The first decision is which airport fits your trip. The next section explains the difference and who should use which one.

Which Istanbul Airport

Istanbul has two main airports. Istanbul Airport on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the Asian side. Both are modern and well signed in English and Turkish. Both have simple links into the city. Your hotel location and airline choice usually decide which one is best.

Who Should Use IST

Istanbul Airport (IST) is the main global hub. It handles most long haul flights and many European services. Choose IST if you fly Turkish Airlines long haul or if your hotel is on the European side near Taksim, Şişli, or the Old City.

Who Should Use SAW

Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) serves many regional and low cost flights. It is ideal for Kadıköy, Moda, Üsküdar, and other Asian side stays. It also works well if you plan to continue to the European side by Marmaray or ferry.

Once you decide the airport, the next step is picking an airline and an easy nonstop route. The following section shows common direct options by region.

Airlines & Direct Routes

Flight schedules change through the year. The safest tactic is to pick a nonstop into the airport that matches your hotel side, or a one stop through a major hub. Below are sample nonstop hubs by region that often have direct flights to Istanbul. Check airline route maps for current operation.

Europe

Nonstop flights to Istanbul run from many capitals and major cities. Examples include London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Vienna, Rome, Milan, Madrid, Barcelona, Athens, and many more. Turkish Airlines and several European carriers operate these routes. Pegasus Airlines offers many European nonstops to SAW.

Middle East and North Africa

Nonstop flights often operate from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh, Jeddah, Kuwait City, Tel Aviv, Cairo, Casablanca, and Tunis among others. Turkish Airlines is the main carrier with regional partners on some routes.

Asia

Direct services connect to cities such as Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bangkok, Delhi, Mumbai, and Islamabad on selected schedules. Turkish Airlines covers most long haul links into IST.

North America

Nonstop flights to Istanbul from New York, Newark, Washington, Chicago, Boston, Dallas, Los Angeles, and Toronto are common across seasons. Turkish Airlines operates these routes into IST.

To confirm your flight plan, use official route maps from Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines. These sources update when new routes launch or seasonal services return.

Knowing what is inside each airport makes your connection to the city faster. The next section highlights terminals, maps, Wi Fi, lounges, and baggage basics.

Terminals & Facilities

Both airports have clear wayfinding, foreign card acceptance, and staff who speak English. You will find ATMs, currency exchange points, food courts, and lounge options in each terminal area.

IST at a Glance

IST has one large main terminal with wide halls and many services. The airport provides free Wi Fi with simple sign up, paid premium Wi Fi, prayer rooms, baby care rooms, and multiple lounges for airlines and pay in access. Baggage services include trolleys, wrapping, and storage. Airport pages show current maps and transport connections including the M11 metro and Havaist shuttles.

SAW at a Glance

SAW has a compact terminal with fast access to the M4 metro, Havabus stops, and licensed taxis. Services include Wi Fi, lounges, prayer rooms, baby care rooms, and baggage wrapping. The airport site lists live transport directions and official shuttle points.

After landing, you want a quick path into town. The next section shows the fastest transfers from each airport.

Getting Into the City Fast

The simplest rule is rail for stable timing and coach for a single seat ride with big luggage. Many travelers pair rail with a short taxi for the last kilometer.

From IST

M11 metro runs between Istanbul Airport and the city network. Trains are frequent. You can transfer to central lines at Kağıthane and Gayrettepe. Havaist shuttles run to hubs such as Taksim and Beşiktaş with luggage holds and card payment.

From SAW

M4 metro runs between Sabiha Gökçen and Kadıköy with frequent trains. Havabus shuttles serve Kadıköy and Taksim and are convenient with bags or children.

Private Transfers

If you want a door to door ride after a long flight, book a private transfer. Your driver meets you at arrivals, helps with bags, and takes you straight to the hotel. This option is popular for late night landings and for families.

For a smooth first day, pair your arrival route with an easy local travel plan. The Airport Transfer Istanbul service covers private cars with meet and greet. The Istanbul Transportation Pass keeps city rides simple during your stay.

Picking a travel date can save time at the airport and in the city. The next section explains seasonality and events.

Best Time to Fly

Istanbul is a year round destination. Spring and autumn bring mild weather and steady operations. Summer has many flights and also more crowds. Winter is calm and good value with a small chance of weather delays. Major events and holidays can affect demand. Book early for school breaks and large festivals. Morning flights are usually smoother than late evening during busy seasons.

Most traveler questions repeat across seasons. The final section answers the key points in plain language.

