How to get from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet

The Istanbul Sabiha Airport to Sultanahmet distance is approximately 45 kilometers, but the length of the journey varies widely depending on how you travel. You have three main transport options: taxi, private transfer, or metro.

Taking an Istanbul SAW Airport taxi or transfer will take around 1 hour to complete the journey in normal traffic. Because of the reasonable price and door-to-door service, taking an Istanbul Airport transfer is the best way to travel.

Finally, traveling by metro from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet is the least convenient, with one change and 1 hour and 30 minutes of travel time.

Sadly, there is no Havabus from Sabiha Airport to Sultanahmet at this time.

Keep reading for the full breakdown!

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.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€24	60min	24/7
Metro (M4+B1)	€6.60	90min	06:00–00:00
Welcome Airport Transfer	€46	60min	24/7

How to get from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet by taxi

Taking a Sabiha Gokcen Airport taxi from Sabiha Airport to Sultanahmet is one of the best ways to reach your destination comfortably and safely. Unfortunately, this trip can sometimes take over 1 hour due to heavy traffic. You should always take into account the heavy traffic whilst planning your trip to Istanbul.

Taxis are available at the airport around the clock, offering three different classes to choose from. Yellow taxis are the most common and affordable option. Blue taxis provide a slightly more premium experience, while black taxis are considered the luxury choice.

Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet taxi fares

The Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Istanbul taxi cost is around €24 (TRY 1,141). However, this is just an estimate.

Istanbul Airport taxis calculate their prices using a taximeter depending on the distance traveled. Note that this route passes some toll roads, so any toll fees accrued during your journey will be added to your fare at the end of the trip.

Photos (2)

Cost

€24 (TRY 1,141)

Trip Duration

1 H

*Rates may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

There is always a taxi available outside Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Where do I get a taxi from?

The taxi stand is conveniently located just outside the Arrivals Hall at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport. Simply join the queue and wait your turn. With plenty of taxis available, the line moves quickly, even during peak times.

Convenience

Taxis are an efficient, comfortable, and easy way to get from SAW Airport to Sultanahmet. However, there are some dishonest drivers you need to be wary of. To hire a professionally trained, English-speaking driver, you can pre-book a private transfer. If you come prepared, you’ll have a smooth transit to your destination in Istanbul.

Editor’s Note

Great for a convenient travel solution on demand.

Useful Tips

Always take out cash in Turkish lira before you take a taxi.

Only take taxis from the rank - don't accept rides from people who offer them to you in the Arrivals Hall.

There are certain ways to the city that require a toll, discuss with your driver if he will take these.

Traffic in Istanbul can double your journey time during rush hour.

How to get from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet by metro

Is there a metro from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet? There is, but there are quite a few changes. The M4 Line runs from the airport from 06:00 to 22:00 every day.

To reach Sultanahmet, take the M4 line to “Ayrılık Çeşmesi” station (about 1 hour), then switch to the Marmaray overground train (B1) to “Sirkeci” or “Halkalı”.

From either station, Sultanahmet is just a short 15-minute walk or a quick 5-minute taxi ride.

The total journey time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How much is the metro from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet?

To travel on the metro, it’s easiest to get an Istanbulkart travel card. You can purchase one from the vending machines at the airport metro station, which accept cards only (including contactless cards). The card costs €2.73 (TRY 130, and a single fare costs €0.57 (TRY 27).

The total journey will cost around €3.30 (TRY 157) for one person.

Cost

€3.30 (TRY 157)

Trip Duration

1 H 30 Min

*There's a waiting time of up to 20 minutes for the metro.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The metro runs from 06:00 to 00:00.

Where do I get the metro from?

The metro station at Sabiha Gökçen Airport is directly linked to both the domestic and international terminals. Just follow the red and blue “M” symbols on the floor in the Arrivals Hall, they’ll guide you to an escalator labeled “access to metro.” Continue following the signs until you reach the platform. If needed, airport staff can help point you in the right direction.

Convenience

Taking the metro from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Sultanahmet is the least convenient option since it doesn’t offer a direct route and it takes significantly longer than using a taxi or transfer. On the upside, taking the train allows you to bypass Istanbul’s notorious traffic, which is often unavoidable with road transport.

Timetables

Metro Istanbul

Editor’s Note

Good budget-friendly option for solo or couple travelers with only hand luggage.

Useful Tips

Sultanahmet is often called "Blue Mosque" in English on the trams after the beautiful mosque in the area, it is worth a visit!

The Istanbulkart is a fantastic multi-use rechargeable travel card which provides great discounts if you are often using public transport.

If you are multiple people, you only need one Istanbulkart for everyone, just top up the amount needed and scan it for each person.

Many stations on the metro lines are equipped with elevators, escalators, and ramps to facilitate access from street level to the platform.

How to get from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet by private transfer

Taking an Istanbul Sabiha Airport transfer to Sultanahmet is supreme for comfort and convenience. You’ll still get the benefits of an air-conditioned private vehicle taking you from the curb of SAW Airport to your destination. However, you’ll also get a professionally trained English-speaking driver and guaranteed on-time collection for a set price.

