The distance from Istanbul New Airport to the city center is around 40 km, and the ride takes about 50 minutes when there’s no traffic on the roads.
Istanbul’s vibrant city is ready to be discovered from the moment your plane lands. There are four transport options to choose from when traveling from the Istanbul New Airport to Taksim, the city center. You can either take an Istanbul Airport taxi, an Istanbul Airport transfer, the metro, or a bus. Taxis and airport transfers are the most convenient way to travel as they offer a direct and personalized service.
The metro offers a cheap and quick way to reach the city. However, you’ll need to change from the M11 to the M2 line at the Gayrettepe metro station, as the journey is not direct.
Another affordable option to get you from Istanbul New Airport to Istanbul city center is by bus, but note that you may need to take at least 2 buses to reach your final destination, depending on the operator you choose to travel with.
Suitable for budget-conscious travelers with some time to spare.
Save the article for later or share it with friends
The link is copied
How to get from Istanbul New Airport to city center by taxi
Taking an Istanbul Airport taxi to the city center is a quick transport option as they are available 24/7 and offer direct transport to your destination. Official airport taxis are yellow ‘C’ type taxis and have a ‘taxi’ sign on the roof. It’s important to note that there are three different types of taxis, with the yellow ‘C’ type taxis being the most affordable option. The blue ‘D’ type taxis are a little larger and offer more comfort, while black ‘E’ type taxis offer luxury and premium services. Once you leave the arrivals area at Terminal 1, you will see them waiting outside.
Cost of a taxi from Istanbul New Airport to the city
The price for an airport taxi ride from Istanbul New Airport to the city center is usually determined by a taximeter. Some average costs are below, though the fare will depend on your exact destination and traffic.
Istanbul City Center (Taksim) – €17 (TRY 610)
Sabiha Gokcen Airport – €30 (TRY 1076)
Sultanahmet– €19.18 (TRY 682)
The base fare during the day is €0.50 (TRY 18) and the price per km is charged approximately €0.35 (TRY 13). Additionally, there is a waiting rate of €0.04 (TRY 1.44) per five waiting minutes, added to the final fare. The tolls are charged to the passenger and the final fare is calculated by a taximeter taking into account the traffic levels and the duration of the journey.
That said, a ride with a taxi from Istanbul New Airport to the city center costs approximately €17 (TRY 610) with a yellow ‘C’ type taxi.
Where do I get a taxi from?
The taxi ranks at Istanbul New Airport are located just outside the arrivals area of Terminal 1. Official taxis are yellow ‘C’ type taxis with a ‘taxi’ sign on the roof.
Convenience
Taxis are always a good option for traveling from Istanbul New Airport to the city center as they are available 24/7. However, the traffic on the roads is usually heavy, meaning that the final price will be higher due to the running taximeter and waiting for an available taxi may take a few minutes.
Useful Tips
If you are traveling in a 4-person group and need more space or have a lot of luggage, it’s best to book a transfer from the airport in advance and split the cost.
Official taxis usually use taximeters to determine the final fare. Make sure that the taximeter is turned on and set to the base fare of €0.50 (TRY 18) once you enter the taxi.
The base fare and the per-kilometre rate are always the same, even during the night and on weekends.
Never accept rides from unlicensed drivers at Istanbul New Airport as you may be subject to overcharging.
If you wish to pay by credit card, we encourage you to check it with your driver before starting your ride. You should also carry some cash in the local currency (TRY) just in case.
Keep in mind that for a blue 'D' type or black 'E' type Istanbul Airport taxi, the final fare will be higher than the yellow 'C' type taxis.
Always ask for the receipt in case you need to file a complaint or claim a lost item.
Some taxi drivers may not speak English fluently. It’s best to write your hotel address down and give it to the driver beforehand, or show them the way using Google Maps.
If you think you have been scammed or overcharged, write down the taxi driver’s name, ID number and the number of your taxi to file a complaint with the taxi company afterwards.
How to get from Istanbul New Airport to the city center by metro
Traveling from Istanbul New Airport to the city by metro is the cheapest option. The total journey time on the metros is 42 minutes, not including waiting and transfer time. You’ll ride the M11 for 32 minutes to Gayrettepe station, and from there you’ll have to transfer to the M2 metro line and take the train that arrives at Taksim station in 10 minutes. From the station, you can walk or get a taxi to your final destination.
How much is the metro from IST Airport to Istanbul city center?