FAQs

Which airport code is which

IST is Istanbul Airport on the European side. SAW is Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the Asian side.

Do I need a visa for Turkey

Visa rules depend on your nationality. Check the official e Visa portal or your embassy site before you book. Many nationalities can apply online in minutes.

Is there a late night way into the city

Yes. Havaist and Havabus run through the night with longer gaps and taxis operate at all hours. Metro hours vary by line and day. Confirm the first and last trains before you land late.

Which seat is best for an approach view

Views change by runway and wind. On clear days arrivals to IST from the west can show the Bosphorus and the Old City. It is a nice bonus if you are on the correct side of the aircraft.

Can I connect across airports

It is possible but not recommended on a tight schedule. Allow many hours and use a pre booked car if you must switch between IST and SAW.

What should I install on my phone

Install one maps app and one transit app. Add the Havaist or Havabus app for shuttles. Save your hotel address in Turkish and English. Keep a power bank for a long travel day.

Plan your arrival. Book a smooth Airport Transfer Istanbul. For city travel after you check in, use the Istanbul Transportation Pass for simple taps on metro, tram, buses, ferries, and Marmaray.

By a local transport editor. Last updated September 25, 2025. We review airport, airline, and city transport sources and update this page when operations change.

References

• Istanbul Airport official transportation pages with M11 and shuttle links. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
• Turkish Airlines. Reaching Istanbul Airport and route map. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Sabiha Gökçen Airport official metro and Havabus information. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Havaist official schedules and routes. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Havabus official service pages. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Metro Istanbul line pages for M4 operations. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Pegasus Airlines network map reference for SAW nonstop examples. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Galataport background for cruise context when arriving by air and cruising onward. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

By Plane: Two Airports With Easy City Access

When you ask how to get to Istanbul by air, the answer is almost always one of two airports. Istanbul Airport on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the Asian side. Both serve a wide range of international flights and have clear transfers into town.

Istanbul Airport (IST)

IST is the main international hub. It has large terminals, frequent services, and many long haul links. The M11 metro connects the airport to the city network for fast travel with light bags. Public buses and the Havaist shuttle coaches serve central hubs like Taksim and Beşiktaş. Taxis queue outside arrivals at all hours. Pick the metro for predictable timing and value. Pick a shuttle for a single seat with luggage space. Pick a taxi or private car for a door to door ride when you are tired after a long flight.

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)

SAW sits on the Asian side and hosts many regional and low cost flights. The M4 metro runs from the terminal toward Kadıköy with frequent trains. Havabus coaches link the airport to Kadıköy and Taksim. This is a good choice for hotels in Kadıköy, Moda, Üsküdar, and for travelers who will continue to the European side by ferry or Marmaray.

Quick arrival tips

• Load a local eSIM before you fly so you can check routes as soon as you land.
• With light luggage, take the metro for stable times during rush hours.
• With large luggage or children, use a shuttle or a private transfer for a calm first hour.

By Train: A Simple Overnight Link From the Balkans

If you prefer rail when thinking about how to get to Istanbul, there is an overnight route that many travelers enjoy. The Sofia–Istanbul night train runs seasonally and often through most of the year, with sleeper and couchette options. Trains arrive at Halkalı on the European side. From there you continue into the center by Marmaray suburban rail or by a short transfer arranged on the spot. Border checks occur on the route. Staff will guide you during the process. Book early in peak months for a comfortable compartment.

Train arrival tips

• Carry your passport in an easy to reach pocket for night border checks.
• On arrival at Halkalı, follow signs to Marmaray for a smooth rail connection to central stations like Yenikapı and Sirkeci.
• Pack earplugs and a light layer for better sleep on the night run.

By Car: Modern Motorways and Electronic Tolls

Driving is possible from neighboring countries and can be scenic if you plan breaks. If you are deciding how to get to Istanbul by car, read this section carefully. Turkey uses an electronic toll system called HGS on motorways, major bridges, and some tunnels. There are no cash toll booths. Foreign plated vehicles must register for HGS or settle any recorded passages within the stated grace period. If tolls remain unpaid, vehicles may be stopped from leaving the country until the balance and any fines are cleared.

Main road approaches

• From Bulgaria. Enter at Kapıkule or Hamzabeyli and continue on E80/O-3 toward Istanbul.
• From Greece. Enter at İpsala or Pazarkule and follow E90/D110 and then O-3 toward the city.
• Northern bypass. The O-7 ring with the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge offers a fast Bosphorus crossing for through traffic and trucks. It helps you avoid inner city congestion if you plan to continue east.

