Traveling to Istanbul is exciting – a city on two continents, full of history, culture, and energy. But before you dive into the Grand Bazaar, sip Turkish coffee by the Bosphorus, or explore palaces and mosques, you’ll face a common question:
How do you get from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen Airport to the city center?
Istanbul has two airports – Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Both are modern and well-connected, but traffic and distance mean the trip to downtown Istanbul takes time. This guide covers all the transport options: metro, buses, shuttles, and taxis – plus tips to save time and money.
Istanbul Airport (IST): Transfers from the European Side
Location: 40 km northwest of central Istanbul
Airline hub: Turkish Airlines and most international carriers
Istanbul Airport is massive, futuristic, and one of the busiest hubs in the world. Once you land, here’s how to reach the city center:
1. Metro – Fast and Affordable
- Line: M11 Metro
- Connections: Transfer to M7 at Kağıthane for Taksim, Şişli, and central areas
- Pros: Cheap, reliable, clean, avoids traffic
- Cons: Can be tricky with heavy luggage or during rush hour
2. Havaist Airport Shuttle – Comfortable and Direct
- Official shuttle buses connect IST to major districts: Taksim, Beşiktaş, Sultanahmet, Bakırköy, Avcılar, Beylikdüzü
- Tickets: Pay by credit card or IstanbulKart (buy at airport kiosks)
- Bonus: Track buses live on the Havaist website/app
- Best choice if you want a balance of comfort and price
3. Taxi & Ride Apps – Door-to-Door Convenience
- Cost: €25–30 to Taksim (40–90 min depending on traffic)
- Recommended apps: Uber and BiTaksi (safer than street hailing)
- Tip: Avoid “special deals” from drivers – you’ll often overpay
💡 Pro traveler tip: If staying on the European side (Büyükçekmece, Küçükçekmece, Başakşehir, Beylikdüzü), Istanbul Airport is the more practical choice.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): Transfers from the Asian Side
Location: 35 km southeast of central Istanbul
Airline hub: Pegasus Airlines and some Turkish Airlines domestic flights
SAW is smaller and more compact, ideal if your trip focuses on the Asian side (Kadıköy, Üsküdar, Maltepe, Pendik).
1. Metro – Cross to Europe in 90 Minutes
- Line: M4 Metro to Ayrılık Çeşmesi
- Connect to Marmaray train under the Bosphorus → direct to European side (Sirkeci station)
- Payment: IstanbulKart
- Travel time: ~90 minutes
2. Havabus Shuttle – Direct to Taksim
- Route: SAW → Kadıköy → Yenisahra → Taksim
- Tickets: Buy onboard or via app
- Reliable option, especially for first-time visitors
3. Taxi – Best for Asian Districts
- €30–35 to Taksim
- €10–15 for Asian districts (Kadıköy, Üsküdar)
- Sharing the ride helps cut costs
FAQs: Istanbul Airport Transport
1. Which airport is closer to the city center?
Istanbul Airport (IST) is closer to the European side (Taksim, Sultanahmet), while Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is closer to the Asian side (Kadıköy, Üsküdar).
2. What’s the cheapest way from Istanbul Airport to city center?
The metro (M11) or Havaist bus with IstanbulKart – both under €5.
3. Is Uber available in Istanbul?
Yes, Uber works in Istanbul and is safer than hailing taxis on the street.
4. How long does it take to get from IST to Taksim?
Between 40–90 minutes, depending on traffic and transport choice.
Final Tips for Your Istanbul Arrival
No matter which airport you land at, don’t expect a 15-minute ride to the center. Distances are long, traffic is unpredictable, but Istanbul’s transport system is well-organized with multiple options.
- For a local adventure: Metro + Marmaray
- For comfort and reliability: Havaist or Havabus
- For speed and convenience: Uber or BiTaksi taxis
✨ Once you arrive… Istanbul is yours to explore.
If you’re planning your trip and want to know how much things cost in Istanbul – from coffee and street food to taxis and attractions – click here to check out our detailed Istanbul prices guide. And if you’re already set on your arrival but still wondering what to do once you’re in the city, click here for our top ideas on how to spend your time in Istanbul – from historic sites and Bosphorus views to hidden local gems.
