There are several ways to get from the new Istanbul Airport (IST) to the city center. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest option, traveling with big luggage, or want a smooth ride with your family, you can choose the best way to match your needs.
In this guide, we’ll compare the four main transportation options available as of 2025.
Quick Comparison: Main Access Options
| Transport Method | Travel Time | Cost (Approx.) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro (M11 Line) | 35–60 min | Around 30 TL | Budget travelers, avoiding traffic |
| Havaist Airport Bus | 45–90 min | 275–300 TL | People with luggage, direct to tourist spots |
| Taxi | 40–70 min | 1,250–3,000 TL | Comfortable door-to-door travel |
| Private Shuttle/Transfer | 45–75 min | From €50 | Families or groups |
1. By Metro (M11 Line) – Best for Budget & Traffic-Free Travel
Take Exit 11 and walk straight; it’s less than 10 minutes to the airport metro station. The elevator is faster than the escalator if you’re in a hurry.
Opened in 2023, the M11 metro line connects Istanbul Airport directly to Kağıthane and Gayrettepe stations. From there, you can transfer to the M2 or M7 lines to reach Taksim or the Old City.
- Card Required: Istanbulkart (rechargeable transport card)
- Time: About 35–60 minutes depending on your destination
- Fare: Around 30 TL
- Tickets: Buy and recharge Istanbulkart at machines in the airport
Pros: No traffic, cheap, predictable travel time
Cons: Carrying big luggage can be tough. Transfers (like at Kağıthane) may require walking above ground. Moving inside each stations can take 15–20 minutes.
Note: The metro doesn’t run between around 1:30 AM and 5:30 AM.
2. Havaist Airport Bus – Best for Direct Routes to Tourist Areas
Havaist is the official airport bus service and a popular option for tourists. There are about 30 routes directly connecting the airport to major spots like Sultanahmet, Taksim, Beşiktaş, and Kadıköy.
- Large suitcases allowed
- Wi-Fi and USB ports onboard (though not always stable)
- Time: About 45–90 minutes, depending on traffic and route
- Fare: Around 275–300 TL
- Departure Point: Havaist bus terminal on floor -2 (Arrival level)
- Payment: Istanbulkart, credit card, or Havaist app (QR code valid for 72 hours)
Pros: Fixed fare, direct and comfortable
Cons: Can be delayed in heavy traffic; may get crowded or sold out during busy periods
▶ Check schedules: Havaist Official Website
Sample Routes (2025):
| Route Code | Destination | Time | Frequency | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HViST-12 | Fatih (Beyazıt Square) | ~90 min | Every 20–25 min | ~67 TL |
| HViST-13 | Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) | ~110 min | Every 45–90 min | ~85 TL |
| HViST-14 | Kadıköy (Asian Side) | ~120 min | Every 45 min | ~74 TL |
| HViST-16 | Taksim Square | ~90 min | Every 20–30 min | ~67 TL |
3. By Taxi – Comfortable but Pricey
You can easily get a taxi from the official taxi stand outside the arrivals area. There are three types:
- Yellow (standard)
- Turquoise (mid-size)
- Black (premium, often vans)
- Time: 40–70 minutes depending on traffic
- Fare: 1,250–3,000 TL + optional tip
Pros: Runs 24/7. Easy door-to-door travel, even with big luggage
Cons: Fare changes with traffic. High risk of overcharging if you don’t use the official taxi stand.
Note: Some taxis don’t accept credit cards—ask before you ride.
Loccy
Turquoise taxis cost about 1.25x more than yellow taxis.
Black taxis cost about 1.7x more.
4. Shuttle or Private Transfer – Best for Families or Groups
Pre-booked transfer services offer a smooth and private ride from the airport to your hotel. Many companies provide English support and large vehicles for groups.
- Time: 45–75 minutes
- Fare: From €50 (varies by car type and group size)
Pros: Comfortable, fixed-rate, no shared rides
Cons: Can be costly if traveling alone
Bonus: What About IETT City Buses?
IETT buses do connect the airport to several parts of Istanbul. But they’re mainly for locals and airport staff, so they may not be the best for tourists.
- Istanbulkart required (no cash accepted)
- No luggage space – not ideal for suitcases
- Can be crowded
- Complicated for first-time visitors
If you’re an experienced traveler with light luggage and want to save money, you might consider it.
▶ IETT Route Search: IETT Timetable Tool
Sample routes: H-1 Mahmutbey Metro / H-2 Şişli–Mecidiyeköy / H-3 Halkalı Marmaray / H-6 Yunus Emre / H-8 Hacıosman–Sarıyer / H-9 Cevizlibağ–Topkapı
Summary: Choose the Best Option for Your Travel Style
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
- Want the cheapest and fastest option? → Take the Metro (M11 Line)
- Going straight to tourist spots with luggage? → Use the Havaist Bus
- Looking for comfort and convenience? → Take a Taxi or book a Private Transfer
Choose the one that fits your arrival time, group size, and travel needs!