HGS toll basics for visitors

• Buy and load an HGS sticker at PTT post offices or selected fuel stations before using toll roads.
• Keep enough balance on the account. Use the official portals to check and top up when needed.
• If you pass a toll without HGS credit, you must settle it within the noted window to avoid fines.
• Rental cars in Turkey often come with HGS linked to the contract. Ask your agent to explain how charges are billed.

Driving tips inside the city

• Use the northern ring roads to avoid the busiest central corridors.
• Book a hotel with onsite parking or plan to use public garages in central districts.
• Consider parking near a metro hub and switching to rail for stress free sightseeing days.

By Cruise Ship: Walk Off Into the Heart of the City

Many travelers plan how to get to Istanbul as part of a cruise. Modern cruise ships berth at Galataport in Karaköy. The terminal sits on the Bosphorus beside Beyoğlu and close to the Old City. The quay is new and designed to bring passengers straight onto the waterfront. Taxis, trams, and funiculars are a short walk away. If you have a full day in port, you can explore both shores with a tram and ferry loop and return to the ship with time to spare.

Cruise day tips

• Pick one side of the city for the morning and the other side for the afternoon.
• Carry a simple public transport card or a visitor pass if you plan several rides.
• Return to the ship area at least one hour before all aboard. Traffic can build near bridges at sunset.

Step-by-Step Plans for First Timers

These short plans show how to get to Istanbul and reach your hotel with fewer decisions after a long trip.

Plane to Old City hotels

1. IST arrivals. Take M11 to the city network. Change for the tram to Sultanahmet. If you prefer fewer transfers, take Havaist to a central hub and continue by tram or a short taxi.
2. SAW arrivals. Take M4 to Kadıköy. Ride a ferry to Eminönü or Karaköy and then take the tram into the Old City.

Train to Beyoğlu and Taksim

1. Arrive at Halkalı. Take Marmaray to Yenikapı.
2. Change to the metro toward Taksim. Walk or take a short taxi to your hotel.

Car to the European side

1. Register HGS before entering toll routes. Keep your receipt and login details.
2. Follow O-3 or O-7. Enter the city near your hotel’s side of the Bosphorus to avoid extra crossings.
3. Park at your hotel or in a public garage and switch to rail for daily visits.

Cruise arrival for a one-day visit

1. Walk from the terminal to the T1 tram at Karaköy.
2. Ride to Sultanahmet for morning sights. After lunch, take the tram back to Karaköy and the funicular to Taksim for an afternoon stroll.
3. Return to the ship well before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest way for a first visit

Flying is the simplest way to get to Istanbul. Use the metro with light bags or a shuttle with heavy bags. Both airports have clear signs and frequent services into the center.

Is the night train comfortable

The night train offers sleepers and couchettes. It is basic but pleasant if you bring snacks, water, and earplugs. It is popular in summer. Book early for a private compartment.

Can I drive my own car into Istanbul

Yes. Make sure you have HGS for toll roads and bridges. Plan parking in advance. City traffic is busy at peaks, so use ring roads and switch to public transport for central visits.

Where do cruise ships dock

Most ships use Galataport in Karaköy on the European side. You can reach the Old City and Beyoğlu quickly from the terminal.

How far are the airports from the Old City

Times vary by route and traffic. With the metro you get stable times. With shuttles and taxis the ride can range from under an hour to longer during evening peaks.

Final Tips

• Know your neighborhood before you arrive. Pick the route that lands closest to your hotel.
• Carry a small power bank and keep offline maps on your phone for tunnels and deep stations.
• If your flight is very late, book a private transfer for a direct ride and clear pickup.
• If you come by car, keep fuel receipts and toll top ups in one pouch for easy checks.
• If you arrive by cruise, buy a simple transport pass if you plan several rides in one day.

References

• İGA Istanbul Airport. Passenger information and ground transport.
• Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Flight info and airport overview.
• BDZ Bulgarian Railways. Sofia–Halkalı night train timetables and updates.
• Eurail. Sofia–Istanbul Express practical overview for travelers.
• Galataport Istanbul. Cruise terminal location and facilities. Cruise port schedules and berthing area details.
• General Directorate of Highways (KGM). Official HGS guidance for foreign plated vehicles.
• PTT. Fast Transit System HGS product and top up channels.
• Toll system summaries and 2025 updates for planning.

