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There are 5 ways to get from Sabiha Gokcen to Istanbul Airport (IST) by metro, shuttle, car, taxi, or private VIP transfer.
How To Go from Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) To Istanbul Airport by Havaist
To reach Istanbul Airport directly and with minimal transfers, the Havaist bus is a great choice.
You can reach Istanbul Airport directly via the HVL-13 line. The journey can take about 120 minutes on average. Although it is a direct service without transfers, travelers should be aware that the duration may be longer depending on traffic conditions.
Bus schedules and route numbers on Havaist can change occasionally. Before your trip, it is always a good idea to check their official website or app to double-check the current timetable and route details.
Advantages
Havaist shuttle is the most reliable public transportation option.
Especially, if you are going downtown at midnight or early in the morning, when the metro isn’t operating.
Disadvantages
Travel time can be longer due to multiple stops along the route.
You may have to walk with your luggage.
For more details, visit the official Havaist website.
How To Go from Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) To Istanbul Airport by VIP Transfer
It's the most comfortable and fastest option, especially for large families or those with heavy luggage. The VIP transfer service picks you up directly at the airport exit and takes you straight to Istanbul Airport.
Advantages
It’s a costly option, but ideal for groups and families.
At the same time, the amount you will pay is fixed and known before your plane lands.
It will be a more comfortable choice if you have heavy baggage.
The stress factor will be minimized because you won’t have to search for a parking space.
Disadvantages
Not ideal for solo travelers on a low budget.
Reservations are required; it may be difficult during peak seasons.
For an easy and reliable booking experience, you can choose Zenrota.
For more details. visit the Zenrota VIP Transfer website.
How To Go from Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) To Istanbul Airport by Public Transfer
If you want to avoid heavy traffic, public transfer is the most logical choice.
From inside the Sabiha Gokcen Airport terminal, enter the metro station and take the M4 (Sabiha Gokcen- Kadıköy) metro line. Get off at Ünalan Station. From Ünalan station, follow the indoor corridor to Uzunçayır Metrobüs station.
Board the metrobus and get off at Zincirlikuyu. From there, transfer to the M11 line for a quick, direct ride to Istanbul Airport.
Also, you can purchase an Istanbulkart while using the metro line, and for about 165 ₺, you can get a physical card. But you'll still need to load additional money to it separately to use for your journeys.
If you don't want to buy an Istanbulkart, you can simply tap your contactless credit or debit card directly at the gates to pay for your ride. Alternatively, you can also buy single or limited-use tickets from ticket machines inside the station or online.
Visit the Istanbul Metro website for full details.
Advantages
It’s a budget-friendly option and helps you avoid getting stuck in traffic.
Disadvantages
It can be tiring for families with heavy or multiple suitcases, as well as for elderly passengers.
Also, there are fewer trains running late at night.
The metro can get quite crowded, especially during rush hour.
How to Go from Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) To Istanbul Airport by Car
If you want the freedom to explore Istanbul and its surroundings, you might consider renting a car. Various car rental companies offer a wide range of cars at Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
Advantages
Gives you the flexibility to travel according to your own schedule.
Economical for short-term travel.
You are the driver; you don’t leave the comfort zone.
You can rent a car according to your needs. (Luggage, number of travelers)
Disadvantages
Heavy traffic in the city can slow down your journey.
Parking spaces can be limited.
You will need to pay extra for fuel; most companies do not cover fuel costs and also a deposit is required.
Also, for better prices and a guaranteed car, it's best to book in advance.
For more details, visit the Zenrota Car Rental website.
How to Go from Sabiha Gokcen Airport To Istanbul Airport by Taxi
One of the classic transportation options you can choose is a taxi. Taxis are at your service 24/7 just outside each terminal exit.
Always check that the taximeter is running and confirm the taxi color, as fares can differ based on the type of taxi you choose.
Advantages
It provides quick transportation for emergencies.
It’s a quick solution for short distances.
Disadvantages
Taxi fares can vary greatly depending on the color of the taxi, traffic and the route taken.
The price is not always fixed.
Highway tolls are added to the taximeter as an extra charge for the passenger.
Since the price is often almost the same as a regular taxi, choosing a VIP transfer can be the smarter option. You can easily book yours through Zenrota.
