Lois Larson
Istanbul is served by two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is the larger of the two, located on the European side of the city, and is considered a modern marvel with its state-of-the-art facilities and extensive amenities. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, named after Turkey's first female fighter pilot, is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is known for its emphasis on low-cost carriers, making it ideal for travellers on a budget. Both airports offer easy access to the city through various transportation options, including public transport, taxi, and bus services.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Names | Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) |
| Location | Istanbul Airport: Arnavutköy, European side of Istanbul; Sabiha Gökçen: Asian side of Istanbul |
| Distance from City Centre | Istanbul Airport: 35km; Sabiha Gökçen: 50km from Taksim |
| Transport | Istanbul Airport: M11 metro line, taxi, shuttle; Sabiha Gökçen: M4 metro line extension, taxi |
| Airlines | Istanbul Airport: Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa, British Airways; Sabiha Gökçen: Pegasus Airlines, low-cost European and domestic carriers |
| Destinations | Istanbul Airport: 300+ destinations; Sabiha Gökçen: Domestic and short-haul European flights, some international routes |
| Facilities | Istanbul Airport: Modern, luxury lounges, duty-free, restaurants, cafes, efficient operations; Sabiha Gökçen: Emphasis on low-cost carriers |
| Passengers | Istanbul Airport: 76 million in 2023; Sabiha Gökçen: 100 million combined with Ataturk Airport in 2017 |
| Awards | Istanbul Airport: "Best Airport in Southern Europe", "World's Best New Airport" in 2020 |
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What You'll Learn
Istanbul Airport (IST) vs Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
Istanbul is served by two airports that cater to travellers: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Both airports are located outside of Istanbul's city centre, with IST on the European side and SAW on the Asian side.
Istanbul Airport (IST)
Istanbul Airport is the primary hub for Turkish Airlines, which flies to over 260 countries and 50 domestic destinations within Turkey. IST is also served by other major international airlines such as Emirates, Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, China Southern, Etihad, LOT, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Transavia. The airport is easily accessible from the European side and offers travellers a range of amenities, including expansive lounges, dining options, and extensive retail outlets. It is well-connected to the city by the Havaist airport shuttle, multiple taxi services, rideshare options, and the M11 metro line.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is named after Turkey's first female combat pilot and is located on the Asian side of Istanbul. It is an important gateway for those travelling to the Asian side of the city and is known for its relaxed atmosphere. SAW offers efficient services and amenities, including a diverse range of dining and shopping options. The airport is conveniently situated close to major highways and public transportation routes, providing easy access to the European side via the Bosphorus bridges. Transportation options include public buses, airport shuttles, and taxi services, and the M4 metro line.
When deciding which airport to land at, consider your destination within Istanbul. Istanbul Airport (IST) is generally the best option for tourists due to its location on the European side and its transportation connections. However, if you are travelling to the Asian side of the city, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) may be a more convenient choice.
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IST is the newest and largest airport in Istanbul
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the newest and largest airport in Istanbul, located on the European side of the city, in the Arnavutköy area. It is the main airport in Istanbul, having replaced the former Ataturk International Airport, which was closed to passenger flights in 2019.
The new Istanbul Airport is a modern marvel, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and extensive amenities. It is designed to be highly efficient, utilising advanced technologies and equipment to streamline operations and reduce wait times. The airport is also impressive in size, occupying an area larger than Manhattan and featuring an extensive transportation network. It is easily accessible from the European side of Istanbul, with shuttle services, multiple taxi options, and ridesharing services available. Additionally, the M11 metro line provides a convenient and affordable way to travel between the airport and the city.
Istanbul Airport caters to millions of transiting passengers and offers flights to over 350 destinations. It is served by a wide range of airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa, and British Airways. The airport features two terminals, with Terminal 1 serving domestic flights and Terminal 2 serving international flights. The terminal buildings offer a plethora of dining and shopping options, including local Turkish cuisine, international fare, high-end luxury brands, and unique local artisanship.
The airport has won several awards, including "Best Airport in Southern Europe" and "World's Best New Airport" at the Skytrax World Airport Awards in 2020. It was also named the "World's Best Airport" by Travel & Leisure readers and received a 5-star rating from Skytrax. With its modern facilities, efficient operations, and impressive size, Istanbul Airport (IST) sets a new standard for aviation hubs and provides travellers with an exceptional travel experience.
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SAW is ideal for budget travellers
Istanbul has three airports, but only two of them cater to commercial passenger flights. These are Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW).
