Istanbul New Airport Guide: Location, Facilities, Flights, and Transportation
heliya erfani
2025-04-10
Istanbul New Airport (IST) is one of the largest and most modern airports in the world and the main international gateway to Istanbul. With advanced terminals, extensive passenger services, lounges, shopping areas, and transportation options, the airport is designed to make travel more convenient. However, because of its size, knowing how to navigate Istanbul Airport before your trip can help you move from arrival to your final destination more easily.
When travelers search for Istanbul Airport, they are usually looking for practical information such as terminal facilities, airport transportation, transit services, lounges, food courts, duty-free shops, or the best way to reach Istanbul city center. Some passengers may also want to know which Istanbul airport their flight will land at before booking their ticket.
Common concerns at Istanbul Airport include transportation routes, travel time to the city, security procedures, airport service costs, baggage services, and finding comfortable rest areas during a layover. Understanding these details in advance can make your airport experience smoother and less stressful.
In this guide from the flysepehran Blog, we cover the essential information you need about Istanbul Airport, including facilities, transportation, passenger services, transit options, and useful travel tips for a better journey.
As Istanbul New Airport is one of the major international hubs, our airport terminals and transportation guide can help you understand airport access, passenger services, boarding steps, and post-landing transfers.
| Title | Details |
| Official Name | Istanbul New Airport |
| IATA Code | IST |
| ICAO Code | LTFM |
| Location | 35 kilometers northwest of Istanbul’s city center |
| Address | Tayakadın, Terminal Cad No:1, 34283 Arnavutköy/İstanbul, Turkey + map |
| Number of Terminals | 1 large passenger terminal with domestic and international sections |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 (Open 24 hours) |
| Main Facilities | Free Wi-Fi, lounges, duty-free shops, food court, airport hotel, parking, currency exchange, ATMs |
| Transportation to City | Taxi, Havaist buses, Metro (Line M11), car rental |
| Estimated Travel Time | 30 to 60 minutes (depending on the type of transportation and traffic) |
| Website | istairport.com |
| Main Flight Hub | Turkish Airlines |
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.
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.
From Taksim Square: about 45 to 60 minutes
From Sultanahmet: about 50 to 75 minutes
From Beşiktaş: about 40 to 55 minutes
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.
Gayrettepe
Kağıthane
Üniversite-Hasdal
Kemerburgaz
Göktürk
İhsaniye
İstanbul Havalimanı (Istanbul Airport)
Terminal Kargo (Cargo Terminali)
Taşoluk
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
International flights: Halls F, G, and D
Domestic flights: Hall B
Important note: Some gates are far apart. If you’re short on time, use the internal airport shuttles.
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.
Istanbul Airport has one of the largest duty-free areas in the world. You can shop from global brands. What Can You Find in Istanbul Airport 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)
Note: Prices are usually in Euros or Dollars, not Turkish Lira. Check exchange rates before shopping.
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.
Connect to the “IST-WiFi” network.
Choose “Get Free WiFi”
Enter your passport number or mobile number.
Enter the code provided to access free internet
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:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| One of the largest and most modern airports in the world with full amenities | Food and drink prices are much higher compared to the city |
| Excellent access to metro, taxis, and buses | Free Wi-Fi is limited to 1 hour |
| Wide variety of shops and international brands | Payments require cash in Lira, Euro, or Dollar or an international bank card. |
| Duty-free services without tax for international travelers | Some items in duty-free shops are more expensive than in the city |
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).
If you shop at stores marked “Tax-Free,” you can get your tax back.
Steps to claim tax refund:
Note: Purchases under 100 TRY are not eligible for tax refunds.
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.