Turkish Airlines

The flag carrier airline of Turkey is Turkish Airlines. Turkish Airlines began flying in 1933 with just 5 aircraft. In 1982, the airline expanded internationally and had 27 aircraft and 3.909 seats. The airline currently offers flights to 304 locations in 122 different countries.

Turkish Airlines will broaden the breadth of its unique services by adding new locations, increasing the number of flights, and adding new aircraft to its fleet as the airline with the most international destinations. Due to its ideal geographic location that spans continents, Istanbul, which is already a significant global cultural and commercial center, is well-positioned to serve as a transit hub for the aviation industry. 

Pegasus Airlines

Through a large number of connections, Pegasus Airlines offers both direct and indirect flights with a destination of Istanbul. Istanbul is easily accessible because to the more than 100 local and international direct flights that go there.

Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is connected by Pegasus Airlines to a variety of flights from around the world. One of the city's two primary airports is Sabiha Gokcen International Airport. It is close to the center and situated on the Asian side.

According to statistics, from April to October, Istanbul is overrun with visitors and foreigners. As a result, buying a ticket during this time will undoubtedly be more costly, but it does not have to be prohibitively so. We can’t provide exact figures since it varies by nation, but you should expect to spend an extra $100 on average. 

Best Time To Visit Istanbul

During the summer, from June to October, Istanbul experiences sunny days. The temperature gets hot from mid-July until late-August, with an average of 28 degrees Celsius in July and August. Summer, which lasts from July through August, is hot and humid, yet it is the ideal season to visit Istanbul’s beaches. In July and August, the additional humidity makes the weather seem even hotter. If you visit Istanbul in July or August, be sure to get an air-conditioned hotel room. Outdoor concerts, parades, and a variety of music performances and festivals are all popular throughout the summer. Around the Bosphorus coastlines, squares, beaches, parks, and gardens, the city becomes extremely congested and bustling, with visitors and residents alike. The ideal time to visit Istanbul is during the summer. 

Winter is often warm and wet, although it may become chilly and snowy at times. The coldest season is winter, with temperatures averaging 8 degrees Celsius in January and February. Istanbul is one of the best places in Europe and Turkey to celebrate and enjoy New Year’s enthusiasm without the severe snowfall that many other European cities experience. Christmas is also celebrated by foreign expats in Turkey in places like Taksim. Sales enliven the marketplaces and retail centers. 

In any event, when it comes to arranging a flight, the season doesn’t actually matter as much as the method. Most people, particularly first-time visitors to Istanbul, are unaware of a little-known technique. As we all know, Istanbul is a popular tourist destination due to its magnificent views and rich culture, and as a result, airline tickets are in high demand, as shown by the fact that flight tickets are in high demand throughout the summer. If you check one of the flight ticket rates and then return two hours later, you will see the identical flight ticket at a higher price. Thus, the ideal option is to book your trip 8 weeks in advance; however, if you are unsure if you will go, you may book your journey 6-4 weeks in advance. You’ll be able to locate considerably cheaper airline tickets this way, and you won’t have to worry about overbooking.

1 – Understand Turkey's HGS toll system

Turkey's current highway infrastructure was recently converted to a High-Speed Toll System nicknamed HGS. A car-mounted electronic device collects the toll as you pass through toll gates. All cars must have HGS, thus your rental car business should provide it. Follow the HGS lanes and decelerate to 30km/h through the tollbooths. This automatically collects the toll, which your rental car company will bill you for.

2 – Avoid Old Town Narrow Lanes

Motorways benefit from Turkey's infrastructure spree, but historic town alleys do not. Here, decaying charm, potholes, and stalls flow onto small streets. Tight, steep lanes made of missing paving stones. Double-parked cars block roads, streets become one-way overnight, and pedestrians ignore safety. If possible, park outside the old town.

3 – Don’t Pull too Close up to Traffic Lights

In Turkey, you have 0.2 seconds to react before cars behind you start beeping. After a few days of driving in Turkey, I realized my poor reaction time wasn't due to impatience. Too far ahead at a junction, you can't see the traffic lights behind you. This weakness in Turkey's municipal planning is well-known to Turks, who will hornily tell you to go. When driving in Turkey, check the traffic signals before stopping at a crossroads.

4- Know the Limits

Throughout our vacation, Turkey's speed limits mystified us. No speed signs sometimes. Sometimes we went 70, 50, and 30km/h in 100m. Often, a major highway's speed drops to 50km/h for a little crossroads and never changes. We observed 82 km/h speed limits in a few locations, which we liked for their precision but didn't understand. Turkey's speed limits must be looked up. Voilà. Highways and motorways are 120 km/h, double-lane roads are 90 km/h, and built-up areas are 50 km/h. In Turkey, the BAC limit is zero.