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is ideal for travellers on a budget. Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, it is named after Turkey's first female fighter pilot. SAW is the go-to hub for Pegasus Airlines and many low-cost European and domestic carriers. While it specializes in domestic and short-haul European flights, international routes are also available, primarily through budget airlines.
SAW is around 50 kilometres from Taksim, a tourist hotspot in Istanbul. While it is further from the city centre than Istanbul Airport, it is still easily accessible via public transit. The M4 Metro Line extension connects SAW to the Asian side of Istanbul.
Istanbul Airport (IST), on the other hand, is located on the European side of the city, 35 kilometres northwest of the city centre. It is the newest and largest airport in Istanbul and is served by many airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa, and British Airways. The airport boasts modern facilities, including duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great option for those seeking convenience and luxury.
Istanbul Airport is also highly accessible, with the Havaist airport shuttle, multiple taxi services, rideshare options, and the M11 metro line connecting it to the city. It is closer to popular tourist destinations such as Sultanahmet and Taksim. However, travellers should be mindful of the large size of the airport, which can make getting to your gate time-consuming.
In summary, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is a budget-friendly option for travellers flying on low-cost carriers. Its location on the Asian side of Istanbul makes it ideal for those exploring that part of the city or seeking more affordable accommodations. Istanbul Airport (IST), with its modern amenities and efficient operations, caters to those who prioritise convenience, luxury, and a wide range of dining and shopping options.
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IST is closer to the tourist centre
Istanbul Airport (IST) is located on the European side of Istanbul, about 40 kilometres from the city centre. It is the main gateway to the city and is highly accessible from the European side. IST is closer to major tourist attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar. It is also closer to the old city of Sultanahmet.
The airport is serviced by the Havaist airport shuttle, multiple taxi services, rideshare options, and a metro line. IST is also well-connected by bus, with two bus companies, HAVAIST and IETT, running services between the airport and the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Istanbul Airport is a modern facility with extensive amenities. It features expansive lounges, a vast array of dining options, and extensive retail outlets offering everything from luxury brands to local artisanship. The airport is also highly efficient, with a seamless layout that ensures quick and easy navigation between terminals.
With its strategic location and extensive transportation network, IST offers unparalleled convenience for those visiting Istanbul. It is also the primary airport for international flights, serving over 350 destinations and catering to international travellers with its wide range of services.
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IST has better public transportation options
Istanbul is served by two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is the larger of the two, located on the European side of the city, about 35 kilometres from the city centre. It is a modern airport with state-of-the-art facilities, extensive amenities, and an impressive array of dining and shopping options.
Istanbul Airport (IST) offers better public transportation options compared to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). IST is well-connected and easily accessible from the European side of Istanbul. It is served by the Havaist airport shuttle, which also provides travel between the two Istanbul airports, as well as multiple taxi services and rideshare options. Additionally, IST has direct metro access via the M11 line, which connects the airport to the city. The M11 metro line provides fast and convenient travel between Istanbul Airport and destinations such as Kağıthane and Şişli on the European side of the city. From Şişli, passengers can easily connect to other areas like Taksim and Sultanahmet.
In contrast, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, approximately 50 kilometres from Taksim. While SAW is accessible via public transportation, it is primarily served by the M4 metro line extension, which is more convenient for reaching the Asian side of the city.
Istanbul Airport (IST) stands out as the preferred choice for travellers seeking efficient and convenient public transportation options. Its strategic location on the European side, coupled with direct metro access and a comprehensive network of shuttle and taxi services, makes IST a more attractive option for those who want seamless connectivity to different parts of Istanbul.
Overall, when deciding which airport to land in Istanbul, considering your specific travel plans and budget is essential. Istanbul Airport (IST) shines with its modern infrastructure, efficient operations, and convenient public transportation connections, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking a seamless and well-connected experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Istanbul is served by two airports for travellers: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is the newest and largest airport in Istanbul, located on the European side of the city. It is well-connected, highly accessible, and offers state-of-the-art facilities and extensive amenities.
IST is known for its modern design, featuring luxury lounges, extensive duty-free areas, art installations, and diverse dining options. It is also closer to tourist attractions like Sultanahmet and Taksim. SAW, on the other hand, is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is known for its efficiency and budget-friendliness, catering to low-cost carriers.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is ideal for budget travellers as it emphasizes low-cost carriers.
You can travel to and from Istanbul Airport by bus, taxi, rideshare, or the M11 metro line.
