to the European side
Local Markets and Eateries: Sample Turkish cuisine and shop for local goods

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Çarşı station’s operating hours?
A: 6:00 AM to midnight on weekdays, 24/7 on weekends.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Use Istanbulkart, available and rechargeable at station kiosks.

Q: Is the station accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with elevators, wide gates, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are there connections to other transport modes?
A: Yes, including buses, Marmaray at Üsküdar, and future M12 metro.

Q: What are nearby attractions?
A: Ümraniye’s market area, parks, historical Üsküdar, and more.

Visual Resources

Image Suggestions:

Çarşı Station entrance with commuters (alt: “Entrance of Çarşı Station Istanbul metro with commuters”)
Platform view with screen doors and signage (alt: “Çarşı Station Istanbul platform with platform screen doors”)
Map highlighting Çarşı’s location in Istanbul’s transport network (alt: “Map showing Çarşı Station location on Istanbul metro and ferry routes”)

Strategic Role in Istanbul’s Urban Network

Çarşı Station’s position on the M5 line underscores its importance in Istanbul’s fast-growing public transport system (UrbanRail.Net). Its proximity to the Üsküdar ferry terminal and other key connections makes it essential for both local and intercontinental travel within the city. Integration with Marmaray, buses, and the planned M12 line further cements its role as a major mobility hub.

Practical Information for Visitors

Signage: Bilingual Turkish-English directions, digital displays
Amenities: Restrooms, seating, retail kiosks, vending machines, ATMs
Safety: CCTV, security staff, emergency exits, intercoms, and fire safety measures
Cyclists: Bicycle parking at some entrances

The opening of Çarşı Station has invigorated Ümraniye’s economy, increasing foot traffic to local businesses and raising property values. The station enhances access to education, healthcare, and cultural sites, supporting social inclusion and improving quality of life (Istanbulpoints.com). Üsküdar’s historic sites, such as the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque and Maiden’s Tower, are now more accessible, balancing modern mobility with heritage preservation.

Urban Planning and Future Prospects

Çarşı Station exemplifies Istanbul’s vision for a high-capacity, interconnected, and sustainable transit system (UrbanRail.Net). The extension of the M5 and the opening of the M12 will further enhance connectivity and support the city’s ongoing urban development.

Summary and Final Recommendations

Çarşı (M5) Metro Station stands as a model of modern, inclusive transit, combining cutting-edge technology with accessibility and convenience. Its extensive operating hours, integrated ticketing, and strategic location make it an excellent choice for both daily commuters and visitors. The station’s proximity to vibrant markets, parks, and historic sites offers a seamless introduction to Istanbul’s Asian side.