The new Istanbul Airport (IST) is as of 7 April 2019 the main international airport of Istanbul. The airport is located next to the Black Sea on the European side, about 40 km away from Taksim and 49 km from Sultanahmet. To reach your hotel, you have several options, each with their advantages and disadvantages. Here’s an overview to help you make the right choice based on your needs, preferences and budget. I have a similar article for people flying in at Sabiha Gökçen on the Asian side of Istanbul.
General Guidelines
- Get Turkish Liras – If you don’t have Turkish liras on you, use one of the many ATMs in the airport to withdraw some cash money. None of the transportation options mentioned below will accept credit cards, foreign currencies or big Turkish lira notes. Make sure you have some 5, 10, 20 or maximum 50 notes handy. Also, check out my Istanbul money strategy.
- Get an Istanbul Kart — If you plan to use public transportation, make sure to get an Istanbul Kart at the airport, and load sufficient funds on it. Using the card is not only cheaper, it’s also mandatory on most public transportation lines these days.
- Hotel Address – Make sure that you write down or print out the exact address of your hotel, together with its telephone number. Istanbul is a huge city with an uncountable amount of (small) hotels. Even locals don’t know them all by heart. So, if you need help, just hand over the piece of paper. It’s not unusual for a taxi driver to ask for directions at traffic lights or call the hotel. Don’t worry, he’ll get you there.
Taxi
A lot of tourists instinctively take a taxi to reach their hotel. But with the New Istanbul Airport being minimum 40 km away, you may want to give that some extra thought. A trip from the new Istanbul airport to Taksim will set you back for minimum 105 TL, and 135 to Sultanahmet. However, these are NOT fixed prices; if the taxi hits traffic, uses toll roads or takes a longer (but according to the taxi driver) quicker road, the fare may increase quickly. Even if you’re a party of four and the driver manages to fit all your luggage in the trunk, you’re still better off taking one of the options below.
In case you must take a taxi, just walk to the official taxi ranks located just outside the terminal. Never take a ride from the hustlers inside the airport terminal, and always ask to switch on the meter.
Havaist Airport Shuttle
Havaist is a new airport shuttle service operating several bus lines between the new Istanbul airport and spots all over Istanbul.
To reach Taksim, it’s really straightforward. You take the line IST 19: New Istanbul Airport – Beşiktaş – Taksim (which also stops at Zincirlikuyu and 4. Levent Metro) and you get off at the last stop, in front of the Point Hotel, close to Taksim square. From there you can either walk to your hotel, take a taxi or the metro.
To reach Sultanahmet, Beşiktaş, or Yenikapı, just take the line that has the respective districts as its (final) destination.
The fare for the bus lines is 18 TL per person, one way, luggage included. Trips take on average 100 minutes, more during rush hour. Luckily the buses have TV-movie-series services, WiFi, and USB charging units to make the trip a bit more enjoyable. You can find the timetables on the official Havaist website.
Private Shuttle
A private shuttle is a great alternative for both the taxi and the standard airport shuttle. They are more comfortable than taxis, have a fixed rate, hence offer a much more relaxed (and safe) drive to your hotel. Unlike the Havaist airport shuttle, private shuttles bring you to the hotel’s doorstep. They are also the best option when you travel with very young children. In case of the latter, ask for a child seat.
I recently booked a shuttle with KiwiTaxi to take me and two friends from the airport to their hotel. The driver was waiting for us in the arrival hall (1 hour waiting is included), holding a plate with my name on it. He was very kind and helped us with our luggage. The car was clean and comfortable, meeting basic expectations. We had quite a bit of traffic, but that didn’t bother us since we were paying a fixed price anyway. Nor did we have to deal with local currencies or getting an Istanbul Kart at the airport since we already paid in advance. He dropped us off nicely in front of the hotel lobby, and again was very helpful with our luggage. No need to say I gave him a nice tip.
I can really recommend KiwiTaxi. They have no less than 12 car classes, ranging from Micro for 3 passengers to Minibuses for 19 passengers. Just pick the most comfortable car for your needs. If you are traveling with children, don’t forget to order a child seat.
Public Transportation
Of course there is also regular public transportation, but there is a reason why I put this almost last in the list. Although a bit cheaper, it is rather adventurous. First of all, you may find yourself struggling with your luggage in crowded vehicles during rush hour. Secondly, the only line more or less suitable for tourists is the H2: New Istanbul Airport – Mecidiyeköy. From there you must either take a taxi or take the metro to reach your hotel, which may include taking some stairs in case elevators or escalators are out of order. Moreover, the operating hours are only between 6 am and midnight.
