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The new Istanbul Airport (IST) is the largest aviation hub in Türkiye and the biggest airport by area in Europe. Find out how you can get from here to the central districts of the city quickly and easily.
The new Istanbul Airport (IST) is located on the European side of the city, close to the Black Sea coast, about 35–50 km by road from the main central districts.
The fastest option is the M11 metro line with a connection to line M2, which takes you to Levent, Taksim and Galata in around 30–40 minutes of actual travel time.
Havaist shuttles and IETT city buses connect the airport with many districts – convenient for luggage and cheaper than taxis – but travel times depend heavily on traffic.
A taxi from Istanbul Airport to the central tourist areas costs roughly from 35 EUR, with different tariffs for yellow, turquoise and black premium taxis.
Car rental is available directly in the terminal via major international companies, but you will need a passport, driving licence, credit card deposit and usually an HGS toll sticker.
Where is the new airport in Istanbul?
The new Istanbul Airport (IST) is located on the European side of the city, close to the Black Sea coastline, with construction started to the northwest of the historical center. The distance from the passenger terminal to the central districts is 35–50 km (about 40 km to Taksim Square, 49 km to Sultanahmet, 52 km to Kadikoy). It is easy to visualise once you find the new airport on the map.
The location of the İstanbul Havalimanı (Istanbul Airport) far from the dense urban infrastructure, in the Arnavutköy region, is explained by the possibility of future expansion. Over time, the airport is expected to become one of the largest not only in terms of territory, but also by passenger numbers served, both within Türkiye and worldwide.
The official name of the new airport is Istanbul New Airport (İGA) or İstanbul Yeni Havalimanı in Turkish, but on tickets it is shown with the code IST. Detailed information about the airport and its services can be found on the official websites of the new Istanbul Airport: istairport.com and igairport.com .
Distance from IST Airport to Istanbul
If we talk about the distance from the new airport to the historical center (for example, the Sultanahmet district), the direct line distance is about 35 km. However, the hilly landscape and dense urban development do not allow a perfectly straight transport route, so the actual road distance is usually around 45–50 km.
A trip to Istanbul by car from the airport involves driving on the O-7 motorway, where traffic jams are common. Time lost in congestion can be significant, but if there are no such difficulties the drive to the center is about 50 minutes (based on roughly 50–52 km). Buses from the Istanbul Airport bus station reach the central districts in 80–120 minutes. The metro, being the fastest mode of transport, will take you to the center in 30–40 minutes of riding time, but you should also allow for walking to the station and waiting for a train (about 10–15 minutes).
Depending on the district you are heading to, the size of your luggage and the budget for travelling from the new airport to your hotel, the most convenient type of transport will differ. Below we review in detail all the options available for transfers from Istanbul Airport.
Bus from IST Airport to the city
The bus is a traditional and very popular means of transport among airport visitors thanks to its extensive route network (including more remote districts), lower prices compared to taxis, and convenient boarding and payment.
If you are not planning to travel on to other cities in Türkiye, transfer services from Istanbul Airport are offered by special Havaist shuttle buses and by IETT city buses, which run on residential routes across the city. The main difference between them is the number of stops and the way luggage is handled. Havaist has only a few drop-off stops in key areas, while IETT buses stop more frequently, so the journey can take longer. A special advantage for Havaist passengers is the generous luggage compartment: suitcases are labelled with different coloured tags, which helps to return them to passengers quickly at the correct stop.
Havaist buses from the new Istanbul Airport – how to find them
After collecting your luggage you need to go down to level -2 to the bus platforms via escalator or lift. Note: you cannot go back to buy a SIM card or exchange money (only via the main entrance and Security Check).
You can buy a Havaist transfer ticket at kiosks on the platform (cash in Turkish lira or by bank card). If you do not need assistance at the kiosk, you can pay for both your ticket and luggage directly in the bus using payment terminals. You can also pay by card in the “Havaist” mobile app or by booking in advance on the Havaist company website. You can calculate the cost of the journey and choose the best route by yourself on the Havaist website .
The departure times of the buses are available online on the Istanbul Airport bus transportation page .
The comfortable Havaist buses with 46 seats (equipped with TV screens, USB charging ports and free Wi-Fi), running 24/7, offer a level of service comparable to a private group transfer – but at a considerably lower price.
IETT city buses from the new Istanbul Airport
IETT buses are often used by Istanbul residents and passengers on domestic flights, who reach them from exit no. 9 to platforms 2, 3 and 4 (the bus station is located at terminal A). These buses run very frequently during the day and their routes cover almost every corner of the city. Even though the fares are lower, their main competitor is the metro.
