Istanbul Airport (IST) vs Sabiha Gökçen (SAW): Which One?
Updated: June 24, 2026
Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side. Which one you land at directly affects your travel time to the city and your transfer cost.
Location and distance
IST sits in the north-west of the city, roughly 40–50 km from tourist hubs such as Taksim and Sultanahmet. SAW is on the Asian side, so reaching the European side can take longer due to bridge/tunnel traffic.
If you are staying on the European side, IST is usually more convenient; if you are heading to Asian-side districts like Kadıköy or Ataşehir, SAW is the better choice.
Travel time and traffic
During rush hour, reaching the city from either airport can take 60–90 minutes. With a private transfer your driver tracks your flight and waits for delays; with public transport you add transfers and waiting time.
Transfer cost
Because the distance from SAW to the European side is usually longer, that route can be priced slightly higher. You see live, fixed prices when choosing your vehicle at booking — with no surprise fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a transfer between IST and SAW?+
Yes — we offer door-to-door private transfers for any points, including airport-to-airport.
Which airport is closer to the city centre?+
IST is generally closer to European-side centres; SAW is better for the Asian side.