In the future, there will be a metro line. However, the M11 is still being constructed and planned to start operating at the end of 2019. It will start from Gayrettepe and integrate with the metrobus line, M2 Yenikapı-Hacıosman metro line (currently active) and M7 Kabataş-Mahmutbey line (still being constructed-first section, Mecidiyeköy-Mahmutbey, is projected to launch in the last quarter of 2019.
Hotel Airport Pick-Up
Most hotels will offer (upon request) an airport pick-up. These pick-ups are rarely free of charge, and often much more expensive than the options mentioned above. It’s up to you to calculate the difference and decide which option best suits your needs or preference.
Kavita says
Hello my hotel is booked in Sultanahmet area and i have a child.
How many hours it will take from new airport to reach hotel please?
Thanks
Erlend says
Hi Kavita,
It all depends on your day and time of arrival, and what means of transportation you plan to use. Provide me a bit more details and I’ll try to give you an estimate.
Cheers
farid ahmed says
Hello,
Where is the HavaIST shuttle bus stop at Sultanahmet. Is it close to Blue Mosque or Hagia Sofia?
Also, it looks like HavaIST only accepts ISTANBULKART. How much is the ISTANBULKART COST/
Thank you,
Farid
Erlend says
Hi Farid,
The Havaist stop of Sultanahmet is actually in front of the Hagia Sophia museum. Yes, you can only use the Istanbul Card.
Have a nice time.
Jay says
Hi.
How to get istanbulkart in New Istanbul Airport? Do u know what floor is it? Thankyou.
Erlend says
Hi Jay,
I’m afraid I don’t know. I assume there will be vending machines at the arrival floor or public transport area for sure.
Feel free to share here the exact location afterwards.
Have a nice stay.
Chandu says
I want to reach to mamaray kazicesme where my hotel is. Can you please tell me which public bus do I take and where do I take train to my last stop being my hotel in mamaray kazicesme
Thanks
Erlend says
Hi Chandu,
Take the Havaist shuttle IST-1Y to Yenikapı. In Yenikapı you take the Marmaray train to the Kazlıçeşme station.
Hope this helps.
DMM says
Where the Havaist Aiport Shuttle is located ( which exit door) ?
I’m not sure it’s easy to find it or not because this nee airport seems like it’s too big
Thank you in advance
Erlend says
Hi DMM,
It depends on where you exit. I’m sure if you ask any official working there he’ll be able to guide you into the right direction.
Have a nice stay.
EJ says
Hello
How much time should we allow from Sultanahmed to this airport around noon at a weekday?
Thanks
Erlend says
Hi,
That’s so hard to say, it all depends on traffic. Play safe and calculate between 1,5 and 2 hours. If you’re earlier, it’s not likely you’ll get bored at the new airport.
Have a nice flight.
Emmad Zahid says
Hi,
To go from New Istanbul Airport to SultanAhmet, you dont have to go to Yenikapı through Havaist. They directly take you to SultanAhmet. http://www.hava.ist/en/new-timetables/20
Please correct me if its wrong.
One more thing from where can I buy the Mobile SIM? and Do I need to take passport copy with me?
Erlend says
Hi Emmad,
You’re right, they added new lines/stops this weekend with the launch of the new Istanbul Airport.
I have no clue about the mobile sims for foreigners at the moment, but I assume you can buy them at the airport. You most certainly have to bring the original of your passport, and they will be prepaid.
K-R-1 says
Thank you for mentioning this, many websites are not updated including Google Maps ..
Simran says
Hi I’m travelling with 2 young kids in may
which mode will be best for me to get to sultanahmet hotel as we have luggage and how much will it cost
Erlend says
Hi Simran,
If I were you, I would take a private shuttle. For starters, safety first, you can ask for child seats while making reservations. Secondly, you’ll be dropped off in front of the hotel, not a luxury when traveling with two children on your own. I can recommend Kiwi Taxi as a reliable service. You can find the link in the article.
Have a nice stay.
Mandana says
Hii
I’ll reach istanbul tomorrow morning,and ,I should arrange a meeting in Istanbul would trade center!
Do you have an offer for transportation?
