Whether ferry services are free on May 19th, Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day, especially in Istanbul and Izmir, is one of the most frequently asked questions every year. In this guide, we detail the May 19th policies for operators such as Şehir Hatları, İDO, BUDO, Gestaş, İzdeniz, and Negmar for 2026.
Are Şehir Hatları Ferries Free on May 19th, 2026?
Şehir Hatları, an İBB (Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality) affiliate, provided free travel services to all passengers on May 19th in 2023, 2024, and 2025. The same policy is expected to continue for 2026, but the final decision depends on İBB's official announcement. The announcement is typically made 5–7 days before the holiday.
When free travel is applicable, Şehir Hatları, İETT buses, Metro Istanbul, Marmaray, and city rail systems from the piers are also free on the same day. This means May 19th is experienced as a full holiday in Istanbul.
May 19th Operator Status
- Şehir Hatları: Traditionally free, Sunday schedule applies.
- İDO: Normal fares, paid. Sunday schedule applies.
- BUDO: Normal fares, paid. Additional services for the holiday are rarely added.
- Gestaş (Çanakkale): Passengers free (standard), normal fare for vehicles. Different policies might apply in the Black Sea region in commemoration of the May 19th landing in Samsun.
- İzdeniz (Izmir): Generally free due to municipal policy.
- Negmar: Normal fares, Eskihisar–Topçular service frequency increases.
May 19th Schedule and Crowds
As it is a public holiday, Şehir Hatları operates on a Sunday schedule. On May 19th, especially in years with good weather, main lines like the Islands route and Eminönü–Kadıköy become very crowded. The number of people taking Bosphorus tours can double compared to a normal Sunday.
- Bosphorus tour: Additional Bosphorus tour services may be added on May 19th, and free travel might also apply to these services.
- Princes' Islands: Departures to Heybeliada, Büyükada, and Burgazada are full early in the morning. Return trips in the evening (after 17:00) become very crowded.
- Kabataş–Üsküdar: Heavily used by those attending May 19th events.
Which Events Can You Reach by Ferry?
- Samsun commemoration ceremonies: While there are no direct ferries from the Black Sea to Samsun, a connecting journey via İDO's Bursa line and then by road can be planned.
- İBB May 19th concerts: Generally held on the Maltepe or Yenikapı coasts. Can be reached by taking a ferry to Bostancı or Kadıköy.
- Princes' Islands bike tour: May 19th is also a day of sports; you can join a bike tour on Heybeliada or Büyükada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Şehir Hatları be free on May 19th?
According to İBB's practice in recent years, yes, but the final decision for 2026 will be clarified with an official announcement. The traditional practice is expected to continue.
Does İDO operate on May 19th?
Yes, İDO continues its services. The Sunday schedule applies, and normal fares are valid.
Is it advisable to go to the Princes' Islands on May 19th?
Yes, if the weather is good, but be aware that it will be crowded. We recommend departing early (between 07:00–09:00) and planning your return before 16:00.
Can a Bosphorus tour be taken during the holiday?
Yes, Şehir Hatları Bosphorus tour services may also be added on May 19th. The free travel decision might cover Bosphorus tours; check the official announcement.
Is there any difference for ferry crossings from Çanakkale on May 19th?
No, Gestaş applies its normal schedule. Passengers are already free, and vehicles pay standard fares.
Return to the ferry services guide for all public holidays and festivals to see details for other national holidays.
