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Where Is Istanbul Airport? How to Get to Istanbul Airport?

Ömer Faruk Kino Yazar Profil Resmi
Ömer Faruk Kino
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Kapak Görseli

Istanbul has been the meeting point of East and West throughout history. This ancient city has become a hub for one of the most important transportation networks in the modern world with the opening of the new Istanbul Airport in 2018. Located on the European side, this massive airport is considered one of the world's largest, with a capacity of over 100 million passengers per year. Not just a transportation hub, Istanbul Airport also stands out for its high-tech infrastructure, modern architecture, and wide range of services, making it the most popular entry point for both international and domestic travellers.

In this guide, you can find all the details you need to know about Istanbul Airport, from transportation options and parking fees to nearby attractions and services within the airport.

Where is Istanbul Airport?

Where is Istanbul Airport? Görseli

Istanbul Airport (IATA code: IST) is located on the European side of Istanbul, within the boundaries of the Arnavutköy district. The airport is approximately 40 kilometres from the city centre and has been built in a location very close to the Black Sea coast. It is located west of Terkos Lake, very close to the Göktürk and Kemerburgaz neighbourhoods.

In terms of road access, Istanbul Airport is easily accessible by both private vehicles and public transport, as it is directly connected to the TEM Motorway and the Northern Marmara Motorway.

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History and General Information about the Airport

History and General Information about the Airport Görseli

The foundation of Istanbul Airport was laid in 2015, and its first phase officially opened on 29 October 2018. Following the closure of Atatürk Airport to passenger flights, all major passenger operations were transferred here in 2019.

As of 2025, Istanbul Airport has three active runways, and construction of a fourth runway is ongoing. According to expansion plans, the airport is expected to have a total of six runways. Spanning an area of 76.5 million square metres, the airport has the capacity to accommodate more than 200 flight gates at the same time.

The annual passenger capacity is targeted at 120 million, but this figure is expected to reach 200 million when the airport begins operating at full capacity.

How to Get to Istanbul Airport?

Havaist Buses

One of the most common ways to get to Istanbul Airport is by Havaist buses, which are operated by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. Direct services are available from many different points in the city (such as Taksim, Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, Bakırköy, Yenikapı, Pendik, and Sultanahmet). Havaist buses stand out with their spacious luggage compartments, comfortable seats and free Wi-Fi service.

As of 2025, Havaist bus fares range from 90 to 130 TL. Fares may vary depending on distance and stops. Payment can be made with Istanbulkart.

Metro

With the opening of the Gayrettepe – Istanbul Airport Metro Line (M11) in 2023, it is now possible to reach the city by rail. Thanks to this line, it is possible to reach the airport from central areas such as Levent and Kağıthane in approximately 30 minutes.

When the next phases of the metro line are completed, direct connections will also be provided to other central points such as Zincirlikuyu and Beşiktaş.

Transportation by Private Vehicle

Transportation to Istanbul Airport is quite easy for those arriving by private vehicle. There are direct connections via the Northern Marmara Motorway. Transportation from the city centre to the airport takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

There are multi-storey car parks within the airport with a capacity of thousands of vehicles. Automatic payment systems have been implemented to facilitate the use of car parks.

Parking and Fee Information (2025)

Istanbul Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options. The parking lot, which can accommodate more than 40,000 vehicles, is very close to both domestic and international flights. As of 2025, parking fees are as follows:

  • 0-1 Hour: 140 TL

  • 1-3 Hours: 160 TL

  • 3-6 Hours: 240 TL

  • 12-24 Hours: 380 TL

  • Monthly Subscription: 4860 TL

Valet service, disabled parking spaces and online reservations are also available.

Services Within the Airport

Istanbul Airport offers its passengers not only flights but also a living space. It houses hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes and duty-free areas. Additionally:

  • Lounges (IGA Lounge, Turkish Airlines Lounge, etc.)

  • Mosque, baby care rooms

  • Pharmacy, ATM, currency exchange office

  • Airport hotel (YOTEL Istanbul - both domestic and international terminals)

  • Medical intervention centre and COVID testing centre

And many other modern services are available to meet your needs.

Places to Visit Near the Airport

The area surrounding Istanbul Airport is mostly forested and rural. However, there are some places worth visiting within a short distance:

  • Göktürk and Kemerburgaz Forests: Walking areas surrounded by nature, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

  • Terkos Lake: Ideal for those who want to fish or spend time by the lake.

  • Arnavutköy Coast: A quiet route for those who want to enjoy the sea air on the Black Sea coast.

  • Kemerburgaz City Forest: One of Istanbul's new favourite parks for family outings and weekend getaways.

Extra Information

  • Baggage Priority and Checks: There are several security and passport checks at the entrance; it is recommended to arrive at least 2-2.5 hours in advance.

  • Mobile App: With IGA's official mobile app, you can track your flight information, view shopping opportunities, and easily access gate information.

  • Disability-Friendly Design: The airport is designed to be accessible for people with disabilities; wheelchair service and assistance are provided.

Source: kemerburgazkentormani.ist

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