Istanbul International Airports: A Complete Guide to IST and SAW
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If you’re flying into one of the Istanbul international airports, you have two main options: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.
Choosing the right airport can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
Just recently, some friends of mine accidentally flew into one airport but booked their rental car at the other, on the opposite side of the city. They ended up paying for an hour-long taxi ride across Istanbul just to pick up their car. A quick conversation beforehand would have saved them both time and money.
After flying in and out of Istanbul since 2003, I know the ins and outs of both airports. In this guide, I’ll break down the differences between Istanbul’s international airports, explain which one is closer to the city center, and help you decide which is best for your trip.
How Many Airports Are in Istanbul?
There are two active international airports in Istanbul: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.
A third airport, Atatürk Airport, previously handled commercial flights but is no longer in operation for passenger travel. Today, nearly all international and domestic flights operate through IST and SAW.
Istanbul Airport (IST) – Europe’s Mega Hub
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the primary hub among the Istanbul international airports and the one most international travelers will use.
Located in the northwest part of the city on the European side, IST officially replaced Atatürk Airport for commercial passenger flights in 2019. It is one of the largest airports in the world and the main hub for Turkish Airlines, with nonstop flights across Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
When I fly into IST after a long international trip, the first thing I notice is the scale. The ceilings are high, the terminals are expansive, and everything feels modern and polished. It is an impressive first introduction to Istanbul.
Facilities at IST
IST is designed as a full-service international hub.
Inside the terminal, you will find:
- Extensive duty-free shopping
- Turkish bakeries and coffee shops
- International restaurants, including sushi and fast food chains
- Family play areas
- Comfortable rest zones
- Airport lounges
- A small museum showcasing historical artifacts
There is also an official Istanbul Airport mobile app that helps you navigate gates, shops, and services.
Hotels
If you have a long layover or very early flight, YOTEL Istanbul Airport is located directly inside the terminal. It has both airside and landside entrances.
Friends of mine have stayed there during overnight layovers and appreciated not having to leave the airport. It is more expensive than a city hotel, but the convenience can be worth it, especially after a long-haul flight.
Terminal Security
Security at IST is thorough. There is:
- A vehicle checkpoint before entering the airport complex
- A security screening to enter the terminal building
- Passport control
- A final security check before the gate area
Because of the multiple screening points, it is wise to arrive at least three hours before an international flight. The airport feels very secure, with visible security personnel throughout.
How to Get from Istanbul Airport to the City Center
Istanbul Airport (IST) is about 40 minutes from Taksim Square and around 60 minutes from Kadıköy in light traffic. During rush hour, travel times can easily double.
Traffic conditions in Istanbul change constantly, and taxi prices fluctuate frequently due to inflation and congestion. For a rough estimate of current pricing, you can check the Uber app before you land.
Taxi
Taxis are available directly outside the arrivals area and operate on a meter system.
- To Taksim: ~40–90+ minutes
- To Kadıköy: ~60–100+ minutes
Because airport fares are significantly higher than inner-city rides, confirm that the meter is running before departure. Avoid agreeing to a fixed price unless you have clearly confirmed the total in advance, as some drivers may quote inflated flat rates to visitors.
If the final amount is a few hundred lira higher than what appears on the meter, it is usually due to toll charges for crossing the Bosphorus bridges or using toll highways.
Drivers often prefer toll roads because they are significantly faster, and some may be reluctant to take non-toll routes for airport rides. You can request to avoid toll roads, but due to heavy traffic, the journey may take much longer and often end up costing roughly the same in the end.
Some taxis accept credit cards, but not all machines reliably process foreign cards. Carrying Turkish lira is wise.
If you prefer a smoother arrival experience, especially after a long international flight, I recommend booking a private transfer. This article will explain all the things. You will be met inside arrivals with a name sign, eliminating the need to negotiate fares, handle cash, or manage luggage in a taxi line.
For first-time visitors, families, groups, or those with significant luggage, this is worth the extra cost in my opinion.
Metro (M11 Line)
The M11 metro connects IST to the city. It is the most economical option, but it is not the most convenient for first-time visitors due to transfers.
- To Taksim: About 1 hour 20 minutes (transfer at Gayrettepe)
- To Kadıköy: About 1 hour 30–1 hour 45 minutes (M11 + M2 + Marmaray)
During heavy traffic, the metro is often the fastest and most predictable option.
Bus (HavaIST)
HavaIST airport buses provide direct service to major hubs, including Taksim, Beşiktaş, and Kadıköy. This is a great option if you are staying near one of the stops. If not, you may still need a short taxi ride or walk to reach your hotel.