Tnx
Erlend says
Hi,
I think the easiest way is to use Havaist, the public shuttle service. They have a line to Bakırköy. Alternatively, you can take Kiwi Taxi, which may be quicker and it will drop you off in front of the door.
Have a nice meeting.
Jamie Balfour-Paul says
How long should I allow from Taksim to the new airport tomorrow arriving there by 1245?
Erlend says
Hi,
I would calculate 2 hours travel, just to be on the safe side. Also, you may want to be at the airport a bit more than 2 hours upfront for international flights. It’s all brand new, it may not be running smooth yet.
Good luck.
abed says
hello is the bus from the airport 24 hours ?
Erlend says
Yes, 24/24 but less rounds at night.
Anshu says
Hii
I have a flight to catch early morning 0700h on next Sunday from new ISTANBUL airport. Can you suggest if I can get any public transport in midnight say after 0200h AM from Taksim/Sultanahmet square to reach new airport latest by 0500h Early morning. Or I need to book any taxi in advance or I can get it easily from Taksim/sultanahmet
Plz suggest
Thx
Erlend says
Hi,
If you’re traveling single and you don’t mind walking with your luggage to the pick-up point at that time of night, I would suggest taking the Havaist shuttle since there won’t be any traffic. If you prefer to be picked up from the hotel, I would book a taxi with Kiwi Taxi. That way it’s prepaid, a fixed fee, no hassle/hustle, and secure. You can find links for both in the article above.
Have a nice trip.
Mark says
If I’m coming from Cevahir Shopping Mall going to the new airport, should I take the Havaist bus from Mecidiyeköy bus station? Where is the bus stop located exactly? I did a Google search and saw that there’s a bus stop in the middle of the big road. Is it the correct Havaist stop?
Erlend says
Hi Mark,
Cevahir is almost in between the Taksim and Mecediyeköy stops. The closest is Mecediyeköy, but traffic is a mess there. I would prefer going to the Taksim pick-up point for the ease of use.
Hope this helps.
Mark says
Thanks for the helpful tip! I checked Havaist website (http://www.hava.ist/en/find-your-stop) and I only see “ABDÜLHAK HAMİT CD.” station around Taksim area. Is this the bus stop you’re referring to?
Had Turkish Airlines not cancelled all Touristanbul trips this week, it would’ve been an easier transit for me. 🙁
Erlend says
Hi Mark,
That is indeed the street I’m referring too. But at a second glance, the Mecediyeköy is a lot closer. You may want to take that one instead.
Have a nice trip.
Narges says
Hi
I want to use public transportation based on your suggestion. How much does it cost from air port to mecidiyekoy?
Thanks
Erlend says
Hi,
To Mecediyeköy, it’s 16 TL, one way.
Have a nice trip.
Nadine says
Hi,
I am travelling to Istanbul in the net two weeks hopefully, and i was checking the the havaist bus option to go from the new airport to Taksim; however i did not find the timetable for Taksim route on the havaist website. Is the bus stop still available at that area??
Thank you
Erlend says
Hi Nadine,
Have you tried this link for the HavaIst timetables?
Nadine says
yes, i dont know if i am mistaken but taksim is not listed in this table.
Erlend says
It is listed in there, they’re in alphabetical order, so scroll down to the T of Taksim.
Alex says
HI Erlend,
Thanks for all this info. I am flying into turkey next week from Iraq. The Havaist timetable wont load on my computer. It may be an Iraq internet issue. Could you tell me how late the havaist bus runs in the evening to Taksim? My flight lands around 10pm. Also, what time does it leave from in front of the Point Hotel? I have a flight the next day at 13:20. I am looking for a shuttle around 9am.
Thanks!
Erlend says
Hi Alex,
There is a Havaist shuttle every 15 minutes to Taksim, except between 1 and 5 a.m., then there is only one every half hour, and only 1 trip between 3 and 4 a.m.
For the return, make sure to get their timetable when you’re on the bus or at the Taksim stop.
Have a nice trip.
Mahdieh says
Well you can also download an app called BiTaksi which is Turkish Uber. You could calculate the amount before and pay with your card so no nonsense of extra payment or anything.
Erlend says
Hi Mahdieh,
In Turkey Uber is operating in the grey zone, if not already completely illegal. For your own safety, I would strongly suggest to stay away from any Uber operations as regular taxi drivers have attacked Uber drivers and vehicles on many occasions.
Hope this helps.
