Istanbul is a fascinating travel destination; with over 2500 years of history, culture, and traditions, beautiful landmarks, a vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking views, this city is a fast-paced cultural melting pot you can't miss.
So when travelling to Istanbul New Airport and you want to make your way to Istanbul's city centre, you have two different transportation options: you can either take a taxi or private transfer, or you can take a bus. As the airport is located in the northern area of Arnavutköy, it should take around 50 minutes to reach the city centre, Taksim. Alternatively, if you choose to take the bus, it will take between 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes, depending on traffic. Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Istanbul at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.
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Getting from Istanbul New Airport (IST) to the City Centre of Istanbul
Kathryn ShawJuly 19, 2021
Welcome Pickups has a Net Safety Score of 99 of 100
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20 minute gap between transfers
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Regular Car Sanitisation
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Contactless ride
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Sanitiser in every car
Comparison of the options
How to get from Istanbul New Airport to the city by taxi
Taxis are by far the most comfortable and safe option to get from Istanbul New Airport (IST). It takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the city centre, traffic dependant.
Moreover, taxis are easily recognisable as they are either black “E” type, blue “D” type or orange “C” type taxis.
Taxi fare from Istanbul New Airport to city
A journey to Taksim (the central city of Istanbul) from Istanbul New Airport (IST) costs around €20.50 (₺135 TL), depending on your exact location. Going further, Istanbul taxis are metered, means that you may have to pay a higher price if you are travelling during traffic hours.
However, if you wish to travel at a fixed rate with no hidden fees, then it is highly recommended to pre-book a private transfer online.
Taxi prices
Day time
(05:00–24:00)
(05:00–24:00)
Night time
(00:00–05:00)
(00:00–05:00)
Duration
FROM IGA TO CITY CENTRE
€30
€35
45 min
FROM IGA TO HOTELS IN CITY CENTRE
€30
€35
45 min
FROM IGA TO SULTANAHMET
€35
€40
60 min
FROM IGA TO GALATA TOWER
€25
€28
40 min
FROM IGA TO SAW
€50
€54
60 min
Convenience
Taxis are generally the best way to get from the airport to the city centre as they are a comfortable, safe and efficient option. However, Istanbul is notorious for traffic during peak hours, which could be very inconvenient as taxi fares are calculated using a taximeter.
Editor’s Note
Please note that the airport information is subject to change as the airport is still in construction.
Useful Tips
How to get from Istanbul New Airport to the city by metro
Although the metro line is still undergoing construction, a new line is on its way, connecting Istanbul's new airport to the city centre. The metro line M11 will provide direct and quick access to Levent, the main commercial hub of the city, and will connect Gayrettepe station to metro line M2 Yenikapı–Hacıosman (Taksim).
How much is a metro ticket from Istanbul New Airport to city?
Metro prices are still unavailable.
Cost
TBA
Trip Duration
30 Min.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
TBA
Where do I get it from?
According to Istanbul airport plans, there will be a metro stop at every terminal in the new airport. They will likely be located downstairs, as you enter the arrivals area.
Convenience
Without the available information, it is difficult to determine whether the airport metro line will be convenient for passengers. However, with its high capacity and quick transit time, it will certainly be a valuable alternative to traffic-filled roads, especially during peak hours.
Editor’s Note
A high-speed train is also planned to run directly between SAW Airport and IST Airport. Its completion date is currently unknown.
How to get from Istanbul New Airport to the city by bus
Bus services are now operational from the airport; there are 19 different routes and over 150 buses that run daily from the airport to multiple destinations. Three different compagnies run the bus routes - Seyahat (intercity transportation), Havaist and IETT. You will find great baggage space in the bus. The best way to reach the city centre (Taksim Square) is via the H2 Line to Şişli-Mecidiyeköyis Station. From there, you will find the metro line M2 to Taksim Square. Another great option is the Havaist Line from Sultanahmet the IST 1S.
How much is a bus ticket from Istanbul New Airport to city?
Istanbulkarts are available to purchase from the yellow kiosks at the airport and cost €1 (₺6 TL).
The cost of a bus ticket varies depending on the service you. The H2 bus line, costs around €2.60 (₺16 TL).
Please note that you may have to pay a further €0.40 (₺2.60 TL) if you take the metro from the station to Taksim Square Station.
Cost
€3
Trip Duration
1 H 10 Min. - 1 H 50 Min.
During the day (from 06:00 - 23:00) buses depart every 15 to 20 minutes and every 30 - 60 minutes at night. The service operates 24/7.
Covenience
Safety
Value for Money
The H-2 bus line runs every 11 minutes between 06:00 - 00:00. Other services may differ slightly in their waiting time.
Where do I get it from?
Bus stations are located outside of the arrivals hall.
Convenience
The bus service is a cost-savvy travel option and the vehicles are comfortable, however the bus journey can be long as the bus marks many stops along the way, and traffic can be quite dense.
Moreover, you will need to take another transportation method from the Şişli-Mecidiyeköyis station in order to reach Taksim.
Editor’s Note
Buses are scheduled according to the airport's arrival times. Buses should become more frequent once the airport is complete.
Useful Tips
Welcome Pickups transfer
Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line
If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Istanbul. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.
Read morePrices
DAYTIME
€40NIGHTTIME
€40 Same price as a regular taxi from the line
PRICES FOR
Sedan Car
4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage
Frequently asked questions
How far is Istanbul New Airport from the city centre?
The Istanbul airport is located around 38km from the city centre of Istanbul. The journey takes around 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
How many transportation options are available from IST to the city?
As they airport is still undergoing some construction, you only have 2 transportation options for now you can either take a taxi or a bus from the airport to city centre. The metro line should be operational in August 2021.
How much is taxi from Istanbul New Airport to city?
A taxi ride from Istanbul New Airport to the city centre should cost around€30 (₺200 TL) and take 50 minutes. Please note that this price may be subject to airport fees, or evening/holiday/weekend pricing.
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