Planning to fly to Istanbul but unsure of which airline or route to choose? With so many options and two major airports, deciding how to get there can feel overwhelming. You might worry about finding the best deal or the most convenient airport for your trip. But don’t worry! This guide covers the top airlines, direct routes, and booking tips to help you navigate the options and secure the best flight for your Istanbul journey.
Key Takeaways:
- Turkish Airlines is the top carrier for international flights to Istanbul, with extensive direct routes from major global cities.
- Istanbul Airport (IST) is the main airport, located on the European side, offering better access to central attractions.
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), on the Asian side, is ideal for budget travelers and low-cost airlines.
- Use flight search tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner to find the best deals, and book 80-90 days in advance for optimal prices.
- Consider the M11 metro line and Havaist buses for easy transport from IST to the city center.
Which airport should I fly into for Istanbul?
For most travelers, Istanbul Airport (IST) is the best choice due to its modern facilities, extensive international flight options, and proximity to popular tourist areas like Sultanahmet and Taksim. Located on the European side, IST offers excellent transport links, including the M11 metro line and Havaist shuttle buses. Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), on the Asian side, is a better option for budget travelers or those using low-cost carriers.
Istanbul’s Airports
Istanbul is served by two main international airports, offering travelers options based on their needs, budget, and location in the city. Here’s what you need to know about each airport:
Istanbul Airport (IST)
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s newest and largest airport, located on the European side in Arnavutköy. Opened in 2018, it’s one of the largest airports in the world and serves as the main hub for Turkish Airlines.
It’s approximately 40 kilometers from the city center, making it the preferred choice for international travelers visiting Sultanahmet, Taksim, and other major attractions on the European side.
Key features:
- Extensive international flight options with direct routes from North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- State-of-the-art amenities, including numerous shopping and dining options, as well as modern lounges and services for business travelers.
- Transport connections: IST is well-connected by public transportation, including the M11 metro line and Havaist shuttle buses, providing easy access to the city center.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)
Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) primarily serves budget airlines like Pegasus Airlines. It’s a smaller airport compared to IST but is still a popular choice for travelers flying domestically or from European cities.
SAW is around 45 kilometers from the city center, which can make transfers to the European side longer, but it’s convenient for those staying in Kadıköy or other areas on the Asian side.
Key features:
- Budget-friendly flights, especially for European and domestic travelers.
- Public transportation options: Havabus shuttles and metro connect SAW to central areas like Taksim and Kadıköy, though it may take longer to reach popular tourist areas on the European side.
Both airports offer excellent services, but the choice between them depends on your airline, destination in Istanbul, and travel budget. Istanbul Airport (IST) is ideal for international travelers heading to the city’s European side, while Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is a great option for those flying on budget airlines or staying on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Best Airlines to Fly to Istanbul
When flying to Istanbul, Turkish Airlines is the leading carrier, known for its wide range of international and domestic routes. As Turkey’s flagship airline, Turkish Airlines operates flights from major global cities like New York, London, Paris, and Dubai.
It offers a premium flying experience with modern planes, complimentary meals, and in-flight entertainment.
Other notable airlines serving Istanbul include:
- Pegasus Airlines: A popular low-cost carrier, especially for flights within Europe and neighboring countries.
- Lufthansa: Offering connections through Germany, Lufthansa provides comfortable flights to Istanbul, often with convenient layovers in Frankfurt or Munich.
- Qatar Airways and Emirates: These airlines are great options for those flying from the Middle East or Asia, offering excellent service and frequent flights.
Tip: If you’re flying internationally, especially from long-haul destinations like the USA or Australia, look for deals with Turkish Airlines or consider connecting flights with major European carriers like Lufthansa.
Direct Flight Routes to Istanbul
Istanbul is a major travel hub with two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Most international flights, especially from long-haul destinations, land at Istanbul Airport, which is larger and better connected to the city’s center.
Popular direct routes to Istanbul include:
- New York to Istanbul: Turkish Airlines offers daily direct flights from JFK to Istanbul Airport, making it a convenient option for travelers from the U.S.
- London to Istanbul: Direct flights are available from Heathrow (Turkish Airlines, British Airways) and Gatwick (Pegasus Airlines).
- Paris to Istanbul: Frequent flights from Charles de Gaulle and Orly with Turkish Airlines and Air France.
For budget travelers, Pegasus Airlines offers direct routes from cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, and Vienna to Sabiha Gökçen Airport.