The cost of a metro ticket on the M11 will cost €0.50 (TRY 9), and on the M2 will be €0.35 (TRY 7), which brings a total journey cost from Istanbul New Airport to the city to €0.85 (TRY 17).
However, keep in mind that you must also purchase an Istanbulkart card to be able to ride the metro, which costs a one-off price of €3 (TRY 60). Getting an Istanbulkart will offer even more economical options if you plan to make frequent journeys.
Children under the age of 6 can travel for free.
Cost
€0.85 (TL 17)
Trip Duration
40 Min.
There's a waiting time of 10 minutes for the metro.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
*The metro runs from 06:00 to 24:00.
Where is the metro station at Istanbul New Airport?
The Istanbul New Airport metro station is on the ground floor opposite the car park, you’ll find it by following the signs. You can buy your ticket at the machines available in the metro station that accept cash and card payments or at the ticket office. Make sure that you keep your ticket with you until you get off the train, as you may be asked to present it.
Convenience
Taking the metro from Istanbul New Airport to the city center is one of the cheapest ways when using public transport. However, you’ll need to change lines at Gayrettepe Metro Station which makes it a slower travel alternative. Additionally, it doesn’t run after 00:30 so, if you’re arriving close to midnight or later, it would be best to choose another travel option.
Useful Tips
Be sure to purchase an Istanbulkart card at the airport before boarding the metro. You won't be able to enter the station without scanning this card first.
Children under the age of 6 travel for free.
You must board the M2 metro train within 2 hours of using the M11 train to secure the lower fare.
There's no luggage storage on the metro so be sure to travel with small luggage items and keep it close to you at all times.
How to get from Istanbul New Airport to city center by bus (Havaist airport bus)
The Havaist airport buses are owned by a private company and provide a direct connection from Istanbul New Airport to Taksim station in the city center and run 24/7. They’re one of the easiest and cheapest travel options as there are stops along the way but the trip takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic levels.
How much is the bus from Istanbul New Airport to the city center?
Taking the Havaist airport bus is a budget-friendly option and the trip costs around 4 euros (TRY 144) for a one-way trip. You can purchase tickets online via the Havaist website or app in advance and show the QR code you receive when boarding the bus or use an Istanbulkart card that you’ll be able to purchase at the airport beforehand.
Cost
€4
Trip Duration
1 H 30 Min
During the day (from 06:00-23:00) buses depart every 15 to 20 minutes and every 30 to 60 minutes at night.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The Havaist airport bus runs every 15-60 minutes, 24/7.
Where do I get the bus from?
The bus stop for line HViST-16, connecting Istanbul New Airport to Taksim station in the center is located outside the arrivals area. Follow the “HAVAIST” signs to make sure you don’t get lost.
Convenience
The Havaist airport bus is a great option if you are looking for a cheap way to travel to the city center directly but remember that the trip duration depends on the current traffic conditions. Traffic on Istanbuls’ roads is usually heavy so the trip might take longer than 1 hour and 30 minutes. Combined with a 15 to 60 minute wait, the total time for this transport mode is extensive.
Useful Tips
Although the Havaist airport buses are regular and reliable, it is always best to check online for updated timetables.
You can purchase an Istanbulkart card and get discounts on your transportation. Make sure that you charge your card when you purchase it.
Havaist Airport buses are very comfortable, they have air-conditioning, luggage storage and free WiFi for passengers.
Keep in mind that you cannot pay for your ticket in cash directly to the driver so make sure to purchase it online beforehand or at the airport.
How to get from Istanbul New Airport to city center by bus (IETT Public Buses)
IETT public buses are the cheapest way to travel from Istanbul New Airport to the city center, although they don’t provide a direct service so, you’ll need to board at least two buses, depending on where you want to go. For a trip from the airport to Taksim station, you’ll need around 2 hours and 20 minutes depending on traffic levels, and a change from bus H-3 to bus 89-T at Halkalı Yolu station.
How much is the bus from Istanbul New Airport to the city center?
Taking the IETT buses is the cheapest way to travel as a single ticket costs around €0.84 (TRY 30). You can purchase your ticket at the machines or the ticket offices located at the airport. The IETT H-3 bus leaves every 90 minutes but depending on where you want to go, you should check the timetables because not all buses operate during the night.
Cost
€0.84
Trip Duration
2 H 20 Min.
The IETT public buses run every 90 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Take note that these buses run all day but many do not operate at night.
Where do I get the bus from?
