Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW): The Gateway to the Asian Side
Suggested Duration
Allow 3+ hours before international flights
Good to Know
Details below before you go
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The airport on the Asian side, quietly taking most of the budget-carrier traffic into Istanbul, with a Bosphorus bridge crossing between you and the old city.
Highlights
- The airport serious budget-fare travelers land in
- Direct HAVAIST shuttles to Taksim and Sultanahmet, no transfers needed
- A scenic bridge crossing over the Bosphorus on the way into the city
Included / Excluded
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Meet-and-greet fast-track service
- Flight tickets
- Airport lounge access unless otherwise upgraded
Good to Know
- Favored by European budget carriers over the larger IST airport
- On the Asian side, to reach the old city one must cross a Bosphorus bridge
- HAVAIST shuttle buses run direct routes to Taksim and Sultanahmet
Available languages: Turkish, English
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SAW closer to the old city than IST?
Not really, it's roughly the same travel time despite being on the opposite side of town, since it requires a Bosphorus bridge crossing.
How do I get from SAW to Sultanahmet?
A private transfer or taxi takes 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and bridge congestion. HAVAIST shuttle buses are the direct budget option.
Which airport should I fly from, IST or SAW?
Let your flight, not the airport, decide. Most travelers don't have a real choice. If you do, IST has more direct transit options to the historic center.