Choosing a top-rated private transfer company like Welcome Pickups assures you get a comprehensive, hassle-free service that includes:

Friendly meet and greet at the Arrivals Hall
Pre-selected vehicle for your needs
Live flight monitoring to ensure on-time pickup
Fixed fares with zero hidden costs
Attentive 24/7 customer support
Flexible cancellation

Imagine how relaxing it would feel to get to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport knowing that your transfer to Istanbul is sorted. You can enjoy the gorgeous view as you descend into SAW Airport and have a seamless journey to your final destination.

How much is a private transfer from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet?

One of the best things about booking a private transfer from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet is that you can book and pay for your transfer in advance. So instead of playing the taximeter guessing game, you can relax knowing your first taxi journey in Istanbul is paid for.

As a guide on prices:

Sedan (up to 3 passengers) – €46

Minivan (up to 8 passengers) – €50

Minivan (up to 12 passengers) – €123

To get your custom quote, head to our website or mobile app (App Store || Google Play). Pop in your personal details, flight number, destination, and intended pickup time. You’ll receive your fixed, all-inclusive quote in minutes and can book straight away.

Photos (1)

Cost

€46

Trip Duration

1 H

*Booking your private transfer from SAW Airport in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport .

Where do I get a private transfer from?

Your private transfer driver will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall when you touch down at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport. You’ll spot them holding a sign with your name on it. After welcoming you to Istanbul, your driver will help you with your luggage and guide you to your hand-selected vehicle.

If your plane is delayed, no problem! We update your driver so you don’t have to. Rest assured that when you arrive, your driver will be there waiting.

Convenience

Private transfers offer another level of convenience when it comes to traveling from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet. You’ll save yourself from long waits in taxi queues and haggling with your driver. Instead, you’ll have the seamless experience of a fixed-rate fare and a meet-and-greet service in the Arrivals Hall. That way, you can start your Turkish adventure relaxed and ready to explore.

Editor’s Note

Ideal for couples, families, business, and solo travelers who want a convenient, safe, reliable journey.

Useful Tips

We recommend setting your pickup at least 30 minutes after you’re due to land. This will give you time to collect your luggage and get through passport control.

Before your flight, we’ll send you an email with your driver’s name, photo, contact details and vehicle information so you have everything you need for a smooth transit.

We offer a range of vehicles from three-seater sedans to spacious minivans.

You can contact your driver on WhatsApp or speak to our 24/7 customer service if you have any questions or concerns.

Your quote is all-inclusive so you have no hidden fees. However, if you’d like to tip your driver for top-quality service, you are welcome to do so via our app.

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.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€40

NIGHTTIME

€40

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How much is a taxi from Sabiha Airport to Sultanahmet?

You can expect the taxi from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet price to be around €24 (TRY 1,141). However, this is just an estimate. Your fare will be determined by a taximeter. For a guaranteed fixed fare, we recommend booking a private transfer.

How to get from Sultanahmet to Sabiha Gokcen Airport

The best way to get from Sultanahmet to Sabiha Gokcen Airport is to take an airport taxi or transfer. The taxi cost from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen to Sultanahmet is around €24 (TRY 1,141). Alternatively, you can take the metro, but it will require a short walk to Halkalı Station, the B1 line to Ayrılık Çeşmesi, and then the M4 line to SAW Airport. There is no direct Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet bus.

Which airport in Istanbul is closer to Sultanahmet?

The closest airport to Sultanahmet is Istanbul IST Airport.

Olivia De Santos

Olivia De Santos is a seasoned travel writer and adventurer with bylines in Lonely Planet and A Way Abroad. With over ten years of professional writing experience and a degree in Linguistics, she blends cultural insight and personal storytelling to help travelers see the world in a new light.

Was this helpful?

The best way to arrive in Istanbul

High-end transfer service at the same price as a regular taxi. Available in 374 destinations.

Learn more

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

How to get from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet by taxi

Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet taxi fares

Photos (2)

€24 (TRY 1,141)

1 H

There is always a taxi available outside Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Where do I get a taxi from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet by metro

How much is the metro from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet?

€3.30 (TRY 157)

1 H 30 Min

The metro runs from 06:00 to 00:00.

Where do I get the metro from?

Convenience

Timetables

Metro Istanbul

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet by private transfer

How much is a private transfer from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet?

Photos (1)

€46

1 H

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport .

Where do I get a private transfer from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How much is a taxi from Sabiha Airport to Sultanahmet?

How to get from Sultanahmet to Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Which airport in Istanbul is closer to Sultanahmet?

Olivia De Santos

The best way to arrive in Istanbul

Save the article for later or share it with friends

The link is copied

Transfer Options in Istanbul

Sabiha Gökçen Airport Taxi (SAW): Fixed Prices & English Drivers

Getting from Istanbul Airport to Taksim Square: Transport Options

Taxi at Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul: All Taxi Options & Prices

FromIstanbul New Airport

ToSabiha Gökçen Airport

Istanbul Taxi - Prices and Useful Tips for Taxis in Istanbul

374 Destinations Worldwide

Pre-book online→