When traveling to Istanbul, one of the key decisions you’ll face is choosing which airport to fly into: Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Both airports serve the city of Istanbul, but they have different locations, facilities, and benefits that might suit different types of travelers. Whether you are visiting for a vacation or business, making the right choice can save you time and make your trip more convenient. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between the two airports to help you decide which one is best for your trip.
1. Location: European Side vs. Asian Side
Istanbul Airport (IST) is located on the European side of the city, approximately 35 kilometers northwest of central Istanbul. This airport is situated in the Arnavutköy district and is a key hub for international travelers. If your accommodation or activities are focused on the European side of Istanbul—such as the historical Sultanahmet area or modern Taksim Square—flying into Istanbul Airport may be more convenient.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), on the other hand, is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, about 40 kilometers southeast of the city center. Sabiha Gökçen is closer to neighborhoods like Kadıköy and Üsküdar, which are major hubs on the Asian side. If your trip involves exploring this side of Istanbul or if you are connecting to other cities in Turkey from the Asian region, Sabiha Gökçen could be your best option.
Verdict:
If you’re staying in central or European Istanbul, IST might be more convenient. If you’re on the Asian side, SAW is closer and can save you time.
2. Accessibility and Transportation
Both airports are well connected to Istanbul’s transportation network, but the options differ slightly.
Istanbul Airport (IST) offers several transportation options, including buses, taxis, private shuttles, and the new Istanbul Metro connection. The metro line from the airport to the city center is a big advantage for travelers looking for an affordable and reliable way to reach central Istanbul. Additionally, airport shuttle services, such as Havaist, offer a comfortable way to travel to popular districts. Taxis are also readily available but can be costly due to the distance.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is primarily connected to the city by buses and taxis, as the metro line extending to SAW is still under construction (though expected to open soon). Shuttle services like Havabus can transport passengers from SAW to Taksim or Kadıköy, making the journey relatively straightforward. However, depending on traffic, the trip to the European side can be long, taking up to 90 minutes or more.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for a metro connection or quicker access to European Istanbul, IST has better transportation options. For trips to the Asian side, SAW is more practical.
3. Airlines and Destinations
Both airports serve domestic and international flights, but the airlines and routes they offer differ.
Istanbul Airport (IST) is a major hub for Turkish Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the world. IST handles a vast number of long-haul and international flights, making it the airport of choice for most travelers flying from Europe, the Americas, or Asia. The airport also serves a wide range of domestic flights to various cities across Turkey.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is known as the hub for low-cost airlines such as Pegasus Airlines and AnadoluJet. SAW offers a good range of budget-friendly domestic and international flights, primarily to Europe and the Middle East. However, if you’re looking for a broad selection of long-haul international flights, your options will be more limited at Sabiha Gökçen compared to Istanbul Airport.
Verdict:
If you’re flying internationally or with Turkish Airlines, IST is the better choice. If you’re looking for budget-friendly flights, especially domestically, SAW offers good deals.
4. Facilities and Services
When it comes to airport facilities, Istanbul Airport (IST) is one of the largest and most modern airports in the world. Opened in 2019, the airport boasts state-of-the-art services, including a wide range of dining options, luxury shopping, and business lounges. The airport also has facilities for families, prayer rooms, and a variety of transportation options within the terminal itself. It’s built to handle large numbers of passengers, making it a smooth experience even during peak travel times.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), while smaller, still provides a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shopping. The airport is efficient but less grand compared to IST. For travelers who prioritize a quick and simple airport experience without needing luxury lounges or expansive shopping options, Sabiha Gökçen offers a more straightforward experience.
Verdict:
If you enjoy modern facilities, shopping, and dining, IST has more to offer. If you prefer a smaller, more efficient airport, SAW is a good choice.
5. Traffic and Crowds
Istanbul Airport (IST) is significantly larger and can handle over 90 million passengers annually. While this means you have access to a wider range of flights and services, it also means you may face longer security lines and passport control queues during peak times.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is smaller and often less crowded, making it a good option if you want to avoid large crowds or if you’re traveling during busy holiday seasons. The airport tends to have quicker security checks, which can save you time, especially if you’re on a domestic flight.
Verdict:
For a quieter and quicker airport experience, SAW is preferable. If you want more flight options and don’t mind the crowds, IST is a solid choice.
Conclusion: Which Airport Should You Choose?
Choosing between Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Istanbul Airport depends largely on your destination, budget, and preferences.
- Choose Istanbul Airport (IST) if:
- You’re flying internationally, especially on long-haul flights.
- You’re staying on the European side of Istanbul.
- You prefer modern facilities and a wide range of services.
- Choose Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) if:
- You’re looking for budget-friendly domestic or short international flights.
- You’re staying on the Asian side of Istanbul.
- You prefer a smaller, less crowded airport experience.
Both airports offer unique advantages, so consider your travel plans carefully to decide which one will make your journey to Istanbul as smooth as possible!
