Roberta Aguirre
Istanbul Airport (IST) is a major international transfer point, with layovers a frequent occurrence. The airport is located 50km from the city centre, which can be a disadvantage for those with a short layover. However, there are plenty of things to do in the airport to keep you entertained. If you have a long layover, you can explore the city of Istanbul, which spans two continents. The airport offers a range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants serving local Turkish cuisine. There are also several bars and cafes, as well as shops selling Turkish delicacies, clothing, books, and electronics. The airport also has an on-site museum, cinema, children's play areas, and spa treatments. For those with a long layover, there is a hotel in the terminal area offering comfortable rooms with amenities such as Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning.
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What You'll Learn
Relax in a spa, nap pod or lounge
If you're looking to relax and unwind during your layover at Istanbul Airport, there are several spa, nap, and lounge options available to you.
For a truly rejuvenating experience, the Ambassador Spa & Beauty Salon offers a range of express 30-minute treatments, full-day spa packages, and beauty services. You can choose from a variety of massages, manicures and pedicures, facial treatments, and even a quick touch-up to your makeup. The spa also features a steam room and shower facilities, providing the perfect opportunity to refresh and revitalise before your next flight. The spa is conveniently located on the Lounge Floor, just behind passport control.
When it comes to napping options, Istanbul Airport offers both day beds and lounge chairs in the "Nap Zones" located in the international area. Additionally, the airport features the exclusive iGA Sleepod service, providing a quiet and comfortable space to rest at competitive prices.
There is also a selection of lounges at Istanbul Airport, each offering a range of amenities to enhance your comfort and relaxation. The iGA International Lounge, renowned for its exceptional hygiene and service quality, boasts an outdoor terrace and a complimentary massage service. The Turkish Airlines Business Lounge and Miles & Smiles Lounge offer similar amenities, including television, newspapers, magazines, snacks, a bar, shower facilities, playgrounds, rest areas, and dining options serving both Turkish and international cuisine. These lounges can accommodate a large number of guests and are located on the international departures floor, accessible via passport control and escalators. Lounge access may be complimentary for business or first-class travellers, but anyone can pay to enjoy the facilities and revitalise before their next flight.
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Visit the airport's museum and library
If you're looking for something to do during a layover at Istanbul Airport, the Istanbul Airport Museum and Library are well worth a visit. The museum, which opened in July 2020, is the largest airport museum in the world, with approximately 11,000 square feet of exhibition space. It showcases a diverse array of artefacts and treasures from Turkey's rich historical and cultural heritage.
The museum's inaugural exhibition, 'Treasures of Türkiye: Faces of the Throne', displayed 316 exceptional pieces from 29 museums across the country. This exhibition delved into 12,000 years of Anatolian history, presenting a unique perspective on the concept of 'Rule and Ruler'. Among the highlights were the Kadesh Treaty, the first peace treaty in human history, as well as jewellery, coins, Ottoman items, and a large statue of the Roman Emperor Caracalla with a smaller soldier figure by his side, illustrating imperial power.
The museum is not just a static display of artefacts but a dynamic and immersive experience. Ancient objects are brought to life through interactive video projections and artistic lighting, creating a techno-enhanced wonderland that captivates visitors. The exhibitions change annually, ensuring that each visit offers a fresh perspective and a unique journey through time.
Istanbul Airport also boasts a library, providing travellers with a quiet sanctuary amidst the bustling airport environment. While information about the library's offerings is scarce, it likely provides a peaceful escape for those seeking to relax or engage in some quiet reading during their layover.
Istanbul Airport is located in the Arnavutkoy Area, about 50 kilometres from the city centre. The airport itself offers a plethora of dining and shopping options, as well as lounges and nap zones for those seeking comfort and relaxation during their layover. With efficient planning, travellers with longer layovers can also explore nearby Istanbul, soaking in the city's oriental charm and visiting famous landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Museum and the Blue Mosque.
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Shop for Turkish products and designer goods
Istanbul Airport is a great place to shop for Turkish products and designer goods. The airport is located in Arnavutkoy, about 50 kilometres away from the city centre, so it's a great place to shop without having to venture into the busy city.
The airport offers a unique shopping experience with a blend of selected brands and local Turkish products. Unifree Duty-Free has a vast sales area of 55,000 square meters, including boutique shops, classical Duty-Free stores, and a Bazaar area where you can find local Turkish products. The Duty-Free area is designed to give passengers a sense of belonging to Istanbul, with nine sections housing different concepts such as Fashion Garden and Family Palace.
