Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen by Taxi
Choose by where you are staying. Istanbul Airport (IST) is on the European side and suits hotels in Taksim, Şişli, Beşiktaş and Sultanahmet. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is on the Asian side and suits Kadıköy, Ataşehir and the eastern districts. The fare is only part of the picture, so compare the ride time too.
How Do the Two Airports Compare?
| TO | FROM IST | FROM SAW |
|---|---|---|
| Taksim | 45–60 min, €95 | 50–70 min, €90 |
| Sultanahmet | 50–70 min, €100 | 60–85 min, €90 |
| Beşiktaş | 45–60 min, €95 | Crossing needed, €90 |
| Şişli | 40–55 min, €95 | Crossing needed, €90 |
| Kadıköy | Crossing needed, €125 | 35–50 min, €90 |
| Beylikdüzü | €120 | 70–95 min, €125 |
Why Is the Sabiha Gökçen Fare Often Lower?
Fares are set by airport and district, not by the length of the ride. From Sabiha Gökçen, most of the city is on the €90 fare, even districts across the Bosphorus. A lower fare can still mean a longer ride, so check the time as well if you have somewhere to be.
What About the Bosphorus?
The Bosphorus divides the city into its European and Asian sides. Crossing it is often the slowest part of a ride, above all on weekday evenings. If you land on the same side as your hotel, you avoid it altogether. With our service, crossing tolls are in the fare either way.
Which Airport Should I Choose?
- Staying in Taksim, Şişli or Beşiktaş: Istanbul Airport is usually simpler
- Staying in Kadıköy, Üsküdar or Ataşehir: Sabiha Gökçen is usually simpler
- Staying in Sultanahmet: both work, with Istanbul Airport usually quicker
- Flying at a busy hour: try to land on the same side as your hotel
Questions About This Guide
Can I Take a Taxi Between the Two Airports?
Ask us for a fare. This route is not on our published list, so we will confirm the fare in writing for your date.
Which Airport Is Closer to the City Centre?
It depends on your centre. From our route times, Şişli is 40 to 55 minutes from Istanbul Airport, and Kadıköy is 35 to 50 minutes from Sabiha Gökçen.