The bus stop for IETT buses, connecting Istanbul New Airport to Taksim station in the center is located outside the arrivals area. Follow the “IETT” signs to make sure you find the correct bus.
Convenience
Traveling with IETT buses is a very affordable way to travel to the city center. Note, however, that the trip will take a long time due to several bus changes, multiple stops, and potential traffic conjunction.
Useful Tips
Although the IETT buses are reliable, it’s always best to check online for updated timetables and be prepared for long waiting times and trip durations.
Purchase an Istanbulkart card if you wish to get discounts on your transportation and make sure that you charge your card before boarding the bus.
Be sure to purchase tickets from the machines or ticket offices at the airport before walking to the bus stop as the driver does not sell tickets.
IETT buses may be less comfortable than other transport options as they may be crowded during peak times.
How to get from Istanbul Airport to the city by private transfer
If you wish to start your holiday right away, then consider pre-booking a private Istanbul Airport transfer from Istanbul Airport to the city center. Private transfers, such as Welcome Pickups, offer personalized services and the rides are quick, stress-free, and door-to-door.
Meet and greet service
Trained English-speaking drivers
Flight monitoring
Guaranteed fixed rates
24/7 customer support
Flexible cancellation
Book your Istanbul Airport private transfer in advance and concentrate on what you want to see and do at your new destination. Your driver can also give you a mini tour of the city if you wish. Don’t hesitate to ask for local tips as they will be happy to help.
How much is a private transfer from Istanbul New Airport to the city center?
One of the main advantages of pre-booking a private transfer from Istanbul New Airport is that you get a fixed price with no hidden charges, which you can pay before your arrival. You can also pre-select the vehicle you prefer depending on how many people you’re traveling with.
A private transfer from Istanbul New Airport to your hotel will cost around €40 (TRY 1437). You can book your ride via our website or app in just a few clicks. Enter your personal details, your flight number, and the pick-up time and your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals area, holding a sign with your name on it. Enjoy a direct transfer from Istanbul New Airport to the city center or your hotel and secure a fixed price that remains the same no matter how much traffic there is.
Cost
€40
Trip Duration
45 Min.
*Fares may vary unless booked in advance.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Private transfers are available 24/7 at Istanbul Airport.
Where do I get my airport transfer from?
Your well-trained, English-speaking driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals gate, holding a sign with your name on it so there won’t be any need to search for the taxi ranks. After a personal meet and greet, you’ll hop into your pre-selected vehicle and head straight to your hotel or destination of choice.
Convenience
Private transfers offer a different sense of comfort and are the most reliable travel option. They offer flexibility with last-minute changes and luggage service which is rather helpful if you are traveling with family or are on a solo trip, carrying a lot of luggage. That way, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing everything is taken care of and ensure a smooth arrival directly to your accommodation. Another major plus? No waiting for an available taxi or public transport.
Useful Tips
We recommend setting the pickup time to 20-30 minutes after the landing time to leave enough time to clear passport control and baggage claim.
Sedans can seat up to 3 passengers and minivans can take up to 8.
You don’t have to tip your Istanbul New Airport taxi driver, however, you can always add a tip via the app if you appreciate the service.
You’ll receive an email including your driver's name, details, and vehicle information so that you know what to expect on the day.
If you need a child booster or baby seat, you can request one during the booking process online or using the app.
Istanbul Airport private transfers
Powered by Welcome Pickups. Book a trained, English-speaking driver to pick you up for a fixed price with no hidden fees.
How far is Istanbul New Airport from the city center?
Istanbul New Airport is around 40 km away from the city center, taking around 50 minutes by taxi or private transfer. The metro takes 40 minutes while private and public buses can take between 90 and 140 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
How much is a taxi from Istanbul's new airport to the city center?
Official taxis usually use taximeters to determine the final fare. That said, it will cost you around €17- €20 (TRY 611-718) for a trip to the center, depending on the duration and the current traffic conditions. For a Welcome Pickups private transfer, you’ll pay a fixed fare of €40 (TRY 1437) for the same route and be greeted by an English-speaking driver who’ll be waiting for you upon your arrival, 24/7 customer support plus a complimentary mini tour when you get there.
How many transportation options are available from IST to the city?
There are 3 different transfer options from the Istanbul New Airport to the city center. You can get a taxi, take a bus, or use the metro. The journey from the airport to the city will take around 50 minutes with an airport taxi, 90 on a bus, or 42 minutes via metros, not including wait and transfer times.
