Istanbul is served by two main airports: Atatürk Airport and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Atatürk Airport, located on the European side of the city, is the busier of the two and serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights. Meanwhile, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, situated on the Asian side, primarily serves low-cost airlines and offers flights to numerous destinations within Turkey and across Europe. With convenient access to both airports, now is the perfect time to book your flight to Istanbul and experience the unique blend of cultures and history this vibrant city has to offer.
Option 1: From Istanbul Airport, travelers can take the Havaist shuttle service, which runs between the airport and various points in the city, including Taksim Square and Yenikapı. The journey time is around 60-90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Option 2: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, and travelers can take the Havabus shuttle service to the city center, with stops at Kadiköy and Taksim Square. The journey time is approximately 60-90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Option 3: Atatürk Airport, now mostly used for cargo and general aviation, has the option of taking a taxi or using public transportation like metro and bus to reach central Istanbul. The journey time can vary but typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the chosen mode of transportation.
Q: Which airport should I fly to if I'm visiting Istanbul?
A: Istanbul has two main international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). IST is located on the European side of the city, while SAW is located on the Asian side.
Q: How far are the airports from the city center?
A: Istanbul Airport (IST) is approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) from the city center, while Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) is around 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the city center.
Q: What transportation options are available to and from the airports?
A: Both airports are well connected to the city center by various transportation options, including metro, buses, shuttles, and taxis. IST also has a direct airport train connection.
Q: Are there any hotels near the airports?
A: Yes, there are several hotels located near both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) that cater to travelers with early or late flights.
Q: Do the airports have facilities for travelers with disabilities?
A: Both airports are equipped with facilities for travelers with disabilities, including accessible restrooms, elevators, and assistance services.
Q: Are there duty-free shops and restaurants at the airports?
A: Yes, both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) have a wide range of shops and restaurants, including duty-free outlets, where travelers can shop for souvenirs, snacks, and more.
Q: Is there free Wi-Fi available at the airports?
A: Yes, both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) offer free Wi-Fi access for travelers.
Q: What are the passport and visa requirements for international travelers?
A: International travelers should ensure they have a valid passport and, in some cases, a visa for entry into Turkey. It's recommended to check the specific entry requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
