When planning a trip, one of the first decisions you will need to make is which of the Istanbul airports to fly into. As a longtime Istanbul resident and travel writer, I regularly fly in and out of both airports.
In this article, I will delve into the key differences between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), so you can decide which one aligns best with your travel plans.
Istanbul Airport (IST)
For those wondering what is the main airport in Istanbul, Istanbul Airport (IST) stands as a modern marvel, offering travelers state-of-the-art facilities and extensive amenities. Opened in 2018, IST has rapidly ascended to become one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major hub for Turkish Airlines.
Catering for millions of transiting passengers and flights to over 350 destinations, the airport is filled with expansive lounges, which provide a relaxing oasis for travelers in between connecting flights. The airport also features a vast array of dining options, catering to every palate with local Turkish cuisine and international fare.
Extensive retail outlets offer everything from high-end luxury brands to unique local artisanship, while its seamless and efficient layout ensures quick and easy navigation between terminals. For those seeking a blend of efficiency, luxury, and convenience, Istanbul Airport truly delivers an exceptional travel experience.
Accessibility and connectivity at IST
If you’re wondering which Istanbul airport is closer to the city, Istanbul Airport (IST) is exceptionally well-connected and highly accessible from the European side. The airport is serviced by the Havaist airport shuttle (which also offers travel between Istanbul airports), multiple taxi services, and rideshare options, ensuring that passengers can seamlessly reach various parts of Istanbul. And if you’re coming through on an extended layover, there are ways to explore the city for a short day.
Perhaps the most convenient and affordable is in my opinion the metro line, M11, operating between Kağıthane and Istanbul Airport. With its strategic location and extensive transportation network, IST offers unparalleled convenience for those visiting the city.
If you want to travel with your own car, in IST you have the chance to rent your car and select the best deal among all the different car rental offices.
Dining and shopping experiences at IST
IST sets a high standard when it comes to dining and shopping. The airport houses one of the most impressive arrays of dining options in the world, ranging from luxurious restaurants offering gourmet meals to quick-service outlets and cozy cafes.
For your first taste of Turkish cuisine, I like to grab a quick bite of street food at Simit Sarayi (Gates 9 and 13) or delve into a substantial meal at Cuisine Anatolia (International Airside A-B Pier). The retail options are equally extensive, with a mix of high-end luxury boutiques, duty-free stores, and artisanal shops. Whether you’re looking for designer brands or unique local products, IST’s shopping experience is second to none.
Lounges and traveler amenities at IST
Istanbul Airport’s lounges are designed to provide a relaxing environment for passengers, both business and leisure focused alike. Travelers can also enjoy complimentary meals and beverages, making it an ideal space to unwind or catch up on work.
The IST Business Lounge is the first place to head for an extended layover when you don’t want to leave the airport, with high-speed internet, showers, a children’s area, cinema, and meeting rooms. In addition to lounges, IST offers other services like currency exchange, baggage wrapping, and lost and found services.
Personal recommendations for IST
If you have a longer layover, consider indulging in a spa treatment or exploring the airport’s numerous quiet zones for some rejuvenation. When traveling from the US to Istanbul, I love pampering myself with a spa treatment. These unique touches make the airport experience a little more memorable than just a transiting space.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), named after the adoptive daughter of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and Turkey’s first female combat pilot, is an important gateway to Istanbul, particularly for those traveling to the Asian side of the city.
Known for its more relaxed atmosphere compared to its larger counterpart, SAW still offers efficient services and amenities. Despite its smaller size, SAW provides a diverse range of dining and shopping options, ensuring that passengers have everything they need for a comfortable journey.
Location and accessibility
Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is conveniently situated close to several major highways and public transportation routes. This advantageous location allows for quick and easy access from various parts of the city, including the European side via the Bosphorus bridges.
The airport is serviced by several public bus lines, airport shuttles, and taxi services. Just like IST, the metro system has also been recently expanded to include SAW. The M4 Metro Line runs between Kadıköy and Sabiha Gökçen Airport, making it affordable and convenient for those looking to reach the airport. If, on the other hand, you want to rent a car, you will find different car rental counters at the airport.
Dining and shopping experiences at SAW
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport may be smaller in size compared to IST, but it still caters to its travelers with a commendable variety of dining and shopping choices.
You can find a mix of international fast-food chains, local Turkish eateries, and cozy cafes, providing options for any palate or dietary requirement. You can easily grab a Starbucks coffee, while also enjoying your first taste of Turkish cuisine with kebab restaurants in each terminal.
The shopping experience at SAW is not as extensive as IST, but it still includes a selection of duty-free shops, offering popular international brands and iconic Turkish products.
Lounges and traveler amenities at SAW
Despite its more compact layout, SAW offers several comfortable lounges where passengers can relax before their flights. There are three Yelken business lounges, offering complimentary snacks, beverages, high-speed internet, and charging stations. Additionally, SAW offers the usual services to meet the core needs of travelers, like baggage wrapping, currency exchange, and lost and found.
Personal recommendations for SAW
Comparing Istanbul airports to fly into
Choosing the best airport for your trip to Istanbul depends largely on where you plan to stay and what the purpose of your visit is. Here is a comparative overview to help you make an informed decision.
| IST* | SAW** | |
| Proximity to the city center | Located on the European side, around 40 km from the city center. | Located on the Asian side, around 35 km from the city center. |
| Best for type of travelers | Business travelers, luxury seekers, and those staying in European Istanbul. | Travelers visiting the Asian side, budget-conscious travelers, and tourists wanting a quieter experience. |
| Amenities | Extensive lounges, high-end dining, luxury shopping, and art exhibitions. | Smaller lounges, local and international dining, and duty-free shopping. |
| Transportation | Numerous options including metro, bus, taxi, and airport shuttles. | Public buses, airport shuttles, taxis, and metro. |
| Efficiency | High passenger capacity, numerous services for quick and efficient transit. | Streamlined operations, typically less crowded, faster check-in and security. |
| Overall experience | Luxurious and comprehensive, suitable for long layovers. | More relaxed and efficient, suitable for quicker domestic and regional flights. |
*Istanbul Airport / **Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
Best Istanbul airports to fly into
In summary, if you are visiting Istanbul for business, plan to stay on the European side, or desire a grander airport experience, Istanbul Airport (IST) is your best choice. On the other hand, if you are staying on the Asian side, looking for a more relaxed travel experience, or are traveling on a budget, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) may be more suitable for your needs. And for the many travelers that want to cover multi-city flights, or learn what is a layover, read more of KAYAK’s flight guides.