Why Choose an Istanbul Airport Taxi

Taking a taxi from Istanbul Airport ensures a comfortable and stylish journey. Istanbul taxis are categorized into three types: orange “C” taxis are small and economical (e.g., Fiat Aegea, Renault Clio), blue “D” taxis offer more comfort with mid-range cars (e.g., Opel Insignia), and black “E” taxis provide luxurious, premium service. Depending on your budget and preference, you can select the appropriate taxi type.

Istanbul airport taxis offer door-to-door service 24/7, delivering you directly to your destination, which is especially valuable in a city with chaotic traffic and a sprawling layout. However, be aware that traffic congestion can lead to longer travel times and higher fares.

Taxi Fares and Prices

Istanbul airport taxis use meters, so there are no fixed rates to the city center. The distance from Istanbul Airport to Taksim is about 40 km, and the fare is approximately 950 Turkish Liras. Although there are no separate night rates, heavy traffic can significantly affect the final price.

We recommend Private Transfer Services for reliable airport transfers based on user reviews from Google, Tripadvisor, and Trustpilot.

They offer:

  • Local English-speaking drivers
  • Flat, pre-paid fees
  • Flight monitoring for delays
  • 24/7 customer support and free cancellation

Taxi Fares to Popular Destinations

Here’s a snapshot of taxi fares from Istanbul Airport to popular city destinations:

  • City Center: 950₺, 40 min
  • Sultanahmet: 1050₺, 50 min
  • Levent: 850₺, 47 min
  • Sabiha Gokcen Airport: 1550₺, 65 min
  • Kadikoy: 23.84€ (23.80$) – 435₺, 70 min
  • Besiktas: 1300₺, 36 min
  • Tuzla: 1800₺, 53 min

Taxi Rank Location

To avoid scams and overcharges, use the official taxi ranks located outside the domestic and international Arrivals areas and in the Plaza section. Official ranks are also available on the Departures floor. If you’ve pre-booked a taxi, the pick-up will be at the -2 floor.

Airport Taxi to Hotel

If your hotel does not offer airport transfers, Istanbul airport taxis are an excellent option for a hassle-free journey. Taxis are available around the clock and provide door-to-door service, ensuring a relaxed ride after a long flight.

Taxi Tips

  • Many drivers don’t accept credit/debit cards, so carry cash.
  • Pay in Turkish Liras to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
  • Use a navigation app to ensure the driver takes the quickest route.
  • The fare is calculated per ride, not per person.
  • Verify that the taximeter is reset and turned on.
  • Have your hotel address written down, as many drivers don’t speak English.
  • Avoid taxis during peak hours (7:30 am – 9:00 am and 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm) to prevent heavy traffic delays.
  • Only use official taxi stands; avoid individuals offering taxi services.
  • Consider using apps like BiTaksi and iTaksi for advance bookings.

FAQs

  • How much is a taxi from Istanbul Airport to Taksim? The fare is approximately 950₺ and the trip takes about 40 minutes, though heavy traffic may increase the cost.
  • How much is a taxi from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet? Expect to pay around 1050₺ for a 50-minute ride. Traffic conditions can affect the final price and duration.
  • Do taxis take credit cards in Istanbul? Most of taxis  accept credit cards, but you need to ask before get in, not to have problems later on. It’s best to carry cash, preferably in Turkish Liras.