Choosing the Right Airport: IST vs. SAW
Choosing between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) depends on your flight options and where you plan to stay in the city.
- Istanbul Airport (IST): Located on the European side, about 40 kilometers from the city center, IST is the primary hub for Turkish Airlines and most international flights. It’s closer to popular tourist spots like Sultanahmet and Taksim and offers better public transport options, including Havaist buses and a direct metro line.
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): Situated on the Asian side, SAW is smaller and caters mostly to low-cost carriers like Pegasus Airlines. It’s ideal for travelers staying in the Asian part of Istanbul or those looking for cheaper flights, but it’s farther from the city center, requiring a longer transfer time.
Tip: If you’re visiting the European side of Istanbul and flying with Turkish Airlines, Istanbul Airport is the better choice. For budget travelers, Sabiha Gökçen offers more affordable flights, though it’s farther from central attractions.
Finding the Best Flights to Istanbul: Tips & Tools
Booking flights to Istanbul doesn’t have to be stressful if you use the right tools and timing strategies. Here are some tips to get the best deals:
- Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines. You can set price alerts to monitor changes and book when prices drop.
- If your travel dates are flexible, use fare calendars to find the cheapest days to fly. Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to offer lower fares than weekends.
- The best time to book flights to Istanbul is around 80-90 days before your departure date. This window often offers the best combination of availability and price.
Tip: Consider signing up for fare alerts on flight comparison websites. This way, you’ll be notified when prices drop, allowing you to book at the lowest rate.
Insider Tips for Booking Flights to Istanbul
To make the most of your flight to Istanbul, consider the following insider tips:
- Book Early for Peak Season: Istanbul is busiest during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), so booking flights early during these periods is essential to securing better fares.
- Avoid Peak Travel Times: Flights during July and August can be more expensive and crowded due to European summer vacations. If possible, opt for off-season travel to save money and avoid crowds.
- Connecting Flights: If direct flights are too expensive, consider booking a connecting flight through major hubs like Frankfurt, Doha, or Dubai. These layovers often offer more flexibility and lower fares.
Tip: Check airline policies for baggage fees and other charges when booking low-cost flights, as savings on tickets can sometimes be offset by additional costs.
FAQs
What is the best airport to fly into in Istanbul?
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the best choice for most travelers, especially those visiting the European side. It’s closer to major attractions like Sultanahmet and Taksim. Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), on the Asian side, is better suited for budget airlines and domestic travel.
How can I find the cheapest flights to Istanbul?
To find the cheapest flights to Istanbul, use flight comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak. You can set price alerts to track fare changes. Booking 80-90 days in advance typically secures the best deals, especially during off-peak seasons.
Which airlines offer direct flights to Istanbul?
Major airlines offering direct flights to Istanbul include Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Pegasus Airlines. These carriers operate flights from major cities like New York, London, Paris, and Dubai.
Where is Istanbul Airport located?
Istanbul Airport (IST) is located on the European side of the city, about 40 kilometers northwest of central Istanbul. It’s well-connected to the city center via the M11 metro line and Havaist buses.
How do I get from Istanbul Airport to the city center?
You can reach the city center from Istanbul Airport by taking the M11 metro line, which connects to key parts of the city. Alternatively, Havaist shuttle buses offer comfortable transfers to major areas like Taksim and Sultanahmet.
What is the difference between Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport?
Istanbul Airport (IST) is larger and more modern, primarily serving international flights and located on the European side. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is smaller, caters mainly to budget airlines, and is on the Asian side, further from the city center.
Why choose Sabiha Gökçen Airport over Istanbul Airport?
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is ideal for travelers flying with low-cost carriers or those staying on the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s generally more budget-friendly but farther from major tourist attractions compared to Istanbul Airport (IST).
How far is Sabiha Gökçen Airport from central Istanbul?
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is approximately 45 kilometers from the city center. Travel times to the European side can range from 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. Havabus shuttles offer direct services to key districts like Taksim and Kadıköy.
Will I need a visa to fly into Istanbul?
Most travelers will need a visa to enter Istanbul. Depending on your nationality, you can apply for an e-Visa online before your trip. Some nationalities may also be eligible for a visa on arrival, but it’s recommended to check Turkey’s visa requirements in advance.
How early should I book my flight to Istanbul?
To get the best fares, it’s recommended to book flights to Istanbul around 80-90 days in advance. This window often provides the best combination of availability and price, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons like spring and autumn.