How to get from Istanbul airport to Balat (or other sights) by public transport during a long layover?

For a 15-hour layover route: take the Havaist bus from the airport to Eminönü stop, it drops you right by Galata Bridge. On the right side of the bridge, closer to the bridge itself, is the ferry ticket booth to Üsküdar.

After the ferry docks in Üsküdar, turn left and either take a bus or walk about 30 minutes to Kuzguncuk — one traveler called the views there 'jaw-dropping' and recommended going there instead of Balat.

One traveler called Balat overrated and suggested Kuzguncuk instead — it has colorful houses, good food, and Bosphorus views; if time is limited, this district is the better choice.

An alternative route for a short layover: head to Sultanahmet to see the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, walk through Gülhane Park to Galata Bridge and Tower — but for the airport transfer, use a taxi or private transfer and return at least 3 hours before your flight.

Another traveler confirmed public transport is the better way to get around the city — they used an AI planning tool to build their route and pick hotels, and were happy with the result.

The original question came from a traveler with a 15-hour layover at Istanbul airport: can you reach Balat by regular public transport, or is a taxi required — the answer is yes, it's doable via bus and ferry.