- To Taksim: ~60–90 minutes
- To Kadıköy: ~75–100 minutes
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) – Regional and Budget-Friendly Option
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is the second of the two active Istanbul international airports. It is located on the far eastern edge of the city on the Asian, or Anatolian, side.
The airport is named after Sabiha Gökçen, the world’s first female fighter pilot and an adopted daughter of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. You will see photos and tributes to her displayed along the arrival corridors.
SAW has been operating since 2001 and serves both domestic and international destinations. While smaller than IST, it still connects Istanbul to Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa.
Many regional and low-cost carriers operate from SAW, including Pegasus Airlines.
For travelers staying on the Asian side of Istanbul, this airport can be significantly more convenient than IST.
Facilities at SAW
Sabiha Gökçen has a single main terminal and is more compact than Istanbul Airport, which makes it easier to navigate.
Inside you will find:
- Restaurants and coffee shops
- Duty-free stores
- Airport lounges
- Essential travel shops
- Souvenir stores selling Turkish delight and local crafts
While it does not have the scale of IST, it covers all the basics for international travel.
Airport Hotel at SAW
The ISG Airport Hotel is located in a separate building near the terminal and is accessible via a clearly marked walkway through the metro passage.
It is about a 7 to 10-minute walk from arrivals. Simply follow the signs toward the metro and look for Exit 2 for the hotel. There is also a free shuttle service available.
ISG Airport Hotel is modern and comfortable, making it a practical choice for overnight layovers, early departures, or late arrivals.
Security at Sabiha Gökçen
Security procedures at SAW are similar to IST.
There is:
- A security screening when entering the terminal
- Passport control
- A final screening before entering the gate area
Arrive at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights to allow enough time for security checks and passport control.
How to Get from Sabiha Gökçen to the City Center
Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is approximately 50 minutes from Taksim Square and 30–45 minutes from Kadıköy in light traffic. Travel times can increase significantly during peak hours, especially when crossing to the European side.
Taxi fares from SAW vary depending on traffic and current rates. Because pricing and conditions change frequently, checking Uber before leaving the airport can give you a useful ballpark estimate.
Taxi
Taxis queue directly outside the arrivals terminal and operate using a meter.
- To Taksim: ~50–100+ minutes
- To Kadıköy: ~30–45 minutes
Airport rides are priced higher than standard city trips, so make sure the meter is turned on before departure. It is best not to agree to a flat rate unless the total has been clearly confirmed in advance, as quoted prices for visitors can be inflated.
If your final total is a few hundred lira above the meter reading, this is typically due to toll fees for bridges or express highways. Drivers usually favor toll routes because they reduce travel time. While you can request to avoid toll roads, heavy traffic may make the trip considerably longer, and the final cost will be similar anyway.
Some taxis accept credit cards, but card machines do not always work reliably with foreign banks. Having Turkish lira available is recommended.
If you prefer a more seamless arrival, especially late at night or with luggage, booking a private transfer can be worth the added cost. You’ll be greeted inside the terminal and avoid navigating taxi lines, fare discussions, or payment uncertainty.
For first-time visitors, families, groups, or anyone carrying substantial luggage, this option often provides peace of mind.
Metro (M4 Line)
The M4 metro line runs directly from SAW to Kadıköy. It is the most budget-friendly option and especially convenient if you are staying on the Asian side.
- To Kadıköy: ~50 minutes
- To Taksim: ~1 hour 40 minutes (M4 plus ferry or metro connections)
Bus
HavaBus connects SAW to major districts, including Taksim, Beşiktaş, and Kadıköy. This is a practical choice if your accommodation is near one of the drop-off points. Otherwise, you may still need a short taxi ride or walk.
- To Kadıköy: ~45–60 minutes
- To Taksim: ~90+ minutes depending on traffic
Is Atatürk Airport Still Open?
Atatürk Airport was the main international airport in Istanbul until 2019, when commercial passenger flights were transferred to Istanbul Airport (IST).
Many travelers still wonder whether there are three Istanbul international airports. The short answer is no. Atatürk Airport is no longer used for commercial passenger flights.
Before 2019, our family regularly flew in and out of Atatürk. I remember it often feeling overcrowded, with travelers sitting on the floor because there were not enough seats. Compared to the scale and space of IST today, it was a very different experience.
Today, Atatürk Airport is primarily used for private aviation and limited cargo operations. Much of the former airport grounds is being converted into a large national park, with the first section opening in 2023.
