Navigating from Istanbul Airport (IST) to the city center can be quick and convenient, especially if you opt for a taxi. Whether you’re headed to popular destinations like Sultanahmet, Taksim, or Kadikoy, knowing the estimated fares in advance will help you avoid surprises and ensure a hassle-free trip. In this guide, we’ll break down the taxi fares from Istanbul Airport to city center, key areas across the city, helping you plan your budget and choose the best route.
Istanbul Airport Taxis
Taxis from Istanbul Airport (IST) are a popular and convenient way to reach your destination in the city. Taxis are available 24/7, and you can choose between three types of taxis: yellow, turquoise, and black VIP taxis, each offering different levels of comfort and pricing.
- Yellow Taxis: The most common and affordable option, with a starting fare of 30 TL and 20 TL per kilometer.
- Turquoise Taxis: Mid-range comfort with a starting fare of 34.50 TL and 23 TL per kilometer.
- Black VIP Taxis: The luxury option, starting at 51 TL and 34 TL per kilometer.
Taxis are metered, ensuring transparency and fairness. The ride from Istanbul Airport to the city center, such as Sultanahmet or Taksim, generally takes around 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Key Tips:
- Airport Taxi Stands: Taxis are easily available at the designated stands located right outside the airport terminals.
- Payment Methods: Most taxis accept cash in Turkish Lira, and some may accept credit cards, but it’s always best to confirm before starting the ride.
- Bridge/Tunnel Tolls: If you are traveling to the Asian side of Istanbul, additional toll fees for crossing the Bosphorus Bridge or using tunnels will apply, which are added to the total fare.
For a smooth and hassle-free experience, travelers can also use taxi apps like iTaksi or BiTaksi for real-time fare estimates, payment options, and tracking their journey.
Taxi Fares from New Istanbul Airport
Below are the estimated taxi fares from Istanbul Airport to various popular destinations in the city center:
- To Sultanahmet (48.9 km): 1008 TL
- To Galata/Karakoy (43 km): 890 TL
- To Eminonu/Sirkeci (45.2 km): 934 TL
- To Fener/Balat (46.8 km): 966 TL
- To Taksim (40 km): 830 TL
- To Nisantasi (43.8 km): 906 TL
- To Sisli (40 km): 830 TL
- To Maslak (40.5 km): 840 TL
- To Levent (42 km): 870 TL
- To Mecidiyekoy (37 km): 770 TL
- To Besiktas (39 km): 810 TL
- To Ortakoy (43.7 km): 904 TL
- To Sariyer (43 km): 890 TL
- To Bakirkoy (46 km): 950 TL
- To Kadikoy (56 km): 1150 TL (plus toll fee)
- To Uskudar (46 km): 950 TL (plus toll fee)
- To Sabiha Gokcen Airport (76 km): 1550 TL (plus toll fee)
Note: Please note that these are the minimum prices with no traffic. You should expect to pay at least 10-15% more.
Bridge Toll and Avrasya (Eurasia) Tunnel Fee
There are three bridges on the Bosphorus. Locals mostly call them 1st (15 Temmuz Sehitler), 2nd (Fatih Sultan Mehmet) and 3rd (Yavuz Sultan Selim) bridge.
You will need to cross 1st or 2nd bridge to get around Istanbul. 3rd bridge so far away so that yo should never use it. Bridge toll is both ways.
And there is an underwater tunnel (Avrasia) for vehicles from Yenikapi to Haydarpasa. Very fast and convenient way to pass the Bosphorus. But it is kinda expensive.
Bridge Toll for taxis & automobiles
- 1st and 2nd bridge – 33 TL
- 3rd bridge – 70 TL
Avrasya tunnel fee for taxis & automobiles
- 156 TL (Day 05:00 – 23:59) – 78 TL (Night 00:00 – 04:59) (double check on avrasyatuneli.com)
Alternatives to Istanbul Airport Taxis
While taxis are a convenient option to get to and from Istanbul Airport (IST), there are several alternatives that offer both affordability and ease of travel.
1. Istanbul Airport Shuttle Buses (Havaist)
One of the most popular alternatives to taxis is the Havaist shuttle bus service, which connects Istanbul Airport to various key points in the city, including Taksim, Sultanahmet, Kadikoy, and Besiktas. The buses are modern, comfortable, and equipped with free Wi-Fi, offering an affordable ride compared to taxis.
- Cost: Typically ranges from 50 TL to 100 TL depending on your destination.
- Frequency: Every 30 to 45 minutes.
- Travel Time: Journey duration varies between 60-90 minutes depending on traffic.
2. Istanbul Airport Metro
The M11 Metro Line is a newly introduced service connecting Istanbul Airport to Gayrettepe on the European side. This option is a great choice for travelers wanting to avoid road traffic, offering a direct and quick connection to the city’s metro network.
- Cost: Around 20-30 TL.
- Travel Time: Approximately 35-50 minutes to reach key transfer stations like Gayrettepe.
- Operating Hours: 06:00 AM to 12:00 AM, with trains every 15-20 minutes.
3. Private Transfers
For those who want a more luxurious and pre-arranged option, private transfer services can be booked online or through hotel concierges. These services offer fixed prices, VIP vehicles, and meet-and-greet services at the airport.
- Cost: Prices typically range from 1,000 TL to 1,500 TL depending on the vehicle type and destination.
- Advantages: Pre-arranged, no need to worry about traffic or finding a taxi.
4. Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber & BiTaksi)
Both Uber and BiTaksi are available in Istanbul, but they operate with licensed taxis. You can book a ride through these apps and ensure a safer and more trackable journey.
- Cost: Similar to regular taxi fares, with the added benefit of app-based tracking and payment.
5. Car Rentals
For travelers looking for independence, renting a car from Istanbul Airport is another alternative. Several rental agencies operate at the airport, offering competitive rates for daily and weekly rentals. This option is ideal for those planning to explore the outskirts of Istanbul or other regions of Turkey.
- Cost: Daily rentals start around 600 TL, but additional charges for fuel, tolls, and parking apply.
Each alternative offers unique benefits, so depending on your budget, travel preferences, and time constraints, these options may serve as better choices than traditional taxis.