5- Not All Roundabouts are Actually Roundabouts

A Turkish crossroads looks like a roundabout but isn't one. It's a circle in the center of a large intersection where left-turning autos halt for approaching traffic. Oncoming cars don't need to stop (or even slow down) because the "roundabout" doesn't block their lanes. If you treat it like a typical roundabout, you'll soon realize automobiles won't give way for you. Double-lane roundabouts require extra vigilance.

6 – Check For Hotel Parking

Except in a few large cities, parking wasn't a problem for us in Turkey. Most towns had easy street parking.  Many hotels feature parking, but those near town centers may have limited space. Sometimes hotel parking meant leaving your keys with the staff so they could move your car as needed.

7 – Leaving Your Car Keys at Otopark is Not Waving Goodbye to Your Vehicle.

Easy parking at key attractions. All attractions offer free or $5-$10 Turkish Lira parking. Some smaller sites offered to watch our automobile. A polite "no thanks" will do. Turkey doesn't have parking meters. Someone will take money if you park in a paid location. We parked in car parks in bigger towns (Oto Parks). In many Oto Parks, you must leave your keys with the attendant since they sardine-pack the cars. Our automobile was always there when we returned. Oto Parks costs 28-40 Turkish Lira per hour.

8- Trust Google Maps 100% (Up to a Certain Point)

Turkey's navigation is easy. Modern roads have good signage, especially for key attractions. Major tourist destinations are identified with brown signs. Google maps were great for navigating. Google sometimes took us off the main highway and into smaller backroads to find the most efficient route. If Google Maps directs you off major roads when signs to your destination point another way, follow the signs.

9– Download Google Maps when WiFi is good

We rarely acquire a SIM card in a new country because even the cheapest hotels have strong WIFI (plus cafés, restaurants, and museums). We were alright without WIFI when driving around Turkey. Yet. Only while driving could it have been a concern. We always downloaded Google Maps for the next day's travel. So we had directions to our location.

10- Understanding Turkey's High-quality Service Stations

Even on desolate highways, Turkey has gleaming new gas stations. The food at Turkish gas stations is very good. This is quality cuisine at reasonable pricing, not trash. They have clean restrooms, too. In Turkey, you can't fuel your own car. To turn on a pump, an attendant must press buttons and wave a keycard. He'll fill it. All gas station personnel know "full." To get less, write it down.

11 – Know Hire Car Details Before You Go

When we picked up our rental car in Istanbul, the employees didn't have our booking details and quoted us four different costs in an hour. Bring all your documentation and know what you've paid for upfront. Remember you're on vacation. At 48 Turkish Lira a day, we thought additional insurance was worth it. Car rental firms charge extra for pick-up and drop-off in different locations. These fees aren't bad in Turkey. 250 TL from Istanbul to Antalya.

12– Stay Further Back Than Usual

Turkey has unstable drivers. Cars wander into your lane or pull out in front of you extremely rarely. The hard shoulder is commonly used as a substitute lane when overtaking. Slow-moving tractors and other vehicles cruise the roadways, as others zoom by. Give the car in front of you plenty of leeway for risky moves.

13- English is Your Friend

Like other countries, Turks adore it when you speak their language. If the police pull you over, don't try to speak Turkish. Police checkpoints are typical in Turkey, but we were waved on with a "hi, how are you?" in our best English voices. We often witnessed cops at town entrances randomly stopping cars. On the motorway, they have cardboard police cars warning against speeding. No issue. Police were either nice or uninterested in tourists.

Should you drive in Turkey?

Big cities don't need cars, but the countryside does. The roads are well-maintained and well-signed. Easy parking and lots of gas stations. Turkey's public transport is largely for locals, not tourists. If you want to visit out-of-the-way places, rent a car. Having a car lets you choose what to see and for how long. The vista from the automobile window in Turkey is beautiful. Stopping to take shots whenever you want is fun. We noticed tour groups waiting at gift shops or tourist-oriented restaurants. Driving in Turkey isn't too expensive, making it a smart and affordable option.

Renting a Car in Turkey 

• Car rental is difficult. Many companies provide multiple add-ons and insurance levels, making it hard to compare pricing and know what you've bought. 

• You should also keep in mind that Turkey is a right-hand drive.

• Tourists can drive in Turkey, however, the automobile rental age is 21.

