How to Get from Istanbul Airport to Taksim (2024 Update)

There are 4 ways to get from Istanbul Airport to Taksim.

How to get from Istanbul Airport to Taksim Price (One Way)Duration
Havaist Airport Shuttle Bus3-4 USDApprox. 90 minutes
M11 Istanbul Airport Metro Line2 USDApprox. 36 minutes (+10 minutes waiting)
Taxi40 USD35-40 minutes
BEST OPTION: Private Transfer with Kiwi Taxi~40 USD35-40 minutes

1. Havaist Airport Shuttle

This shuttle is the most practical way to get to Taksim from the New Istanbul Airport. The shuttle service operating between the airport and Taksim is HVIST-16.

The average journey time is about 90 minutes and the shuttle can take a maximum of 46 passengers at once. The one-way ticket price is 90 TL and you can pay by credit or debit card inside the vehicle, or via QR Code online through the Havaist Mobile Application or website. No cash is accepted. The shuttle will drop you off at Taksim Abdülhak Hamit Street, which is about 600 meters walking distance from the Taksim Square

2. M11 Istanbul Airport Metro Line

The new M11 Metro Line enables passengers from Istanbul Airport (IST) to reach Taksim Metro Station through an intermediate transfer at Gayrettepe Station on Line M2. Located outside Exit 11, the metro operates from 6:00 a.m. to midnight. The journey to Taksim takes roughly 36 minutes, with a possible 10-minute waiting period. You need to get an Istanbul card and top it up. Tickets are around 2 USD one way with the transfer.

3. Taxi

Taking a taxi is another option. However, a taxi would cost around at least 40 USD as of today from the New Istanbul Airport to Taksim and it may cost more depending on your hotel’s location and waiting time due to possible traffic.

4. Private Shuttle

If you’re looking for the most comfortable and convenient way to travel, especially if you are traveling with kids and luggage, a private shuttle is recommended.

We wholeheartedly recommend Kiwi Taxi for the transfer as it is the most affordable and safest option. You’ll pay around the same with Taxi for extra benefits such as newer cars/vans, bigger luggage space, and a private driver. When you use Kiwi Taxi, we get a little commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our content!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There Uber in Istanbul Airport?

Uber is no longer in business in Istanbul.

Do You Tip Taxi Drivers in Istanbul?

There are taxi meters in all taxis to calculate your payment according to the distance traveled. You pay your bill according to the meter at the end of your trip. You do not have to tip taxi drivers–the locals don’t tip either.

How Long does it Take to get from Istanbul Airport to Taksim Square?

The distance is about 45 km, but travel times will vary depending on your method of transportation. If you rent a car or take a taxi, it will take around 40 minutes, but this also depends on the traffic. If you travel during peak hours, it might take longer.

By Havaist, the arrival time from Istanbul Airport to Taksim Square is around 90 minutes.