Ameen says
Hi, I am looking to go to the Levent Metro stop (my hotel is near there) from the new Istanbul airport. From the looks of it, there is only a bus stop at the “4.Levent” station and I would have to take a metro or taxi from there. Is that correct? Also, which bus do I take from the Airport that would make a stop at “4.Levent”?
Thank you, your guide is very very helpful for tourists to Turkey!
Erlend says
Hi Ameen,
See my answer in the following reply.
Hope this helps.
Ameen says
Thank you Erlend. By any chance do you know which shuttle bus number that would be? Also, would that be faster than taking the shuttle that stops at “4.Levent”?
Erlend says
Hi Ameen,
I deleted my previous reply, since I wrote an error. So, from the airport take the shuttle in the direction of Beşiktaş. I assume it’s shuttle number IST-5, but double check to make sure before you get on. The second stop should be the 4. Levent stop. So, as you wrote, you should get off there and then either walk or take a taxi. Make sure you have the exact address of your hotel on a piece of paper to hand to the driver.
Have a nice trip.
Ameen says
Thank you!!
Munna says
Hi. We have just returned from Istanbul. We took the havaist shuttle from the lower ground floor of the airport. It cost 18tl each plus 6tl for the iatanbulkart. It took us 1 hour to get to sultanhamet ( we started our journey around 6.30pm). We were dropped right in the centre near hagia sophia and walked to our hotel about 8 mins away.
Our return flight was 5pm, so we took the 1pm coach back to the airport, again taking around 1 hour. It dropped us outside the departure terminal.
The coaches arrive and leave sultanhamet every 30mins, 24 hours a day. Very efficient, safe and comfortable journey. Just dragging the luggage to our hotel was a little trouble.
Erlend says
Hi Munna,
Exactly, the shuttles are great if you’re not pressed for time and if you don’t mind having no direct route to your hotel and drag your luggage around. Hence the price difference between the shuttle and (private) taxis. And if you plan to take a taxi, I definitely recommend the private one.
Glad to hear you had a nice experience.
Ray says
How much is it for children please on the havaist shuttle? Thank you
Erlend says
They don’t mention anything about children, but the rule of thumb in Istanbul is that unless they are toddlers and sit on your lap/don’t take up a seat, they have to pay the fare too.
Hope this helps.
Roman says
Hello, what bus did you take from the airport to sultanahmet?
Erlend says
Hi Roman,
Take the IST 1-S to Sultanahmet.
Good luck.
Jb yusuf says
Göztepe Mahallesi, Batısehir 1. Caddesi Batısehir Projesi G3 Blok 184/9 34214, 34, Turkey
Hii
Which bus stop is closest to address if you gonna take the bus from Istanbul new airport. Thanks
Erlend says
Hi,
You should take the IST-14 bus to Başakşehir.
Chan Shah says
Hi please advise the best option and costs for travel from IST airport to Ibis Hotel in Essenyurt at arrival time of 19.30. Thank you in advance for your advices.
Erlend says
Hi,
You can take Kiwi Taxi (see links in article) to your hotel directly, which is the most convenient but also more expensive option. The other option is to take the Havaist shuttle, IST-2 to Tüyap, get off at Beylikdüzü Marmara Park shopping center, and there take a taxi or walk down the hill to your hotel.
Have a nice stay.
Rosa says
Hi. Tomorrow 1st of May bus from taksim will be regular in the morning? Particular schedule around 6/7 am. If not which stop in the area will be regular?
Erlend says
I’m guessing it will be the same schedule.
Rita says
Hi,
I am arriving to the new Istanbul Airport during night (3am).
Do you know if Havaist bus runs during night?
Thank you very much,
Rita
Erlend says
Hi Rita,
Yes it does, but a bit less frequent (every half hour) during the night.
Hope this helps.
Sogol says
Hi Erland,
Many thanks for your useful information. could you plz advise me how can I go to Taksim Express Hotel from IST new airport. there are 2 of us and we dont have any kids nor heavy luggage.
can I use Havaist and is there any Station near that area?or should I use Buses?
I would appreciate your advises.
Sogol
Erlend says
Hi Sogol,
Since you’re traveling light and in no need to be dropped off at the hotel doorstep, just take the Havaist shuttle to Taksim. From the drop-off point, you will need to walk 500 meter on the main road in the direction of Osmanbey or Mecediyeköy.
Have a nice time.
Aleksandra says
Hello,
Can you please inform me how to get from new airport Istanbul to Laleli district?