• Foreign licenses are valid for 6 months in Turkey. Visitors from various countries may also need an International Driving Permit.

• Turkey has a 0 BAC limit, thus you can't drink and drive.

• To generalize, urban areas are 50km/h, double-lane roads are 90km/h, and motorways are 120km/h. But check for road signs.

• Drive with all your documents. Regular police stop, especially on tourism highways, requires papers.

• While the minimum driving age in Turkey is 18, automobile rental firms need 21.

Coach Busses in Turkey

All Turkish cities are connected by intercity buses. There is a daily intercity bus to Istanbul from almost every city with more than 5000 residents. There are many daily departures between larger cities. 

In Turkey, there is a Steward or Stewardess on board intercity buses. To cut costs, some businesses attempted to remove this feature, but they quickly added it back.

On shorter routes, buses for about 30 people are typically used. In many cases, the buses are laid out with a 1+2 setting arrangement, meaning one side of the bus has two seats and the other side has one seat. This secures passenger privacy and ensures single female travelers can sit alone. Double or large single-deckers are frequently used on busy routes.

Buses to Bosnia, Bulgaria, Serbia, North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania are among the destinations served by Turkey's international bus network. There are daily departures for close-by nations, including Istanbul, and biweekly or weekly flights for nations further away.

Bus Passes

The sale of tickets is another distinctive feature of Turkey's intercity bus sector. There is typically no central selling point at bus stops, unlike in other European nations. Each bus company using the station has its own sales counter instead.

In Turkey, purchasing tickets online is becoming more common. The market for internet tickets has grown as a result of the Coronavirus. You must choose your gender and seat when purchasing a ticket online.

Online tickets are frequently just coupons; at the bus terminal, you can print the ticket at the business's store, but it's not necessary; you can also simply board the bus and present the QR code to the driver.

Bus Lines Throughout the Country

In Turkey, certain bus routes have numerous daily departures; some of the most well-known are listed here.

• Ankara-Istanbul

• Izmir-to-Istanbul

• Istanbul-Bursa

• Eskisehir-Istanbul

• Antalya-to-Istanbul

International Bus Routes

As previously mentioned, Turkey has international bus links to a number of Balkan nations. Below are some of the bus routes that are most frequently taken when traveling to nearby nations.

• Turkey-Sofia

• Istanbul-Plovdiv

• Turkey-Greece

• Turkey-Varna

• Turkey-Greece

• Turkey-Xanthi

• Istanbul-Alexandra

• Turkey-Bosnia

Istanbul buses

In Turkey, there are many intercity, city, regional, and bus charter companies. Every city with a population of at least 50,000 people has a city or regional bus company. Around 400 companies run scheduled bus routes.

Turkey's numerous bus passengers necessitate large bus stops. One of the three biggest bus stations in Europe is in Greater Istanbul. Many buses are available in Turkey, a well-known tourist destination, for use in tourist tours, airport transfers, and regular bus rental. In all tourist destinations like Alanya, Belek, Side, etc., as well as all other larger cities, buses can be chartered for tourist groups. Bus rentals are available via companies and online; if you're staying at a hotel, they can also assist you.

While older buses may be utilized on busy days, charter buses are often contemporary and in excellent condition.

Here are answers to queries from travelers.

• In Turkey, there is typically a steward or stewardess on board to assist guests. Never place valuable items or documents on the bus's hold.

• The only buses with beds in Turkey have comfortable, reclining seats. Although trains are more expensive, some lines offer overnight trains with sleeping quarters.

• Turkey's domestic travel restrictions have changed as a result of the Corona pandemic. You must adhere to requirements including donning a face mask on buses, trains, and aeroplanes. On the websites of the Ministries of Health and Culture and Tourism, you can learn more about the Covid situation in Turkey. Check your home country's travel restrictions and your travel insurance coverage with Covid Travel before you depart for Turkey.

• Most airports in Turkey provide shuttle buses and public buses, and the bigger ones have metros. You may take an inexpensive shuttle to many hotels if you fly into a local airport. A private transfer is typically economical for families travelling together.

• Buses do run frequently between Turkey and Greece. Although buses from northern Turkey are available, Istanbul serves as the main hub.

• Every day, buses travel from Turkey to Sofia, Burgas, Varna, Plovdiv, and other places in Bulgaria. Although buses from other Turkish cities are also available, most buses leave from Istanbul.

• Due to the vastness of the city, there are numerous bus stations in Istanbul, the largest of which is the enormous Greater Istanbul bus Terminal. Make sure to confirm the precise location of your bus' departure; if you search online, all departure details should be available.