If you're looking for a more luxurious shopping experience, the airport also houses elite boutique shops and well-known designer brands. You can find everything from fashion and accessories to watches and jewellery. The airport also offers innovative shopping experiences, such as the "Magic Mirror" technology, which allows you to preview items like watches, sunglasses, accessories, clothes, and makeup products without even trying them on.
In addition to shopping, the airport also provides other amenities to enhance your overall experience. You can find various cafes, restaurants, and patisseries offering a range of Turkish and international cuisines to suit your taste buds. There are also hair salons, cosmetics shops, and 24/7 pharmacies available for any last-minute travel essentials or self-care needs.
Whether you're looking for traditional Turkish souvenirs or designer goods, Istanbul Airport has something for everyone. With its convenient location, diverse shopping options, and additional amenities, it's a great place to indulge in some retail therapy during your layover or before boarding your flight.
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Eat and drink at local and international restaurants
Istanbul Airport has a wealth of restaurants and coffee shops, offering local and international cuisine to suit all tastes. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there is something for everyone.
If you are flying business class, the Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge offers an excellent dining experience with live-fire cooking stations and impressive buffets of mezze and desserts. For traditional Anatolian cuisine, head to Cuisine Anatolia in the central hall near the A and B gates. Here, you will find a variety of dishes, each with its own unique menu.
For something a little different, Turkey's famous chef, Salt Bae, has a restaurant near the D gates. This popular spot serves up burgers, steaks, ribs, and chops, alongside one of the airport's few full bars. If you're travelling with children, they can enjoy elaborate milkshakes, and you can finish your meal with a golden sprinkle on your ice cream.
For a quieter dining experience, Kaimakk between the D and E gates serves both international and Turkish dishes in a white-on-white dining area. Sample dishes such as linguine bolognese and linguine köfte, or indulge in Turkish delights and baklava for dessert.
If you have a long layover and want to explore the city, Istanbul has numerous dining options to choose from. Sultanahmet is the place to go for oriental and historical charm, with the Hagia Sophia Museum, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar all within walking distance. Taksim, on the other hand, is the modern city centre with the impressive Taksim Square and nearby Dolmabahce Palace.
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Take a tour or stay overnight in the city
Istanbul Airport is located in Arnavutkoy, about 50km from the city centre, and it takes approximately 50-100 minutes to get to the city by taxi or bus. If you have a long layover, you can choose to stay overnight in the city or take a tour.
Staying Overnight
If you want to stay overnight, you can choose to stay at the YOTEL Istanbul Airport, which offers luxurious and comfortable accommodation with high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and smart TV. Alternatively, there are several off-site hotels near the airport. If you prefer more privacy, there are also sleep pods available at the airport.
Taking a Tour
If you have a layover of at least six hours, you can take advantage of the TourIstanbul service offered by Turkish Airlines. There are six tours to choose from, and you will be picked up and driven back to the airport. The tours will take you to some of Istanbul's most notable historical sites, such as the Hagia Sophia Museum, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Market, and the Topkapi Palace. You will also get to experience authentic Turkish cuisine and enjoy fabulous views of the Bosphorus.
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Frequently asked questions
Istanbul Airport offers a wide range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants. There are also several business centres and quiet areas where you can work. The airport also features free Wi-Fi, kids' play areas, prayer rooms, art galleries, lounges, and spa treatments.
Layovers in Istanbul Airport can range from 2 to 24 hours. It is advised to plan for a minimum of 1.5 hours for a quick in-airport stop to be on the safe side.
Istanbul Airport has a variety of dining options to cater to every guest's needs, whether they are looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal. The airport also has several teahouses where you can enjoy a traditional cup of Turkish black tea.
Istanbul Airport is located in the Arnavutkoy Area, about 50 kilometres away from the city centre. It takes approximately 1-1.5 hours to pass through all the airport controls, and there are considerable walking distances inside the terminal.
Istanbul has numerous attractions to visit during a layover, including the Grand Bazaar, Spice Market, Topkapi Palace, Taksim Square, and Dolmabahce Palace. You can also take a ferry ride across the Golden Horn to the Asian side of Istanbul. Remember to check your visa situation before leaving the airport. To get to the city, you can catch the Havaist bus instead of a taxi.