Payment is made using the regular Istanbulkart transport card. This card is convenient and cost-effective if you plan to use public transport in Istanbul (metro, buses, tram, ferry or minibus), and it is also accepted at public toilets. You can buy an Istanbulkart at machines on the platforms (they have English and Russian menus). It is usually more profitable to pay in Turkish lira, and sometimes bank cards are not accepted.
Once you have bought your transport card, you can top it up at any station and use it to pay for several passengers.
Bus journey time
The bus stops are located directly on the airport grounds, which saves passengers both time and energy. During the day, buses depart approximately every 30–40 minutes, while at night they may run only every few hours or not at all, depending on the route.
In addition to the waiting time at the platform and multiple drop-off stops on the way, buses are also frequently delayed by traffic congestion. For this reason, bus companies usually state a travel time of no less than 90–120 minutes to reach the city center.
Bus ticket prices from the new airport to Istanbul
For IETT city buses travelling from Istanbul New Airport (İGA) to central locations, the fare is charged as a double urban fare, so you can expect to pay around 45 TL from the airport (as of early 2024).
For the fast Havaist shuttle, depending on the route, ticket prices range from 114 to 186 TL (average around 136 TL), and it is often cheaper if you book online in advance on the Havaist website .
* Children under 6 years old travel free of charge on public transport in Türkiye.
Metro from IST Airport to Istanbul
To reach the metro station at Istanbul Airport on arrival, follow the violet M11 line signs. It is preferable to exit through doors 9 or 13, then follow the red “U” signs. To help you orient yourself in the new airport: the entrance to the metro is located opposite exit 11, about 300 meters from the terminal entrance. Walking to the station, even using moving walkways and escalators, takes around 10–15 minutes. The metro operates from 06:00 to 00:30, with trains every 15–20 minutes. Travelling by metro allows you to reach Gayrettepe metro station , where you can transfer to line M2, which goes to the central districts of Levent, Taksim and Galata.
Note: the letter “U” is used to mark the metro entrance only at the new IST airport. Other metro stations in Istanbul are marked with the usual “M” sign. This information is useful if you plan to travel from Istanbul to the new airport for your return flight – for a round-trip airport transfer.
Metro journey time
The Istanbul metro is known for its cleanliness, modern trains and efficiency. With the opening of the terminus station at Gayrettepe, changing to line M2 has become even easier. You can count on a total travel time from İstanbul Havalimanı to the city center of around 40 minutes. To be more precise: Istanbul Airport – Gayrettepe takes about 30 minutes; Istanbul Airport – Taksim about 41 minutes; Istanbul Airport – Tekstilkent about 45 minutes; and Istanbul Airport – Levent about 35 minutes.
Metro ticket price
You can pay for your metro journey using the Istanbulkart transport card, or you can purchase single-use tickets at Biletmatik ticket machines on the platforms (look for the yellow machines; they accept Turkish lira and card payments may sometimes fail). If you buy a card for 70 TL and top it up, a metro trip will typically cost between 15 and 35 TL (prices at the beginning of 2024, subject to change due to inflation in Türkiye).
Detailed information about the different types of Istanbulkart, prices and bonuses is available at this link .
Taxi from the new airport
The most comfortable way to reach your hotel from Istanbul International Airport is by taxi. However, in Istanbul you should be attentive and cautious when ordering a car: there are some unscrupulous drivers who may add extra costs on top of the agreed price (for toll roads, bridges, time spent in traffic jams, unnecessary extra kilometres, etc.). For your safety and the possibility to file a complaint, it is best to use the services of companies officially cooperating with the airport. Their taxis are parked just outside the arrivals area and can be ordered at 24/7 taxi desks inside the terminal.
One of the recommended services is Welcome Pickups , highly rated by travellers on platforms such as Google, Tripadvisor and Trustpilot. This company provides very clean cars, English-speaking drivers and 24/7 support.
The most convenient and safest way to get from the airport to your hotel is to book a private transfer online in advance and pay a fixed price on specialised and trusted websites. In this case, the driver (often English- or Russian-speaking) will meet you at arrivals with a name sign, help you with your luggage and drive you directly to your destination without any hassle or extra costs.
In addition to the well-known and reliable Kiwi Taxi , transfer booking services are also available on websites related to IST Airport, for example the official airport site , as well as this portal and the popular platform GetYourGuide .