Trains of Turkey

Istanbul is a complex city to visit and learn. As you start traveling, your curiosity will increase. Here are the trains that make it easy to travel and have fun. We have collected brief information about rail systems for those who want to travel around Turkey and Istanbul by train, which is an enjoyable type of travel. Nowadays, metro, tram, and suburban systems are used in cities in Turkey. Our provinces that use the rail system are Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Bursa, Eskişehir, Kayseri, Samsun, Konya, Antalya, Gaziantep, Adana, and Izmit. While more than one type of rail system is used in the first 4 of these cities, only the metro is used in Adana, and the tram is used in the remaining cities. Turkey has a total railway network of 12,466 kilometers. Moreover, Turkey has become 8th globally with the increasing number of high-speed railway lines in recent years. Rail systems continue to be developed. 

After all of this information, let’s start with the fun part of our job. If you are someone who thinks about traveling to Istanbul, a train to Istanbul may be the best choice for you if you enjoy train rides as much as we do. There are trains that come from Sofia to Istanbul that stops at Halkalı. After that, Istanbul has so many train lines that will take you where you need to go. We have prepared a list of what you can enjoy in Istanbul with these lines and what you can do in Istanbul.

High-Speed Train: Train to Istanbul

The first example is the High-Speed Train (abbreviated as YHT in Turkish). High-Speed Train is a train line connecting Istanbul and Ankara and offers a lovely experience to its passengers with comfort and speed. With this experience, you will not only discover Istanbul with its interior beauties on your train to Istanbul trip, but you will also be able to see the beauties on your way there. Remember, Ankara is the capital city of Turkey, and it also offers a lot to see for tourists. 

The first stop of this train is Söğütlüçeşme, which is very close to the center, and there are 6 services and 9 stops per day. The journey between Istanbul to Ankara takes about 5 hours by high-speed train. But if there is an expedition that stops at all stops, this time increases a little more. After you have bought your ticket to Istanbul and arrived, if you are on the Anatolian side, you can use the Metrobus and walk there or use Marmaray and take off at the same stop. For those coming from the European Side, transportation via Kadikoy seems to be the most logical solution.

Moreover, you can also enjoy the Bosphorus by taking the Kadıköy ferry! There are parking lots that can be used for one, or two-day parking around the main stops. Ticket prices are divided into affordable, standard, and flexible. In addition, ticket prices vary depending on the wagon type as ‘economy, the economy with meal and business.’ You can easily share this experience with your friends, family, or social media with the Internet service. 

Touristic Eastern Express

For those who don’t want to restrict your holiday or sightseeing route to Istanbul only, you have a great option: Touristic Eastern Express. You can do this by going directly to the starting point or via Istanbul. Touristic Eastern Express is an extraordinary train ride that departs from Ankara and will reach Kars with all the beauties of Anatolia in front of you. For this reason, we suggest you make this trip in winter as the view is incredible. The way you go on the train is up to you. You can choose seats or rooms with beds. Here are some tips for you; try to wake up before sunrise in the morning. Because we don’t want you to miss the sights that need to be seen, and don’t forget to take your camera, drink, and music so that you can fully enjoy and make your experience endless.

What to Do in Istanbul

After you have decided on your trip to Istanbul, all you have to do is plan your trip. There are so many places worth seeing in Istanbul. This is relatively easy with Istanbul.com. There are passes such as the Istanbul Tourist Pass® that give lots of benefits for people who want to discover Istanbul and see its tourist attractions. It gives you access to most tourist attractions such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and so on. It also has an accredited guide to visit the top tourist attractions. 

With the Istanbul Tourist Pass, you can see and explore the historical side of Istanbul and see its architecture. If you want to do something more fun, you can enter other places like Beşiktaş and Fenerbahçe Stadium Tours, Madame Tussauds, Sealife Aquarium, Legoland, or Pera Museum. After visiting the Topkapi Palace in the morning, you can take a tour of the Bosphorus at noon and enjoy Istanbul. It is also so easy to order it! All you have to do is order Istanbul Tourist Pass online and determine the number of days and people and you will be all set

Even though there are options to travel to Istanbul other than airways, like seaways, almost all of the upcoming tourists preferred coming to the city by having a flight to Istanbul. In this article, we will discover Istanbul and its airports and the transportation options between them, and the most important tourist attractions of the city. We will also introduce you to the Istanbul Tourist Pass, which will make your trip a lot easier in terms of tickets for tourist attractions and public transportation. While you plan your trip and discover Istanbul, Istanbul Tourist Pass will reduce prices for you and help you save money and time.

