Fares are more expensive for express and mail trains, even though express trains are relatively slow, and some routes are indirect. Steam engines, such as the Anatolia Express which traverses eastern Turkey, are retained for tourist trains on some routes. Tickets can be purchased at TCDD offices at railway stations and TCDD -appointed agents. TCDD offer discounts of 20to holders of ISTC cards. Traffic drives on the right.
Many private companies provide frequent day and night services between all Turkish cities.
Services are often faster than trains and recent competition between operators has led to lower fares. Tickets are sold at the bus or coach companies' branch offices either at stations or in town centres. One should shop around the ticket offices for the best prices. All international companies are represented. An International Driving Permit is required for visits of over 3 months.