Discover hidden gems around Istanbul’s Airports! Whether you’re on a layover or want to make the most of your arrival or departure day, Istanbul’s airports are surrounded by fascinating attractions. From serene parks to cultural landmarks and vibrant shopping spots, there’s plenty to explore just minutes away.
Istanbul is not just a gateway between continents; it’s a city brimming with culture, history, and charm at every corner—even near its airports! Whether you’re landing at Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, there are plenty of nearby attractions worth exploring. These spots are perfect for those with a few hours to spare or anyone seeking to start or end their journey on an unforgettable note.
From historical landmarks and breathtaking sea views to bustling markets and modern shopping malls, the areas surrounding Istanbul’s airports offer a glimpse into the city’s rich diversity. In this guide, we’ll explore must-visit places near each airport to help you plan the perfect detour or layover adventure. Before we start, here is a game changer for long layovers: Istanbul Fast Pass! Don't forget to check it out!
Sabiha Gökçen Airport takes its name from Sabiha Gökçen, the adopted daughter of Atatürk and the first woman pilot of Turkey. The airport is located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus and is somewhat far away from the city center. If you don’t have more than 24 hours of layover, it is not worth the trip and the hassle of visiting the city. That said, if you want an Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport Transfer that makes your trip fast and comfortable, it is definitely worth it.
If you plan to spend your layover around the airport, there are some time-passing options to discover. Viaport Asia Outlet shopping mall is one of them. With its open roof, the Viaport mall offers a unique shopping experience, making you feel like you are at a shopping village, where you can enjoy the bright sunshine and the fresh air as you hop from one boutique to the other.
If you are into car racing, good news for you! The Intercity Istanbul Park is located very close to the airport, where you can challenge your friends and family to beat your fast & furious skills. Nature lovers will love this! Aydos Forest is only a short taxi ride from the Sabiha Gökçen airport, where you can hike, get some fresh air, have a picnic, or even check off your daily jogging goals. If you crave some good Turkish Kebab, try the Tarihi Çınaraltı Restaurant. Alternatively, go to the Bosphorus for a walk or to feed the seagulls, a popular local activity.
Istanbul Airport was opened only a few months ago and it was built to be the biggest airport of not only Istanbul but also Europe. It is now active with flights currently taking off and landing at from many cities worldwide. Unfortunately, there are not many spots to discover nearby, it is in a secluded area of the city.
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On the European side of Istanbul, the 2nd Airport is located between the villages of Tayakadın and Akpınar on the Black Sea coast. From Istanbul Airport, which will serve on an area of approximately 77 square kilometers, it is possible to reach Taksim, one of Istanbul’s cultural capitals in 15-20 minutes. In addition, the Istanbul Airport is at the junction of Çatalca and Göktürk Arnavutköy and is very close to Lake Terkos.
Istanbul Airport can be reached via the Northern Marmara Motorway and Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge. Therefore, transportation to the airport is very convenient and easy. If you want to travel quickly, smoothly and comfortably to/from the Istanbul Airport, the best option is to get private transport from Istanbul Airport that takes you to the city center as quickly as possible, so you don’t waste your precious time waiting for public transportation.
Arnavutköy is another option that is somewhat near the airport. For beach-goers, taking a cab to the Kilyos beach for a quick dipping-the-toe session can be fun.
We suggest getting an Istanbul Tourist Pass® to make the most of your time in Istanbul. The pass offers an option that you can use for up to 24 hours, which includes entry to the city’s most popular sights such as the Hagia Sophia Mosque Museum, Topkapı Palace Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, Hagia Irene, and many more. The pass also has private airport transfers, saving you time during your Istanbul trip.
Having more than 20 years of experience in the tourism sector, istanbul.com assures its visitors a wondrous trip experience thanks to its wide range of packages. You can easily book Istanbul tour packages via chat service, mobile app support, and credit card payment options.
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