The new Istanbul International Airport offers various transportation options to connect you to Istanbul’s city center. Whether you prefer a taxi, bus, metro, private transfer, or car rental, you’ll find an option that suits your needs and budget. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the best mode of transportation from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet.

Taking a taxi from Istanbul Airport ensures a comfortable transfer, although the journey may not be quick due to heavy traffic on Istanbul streets. An Istanbul airport taxi will take you directly to your destination in Sultanahmet’s historic area for an average fare of 950₺, depending on the travel time, as taxis do not offer fixed prices. The 50-km ride typically lasts about 50 minutes, with official taxi ranks located just outside every airport level.

• Yellow taxis are the most affordable.
• Blue taxis are 15% more expensive and offer more comfort.
• Black taxis are the most luxurious and are 100% more expensive.

To avoid scams and overcharges, always use official taxis and consider booking with a reputable companies, which offers:

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

Two bus companies operate routes from Istanbul International Airport: Havaist buses and IETT public buses. For direct service to Sultanahmet, Havaist shuttles are the best option, specifically the HVIST-12 line, which drops you off at Aksaray metro bus stop in about 90 minutes, depending on traffic. From there, Sultanahmet Square is just a 1.5km or a 20-minute walk away.

• Havaist buses run 24/7 with routes every 20-25 minutes.
• The fare is 204₺ (Turkish Liras)
• The bus station is located at the -2 airport level.
• Tickets can be purchased using an Istanbulkart, credit card via the Havaist App, or cash at designated points.

Istanbul Airport to Istanbul City Center by Metro

The Istanbul airport Metro Line M11 provides a fast and affordable option. From the airport, you’ll need to transfer from Line M11 to Line M2 at Gayrettepe Station, and then to Vezneciler Station, which is a 15-20 minute walk from Sultanahmet Square. The journey takes around 40 minutes, plus a 10-minute waiting time for transfers.

• Purchase a rechargeable Istanbulkart at the airport metro station for 130₺
• The cost for the subway ticket is 17.70₺ , with a discounted second fare of 12.67₺  if transferred within 2 hours.
• Total cost: 30.33₺ Liras, plus the Istanbulkart cost.
• Note: Istanbul Metro operates from 06:00 am to midnight.

Car Rental from Istanbul Airport to Istanbul City Center

Renting a car gives you freedom and flexibility but comes with the challenge of navigating Istanbul’s busy streets and traffic jams. Booking in advance ensures the best deal. The 50-km drive from the airport to Sultanahmet takes about 50 minutes via highway O-7.

Private transfers are an excellent option for those who want to travel from Istanbul Airport to Istanbul city center in comfort and style. Combining convenience and privacy, an Istanbul airport private transfer service will pick you up from your location and drop you off at your destination, saving you time and effort. Moreover, you will travel in style without worrying about being surrounded by strangers on public transportation or waiting for a bus or train to arrive.

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The distance between the new Istanbul Airport and the historic center of the city (Sultanahmet) is approximately 50km. Therefore, the journey by car should last around 50 minutes if the traffic conditions are normal.

Istanbul airport taxis are metered and therefore, there isn’t a set price for the transfer from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet. However, you can expect to be charged approximately 950 Turkish Liras if the traffic levels aren’t too high. The taxi fee is the same no matter the time of day.

By exploring these various transfer options, you can choose the most suitable method for your journey from Istanbul International Airport to the city center, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start to your visit to this vibrant city.