The best Istanbul airport to fly into Istanbul is the new Istanbul Airport, situated on the European side of the city. It’s closer to major attractions and boasts modern facilities. Although the Sabiha Gokcen International Airport on the Asian side may offer cheaper fares, the amenities and location of Istanbul Airport make it the preferred choice for most travelers.
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The Istanbul Airport, the replacement for Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, is still under development and is expected to be the world’s largest upon completion in the near future.
The other airport is Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, which is on the Asian side of Istanbul. It is not as big as the Istanbul Airport, it is still one of the biggest in Turkey and is known as one of the best International airports in the world.
I have gathered useful information regarding the airport to fly into Istanbul. Additionally, I have included details to assist with trip arrangements and potentially encourage extending your stay in Istanbul to witness its beauty.
Which Istanbul airport is better?
Considering that most tourist attractions, historical sites, and shopping hubs are on the European side of Istanbul, it is preferable to book flights to Istanbul Airport, the newly replaced Ataturk Airport. The Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, although located farther on the Asian side, often offers cheaper airfare.
While both airports are highly functioning International airports, you would have to pick one. I would recommend the Istanbul Airport, as it is newer, bigger, and has a lot to see when you enter. It is beautifully made and is still under construction, as it is not fully completed.
Both airports offer comfortable options for public transport that make going to the city extremely easy. You can go to the Havatas (popularly known as Hava Bus) stop on the transportation floor that will take you to the city. You can reach Taksim, Sultanahmet, and Kadikoy to name a few instantly via Hava Bus.
If you have to compare which airport is the better airport, it comes down to the fact that airfare for Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) costs less than if you book a flight to Istanbul Airport. But Istanbul Airport is new, extravagant and huge, and extremely fun to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 2 Istanbul airports?
The main differences between Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) and Istanbul Airport (IST) lie in their location and size. Istanbul Airport, located on the European side of the city, is one of the world’s largest airports and serves as a major hub for international travel. Sabiha Gökçen Airport, located on the Asian side, is smaller and often used by budget and domestic airlines.
Which airport is closer to the Istanbul city center?
Istanbul Airport is closer to the city center of Istanbul. It’s approximately 40 kilometers from Sultanahmet district, the heart of Istanbul, while Sabiha Gökçen Airport is about 45 kilometers away.
What is the difference between Istanbul Airport and Ataturk Airport?
Istanbul Airport is the new main international airport serving Istanbul, which opened in 2018. Ataturk Airport was the main international airport serving Istanbul until its closure in 2019. Following its closure, Ataturk Airport’s IATA code (IST) was transferred to the new Istanbul Airport.
Which Istanbul Airport does Turkish Airlines use?
Turkish Airlines uses both airports, but its main hub and the majority of its operations, especially international flights, are based at Istanbul Airport (IST). Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is used primarily for domestic flights and some international routes.
Which airport is closest to Blue Mosque, Istanbul?
The closest airport to the Blue Mosque in Istanbul is the Istanbul Airport (IST). It’s located around 40 kilometers from the Sultanahmet district, where the Blue Mosque is situated.
How many international airports are there in Istanbul?
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Ataturk Airport, which was previously the city’s main international airport, ceased operations in 2019.