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Istanbul Airports Guide
Istanbul is served by two major international airports, each located on different continents. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the main hub on the European side, while Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) serves the Asian side with more budget-friendly options.
Istanbul Airport (IST)
IST
Location: Arnavutköy, 35 km northwest of Sultanahmet (European side)
Best for: International flights, Turkish Airlines, business travel
Transport: HAVAIST buses, metro, taxis, rental cars
Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Star Alliance partners, major international carriers
Features: World's largest terminal under one roof, luxury shopping
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
SAW
Location: Pendik, 40 km southeast of Sultanahmet (Asian side)
Best for: Low-cost carriers, regional flights, budget travel
Transport: Havabus shuttles, public buses, taxis, rental cars
Airlines: Pegasus Airlines, AnadoluJet, low-cost carriers
Features: More affordable, closer to Asian side destinations
Choosing Between Istanbul Airports
- Istanbul Airport (IST): Better for international travel, more flight options, Turkish Airlines hub
- Sabiha Gökçen (SAW): Typically cheaper flights, good for budget travel, closer to Asian side
- Transport Time: Both airports take 60-90 minutes to reach city center depending on traffic
- Consider: Your final destination in Istanbul, airline preference, and budget
Best Time to Book Flights to Istanbul
When to Book for the Best Prices
- Book international flights 2-4 months in advance for optimal pricing
- For peak season (April-October), book 3-6 months ahead
- For regional flights, book 1-2 months in advance
- Consider flying on weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) for lower fares
- Set price alerts to monitor fare changes for your preferred travel dates
- Be flexible with your travel dates by 3-5 days to find better deals
Best Time to Visit Istanbul
- Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, moderate crowds
- Summer (June-August): Warm temperatures, vibrant atmosphere, but crowded and hot
- Fall (September-October): Mild weather, fewer crowds, cultural events
- Winter (November-March): Cool temperatures, lowest prices, Christmas and New Year celebrations
Airlines That Fly to Istanbul
Istanbul is a major global aviation hub served by numerous international carriers, with Turkish Airlines as the dominant flag carrier.
Major International Airlines
- Turkish Airlines (Flag carrier with extensive global network from IST)
- Pegasus Airlines (Turkish low-cost carrier based at SAW)
- Lufthansa (Multiple daily flights from German cities)
- British Airways (Flights from London Heathrow and Gatwick)
- Emirates (Multiple daily flights from Dubai)
- Qatar Airways (Connections via Doha)
- Air France (Connections from Paris and French cities)
- Aeroflot (Connections from Moscow and Russian cities)
Regional and Low-Cost Airlines
- AnadoluJet (Turkish Airlines' low-cost subsidiary)
- SunExpress (Turkish-German joint venture)
- AtlasGlobal (Turkish charter airline)
- Wizz Air (Central and Eastern European routes)
- Ryanair (Selected European routes to SAW)
- easyJet (Selected European routes)
Istanbul Flight Travel Tips
Before You Fly
- Check Turkey visa requirements based on your nationality (e-Visa available for many)
- Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity beyond your stay
- Consider travel insurance for flight delays or cancellations
- Download airline apps for mobile boarding passes
- Check baggage allowances and fees, especially for low-cost carriers
- Pre-book airport transfers as public transport can be time-consuming
At Istanbul Airports
- Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights
- Have boarding passes and travel documents ready
- Use HAVAIST or Havabus shuttles for affordable transportation to city center
- Take advantage of airport facilities including lounges and shopping
- Use the free WiFi available throughout both airports
- Be prepared for security checks and passport control
Istanbul-Specific Travel Tips
- Purchase an Istanbulkart for convenient public transportation
- Learn basic Turkish phrases for easier communication
- Carry both cash (Turkish Lira) and cards
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques (scarves available at entrance)
- Try local street food but be mindful of food hygiene
- Bargain politely in markets and bazaars
- Use the efficient ferry system to cross between Europe and Asia
- Visit major attractions early morning to avoid crowds
Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul Flights
Which Istanbul airport should I fly into?
Most international flights arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST). Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) primarily serves low-cost carriers and regional flights. Always check your ticket to confirm which airport you're flying into.
What is the cheapest month to fly to Istanbul?
January and February typically offer the lowest airfares to Istanbul, as these are the cooler months with fewer tourists.
How early should I arrive at Istanbul airports for international flights?
For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours before departure. During peak travel seasons, consider arriving 3.5-4 hours early.
Which airlines offer direct flights to Istanbul from the US?
Turkish Airlines offers direct flights from several US cities including New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Miami.
What is the best way to get from Istanbul Airport to the city center?
HAVAIST shuttle buses are the most convenient option, taking about 60-90 minutes to Sultanahmet. The metro connection is also available but requires transfers.
Is there a shuttle between Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport?
Yes, HAVAIST operates shuttle buses between the two airports, taking approximately 90-120 minutes depending on traffic.
What is the flight time from London to Istanbul?
The flight from London to Istanbul takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Do I need a visa to visit Istanbul?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries can obtain an e-Visa online before travel. Always check current Turkish immigration policies.
What currency is used in Istanbul?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller purchases and markets.
Is Istanbul safe for tourists?
Istanbul is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.