Taking an Istanbul Airport taxi to the city center is a quick transport option as they are available 24/7 and offer direct transport to your destination. Official airport taxis are yellow ‘C’ type taxis and have a ‘taxi’ sign on the roof. It’s important to note that there are three different types of taxis, with the yellow ‘C’ type taxis being the most affordable option. The blue ‘D’ type taxis are a little larger and offer more comfort, while black ‘E’ type taxis offer luxury and premium services. Once you leave the arrivals area at Terminal 1, you will see them waiting outside.
Cost of a taxi from Istanbul New Airport to the city
The price for an airport taxi ride from Istanbul New Airport to the city center is usually determined by a taximeter. Some average costs are below, though the fare will depend on your exact destination and traffic.
The base fare during the day is €0.50 (TRY 18) and the price per km is charged approximately €0.35 (TRY 13). Additionally, there is a waiting rate of €0.04 (TRY 1.44) per five waiting minutes, added to the final fare. The tolls are charged to the passenger and the final fare is calculated by a taximeter taking into account the traffic levels and the duration of the journey.
That said, a ride with a taxi from Istanbul New Airport to the city center costs approximately €17 (TRY 610) with a yellow ‘C’ type taxi.
Where do I get a taxi from?
The taxi ranks at Istanbul New Airport are located just outside the arrivals area of Terminal 1. Official taxis are yellow ‘C’ type taxis with a ‘taxi’ sign on the roof.
Convenience
Taxis are always a good option for traveling from Istanbul New Airport to the city center as they are available 24/7. However, the traffic on the roads is usually heavy, meaning that the final price will be higher due to the running taximeter and waiting for an available taxi may take a few minutes.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreTraveling from Istanbul New Airport to the city by metro is the cheapest option. The total journey time on the metros is 42 minutes, not including waiting and transfer time. You’ll ride the M11 for 32 minutes to Gayrettepe station, and from there you’ll have to transfer to the M2 metro line and take the train that arrives at Taksim station in 10 minutes. From the station, you can walk or get a taxi to your final destination.
How much is the metro from IST Airport to Istanbul city center?
The cost of a metro ticket on the M11 will cost €0.50 (TRY 9), and on the M2 will be €0.35 (TRY 7), which brings a total journey cost from Istanbul New Airport to the city to €0.85 (TRY 17).
However, keep in mind that you must also purchase an Istanbulkart card to be able to ride the metro, which costs a one-off price of €3 (TRY 60). Getting an Istanbulkart will offer even more economical options if you plan to make frequent journeys.
Children under the age of 6 can travel for free.
*The metro runs from 06:00 to 24:00.
Where is the metro station at Istanbul New Airport?
The Istanbul New Airport metro station is on the ground floor opposite the car park, you’ll find it by following the signs. You can buy your ticket at the machines available in the metro station that accept cash and card payments or at the ticket office. Make sure that you keep your ticket with you until you get off the train, as you may be asked to present it.
Convenience
Taking the metro from Istanbul New Airport to the city center is one of the cheapest ways when using public transport. However, you’ll need to change lines at Gayrettepe Metro Station which makes it a slower travel alternative. Additionally, it doesn’t run after 00:30 so, if you’re arriving close to midnight or later, it would be best to choose another travel option.
Useful Tips
The Havaist airport buses are owned by a private company and provide a direct connection from Istanbul New Airport to Taksim station in the city center and run 24/7. They’re one of the easiest and cheapest travel options as there are stops along the way but the trip takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic levels.
How much is the bus from Istanbul New Airport to the city center?
Taking the Havaist airport bus is a budget-friendly option and the trip costs around 4 euros (TRY 144) for a one-way trip. You can purchase tickets online via the Havaist website or app in advance and show the QR code you receive when boarding the bus or use an Istanbulkart card that you’ll be able to purchase at the airport beforehand.
The Havaist airport bus runs every 15-60 minutes, 24/7.
Where do I get the bus from?
The bus stop for line HViST-16, connecting Istanbul New Airport to Taksim station in the center is located outside the arrivals area. Follow the “HAVAIST” signs to make sure you don’t get lost.
Convenience
The Havaist airport bus is a great option if you are looking for a cheap way to travel to the city center directly but remember that the trip duration depends on the current traffic conditions. Traffic on Istanbuls’ roads is usually heavy so the trip might take longer than 1 hour and 30 minutes. Combined with a 15 to 60 minute wait, the total time for this transport mode is extensive.