Thank you in advance.
Alex
Erlend says
Hi Alex,
As you have read in the article, you basically have two options: the Havaist shuttle (and then some more traveling on foot, by metro or regular taxi to your hotel) or take a private prepaid Kiwi taxi to your hotel. For the latter you can find links in the article.
Hope this helps.
Hafiz Naveed Ul Hassan says
Hello Erlend,
I really Appreciated your All Above Comment’s as you helping People A lot..I read All Above Comments of All Peoples and gathered big Information…Actually I m coming with my Wife to Istanbul on 27th Jun from Pakistan..And I have Booked konak hotel near Old CITY Sultanahmet..where I have to go to Catch Havist Shuttle to Reach my Hotel..?? Also tell me plz should I buy Metro Card to travel within Istanbul to go Sightseeing places..?? I m waiting your kind reply sir..
Erlend says
Hi,
Are you sure the Konak hotel is in Sultanahmet? I locate the Konak Hotel Istanbul close to Taksim….
Milica Gavrilović says
Hi,
We took your advice on Kiwi taxi, and everything went really well.
It was three of us taking the trip, so we opted for economy class car. What waited for us was more resembling a mafia bulletproof vehicle, and I must admit we were a little hesitant whether to get in 🙂 I speak some Turkish, so the contact person assured me that it was our vehicle, and once we entered it, we were able to reach the vicinity of Taksim quite quickly, as the trip took us under half an hour (the estimated time was cca. 50 minutes). I guess that also had something to do with quite a capable driver 🙂
I had some problems with the Kiwi website when I tried to book our return transfer, so somebody contacted me via phone immediately, and we arranged everything quite quickly. They even offered 5 % off the price (we appreciate the gesture), and allowed us to pay in cash to the driver. That morning there was a bit of a traffic jam in the city, so the driver called to say he would be late, and they kept informing us on his progress. The same guy picked us up again, only with a white mafia ride this time, so we were able to laugh about it as we drove back to the airport, reaching it even faster than upon the arrival.
It was not my intention to write this long a comment, but I really felt the need to share my experience with others, and thank you for your tips, as they were valuable to us. This was my second time in your “muhteshem shehir”, and I don’t know when or how, but I cannot wait to come back again!
Thank you from Belgrade, Serbia.
Erlend says
Hi Milica,
Thanks a lot for the review. Glad I could help make your holiday and transfer a fine experience.
Take good care.
Dime says
I need to go from Istanbul airport to Kaynon,Levent.
Pls Advise me how to get there.
And how much time do we need to get there.
Thanks.
Erlend says
Hi Dime,
From the airport take the shuttle in the direction of Beşiktaş. I assume it’s shuttle number IST-5, but double check to make sure before you get on. The second stop should be the 4. Levent stop. Now you’re 1 km from Kanyon shopping center. You can take a taxi (min fee 10 TL), take the metro for 1 stop till Levent, or walk there.
Have a nice trip.
Ann-Christin Kain says
Hello!
I and my husband will stay at Blue House Hotel,Dalbast Sk. No:14 Sultanahmet Fatih. On Saturday the 25th of May we have a departure from new Istanbul airport at 14.40. When do we have to leave the Hotel? What is the distance between the Hotel and the airport?
Erlend says
Hi,
The distance from the hotel to the airport is almost 50 km. The departure time depends a bit on the mode of transport of course, which you didn’t mention. But as a rule of thumb, and to be safe, you should be at the airport 2,5 hours (it’s a big airport) prior to the departure time. Add to that the travel time. I would say about one hour.
Hope this helps.
Amina says
Hi, we are a family of 4 one adult 3 kids age 17,12,10.
Any recommendations for a 4 or 5 star hotel waking distance of taksim square please.
Erlend says
Hi Amina,
I always like staying at Witt Istanbul.
Hope it helps.
Emine says
How can we go me and my friend to Antik Ipek Sultanahmet Old City, Ciftegelinler Caddesi No:23 Kumkapi, 34098
On monday the 3th of Juni from new Istanbul airport at 22.40. Advise me how to get there.
And how much time do we need to get there.
Erlend says
Hi,
Just as it writes in the post. Unless you take a private shuttle which drops you off at the hotel’s doorstep, you will either have to walk from the Havaist dropoff point in Sultanahmet (take bus IST-1S) or take a taxi to the hotel. Duration for each mode of transport are written in the post.
