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Airport Transfer from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to New Istanbul Airport: Your Complete Guide
Overview
Traveling between Istanbul’s two major airports – Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) and New Istanbul Airport (IST) – requires careful planning due to the 75 km distance separating them. Whether you’re catching a connecting flight, starting a business trip, or exploring Türkiye’s cultural hub, a reliable airport transfer from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to New Istanbul Airport ensures a stress-free journey. The drive typically takes 75–90 minutes via the O-7 and O-3 highways, though traffic in this metropolis can extend travel times during peak hours.
Getting to Know Your Destination
New Istanbul Airport (IST) is Türkiye’s largest aviation hub and a gateway to global destinations. Opened in 2018, it combines cutting-edge design with capacity for 200 million annual passengers. Nearby attractions include:
- Lake Terkos: A serene freshwater reservoir 25 km north
- Belgrad Forest: Historic woodland trails 35 km southeast
- Arnavutköy: Charming coastal district with Ottoman-era architecture
For business travelers, IST’s proximity to Istanbul’s financial districts makes private airport transfer to New Istanbul Airport a popular choice for timely arrivals.
Arriving at Sabiha Gokcen Airport
As Istanbul’s secondary airport on the Asian side, SAW handles regional and low-cost flights. Upon landing:
- Follow multilingual signage to baggage claim
- Currency exchange desks and SIM card vendors are available post-customs
- Transportation desks are located near Exit Gate 10
Pro tip: Pre-book a Sabiha Gokcen Airport private transfer to avoid queues and ensure immediate departure.
Main Transfer Options
Public Transport (Budget-Friendly)
- Havabus Shuttles: Direct service to IST every 2 hours (₺150–₺200, ~2 hours)
- Metro + Bus: M4 metro to Kadıköy → Marmaray to Halkalı → IST1 bus (₺85 total, 2.5+ hours)
Taxi & Rideshare
- Yellow Taxis: Metered fares average ₺950–₺1,200
- Uber/BiTaksi: 15–20% cheaper than street taxis
Car Rentals
Major agencies like Avis and Europcar operate at SAW. Note:
- Requires international driver’s permit
- Toll roads cost ~₺50 extra
- Parking at IST runs ₺25–₺75/hour
Private Transfer Services (Recommended)
For comfort and reliability, luxury transfer from Sabiha Gokcen Airport providers like A2B offer:
- Fixed pricing from ₺1,100 (economy) to ₺2,400 (VIP vans)
- Flight-tracking drivers with 60-minute free wait time
- Child seats and wheelchair-accessible vehicles
Choosing the Best Method
Option | Cost (₺) | Time | Luggage Space | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Public Transport | 85–200 | 2–3 hrs | Limited | Complex |
Taxi | 950–1,200 | 75–120 mins | Standard | Moderate |
Rental Car | 900+ | 75+ mins | Flexible | High effort |
Private Transfer | 1,100–2,400 | 75–90 mins | Guaranteed | Optimal |
Top picks by traveler type:
- Families: Private transfers with child seats
- Business: Luxury sedan transfers with Wi-Fi
- Groups of 6+: VIP van services
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- Peak Traffic Times: Avoid 7:30–9:30 AM and 5–8 PM weekdays
- Scenic Route Option: Take the D020 coastal road for Marmara Sea views (adds 25 mins)
- Pre-Booking Advantage: Reserve your New Istanbul Airport taxi service 24+ hours early during high season (June–September)
Reaching Your Final Destination
Most hotels near IST offer free shuttles from the airport’s designated pickup zone (Gate 14). For cruise passengers:
- Istanbul Port (45 km south): Add ₺300–₺400 for direct transfers
- Use Istanbul Sea Buses for budget-friendly ferry connections
Where to Get More Info
- New Istanbul Airport Official Site
- Istanbul Public Transport App
- A2B Transfers for 24/7 booking support
FAQ
Q: How early should I book a Sabiha Gokcen to IST transfer? A: Reserve at least 48 hours in advance through platforms like A2B for guaranteed availability.
Q: Are child seats available for airport transfers? A: Reputable providers include free child/booster seats upon request during booking.
Q: What’s included in a luxury transfer package? A: Expect bottled water, Wi-Fi, English-speaking drivers, and premium vehicles (Mercedes V-Class common).
Q: Can I pay cash for taxi services? A: Yes, but private transfers like A2B offer secure online payments in 15+ currencies.
Q: Is there luggage storage at New Istanbul Airport? A: Yes, 24-hour storage at Arrival Floor (₺90–₺180/bag/day).
Safe travels and enjoy Istanbul’s unique blend of continents and cultures!