Taxi journey time from IST Airport to central Istanbul
A taxi ride to the main tourist districts of Istanbul usually takes around 50 minutes, but it can take longer due to traffic jams. Try to avoid peak hours if possible: 07:30–09:30 in the morning and 17:00–20:30 in the evening.
Taxi fare
Taxi services are paid in Turkish lira. As a guideline, the trip from IST Airport to central Istanbul will cost around 35 EUR. Yellow taxis are the cheapest (economy class). Turquoise taxis (comfort class) are about 10–15% more expensive, while the black premium taxis can be up to twice as expensive as the yellow ones.
Prices at the beginning of 2024 are calculated according to the following tariffs:
Night-time transfers are charged at the same tariffs. Do not pay extra to drivers who try to increase prices at night or on public holidays.
Taxi fares from IST Airport to the center (January 2024)
– To Sultanahmet district: yellow taxi about 850 TL, turquoise about 980 TL, black from 1450 TL
– To Taksim Square: yellow from 760 TL, turquoise from 860 TL, black from 1250 TL
– To Kadikoy port: yellow about 1030 TL, turquoise from 1180 TL, black not less than 1720 TL
Car rental at Istanbul Airport
Experienced drivers who are not intimidated by heavy traffic, narrow streets, steep climbs and sometimes unpredictable driving behaviour in Istanbul can easily rent cars of different classes in this Turkish metropolis. Directly in the arrivals area there are offices of reputable car rental companies offering vehicles on reasonable terms, which are then picked up by the renters from the airport car park. At IST Airport you will find popular rental brands such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Europark, Europcar, Hertz, National, Sixt, Thrifty and others.
A more convenient but slightly more expensive option is to book in advance online with well-known services such as Rentalcars , Economybookings or LocalRent . These sites list verified rental companies that operate strictly according to Turkish law on the basis of formal contracts.
The cheapest (but riskier) way to rent a car in Istanbul is to visit small local car-sharing companies and sign a contract directly, making sure that all the necessary documents are in order and that the car is in good condition. The car must usually be returned to the same car park from which it was collected. This may not be very convenient if, on the day of departure, you are thinking about how to get back to the new airport from the city.
It has been observed that the most rented models in Istanbul are Renault Symbol and Hyundai i20. The reason is simple: compact cars are easier to manoeuvre in heavy traffic and are much easier to park on crowded streets.
Rental conditions
1. Passport: driver must be at least 21 years old (for drivers under 25 an additional young driver fee is often charged).
2. International driving licence: at least 1 year of driving experience (sometimes a national licence is accepted, but the data should also be in English).
3. Credit card: a security deposit of around 300 EUR is usually required.
4. HGS sticker costing about 25 EUR for automatic payment of toll roads in Türkiye.
5. 200–300 TL reserved for possible fines (refunded if there are no violations).
Journey time by car
If you are at the airport during peak hours (07:30–09:30 in the morning and 17:00–20:30 in the evening), driving from IST to the city center via the O-7 motorway can mean a long time in traffic jams. In general, using a navigation system, you can reach central Istanbul (for example, Sultanahmet) in about 50–60 minutes, but at rush hour the trip can stretch to several hours.
Car rental prices
The cost of renting a car in Istanbul depends on the season. In the peak tourist period, a compact car such as a Fiat Linea or Renault Symbol costs around 50 USD per day, while a car like a Mercedes-Benz C-Class can cost about 120 USD per day. In autumn or winter, when there are fewer tourists, car-sharing prices can drop to almost half.
Rental costs can be reduced by signing a contract for a longer period (more than 10 days). When booking online you can also save money by reserving the car several months before the trip.
If you rent a diesel car, the daily rental fee may be slightly higher, but you will save on fuel, making it more economical for longer trips around Istanbul and the surrounding area.
Important points to check when renting a car
– GPS navigator is usually not included in the price.
– Basic insurance does not always cover theft (it is safer to choose full insurance).
– Child seats are rented separately, often at around 2 EUR per day.
– Inspect the car thoroughly for scratches and damage before signing the contract.
– Plan to return the car at the agreed time to avoid extra charges.
– Check the fuel level according to the contract both at pickup and when returning the car.
Tips and recommendations for travellers
Wondering how to orient yourself upon arrival at a new airport? At Istanbul International Airport you can connect to free Wi-Fi, use the İstanbul Airport mobile app, exchange money to get Turkish lira (preferably only for transport expenses, as the rate at the airport is not very favourable), buy local SIM cards and, if necessary, purchase an Istanbulkart transport card.