Hope this helps.
MAK says
How long it take at the new airport to go through immigration and out of the airport, will the kiwiktaxi driver wait fr me if i get late ? What u suggest
Erlend says
This all depends on the amount of visitors at that point. If you don’t waste time shopping and stick to the immigration-find luggage process, then the driver should be waiting for you. These guys know how long it takes from landing to exit.
Have a nice flight.
Hiba says
Hey,
Im visiting İstanbul next week and im staying at the Fairmont quasar istanbul, is there a bus station near by?
Erlend says
Hi,
The closest stop for the Havaist shuttle is the Mecediyeköy stop.
Hope this helps.
SUSHIL RANEY says
how much would it cost by taxi at around 6:00 PM on a thursday from Taksim Square to my hotel – Vault Korokay House Hotel.
Erlend says
Hi,
It would cost 15 to 20 TL I guess. It all depends on traffic.
Hope this helps.
Jayanta Mukherjee says
Hello Sir,
We have a small issue. Me and my wife are reaching Istanbul on 26th May.
My wife was bitten by our relative’s pet dog( vaccinated) but still as of doctor’s advice she is taking Rabiepur vaccine.Her day0, day3, day 7 vaccines are over in India. Her day 14 vaccine is due date on 30th May, 2019.
We will be leaving Istanbul at 30th night. If she can get vaccinated anytime in day, it will be the best. Can you let us know if Rabiepur vaccine is available and / or where can the vaccination be done. We have the prescription of our aindian Doctor, which I will be carrying.
Will I be allowed to carry the vaccine ftom India.( another hazardous alternative).
Awaiting earnestly for a reply Sir.If I can get your mail id too I will be honoured. Would love to meet you in Istanbul as of cultural exchange if possible.
Regards
Jayanta
Erlend says
Hi Jayanta,
I’m not a doctor, but I wouldn’t carry the vaccine with me. For starters it may not be allowed on the plane, it may have to stay cold, and it could break. You can certainly find rabbies vaccinations in Istanbul, but you may not be able to find the exact same product name. Rabiepur may be sold under a different name, but with the same generic formula. So ask your doctor to provide you with the exact generic formula. Based on that, hospitals and pharmacists may have the same or a similar product.
Again, I’m not a doctor. To make sure you should contact hospitals. Well-known ones are the American hospital in Şişli and Florence Nightingale in Şişli / Gayrettepe.
Thanks for the invitation, but I’m traveling myself at that time.
Hope this helps and have a nice stay.
Jayanta Mukherjee says
Sir
Wil be reaching Istanbul IST at 6:20 PM on 26th May, 2019. Taking an hour for check out, can you please tell what will be the public conveince to reach our hotel, the address is provided below.
Just İnn Hotel
Hocapaşa Mah. Ebussuut Cad. Sefvati paşa sok
Sirkeci / ISTANBUL
Regards
Jayanta
Erlend says
Hi,
If you prefer taking the Havaist shuttle, then take the IST-1S to Sultanahmet, but get off at Eminönü. From there you can walk to Sirkeci. If you’re carrying a lot of luggage, you may consider taking a cab for a short ride. Expect to pay the minimum fee of 10 TL.
Hope this helps.
Tanveer says
Hi. Thank you so much for your tips. It is really helpful. If I were to take the shuttle bus, which bus and stop should I choose for the following address: Meşrutiyet Caddesi No7, Beyoğlu, Beyoglu, Istanbul, 34433, Turkey.
Also the shuttle bus only accepts payment using Istanbul Kart. Is there a minimum amount that tourists can buy and is it available at the airport?
Is there a tipping option for the shuttle bus staff?
Thanks.
Tanveer.
Erlend says
Hi Tanveer,
You should take the one to Taksim and get off at the Taksim stop. From there you need to cross Taksim square and walk on Istiklal Caddesi. You can’t miss, it’s a very crowded car free shopping street. About halfway you’ll see on your left the Galatasaray Lisesi. Once you see this high school, your street must be one of the streets on the right.
You can buy the Istanbul Kart at the airport, which you can use for the shuttle but also later during your trip for other public transport. Don’t load too much initially but enough for the shuttle rides of course, you can always load extra during the day. No need to tip the bus staff.
Have a nice stay.
Tanveer says
Thank you so much for your feedback
Mirko PL says
it is great I can find out how to reach Taxim Square . It was my big problem before , but now I can see it is easy way to reach Taxim Square from the New Airport Istanbul .
