Does Istanbul have two airports?

Yes, Istanbul has two main international airports for passengers: the large, modern Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and the smaller Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, with a third airport, the former Atatürk Airport, now used mainly for cargo. IST is the primary hub for major carriers, while SAW is popular with budget airlines and for domestic flights.

What is the difference between Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Airport?

Istanbul hosts three significant airports: Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side and two on the European side, Istanbul Airport (IST) and Ataturk Airport (ISL). While Ataturk Airport used to be Istanbul's primary airport, it no longer serves public flights.

Which airport should I fly into in Istanbul?

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport offers flights to numerous destinations in the country and globally. It's a great starting point for exploring Istanbul and Turkey in general. Brief History: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport opened in 2001 on the Asian side of Istanbul.

How many Istanbul airports are there?

Istanbul has two airports: the most common and bigger one is Istanbul airport (IST) on the European side. The smaller one is Sabiha Gokcen Airport ( SAW) on the Asian side. Both are quite far from the city center where your accommodation will be. Unfortunately, there is no train service.

Is Saw or IST closer to the city?

If you're staying in central European-side neighborhoods, IST is closer and more convenient. If you're staying on the Asian side, in areas like Kadıköy or Üsküdar, SAW may be more accessible and quicker, especially during off-peak traffic hours.

How Many Airports In Istanbul Turkey? - Air Traffic Insider

What is the difference between Saw airport and Istanbul Airport?

The main differences between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) are size, airline options, destinations, amenities, and overall atmosphere. IST is larger, offers more flights and destinations, and has a wider range of amenities, including luxury lounges and high-end shops.

Is IST the same as saw?

Both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) offer unique advantages that cater to different traveler preferences. IST is ideal for those seeking extensive international connections and modern amenities, while SAW may be the better option for proximity to the Asian side and a less hectic atmosphere.

What is the difference between IST and ISL airport?

The FlightStats code for Atatürk Airport will remain the same (IST), while its IATA code has changed from IST to ISL. The FlightStats code for Istanbul Airport will remain the same (ISL) and its IATA code has been updated from ISL to IST.

How much is a taxi from Sabiha airport to Istanbul?

As of 2025, a taxi from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to central Istanbul costs 1500–3500 TL (€30–70 / $35–85) depending on traffic and destination. Taxis are the fastest door-to-door option, while HAVAIST buses (355 TL) and the Metro + Marmaray offer cheaper but slower alternatives.

How far is it from Istanbul Airport to city centre?

Approximately 35 km from the city center, Istanbul Airport is one of the world's largest and busiest airports. Welcoming tens of millions of passengers every year, Istanbul Airport is easily accessible from the city via several transportation options.

Can girls wear shorts in Istanbul?

In Turkish cities, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable. Female tourists wear their usual clothing. There is no problem wearing shorts for comfort, except when you visit mosques.

Which airport is better to fly into Istanbul?

Which Airport is More Central?

• Istanbul Airport (IST) – European Side (40 km to city center). ...
• Best for: Old City Tours, Bosphorus Cruises, European side hotels.
• Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) – Asian Side (50 km to Taksim). ...
• Best for: Asian side experiences, local markets, ferries to Eminonu, Karakoy, Besiktas.

Why did Istanbul change airports?

Istanbul Atatürk Airport was replaced in regards to commercial passenger functions by the newly constructed Istanbul Airport, in April 2019, in order to meet Istanbul's growing domestic and international air traffic demand as a source, destination, and transit point.

Is there a shuttle from Saw to IST?

Is there a direct shuttle between Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) and Istanbul Airport (IST)? No regular public direct shuttle runs between SAW and IST; travelers either combine Havabus + Havaist/public transport or book a private airport-to-airport transfer for a direct ride.

Which airport in Istanbul is closer to Sultanahmet?

The nearest airport to Sultanahmet is Istanbul (IST). You can take a train from Istanbul (IST) to Sultanahmet via Gayrettepe in around 51 min. Alternatively, Citylines operates a bus from Burgas Bus Station South to Istanbul Büyük Otogari once daily. Tickets cost 850 ₺ - 1.200 ₺ and the journey takes 4h 15m.

Is Atatürk Airport the same as Istanbul Airport?

If you've flown through the old Atatürk Airport in the past, don't be surprised when you notice the new Istanbul Airport IATA callsign is the same: IST. It was transferred from the old airport when it was shut down in early 2019.

How to transfer from Istanbul Airport to Saw airport?

There are 5 ways to get from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) by bus, train, rideshare, car, or taxi

1. Bus. best. ...
2. Metro. Take the train from Istanbul Airport to Gayrettepetrain M11. ...
3. Airport Transfer. Take the rideshare from Istanbul-IST to Sabiha Gokcen-SAWrideshare 78.4 km. ...
4. Drive 78.4 km. ...
5. Taxi.

Why is it called Saw airport?

Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is named after the first female fighter pilot in the world, Sabiha Gokcen who died in 2001. The airport became operational the same year. It is situated at Pendik which is about 40 km away from Kadikoy and 50 km away from Taksim.

Do female tourists have to cover up in Turkey?

Dress more formally

You'll show respect and get more respect in return. Female travellers do not need to cover their hair unless visiting a mosque.

What to be careful of in Istanbul?

Street robbery and pickpocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.