Airport Options for Your Flight to Istanbul

Let’s start by looking at your flight to Istanbul first! As mentioned, you have two options for airports. The new and enormous airport of Istanbul, the Istanbul Airport, is located in the northern parts of the European Side. It welcomes almost 70% of upcoming tourists to the city. The second one, named Sabiha Gökçen Airport, is located on the Anatolian side and has operated in and from dozens of countries since 2001.  

There are transportation options from both of these airports to several essential and iconic locations in Istanbul, such as Kadıköy or Taksim. Rather than going to your hotel, you may also want to discover Istanbul first and visit some tourist attractions. Let’s plan your trip by examining these transportation alternatives to and from the airports, meanwhile introducing you to some of the things to do in Istanbul.

What to Do After Your Flight to Istanbul?

After your flight to Istanbul successfully lands at the Istanbul Airport, getting an airport shuttle is the best way to get to the city center. Flights to Istanbul often land at this airport, and it is safe to say that it is enormous -so don’t worry if it takes some time to get out of it! The airport shuttles are labeled as “Havaİst,” and they have a variety of destinations such as Taksim. If you buy an Istanbul Tourist Pass®, the fee for these shuttles will be included in your pass. If you don’t have an Istanbul Tourist Pass®, then you can pay via cash or card. Also, you can get a private airport transfer for a discounted fee if you own an Istanbul Tourist Pass®.

Suppose your flight to Istanbul lands at the Sabiha Gökçen Airport. In that case, the first thing you should do is to take one of the Havabüs Shuttles (similar to the ones that operate at Istanbul Airport) or municipality buses. If you are going to stay on the Anatolian side, we suggest that you take Havabüs to Kadıköy or buses numbered E-10 or E-11. Tickets for Havabüs Shuttles can be bought in cash or by card. For the municipality buses, you will need an Istanbulkart. If you purchase an Istanbul Tourist Pass®, you can also book a private airport transfer for a discounted price.

So now that your flight to Istanbul is all settled and you know how to arrive at the city center or your hotel, let’s talk about the rest of your trip and ease the way for you. You may also want to jump right into discovering the city just after your flight to Istanbul lands off. Don’t worry and keep reading if you are curious about transportation to tourist attractions from the airports directly.

Main Things to Do in Istanbul

Harboring both historical and geographical tourist attractions, as well as having roaring nightlife and countless cultural activities, Istanbul is the crowning jewel of Turkey. Millions of people come to discover Istanbul every year, and almost all of them prefer to come by flight. Join them and plan your trip, and taste the privilege of seeing Asian and European continents lying side by side from the window of your flight to Istanbul.

As we mentioned, there are many things to do in Istanbul, whether it be visiting tourist attractions or just enjoying tidbits of the city’s local life. Visiting the historical peninsula, enjoying a hop-on-hop-off Bosphorus Strait tour, visiting museums, and walking down İstiklal Street can be listed as some of the most entertaining things to do in Istanbul. You can also enjoy eating and drinking Turkish delicacies or going shopping. We suggest you include all of these while you plan your trip!

The historical peninsula of Istanbul, harboring monumental tourist attractions like Hagia Sophia and Yerebatan Cistern (Basilica Cistern), is located on the southernmost part of the European Side. To get there, you can use a variety of public transportation like the tram line or metro. With your Istanbul Tourist Pass, you will also be able to enter many of the tourist attractions in the Historical Peninsula. From your flight to Istanbul, the easiest way to reach the historical peninsula you can get the Sultanahmet line of Havabüs.

To discover Istanbul from the sea and see the beautiful Bosphorus, you can have a Bosphorus tour. From the window of your flight, you probably already saw the famous Bosphorus! Don’t forget that this is also included in your Tourist Pass! In order to have this trip, you can go directly to Beşiktaş by airport shuttles and start your sea tour.

Or you can go and have a shopping spree on the famous İstiklal Street. Located at Taksim, it is easy to go to this historical and sparkly place. After your flight to Istanbul lands, you just have to take one of the airport shuttles to Taksim! While you are there, don’t forget to taste some Turkish coffee and ice cream. Now you know some of the significant things to do in Istanbul, and you can plan your trip accordingly. You should plan which airport suits best of your interests for your flight to Istanbul. Also, don’t forget to check in for your return flight to Istanbul while you discover the city!