Flying into Istanbul's Asian side? Welcome! You'll be landing at Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), a modern and bustling hub for many international and domestic flights. While it might seem far from the main tourist sights, getting to the heart of Istanbul is easier than you think.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located about 45 km from Sultanahmet and 48 km from Taksim. This guide is your key to a smooth arrival, covering everything from the best way to get to your hotel to what to do on a layover.
Looking for information on the main Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side? Read our complete Istanbul Airport (IST) guide.
How to Get from Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) to Your Hotel
You’ve landed, grabbed your bags, and you're ready to start exploring. Here’s a simple breakdown of all your transfer options to help you choose the best one for your budget and style.
Quick Guide: Which Transfer Should You Choose?
Private Airport Transfer (Our Top Recommendation)
For a truly hassle-free start to your trip, a pre-booked private transfer is the way to go.
A driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall with your name on a sign, ready to help with your luggage and take you directly to your hotel in a comfortable vehicle. No stress, no waiting, no surprises.
Option 1:
Option 2:
Airport Shuttle Bus (HAVABÜS)
You'll find the white HAVABÜS buses waiting just outside the arrivals terminal. You can buy your ticket directly from the driver (cash or credit card). Buses run every 30-60 minutes. For the latest timetables, check the HAVABÜS website.
HAVABÜS is a reliable and affordable shuttle service that runs between the airport and two key locations:
- Taksim Square: The heart of modern Istanbul.
- Kadıköy: A vibrant hub on the Asian side with ferries to the European side.
Taxi, Uber & BiTaksi
You'll find the official taxi rank right outside the terminal. Taxis offer a direct ride to your hotel. Always use an official taxi and make sure the driver starts the meter.
Alternatively, apps like Uber and the local BiTaksi work by calling an official city taxi for you, with the fare calculated and paid through the app for your convenience.
Metro (M4 Line)
For those traveling light who want a real local experience, the M4 metro line connects directly to the airport. It’s the cheapest way to get into the city, but it requires a transfer to reach the main tourist areas.
How to get to Sultanahmet or Taksim by Metro:
- 1Buy an Istanbulkart: Get this public transport card from the yellow or blue machines at the airport metro station.
- 2Take the M4 Metro: Ride the M4 line from the airport to Ayrılık Çeşmesi station.
- 3Transfer to the Marmaray: At Ayrılık Çeşmesi, switch to the Marmaray train line.
- For Sultanahmet, get off at Sirkeci station (a 5-10 minute walk or one tram stop to Sultanahmet).
- For Taksim, get off at Yenikapı station and transfer to the M2 metro line to Taksim.
>> For a complete overview of the city's transport system, check out our Complete Guide to Public Transport in Istanbul.
Need a Transportation Card?
To use public transport in Istanbul, you need a valid card. We offer two convenient options:
You can choose a unlimited-use card (valid for 1, 3, 5, or 7 days) or a reloadable limited-use card with 5 or 10 preloaded rides. Both options include free hotel delivery, so you’re ready to travel as soon as you arrive.
- Enjoy an exclusive 5% off at Istanbul Welcome Card with Istanbul Tourist Information! Use code ITI5 to save on all products. Shop now!
Classic Card
Istanbul Go Pass
Connecting Flights & Layovers
Transferring Between Airports: Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) to Istanbul Airport (IST)
Do you have a connecting flight from the other airport? Don't panic! There is a direct shuttle service.
- HAVAIST Shuttle Bus: Look for the HAVAIST HVİST-13 line. This bus runs directly between Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) and Istanbul Airport (IST).
- Journey Time: Approximately 120 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Distance: 85 km.
- Price: Around 310 TL.
Airport Services & Facilities
Relax Before Your Flight: The Plaza Premium Lounge
Whether you're flying domestic or international, the Plaza Premium Lounge is your oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the main terminal. It's accessible to all passengers, regardless of airline or ticket class (an entry fee applies).
It's the perfect place to unwind with comfortable seating and fantastic apron views. While you wait, you can enjoy:
- Food & Drinks: A delicious selection of Turkish and international dishes, with vegetarian options and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Free Wi-Fi & Charging Stations: Stay connected and keep your devices powered up.
- Extra Amenities: Some lounges feature an outdoor terrace, a children's play area, and an AeroBar.
- Comfort: Flight information screens, TV, and prayer rooms are also available.
Wi-Fi at the Airport
You can access the airport's Wi-Fi network via the "Free WiFi" hotspot, which is a paid service. Look for one of the 8 kiosks in the terminal to get connected.
Shopping & Food
SAW has a great selection of shops, including a large Duty-Free area. For food, you'll find familiar names like Starbucks, McDonald's, and Burger King, as well as Turkish favorites like Simit Sarayı.
Airport Hotels
If you have a very early flight or a long layover, staying nearby is a great option.
- ISG Airport Hotel: Located just a 3-minute drive from the terminal, this is the most convenient full-service hotel.
- Kepler Sleeping Cabins: Located inside the international departures area (after passport control), these cozy cabins are perfect for a few hours of sleep between flights.
>> For more options, read our detailed review of the 8 Best-Rated Airport Hotels in Istanbul.
Now that you're an expert on navigating Sabiha Gökçen Airport, it’s time to plan the rest of your amazing trip!
Ready to explore? Save money on attractions with our guide to the Best City Passes for Istanbul.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
A taxi from SAW to the main tourist areas like Sultanahmet or Taksim typically costs between 1200-1500 Turkish Lira (TL) and takes about 60-90 minutes, depending heavily on traffic. Always ensure the driver uses the official meter.
The cheapest option is the M4 metro line. You'll need an Istanbulkart (public transport card), which you can buy at the airport. This method is very budget-friendly but requires at least one transfer (to the Marmaray line) to reach the historical center.
Yes, the HAVABÜS shuttle is a comfortable and affordable option. It runs directly between Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Taksim Square, as well as to Kadıköy on the Asian side. The journey to Taksim takes approximately 90-100 minutes.
The easiest way is to take the HAVAIST HVİST-13 shuttle bus. It provides a direct connection between the two airports. The journey takes about 120 minutes and costs around 310 TL. This is the recommended option for travelers with connecting flights.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is located on the Asian side of Istanbul. Most major historical attractions like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are on the European side, so plan for a transfer time of at least an hour.
Yes, Uber operates in Istanbul and is available at SAW. When you request a ride, the app will connect you with a licensed city taxi. It's a convenient option as the fare is calculated and paid through the app.
Planning More of Your Istanbul Trip?
Discover Istanbul's other iconic sights. Here are the most popular tickets booked by fellow travelers:
Hagia Sophia
Visitor info, tickets & hours →
Basilica Cistern
Visitor info, tickets & hours →
Topkapi Palace
Visitor info, tickets & hours →
Dolmabahce Palace
Visitor info, tickets & hours →
Maiden's Tower
Visitor info, tickets & hours →
Galata Tower
Visitor info, tickets & hours →
Bosphorus Cruise
Visitor info, tickets & hours →
Dinner Cruise
Visitor info, tickets & hours →