Istanbul Airport (IST) is one of the newest and largest airports in the world. It was inaugurated in 2019 and is now considered the main gateway to the city. This airport is full of modern facilities and services that make your journey more convenient. But most importantly, you need to know how to navigate correctly from the moment you step off the plane until you reach your destination in the city.

When you search for Istanbul Airport on the internet, you’re probably in one of the following situations: Maybe you’re planning a trip to Istanbul and looking for information about terminals, facilities, or how to get from the airport to the city center. Maybe you have a transit flight and want to know what facilities are available during your layover. Or perhaps you’re considering booking a flight to Istanbul and want to know which Istanbul airport your flight will land at.

What worries do passengers have at this airport? Many travelers are worried about transportation routes, the time it takes to pass through security, service costs, or even finding the best rest area in the airport. Some are also looking for information about amenities like food courts, lounges, and duty-free shops.

In this article, we’ll go through all the information you need for a smooth and stress-free experience at Istanbul Airport.

Essential Information about Istanbul Airport (IST)

Step-by-step guide to Istanbul Airport:

• Introduction to Istanbul Airport (IST)

• Essential information about Istanbul Airport

• How to get to Istanbul Airport

• Facilities and services at Istanbul Airport

• Important tips for travelers at Istanbul Airport

• Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul Airport.

Introduction to Istanbul Airport | Where is Istanbul Airport located?

The new Istanbul Airport (IST) is located in the European part of the city, in the Arnavutköy district. Unlike the old Ataturk Airport which was within the city, this airport is a bit farther from central Istanbul. With an annual capacity of 90 million passengers, it offers full amenities, stunning architecture, and a wide range of luxury shops, welcoming travelers from all around the world. If you’re looking for transportation options to this airport, choices like the metro (Line M11), airport buses (Havaist), taxis, and rental cars are available.

📍 Exact location of Istanbul Airport

The new Istanbul Airport (IST) is situated in Arnavutköy, on the European side of Istanbul, near the shores of the Black Sea. It’s approximately 40 kilometers from Taksim Square and 50 kilometers from the Sultanahmet area.

Source: istairport

Location and Access to Istanbul Airport (IST)

The exact location of Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Airport (IST) is located in the Arnavutköy district, on the European side of the city, near the Black Sea coast. It is about 40 kilometers from Taksim Square and 50 kilometers from Sultanahmet.

Estimated travel time to the airport from different areas:

• From Taksim Square: about 45 to 60 minutes (depending on traffic)

• From Sultanahmet: about 50 to 75 minutes

• From Beşiktaş: about 40 to 55 minutes

🚇 Public transport options to the airport

Transportation at Istanbul Airport / How to Get to Istanbul Airport

To get from the airport to the city center or vice versa, there are several options such as the metro, bus, and taxi.

1. Istanbul Airport Metro (M11)

The M11 metro line from Gayrettepe to Istanbul Airport began operations between Kağıthane and the airport on January 22, 2023. On January 29, 2024, Gayrettepe Station was added to the line. Finally, on March 19, 2024, Taşoluk and Arnavutköy stations were added, making a total of 10 stations on this line.

By integrating with the Mahmutbey metro line, the M11 now provides direct, safe, fast, and affordable access to Istanbul Airport across the entire metro network.

Stations on Istanbul Airport Metro Line (M11):

1. Gayrettepe

2. Kağıthane

3. Üniversite-Hasdal

4. Kemerburgaz

5. Göktürk

6. İhsaniye

7. İstanbul Havalimanı (Istanbul Airport)

8. Terminal Kargo (Cargo Terminali)

9. Taşoluk

10. Arnavutköy

You can find entry, exit, and transfer points from the signs at each station or on the official Istanbul Metro website. Each metro station also includes baby care rooms and restrooms for travelers.

Recently, Istanbul Metro launched the special airport line M11, which connects Istanbul Airport to Gayrettepe Station.

 Key stops on the route:

• İstanbul Havalimanı (Istanbul Airport)

• Kayaşehir (Kayaşehir Metro Station)

• Gayrettepe Metro Station – from here you can transfer to the M2 line and go to Taksim.

 Metro fare:

You can pay using an Istanbulkart, which is accepted across all public transport, or you can buy a ticket at the metro station.

2. Havaist Airport Buses

Havaist buses are one of the most comfortable and affordable options for traveling between Istanbul Airport and the city center. These buses operate on different routes and offer special services for travelers, including people with disabilities. They are modern, equipped with Wi-Fi, and have dedicated luggage space.

Pick-up and drop-off points for Havaist buses:

🔹 Pick-up: All Havaist buses depart from Floor -2 (Transportation Level) of Istanbul Airport.
🔹 Drop-off: Entry gates 1, 2, 3, and 4 at Istanbul Airport are the designated drop-off points.

🚌 Key Havaist routes:

• Line IST-16 → Taksim Square

• Line IST-12 → Beşiktaş and Yenikapı

• Line IST-7 → Sultanahmet and Aksaray

• Line IST-5 → Kadıköy (on the Asian side)

Ticket cost:

You can use the Istanbulkart or buy a ticket at the metro station.