As I can see , i should take a shuttle Havaist IST 19 …
Erlend says
That is correct.
naeem says
hi.Could you kindly guide me that if I take Havaist IST 19 from Istanbul Airport to Taksim,where should I get down in order to go to Mukarnas Pera Hotel,katip mustafa celebi mahalessi,ipek sok no 6,taksim,beyoglu.Best Regards
Erlend says
Hi Naeem,
It’s impossible for me to give detailed directions to every single hotel in Istanbul. The shuttle drops you off at Point hotel in Istanbul. What you can do is just type in your hotel’s address in Google, it will return it, mostly with its place on the map. That should give you a good idea. Alternatively, you can write your hotel an email and ask for directions from the Havaist Taksim drop off point.
Have a nice stay.
Luba says
Hi, I will arrive in a New Istanbul airport at 3 a.m. and I need to get to Sabiha Gokcen international airport by 11-12 p.m. Since I’ll have time which line or number Havaist I must catch? And how much it will cast?
Thank you
Erlend says
Hi Luba,
You should take the Havaist IST-8 shuttle to Sabiha Gökçen. Expect to pay about 30 TL per person.
Have a nice trip.
Jelena says
Hi, is HAVAIST IST 8 going directly from the new airport to Sabiha?
Thanks!
Erlend says
Hi Jelena,
That is correct.
Have a nice trip.
Mikaeel says
Hi, I’ll be travelling to Istanbul with a 7 hour layover and need to meet someone at the Kadikoy ferry stop for an hour. I was thinking of taking the shuttle bus to Besiktas and on to Kadikoy on a ferry. Your suggestion would be appreciated as I am unfamiliar with the location and traffic of the new airport. Thank you.
Erlend says
Hi Mikaeel,
You could do what you suggested, but to make it easier on yourself you could just take the IST-7 to Kadıköy (last stop). Keep in mind though that during rush hour it might take you up to 2 hours (regardless of which solution you take), one way. Make sure not to miss your fight.
Good luck.
PATRICK RICE says
Hi Erlend, Very good website for tips on New Istanbul Airport transport into the City centre.
I am arriving on 27th.June 2019.from UK at 5.30pm approx. Iam staying at hotel in Sirkeci district. Do I take the Havaist IST-1S shuttle Bus and how much should I put on the Kart ?
Kindest Regards
Patrick
Erlend says
Hi Patrick,
Thanks a lot. Exactly, take the IST-1S to Sultanahmet but get off in Eminönü. From there you can walk or take a on e or two stop tram ride to Sirkeci. The Havaist shuttle will set you back for 18 TL per person, a tram ride 2,6 TL, so load your card accordingly.
Have a nice trip.
Mohamed Rashad says
Hi
and many thanks for providing advice.
I will be arriving next Sunday to Istanbul and I am staying at the DoubleTree hotel old town at Ordu street in Beyazit, I thought of taking a Havaist to a nearby stop and take a taxi to the hotel, I think there’s Havaist stop at Aksaray but I am not sure which line to take. otherwise there’s Yenikapi. What do recommend? thanks.
Erlend says
Hi Mohamed,
You’re right, there is an Aksaray stop at the Havaist IST1-Y shuttle in the direction of Yenikapı. Get off at the Aksaray stop, which is one kilometer from your hotel. I think that’s the closest.
Hope this helps.
Jan says
Hi, my husband and I will arrive IST at 5 am on 19 June 2019. We plan to take the Havaist Airport Shuttle to Sultanahmet area. I believe that is bus route number IST-1S?
Am I right that we can buy the bus ticket (TL18) on the bus itself with credit card if we do not want to buy the Istanbulkard at the vending machine with credit card and pay for the card TL6? We note that we can buy 1 Istanbulkard to use for 2 adults.
Our hotel is at Grand Yakuz, Piyerloti cad. No:51 Sultanahmet. Which bus stop should we get down from the Havaist bus? After that, can we get an Uber to our hotel as we heard scarry stories about taxi driver scams. Approximately how much would the taxi and Uber cost to go to our hotel doorstep?
Thank you in advance.
Erlend says
Hi Jan,
You got the bus number correct as well as the fee per person, but you can’t pay with a credit card. You need to have the Istanbul Kart. The card indeed can be bought at the airport. There is indeed a fee for the card, and you have to add extra for what you plan to spend. Yes you can buy one card and use it for more than one person.
