Easiest Ways of Transportation for Istanbul Airports

Istanbul is the city with the easiest access from / to airports. Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Before welcome to Istanbul, guest needs first-hand information from / to airport transportation.

Updated Date : 17.07.2023


Istanbul E-pass offers the added benefit of convenient transfers from / to Istanbul Airports. With an Istanbul E-pass, travelers can enjoy discounted roundtrip transfers to and from the airports. Additionally, the E-pass provides the advantage of a complimentary one-way shuttle bus service between Istanbul Airport and select destinations.

Transportation from / to Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Airport has located on European side of Istanbul and airport code is IST. Istanbul Airport is easily accessible with various transportation options. Whether you're arriving or departing, here are some convenient ways to travel to and from Istanbul Airport:

  • Metro: Istanbul Airport is well-connected to the city's metro network. It has opened on 2023rd January. The M11 metro line offers direct access from the airport to the city center (Kagithane). From Kagithane you can use the metros and trams to reach old city, beyoglu district and etc. The metro operates at regular intervals, providing a fast and efficient mode of transportation.
  • Havaist shuttle bus: Havaist operates a fleet of comfortable and air-conditioned shuttle buses that connect Istanbul Airport to various destinations within the city. These shuttle services run on different routes and serve popular areas such as Taksim Square, Sultanahmet, and Kadikoy. The schedules and fares can be checked on the official Havaist website or at the airport information desks. Istanbul E-pass also includes one-way free shuttle bus from/to Istanbul Airport.
  • Public Bus: Istanbul's public bus system, operated by IETT, provides affordable transportation options to and from Istanbul Airport. Several bus lines connect the airport to different parts of the city. Below you can see lines for get city center from Istanbul airport to city center.

        H1 – Istanbul Airport to Mahmutbey metro
        H2 – Istnabul Airport to Mecidiyekoy (For now last station is Kagithane)
        H3 – Istanbul Airport to Halkali Marmaray
        H6 – Istanbul Airport to Yunus Emre mah.
        H8 – Istanbul Airport to Haciosman metro / Sariyer

  • Taxi: Taxis are available 24/7 at Istanbul Airport. You can find official taxi stands outside the arrival terminals. Taxis provide a convenient door-to-door service, and the fares are metered. It's advisable to ensure the meter is running and have the address or location of your destination ready to show the driver.
  • Private Transfer: You can hava rountrip discounted transfer via Istanbul E-pass or Istanbul E-pass provides private transfer for non-Epass holders customers. All y ou need is book at least a day before.

Transportation from / to Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Sabiha Gokcen airport is located on Asian side of Istanbul. Guests can feel calm about tansportaiton from Sabiha Gokcen to city center. Below you can see some options to tansfer from Sabiha Gokcen airport to city center:

  • Metro: Sabiha Gokcen – Kadikoy Metro line has opened on October, 2022. From Kadikoy you can use ferry to go Europe side or you can use Marmaray and Metrobus to visit Europen side.
  • Havabus Airport Shuttle: Havabus operates shuttle buses that connect Sabiha Gökçen Airport to various locations in Istanbul. These shuttle services provide a cost-effective option for transportation. They operate on different routes, including Taksim Square and Kadikoy. The schedules and fares can be checked on the official Havabus website or at the airport information desks.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available at Sabiha Gökçen Airport, and you can find official taxi stands outside the arrival terminals. Taxis offer a convenient door-to-door service, and the fares are metered. Ensure the meter is running, and it's a good idea to have the address or location of your destination written down to show the driver.
  • Public Bus: Istanbul's public bus network, operated by IETT, also serves Sabiha Gökçen Airport. Several bus lines connect the airport to different parts of the city, including Kadikoy. You can check the specific bus routes and schedules on the IETT website or at the airport information desks. Below you can see bus lines to get city from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to city center:

        E10 – Sabiha Gokcen airport – Kurtkoy – Kadikoy
        E11 – Sabiha Gokcen airport – Kadikoy

  • Private Transfer: If you prefer a more personalized and convenient option, you can book a private transfer service in advance with an Istanbul E-pass. Istanbul E-pass offers private transportation with professional drivers who will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your destination. This option ensures comfort and flexibility, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a group.

It's worth noting that traffic in Istanbul can be heavy, particularly during peak hours, so it's important to consider potential delays when planning your transportation to the airports. It's also advisable to allow ample time for your journey, especially for international flights, to account for any unexpected circumstances.

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