🔵 THE SHORT ANSWER
No, buses in Antalya are not free, but they are very cheap. Public buses and the tram both charge a small, fixed fare per ride, and the easiest way to pay is with an AntalyaKart travel card, which you top up and tap on boarding. Cash is generally not accepted on board, so getting a card (or a single-use ticket from a machine) is the way to go.
🔵 HOW IT WORKS
Buy an AntalyaKart from kiosks, machines, or shops near stops, load some credit, and tap it each time you board a bus or the tram. Transfers within a short time window are often discounted. It is far cheaper than taxis and covers most places a tourist needs, including the route toward the airport. A single card can sometimes be used for more than one passenger by tapping multiple times.
How do you pay for the bus in Antalya?
With an AntalyaKart travel card, which you top up and tap on boarding. Cash is usually not accepted on board, so buy a card or a single-use ticket in advance.
Is the tram cheaper than a taxi?
Much cheaper. The tram and buses cost a small fixed fare per ride, a fraction of a taxi, making them the budget way to get around the city.
Can tourists use the AntalyaKart?
Yes. Anyone can buy and top up an AntalyaKart from kiosks and machines near stops, making it easy for visitors to use the buses and tram.