Useful Tips
IETT public buses are the cheapest way to travel from Istanbul New Airport to the city center, although they don’t provide a direct service so, you’ll need to board at least two buses, depending on where you want to go. For a trip from the airport to Taksim station, you’ll need around 2 hours and 20 minutes depending on traffic levels, and a change from bus H-3 to bus 89-T at Halkalı Yolu station.
How much is the bus from Istanbul New Airport to the city center?
Taking the IETT buses is the cheapest way to travel as a single ticket costs around €0.84 (TRY 30). You can purchase your ticket at the machines or the ticket offices located at the airport. The IETT H-3 bus leaves every 90 minutes but depending on where you want to go, you should check the timetables because not all buses operate during the night.
Take note that these buses run all day but many do not operate at night.
Where do I get the bus from?
The bus stop for IETT buses, connecting Istanbul New Airport to Taksim station in the center is located outside the arrivals area. Follow the “IETT” signs to make sure you find the correct bus.
Convenience
Traveling with IETT buses is a very affordable way to travel to the city center. Note, however, that the trip will take a long time due to several bus changes, multiple stops, and potential traffic conjunction.
Useful Tips
If you wish to start your holiday right away, then consider pre-booking a private Istanbul Airport transfer from Istanbul Airport to the city center. Private transfers, such as Welcome Pickups, offer personalized services and the rides are quick, stress-free, and door-to-door.
Book your Istanbul Airport private transfer in advance and concentrate on what you want to see and do at your new destination. Your driver can also give you a mini tour of the city if you wish. Don’t hesitate to ask for local tips as they will be happy to help.
How much is a private transfer from Istanbul New Airport to the city center?
One of the main advantages of pre-booking a private transfer from Istanbul New Airport is that you get a fixed price with no hidden charges, which you can pay before your arrival. You can also pre-select the vehicle you prefer depending on how many people you’re traveling with.
A private transfer from Istanbul New Airport to your hotel will cost around €40 (TRY 1437). You can book your ride via our website or app in just a few clicks. Enter your personal details, your flight number, and the pick-up time and your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals area, holding a sign with your name on it. Enjoy a direct transfer from Istanbul New Airport to the city center or your hotel and secure a fixed price that remains the same no matter how much traffic there is.
Private transfers are available 24/7 at Istanbul Airport.
Where do I get my airport transfer from?
Your well-trained, English-speaking driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals gate, holding a sign with your name on it so there won’t be any need to search for the taxi ranks. After a personal meet and greet, you’ll hop into your pre-selected vehicle and head straight to your hotel or destination of choice.
Convenience
Private transfers offer a different sense of comfort and are the most reliable travel option. They offer flexibility with last-minute changes and luggage service which is rather helpful if you are traveling with family or are on a solo trip, carrying a lot of luggage. That way, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing everything is taken care of and ensure a smooth arrival directly to your accommodation. Another major plus? No waiting for an available taxi or public transport.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 3 passengers
€32Starting from 10.7 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 7 passengers
€38Starting from 5.4 EUR / passenger
Minibus up to 12 passengers
€51Starting from 4.3 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How far is Istanbul New Airport from the city center?
Istanbul New Airport is around 40 km away from the city center, taking around 50 minutes by taxi or private transfer. The metro takes 40 minutes while private and public buses can take between 90 and 140 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
How much is a taxi from Istanbul's new airport to the city center?
Official taxis usually use taximeters to determine the final fare. That said, it will cost you around €17- €20 (TRY 611-718) for a trip to the center, depending on the duration and the current traffic conditions. For a Welcome Pickups private transfer, you’ll pay a fixed fare of €40 (TRY 1437) for the same route and be greeted by an English-speaking driver who’ll be waiting for you upon your arrival, 24/7 customer support plus a complimentary mini tour when you get there.
How many transportation options are available from IST to the city?
There are 3 different transfer options from the Istanbul New Airport to the city center. You can get a taxi, take a bus, or use the metro. The journey from the airport to the city will take around 50 minutes with an airport taxi, 90 on a bus, or 42 minutes via metros, not including wait and transfer times.
Transfer Options in Istanbul
Istanbul Taxi - Prices and Useful Tips for Taxis in Istanbul
Istanbul Airport Taxi: Compare All Taxi Options & Prices
Transfer Options from Istanbul Airport to Taksim | Welcome Pickups
FromIstanbul New Airport
ToSabiha Gökçen Airport
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport Taxi: Compare All Taxi Options & Prices
FromSabiha Gokcen Airport
ToSultanahmet