Istanbul is Turkey's most populated metropolis and has served as the capital of numerous empires throughout history. It is also one of the most populated cities in the world, with a population of roughly 16 million. It serves as the economic and cultural hub of Turkey. On the Black Sea and the Marmara Sea coasts is the city of Istanbul. The Bosphorus flows through the center of the city and divides the continents of Asia and Europe. The Rumeli side and the Anatolian side are the names of the portions of Istanbul that are located in Europe and Asia, respectively. The metropolis is the only one in the world that was constructed on two continents.
In terms of public transportation, Istanbul is one of the world's most varied cities. Across its two continents, travelers can use buses, minibuses, the subway, ferries, cable cars, funiculars, trams, motor boats, and sea taxis. Especially if you have time, taking a ferry is a memorable way to see the city from the water. Istanbul's transport network can feel busy at first, but it offers many reliable ways to reach major districts and landmarks such as Taksim Square and the Grand Bazaar.
Airports of Istanbul
Istanbul is a popular destination for travelers from around the world and has two airports. The first, Istanbul Airport, opened in 2019 and is located in the north of the city. The second, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, is smaller and is located on the Asian side, in the southeast of Istanbul.
If this is your first time in the city, there is no need to worry. Istanbul's public transportation system is highly developed, and there are multiple ways to get from either airport to your hotel or other destination.
Sabiha Gokcen International Airport
Sabiha Gökçen is an international airport in İstanbul. Located on the Asian Side of the city, it is the second busiest airport in Turkey. There are flights to many destinations both within Turkey and abroad via Sabiha Gökçen Airport. Opened in January 2001, the airport was named after Sabiha Gökçen, the world's first female war pilot. Compared to Istanbul Airport, it can be advantageous for some travelers because it is smaller, more practical, and closer to certain parts of the city.
Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, which is situated in the southeast of the city, is Istanbul's second airport. It is generally straightforward to reach the city center from this relatively compact airport. The original version of this guide noted that there was no metro option, but the metro line launched in 2022 is available and now offers a convenient connection to the airport.
Public transportation is often the first option many travelers consider. Municipal buses operated by IETT and HAVABUS services are commonly used for airport transfers. You can check routes and current schedules on the official IETT website and the official Metro Istanbul website before your trip.
Getting from Istanbul's airports to different city centers is generally safe, but as in any major metropolis, it is wise to stay alert. Keep your belongings under control, watch for traffic when crossing streets, and if you choose a taxi, try to learn the likely fare range in advance. Traffic can be heavy at certain hours, and taxi costs may rise accordingly. If you see older fare estimates online, it is best to check the official site or ask locally for the latest information.
Where Is Sabiha Gökçen Airport and How to Get There?
To get to Sabiha Gokcen Airport from Istanbul city center, you have several transportation options. Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located in the Kurtköy district. It is located 50 kilometers from Taksim, 40 kilometers from Kadıköy, and 12 kilometers from Pendik.
M4 Metro Line from Kadıköy
Take the M4 Metro Line from Kadıköy, which provides a direct connection to Sabiha Gokcen Airport. This is one of the most practical choices for travelers who want to avoid road traffic.
IETT Municipal Public Buses
IETT municipal buses provide an affordable transportation option.
- E3 - 4. Levent - Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- E9 - Bostancı - Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- E10 - Kadıköy - Kurtköy - Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- E11 - Kadıköy - Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- 16S - Sabiha Gökçen Airport - Metrobüs Uzunçayır
- MR60 - Pendik YHT - Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- 130H - Deniz Harp Okulu - Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- 132H - Pendik YHT - Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- 131C - Sultanbeyli/Necip Fazıl Metro - Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- 122H - 4.Levent - Yenişehir - Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport
HAVABUS Airport Shuttle
HAVABUS is a practical and efficient option for many passengers. It offers comfortable shared shuttle transportation between the airport and key parts of the city.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at Sabiha Gokcen Airport. The original guide estimated an approximate cost of 400 TL for a distance of 45 km, with possible additional toll costs. Since fares can change, check the official site or confirm current rates locally before traveling.
Private or Shared Shuttle
For a more comfortable experience, you can pre-book a private or shared shuttle transfer service. These transfers can be convenient if you are carrying heavy luggage, arriving late, or heading directly to your hotel.
Recommended Time
Allow at least 3 to 4 hours before your flight departure to account for average transfer time, possible traffic, and unforeseen delays.
When planning your trip, remember the distance of approximately 45 km between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and the city center. Choose the option that best suits your travel style and schedule for a smoother journey.
Tips for a Safe Journey to Sabiha Gokcen International Airport
Here are some practical tips for travelers going to or from the airport:
- Plan ahead: Review available transport options before your trip and choose based on cost, travel time, and convenience.
- Consider traffic: Istanbul traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, so leave extra time.
- Use official sources: Check current routes and schedules through official transport websites.
- Think about comfort: If you prefer a direct ride, taxis and pre-booked transfers can be easier, especially with luggage.
- Allow sufficient time: Consider check-in, security lines, and road conditions when heading to the airport.
If you plan to continue exploring after arrival, public transportation can also help you reach major sightseeing areas efficiently. From central districts, many visitors continue on to places such as Hagia Sophia or enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise.
Unlimited Public Transportation in Istanbul
One popular way to move around the city is the Unlimited Public Transportation Card in Istanbul. This prepaid card gives access to the city's broad transportation network, including metros, trams, buses, metrobuses, and ferries. It can be a convenient choice if you plan to explore widely without buying individual tickets each time. It is presented as a tourist-focused physical card and may be useful if your itinerary includes historic districts, shopping areas, and neighborhoods on both sides of the city.
Who Is Sabiha Gökçen?
Sabiha Gökçen, who was born in 1913, was adopted by Atatürk after losing her family. After completing her education at Istanbul Üsküdar Girls' College, Gökçen entered the Turkish Bird Civil Aviation School in 1935, owned by the Turkish Aeronautical Association. After completing her gliding certificates in Ankara, she was sent to Crimea/Russia for higher glider training. Following her military pilot training, she flew fighters and bombers. Thanks to Sabiha Gökçen, who went to America in 1953 and 1959 upon invitation from the USA, the talents of Turkish women and Turkish society were introduced.
Sabiha Gökçen became the first and only female aviator in the list of "20 Most Important Aviators in World History." She made her last flight with the French pilot Daniel Acton in 1996, at the age of 83, on the Falcon 2000 plane.
