Arriving in Turkey: IST vs. SAW Airports — Which One Makes More Sense?
Arriving in Istanbul is the start of an exciting journey. Many travelers ask the same question before booking: Which airport is better — IST or SAW? Istanbul has two international airports. Each one offers different benefits. Knowing which one fits your plans can save time, money, and stress. This guide explains both airports so you can make the best choice.
Which Airport Is More Central?
Istanbul Airport (IST) – European Side (40 km to city center). Convenient for stays in: Taksim, Sultanahmet, Besiktas.
Easier access to landmarks:
Best for: Old City Tours, Bosphorus Cruises, European side hotels.
Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) – Asian Side (50 km to Taksim). Convenient for stays in: Kadikoy, Uskudar, Maltepe.
Easier access to landmarks:
- Maiden’s Tower
- Camlica Hill (panoramic view)
- Kadikoy Market
- Beylerbeyi Palace
Best for: Asian side experiences, local markets, ferries to Eminonu, Karakoy, Besiktas.
Which Airport Has Better Transfers?
From IST:
- Taxi or private transfer: 40–60 minutes to Taksim depending on traffic.
- Airport bus (Havaist): budget option with stops at many central districts.
- Metro line M11: Open since 2023. The M11 connects IST to Gayrettepe in 30–35 minutes. From there you can switch to the M2 metro line to reach Taksim or Sisli. You can also connect to Marmaray trains to cross to the Asian side. The M11 is the fastest public transport option from IST. It avoids traffic and works well for travelers who want quick access to the European side.
From SAW:
- Taxi or private transfer: 60–90 minutes to Taksim.
- Airport bus (Havabus): goes to Kadikoy and Taksim.
- Metro line M4: Open since 2022. The M4 connects SAW to Kadikoy in about 50 minutes. From Kadikoy you can use Marmaray to reach the European side or take ferries across the Bosphorus. This line is useful for travelers who want to explore the Asian side first.
If you want a comfortable arrival, you can also book an Istanbul Private Airport Transfer in advance. It is the easiest way to go directly to your hotel.
Istanbulkart and Transport Costs
Both airports are part of Istanbul’s public transport system. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card you can use on metros, buses, trams, ferries, and airport shuttles. It is sold in machines inside both terminals.
- Istanbulkart cost: about 70 TL for the card plus balance.
- Single metro, tram, or bus ride: 17–18 TL.
- M11 from IST to Gayrettepe: about 26 TL, 35 minutes.
- M4 from SAW to Kadikoy: about 21 TL, 50 minutes.
- Airport buses (Havaist or Havabus): 67–90 TL depending on the route.
Using Istanbulkart is much cheaper than buying single paper tickets. One card can also be used for several people by tapping multiple times.
Which Airport Is Cheaper?
SAW usually has cheaper flights because it serves low-cost airlines like Pegasus and AnadoluJet. It can be the right option if you are looking for a budget ticket. IST is more expensive for flights but more practical for travelers staying in the old town.
With both airports connected by metro lines, transport costs are now lower. IST is cheaper if you stay on the European side. SAW is cheaper if your hotel is in Kadikoy or Uskudar.
If you plan longer trips to other cities, IST is often the better hub. From IST you can book direct flights to Cappadocia, Antalya, or Izmir. From SAW you can find low-cost flights to Ephesus and Pamukkale.
Final Tips for Travelers
- Choose IST if you stay in the old city or Taksim. It is also better for long-haul flights and many domestic connections.
- Choose SAW if you want a cheaper ticket, stay in Kadikoy or Uskudar, or prefer low-cost airlines.
- Buy an Istanbulkart at the airport for cheaper and easier travel.
- Plan your transfers in advance to save time and avoid confusion.
Choosing the right airport will make your first hours in Istanbul smoother and more enjoyable. It will also set the tone for the rest of your trip.
Do you want to start your Istanbul journey without stress? Contact us for Book your airport transfer and guided city tour today and enjoy the city from the moment you land.