 3. Airport Taxis

Official taxi stands are located at the exit of the passenger terminal. There are three types of taxis operating at Istanbul Airport:

• Yellow taxi (standard): Cheapest option, standard cars like Renault Clio or Fiat Egea

• Blue taxi (luxury): Slightly more expensive, cars like Toyota Corolla

• Black taxi (VIP): Most expensive, luxury like Mercedes-Benz Vito

Estimated travel time from the airport:

• To Taksim: 40–60 minutes

• To Sultanahmet: 50–75 minutes

• To Kadıköy: 70–90 minutes

 Always use official airport taxis to avoid scams. The taxi meter should be on, and you can check the fare using taxi apps like BiTaksi or Uber.

Facilities and Services at Istanbul Airport (IST)

The new Istanbul Airport is one of the most modern airports in the world, offering a variety of services to travelers. Below is everything you need to know about terminals, services, restaurants, shops, banking, and the internet.

Terminals and Amenities

How Many Terminals are There?

There is only one large passenger terminal used for both domestic and international flights. However, plans are in place for a second terminal and a dedicated domestic terminal in the future.

Arrival and Departure Gates

• International flights: Halls F, G, and D

• Domestic flights: Hall B

• The transit area is fully equipped and does not require leaving the hall.

Important note: Some gates are far apart. If you’re short on time, use the internal airport shuttles.

Restaurants and Cafes at Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Airport is full of cafes, fast food, and international restaurants—from famous brands like Starbucks, Burger King, McDonald’s, KFC, and Simit Sarayı to traditional Turkish restaurants.

Shops at Istanbul Airport (Duty-Free and Brands)

Istanbul Airport has one of the largest duty-free areas in the world. You can shop from global brands.

What can you find in the shops?

• Perfumes and colognes (Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Tom Ford)

• Cosmetics and skincare (MAC, Lancôme, Estée Lauder)

• Clothing, bags, and luxury shoes (Louis Vuitton, Prada, Burberry)

• Chocolate and Turkish souvenirs (Baklava, Turkish delight, Turkish coffee)

• Cigarettes and alcohol (for travelers to specific countries)

Is duty-free shopping worth it?

• Buying perfumes and cosmetics is cost-effective due to no taxes.
• Luxury clothing may be cheaper in the city.
• You need your passport and boarding pass to shop.

Note: Prices are usually in Euros or Dollars, not Turkish Lira. Check exchange rates before shopping.

Banking Services at Istanbul Airport

• Currency Exchange & ATMs

Several currency exchange offices are available, exchanging USD, Euro, Iranian Rial, and other currencies.
ATMs from banks like Ziraat Bank، VakıfBank، Garanti, and İş Bankası are available for withdrawals in Lira, Dollars, or Euros.

Important note: Exchange rates at the airport are usually higher than in the city. Try to exchange money in the city.

Due to sanctions, Iranian bank cards cannot currently be used.

Internet and Wi-Fi at Istanbul Airport

How to connect to Wi-Fi at Istanbul Airport?

Free Wi-Fi is available, but you must verify your identity.

Steps to connect:

1. Connect to the “IST-WiFi” network.

2. Choose “Get Free WiFi”

3. Enter your passport number or mobile number.

4. Enter the code provided to access free internet

Important points about airport internet:

• Wi-Fi is free for one hour; after that, charges apply.
• Unlimited internet costs about 400 TRY for 24 hours.
• If you don’t have a Turkish SIM card, you can buy one from Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom kiosks at the airport.

Useful Amenities Upon Arrival or Departure:

• Free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, Turkish SIM cards

• Good, affordable restaurants

• Lounges and hotels near the airport

Overall, the New Istanbul Airport Offers the Following Services and Facilities:

Key Tips for Passengers at the New Istanbul Airport

How early should you arrive at Istanbul Airport?

• For international flights, arrive at least 3 to 4 hours early.

• Security checks and procedures: The airport is large, and checks may take time, especially during busy hours.

• Distance from the city: If you’re coming from Taksim or Sultanahmet, plan for a 45–60 minute taxi ride, or about 1 hour by metro (consider traffic, too).

How to Get a Tax Refund on Purchases?

If you shop at stores marked “Tax-Free,” you can get your tax back.

Steps to claim tax refund:

• Collect.  Receipts: Ask the seller to issue a TAX-FREE invoice at purchase.
• Submit documents: Before checking in your luggage, go to the Tax Refund counter and show your receipts and passport.
• Customs stamp: Some items (like jewelry) must be inspected by customs officers.
• Get your money: After approval, you can receive the tax refund in cash (EUR or TRY) or to an international card.

Note: Purchases under 100 TRY are not eligible for tax refunds.

Summary:

The new Istanbul Airport is one of the largest and most modern airports in the world, offering advanced facilities, diverse transport options, and extensive passenger services. If it’s your first time traveling to Istanbul, knowing the airport’s location, access options, baggage rules, and how to claim tax refunds will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

For a comfortable trip, it’s best to book your Istanbul flight ticket in advance and pay attention to details such as the time of arrival at the airport, baggage allowance, and available facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions: