Şehir HatlarıRepublic Day, October 29, 2026 — This marks a 1.5-day public holiday, starting with a half-day on Wednesday, October 28 (the eve), and continuing through Thursday, October 29. However, with Friday, October 30 bridging into the weekend to create a 4.5-day extended holiday, please follow our holiday schedule page for updates on ferry, car ferry, and sea bus services across Istanbul, Bursa, Izmir, Canakkale, and other regions.
Are Ferries Operating on October 29 Republic Day?
Yes, Şehir Hatları, İDO, BUDO, İZDENİZ, and GESTAŞ will continue their services throughout Republic Day. As part of the 103rd-anniversary celebrations of the Republic, a lantern procession and a naval ship parade (Republic convoy) will take place on the Bosphorus on Thursday evening, October 29. Consequently, ferry traffic will increase, and additional trips will be scheduled, particularly at the Besiktas, Karakoy, and Kadikoy piers.
Which Schedule Applies During the Holiday?
- Wednesday, October 28 (Eve): Half-day — the Sunday/Holiday schedule applies in the afternoon.
- Thursday, October 29 (Republic Day): The Sunday/Holiday schedule is in effect across all routes.
- Friday, October 30: For this bridge day, operators typically apply a weekday or special high-demand schedule.
- Saturday, October 31 & 1 November Sunday: The standard weekend schedule applies.
- Monday, November 2: Services return to the normal workday schedule.
Are Ferries Free on October 29 Republic Day?
As in previous years (2023 and 2024), any free transit policy for Şehir Hatları ferries on Republic Day 2026 will be shared on this page once announced by Presidential decree. Meanwhile, İDO, BUDO, and GESTAŞ services will operate at their standard fares. For current ticket prices, please visit our Ferry Prices page.
İDO Holiday Ferry Schedules
İDO will organize additional trips on the Yenikapi-Bandirma, Yenikapi-Yalova, Pendik-Yalova, and Pendik-Bursa routes throughout the extended weekend holiday. Due to high demand from vacationers, we strongly recommend booking your tickets at least 1 week in advance, especially for the Yenikapi–Yalova route.
GESTAŞ — Canakkale, Bozcaada, and Gokceada Routes
Anticipating the heavy traffic of the 4-5 day holiday, Gestaş Deniz Ulaşım plans extra car ferry services on the Canakkale-Eceabat, Geyikli-Bozcaada, and Kabatepe-Gokceada routes. For round-trip journeys to the islands, purchasing online tickets at least 7-10 days prior to the holiday is mandatory.
Tips for Ferry Travel During the Holiday
- Be sure to purchase your online tickets in advance, as routes to Bozcaada, Gokceada, and Yalova sell out quickly.
- Factor in the holiday crowds and arrive at the pier 1.5 hours before your departure time.
- Keep your Turkish ID card or passport handy during your journey.
- Due to the autumn transition period, there is a high risk of storms and fog. Follow the General Directorate of Meteorology warnings for current weather conditions and potential cancellations.
- If you are using a car ferry, fill up your fuel tank beforehand to account for waiting times at the pier.