How to connect to the internet at the new Istanbul Airport
Free internet access at the airport is available for about one hour. To stay online longer you will need to connect via a Turkish mobile operator.
Access via SMS:
1. Connect your device to the “IstanbulAirportTurkTelekomFree” Wi-Fi network.
2. Select “Mobile Login”.
3. Choose the country code by flag, enter your phone number without the country code, accept the terms and click the login button.
4. Enter the code received by SMS on your number and click “Continue”. (International roaming must be enabled to receive the message.)
Access using a Wi-Fi code from the information desk:
1. Show your ID or passport at the Wi-Fi desk and you will receive a login code.
2. Connect to the “IstanbulAirportTurkTelekomFree” Wi-Fi network on your device and select “ID / Passport Login” on the landing page.
3. Enter your passport number and the code received at the kiosk, accept the terms and click the login button.
4. If you encounter any difficulties, call the support phone number listed behind the Wi-Fi desk.
Passenger information at IST Airport
– Direction signs, information boards and displays
– Information kiosks in the arrivals area
– Call center: +90 444 1 442 (available 24/7 by phone and WhatsApp)
– E-mail: ist@igairport.aero
The İstanbul Airport mobile app helps you locate yourself inside the terminal, shows a detailed map of facilities and routes you to the necessary location. It also tells you where to collect your luggage, helps you find your parked car by licence plate (Find My Vehicle), and offers support for visually impaired passengers and more.
Final thoughts: choose the transfer that suits you best
Now you know all the main ways to get from the new Istanbul Airport (IST) to the city center. Whether you prefer the comfort of a taxi, the budget-friendly buses, the speed of the metro or the freedom of a rental car, Istanbul always offers transfer options to suit your travel style. We are sure that your trip to this unique city on the border of Europe and Asia will be unforgettable. Have a wonderful journey!
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Frequently asked questions about transfers from the new Istanbul Airport (IST)
How far is the new Istanbul Airport (IST) from the city center?
The new Istanbul Airport (IST) is on the European side of the city, about 35 km in a straight line from the center, with an actual road distance of around 45–50 km depending on the district you are heading to.
How long does it take to get from IST to Sultanahmet?
By car, in light traffic, the drive takes about 50–60 minutes. By Havaist or IETT buses it usually takes 90–120 minutes, and by metro with a change to line M2 around 40–45 minutes to reach central stations.
What is Havaist and how is it different from IETT buses?
Havaist is a comfortable airport shuttle with a limited number of stops in key areas and a dedicated luggage compartment, while IETT buses are standard city buses with more stops, longer routes and lower fares.
How do I pay for the bus from Istanbul Airport?
For Havaist you can buy tickets at kiosks on the platform, pay directly on board or via the Havaist app. For IETT buses you need an Istanbulkart transport card, which you can top up at ticket machines at the airport and in the city.
How much does the bus from Istanbul Airport to the city cost?
IETT city buses charge a double urban fare from the airport, about 45 TL to central districts, while Havaist tickets cost roughly 114–186 TL depending on the route (prices as of early 2024).
How do I get from the new Istanbul Airport to the center by metro?
Follow the red “U” signs to the M11 line at the airport, then ride to Gayrettepe station and transfer to line M2, which goes directly to central areas such as Levent, Taksim and Galata.
How much is a metro ticket from Istanbul Airport?
Using an Istanbulkart, a metro journey from the airport to the city usually costs between 15 and 35 TL, depending on the number of transfers and distance (based on 2024 fares).
How much does a taxi from IST Airport to central Istanbul cost?
To central tourist areas like Taksim or Sultanahmet, a taxi from Istanbul Airport costs from around 35 EUR and up, depending on the taxi category (yellow, turquoise or black) and actual traffic.
Are there night surcharges for taxis from Istanbul Airport?
Officially, day and night tariffs are the same, but some drivers may try to increase prices late at night or on holidays. Always check the taximeter and refuse unjustified extra charges.
Can I rent a car directly at the new Istanbul Airport?
Yes, there are desks of major international rental companies in the arrivals area. You can sign a contract there and pick up your car from the airport car park immediately after arrival.
What are the basic requirements for renting a car in Istanbul?
Typically you need a passport, to be at least 21 years old, have a driving licence with at least one year of experience, a credit card for the deposit and an HGS sticker for toll roads.
Is there free Wi-Fi at the new Istanbul Airport (IST)?
Yes, Istanbul Airport offers free Wi-Fi access for about an hour. Afterwards you can connect again via SMS login or using a code obtained from the Wi-Fi information desk with your passport.
