Istanbul Airport is the chief international airport serving the alluring city of Istanbul, Turkey. Located in Arnavutkoy district, the airport is currently serving as the successor to the now-closed Ataturk Airport. Even the IATA (International Air Transport Association) code was transferred from the Ataturk Airport to the new Istanbul Airport. As a result, the Istanbul Airport can also be referred to as the IST Airport.
In 2021, the Istanbul Airport served more than 37 million passengers, thereby being hailed as the busiest airport in Europe. And when it comes to total passenger traffic, the airport is ranked 13th in the world. It is also the second-busiest airport in terms of international passenger traffic since more than 27 million international passengers are welcomed annually.
There is a single passenger terminal within the Istanbul Airport, which is also touted as being the largest in the world – for domestic and international flights alike. And to aid in the process of controlling passenger traffic, the main terminal is provided with four runways. Additionally, there are also a total of five concourses, namely – A, B, D, F and G – with a total of 143 passenger boarding bridges. It should be known that Concourse G is exclusively for domestic flight passengers.
Located in the southeastern region of the Istanbul Airport is the Istanbul city centre. Following WWI, the Turkish War of Independence helped Turkey become the Republic of Turkey in 1923. Back in those days, Istanbul was not the capital and was painstakingly overlooked in favour of the then capital, Ankara. But, then during the 1950s, the city of Istanbul re-emerged with new constructions and infrastructures.
As the population of Istanbul grew over the years, the city expanded rapidly during the 1970s, eventually creating the sprawling metropolitan city that it is today. Therefore, if you are looking for airport transfers from the Istanbul Airport to the heart of Istanbul city centre, then be sure to follow the recommended travel routes below.
How to Travel From Airport to City Centre via Taxi
If you are planning to commute from the Istanbul Airport to the city centre via taxi, then be sure to follow the recommended steps below.
- Hire a taxi from the exit terminal of the airport and head over to Istanbul City Centre.
- The total cost for a one-way trip will be around 8-10 USD and the total distance travelled will be around 45.6 km. Also, the time taken will be 32 minutes. There will be multiple taxi operators that you can choose from, such as Sahil Taxi, Albatros Taxi and Princess Marin Taksi. You can also book online through BiTaksi and Istanbul Airport Taxi.
How to Travel From Airport to City Centre via Metro
If you are looking to travel by metro after arriving in Istanbul and thereby head over to the city centre all by yourself, here are some key details to note.
The newly launched M11 Metro line will connect Istanbul Airport to city center. The M11 will run from the airport via ?hsaniye, Göktürk, Kemerburgaz, Hasdal and Ka??thane to metro station Gayrettepe. Additionally, you can also head to the city centre by transferring to metro M2.
How to Travel From Airport to City Centre via Shuttle
To reach the Istanbul City Centre from the IST Airport via shuttle services, remember to carry out the steps mentioned below.
- From the exit terminal of the airport, hire a shuttle service for a one-way/return trip journey. The most popular operator in the shuttle space operating in Turkey is Jayride.
- The total distance covered will be 45.6 km and expect to pay around 12-25 USD (for a one-way trip). Also, the time taken will be around 32 minutes.
Notable Attractions at Istanbul City Centre
When visiting the city centre for the first time, start your journey at the Hagia Sophia. Established during the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor, Justinian I, Hagia Sophia was touted as the world’s largest cathedral until the Seville Cathedral was established in 1520. Since this is one of the most iconic historic sites in Istanbul, you will be able to enjoy breathtaking architectural marvels, featuring representations of Jesus Christ and bygone emperors who ruled Istanbul in the past.
Once you are done with the Hagia Sophia, head over to the Topkapi Palace. The Topkapi Palace was the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultan and its interiors are decorated with plenty of luxurious objects, including an 86-carat Spoonmaker’s Diamond. You will also be able to enjoy an extensive collection of precious jewels, weaponry and religious artefacts.
Your next destination should be the Grand Bazaar located inside the city centre. Being one of the world’s oldest and largest markets, the Grand Bazaar is a collection of thousands of shops spread across dozens of streets. Even if you are not planning on buying anything, it’s historic atmosphere is truly a sight to behold. Finally, wrap up your trip with a taste of the Eminonu, which is a popular fish sandwich at one of the restaurants below the Galata Bridge.
