IST or SAW? Which Istanbul Airport Suits You?

Two Airports, One City

Istanbul is one of the few cities in the world with two major international airports. Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side both serve millions of passengers every year.

Choosing the right airport for your trip can save you time, money and stress. This guide will help you decide which one is best for your Istanbul visit.

Istanbul Airport (IST) — The Main Hub

IST is the larger and busier of the two airports, serving as the primary hub for Turkish Airlines. It is located in Arnavutköy on the European side, around 40 km from Taksim Square.

Most long-haul international flights land at IST. If your flight is with Turkish Airlines or a Star Alliance partner, you will most likely arrive here.

• ✓Location: European side (Arnavutköy)
• ✓Distance to Taksim: ~40 km / 50 min
• ✓Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Star Alliance, most long-haul
• ✓Transfer price to Taksim: from €45

Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) — The Asian Side Hub

SAW is located in Pendik on the Asian side, around 35 km from Kadıköy and 50 km from Taksim. It primarily serves low-cost carriers like Pegasus Airlines and some domestic flights.

If you are staying on the Asian side (Kadıköy, Üsküdar, Ataşehir), SAW is much more convenient than IST.

• ✓Location: Asian side (Pendik)
• ✓Distance to Kadıköy: ~35 km / 35 min
• ✓Airlines: Pegasus, some domestic and European flights
• ✓Transfer price to Kadıköy: from €45

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice depends primarily on where you are staying in Istanbul. If your hotel is on the European side, IST is usually more convenient. If you are staying on the Asian side, SAW will save you both time and money.

Also consider the airline — Turkish Airlines operates mainly from IST, while Pegasus operates from SAW. Check your ticket carefully before booking a transfer.