If you see “Atatürk Airport” listed anywhere while planning your trip, know that it is no longer an option for regular commercial flights.
Which Istanbul International Airport Should You Fly Into?
If you are flying internationally from Europe, North America, or long-haul destinations, you will most likely arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST). It handles the majority of intercontinental traffic and is the main hub for Turkish Airlines.
IST is big, modern, and extremely well-connected globally. It is generally the better choice if:
- You are staying in Sultanahmet, Taksim, or on the European side
- You want the newest and largest airport facilities
- You prefer more nonstop international flight options
Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) can be the smarter choice if:
- You are flying domestically within Turkey
- You are using a low-cost carrier like Pegasus
- You are staying on the Asian side, such as Kadıköy or Üsküdar
- You prefer a smaller, more manageable airport
SAW is easier to navigate and can save you significant travel time if your hotel is on the Anatolian side of the city.
The Bottom Line
For most international travelers visiting Istanbul’s main tourist areas, IST is the most convenient option. For regional flights or travelers staying on the Asian side, SAW can be the better airport. Choosing the right airport in advance can save you both time and transportation costs once you land.
FAQs on Istanbul Airports
Which is the main airport in Istanbul?
The main international airport in Istanbul is Istanbul Airport (IST). It is the largest of the two active Istanbul international airports and serves as the primary hub for Turkish Airlines, with flights to destinations worldwide.
How much is a taxi from IST Airport to the city center?
Taxi fares from Istanbul Airport (IST) to central areas like Taksim or Sultanahmet vary depending on traffic and inflation. Expect airport taxi fares to be significantly higher than regular city rides. Always confirm the meter is running and carry some Turkish lira in case card machines do not accept foreign credit cards. Because rates go up quickly in traffic, many travelers prefer to book a private transfer with a fixed price.
Is Uber in Istanbul?
Yes, Uber operates in Istanbul. However, Uber vehicles are licensed yellow taxis using the Uber app rather than private rideshare drivers. Using the Uber app can sometimes help you secure a fair price and avoid language barriers, but the fare structure remains tied to official taxi rates.
How many days do you need in Istanbul?
Most visitors need at least three days to see the major historical sites. With four to five days, you can explore neighborhoods, food culture, and take a Bosphorus cruise.
Which area of Istanbul is best to stay in?
The best area depends on your priorities:
Sultanahmet is ideal for first-time visitors who want to walk to major attractions like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Taksim is good for nightlife and shopping.
Kadıköy offers a more local feel with excellent food and easy ferry access to the European side.
How much is a taxi from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to the city center?
Taxi fares from Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) to Taksim are typically lower than from IST due to the shorter base fare structure, but traffic can greatly increase travel time and cost. As with IST, confirm pricing before departure and be prepared with local currency if needed.
How many airports are in Istanbul?
There are two active international airports in Istanbul:
Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side
Atatürk Airport is no longer used for commercial passenger flights.
Which Istanbul airport is closer to the city center?
Istanbul Airport (IST) is closer to most major tourist areas on the European side, including Taksim and Sultanahmet. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is closer to neighborhoods on the Asian side, like Kadıköy and Üsküdar. Travel time from either airport depends heavily on traffic.
Choosing Between Istanbul’s Airports
With Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side, Istanbul is well connected no matter where you’re staying.
Both airports offer restaurants, shopping, strong security, airport hotels, and multiple transportation options into the city.
IST is the larger global hub in Istanbul and the fourth-largest airport in the world. It is serving thousands of international flights daily and offering easier access to major tourist areas like Taksim and Sultanahmet.
SAW is smaller and more manageable, often ideal for domestic flights and for travelers staying on the Asian side.
Whichever airport you choose, your Istanbul adventure starts the moment you land. Just don’t book your rental car at the wrong airport.
Planning a visit t0 Turkey?
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When I plan a trip these are the websites I use. I hope they help you plan your next adventure as well!
FLIGHTS: I am a huge fan of Skyscanner.
VISAS: You can use the free e-visa portal here but for a few extra dollars you can use iVisa and someone else will handle any issues that may come up.
E-SIM: When I traveled to SE Asia I discovered e-sims and I’m never going back. Airalo has been easy and cheap!
TRAVEL INSURANCE: I use TravelInsurance.com for my trips abroad.
CAR RENTAL: I have loved working with Discover Cars when I rent cars in country.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS: I have used these transfers many times and they are always great. If you’d like more options, I also recommend GetTransfers.com as they allow you to compare companies.
ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com.
CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: You can browse GetYourGuide’s website to find just the tour you’re looking for! We also recommend the MegaPass for major cities.