Just sit out the ride to the final Sultanahmet stop. There is no such thing as Uber in Istanbul. You either walk to your hotel or take a taxi. If you decide to take a taxi, because of the short distance and many small one way streets, expect to pay at least 10 TL.
Have a nice stay.
Madeleine says
Hello Erlend,
Thank you for this great information.
I will be staying at a hotel one block from Galata Tower. Should I take the Havaist IST 19 shuttle all the way to Taksim square, then a taxi from there?
Erlend says
Hi Madeleine,
Yes, take the IST 19 to Taksim. Then, if you’re traveling light, you could take the M2 metro for one stop from Taksim to Tünel and walk down the hill to your Hotel. Alternatively and easier, but more expensive, is to grab a taxi and get dropped off at the hotel door. Expect the taxi to take a lot of small roads to get there, Galata is not car friendly.
Have a nice stay.
Madeleine says
Thank you so much!!
Naveed says
Hi , We are arriving on 8th June at 10 AM and our destination is AKGUN Hotel, Adnan Menderes Boulevard (Vatan Street) Topkapi-Fatih . What would you think Taxi cost from IST to above hotel. We are 2 adult, 2 kids and one infant with 4 big suit cases.
Thank you in advance please.
Erlend says
Hi Naveed,
At least 110 TL, assuming there is not much traffic, and the driver is honest and taking that shortest/cheapest road. If in doubt, why not use Kiwi Taxi (see link in article). Sure, they’re a bit more expensive but it’s a fixed price, paid up front, and no surprises.
Enjoy.
Yasser Aly says
Hello,
Could you please tell me how can I reach this place, Mukarans Pera Hotel, using the shuttle bus;
The address
Katip Mustafa Celebi Mahallesi, ipek Sk. No:6, 34433 Beyoglu / istanbul
Thanks.
Erlend says
Hi,
Take the havaist IST-19 to Taksim. From there you can walk to your hotel.
Have a nice stay.
Lour says
I have 9 hour and 40 minutes layover in Istanbul ( IST). I would like to go to Taksim and some touristy areas.
– Where can I find the bus that takes me to Taksim and how long does it usually take to get there? P.S: I will arrive around 4:15PM so probably during rush hour
– How often does it departures from the airport? And is it the same bus that takes me back to the airport from Taksim? What’s their operation hours?
– I would also like to buy a 4G/LTE so I can use directions during my stay, do you have more information about this?
Erlend says
Hi Lour,
Let’s assume you land at the predicted time, 14:50. It normally takes minimum 1 hour to get out of the airport. At 15:40 it will take at least 90 min to 2 hours to get to the city center, assuming the bus departs upon your arrival. We have 6:40 hours left.
I assume your layover is for an international flight, so you need to be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, meaning 4:40 hours left. At night, and since you don’t want to miss your flight, it’s wise to assume a 90 min shuttle to the airport, which makes you have 3 hours left to fill in. At night, the shuttle goes only once every hour, which leaves 2:15 hours of leisure time left.
Are those 2:15 hours worth the hassle? Maybe you’re better of in the luxury of a lounge?
Let me know.
Meddeb Rim says
Alemdar Caddesi Güzel Sanatlar Sokak No:13 Cagaloglu/Istanbul
What is the closest bus stop to this adress please ?
Erlend says
Hi,
The Sultanahmet stop is the closest Havaist stop.
Rukha Ali says
Hello. I will be arriving at 9 15am and my flight to US would be at 6 35 pm. Which means a stop over of around 9 hours. I wish to have a tour to Sultanahmet and travelling in a taxi would be preferable considering the short time.
What do you recommend? Is it better to go for the tour or stay at the airport?
Erlend says
Hi Rukha,
If you’re flying with Turkish Airlines, and connecting to another international flight with a layover of more than 6 hours, you can have a look at the Turkish Airlines Istanbul tour service.
If you have to do it all on your own, well, have a look at the comment of Lour, and my response to it.
Hope this helps.
waqaas ilyas says
Hello All, .I am travelling to Balat – Istanbul next month.
How do i get there by using the “Havaist Airport Shuttle”.
Address – “Ayvansaray mah mürselpaşa cad no 231 a balat, 34436 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey”
Thank you.
Erlend says
Hi,
I would take the IST-1S to Eminönü and then take a taxi from there.
Have a nice trip.