🛫 Istanbul Airport (IST) – Complete Guide
UncategorizedUpdated: • Reading time: 5–7 min
🛫 Istanbul Airport (IST) – Complete Guide 2025
Istanbul Airport (IST) is Turkey’s largest airport and a major global hub. Located in Arnavutköy, about 40 km from Taksim, it connects seamlessly by the new M11 Metro, Havaist shuttles, metered taxis, and ride-hailing. Below, find transport, services, Wi-Fi, timings, and bold internal links to plan the rest of your trip: Istanbul Metro Guide, Tram T1 for Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus Cruise Guide.
📍 Location
North-west Istanbul (Arnavutköy). Around 40 km to Taksim by road.
- Google Maps: Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Official address: Arnavutköy, Istanbul, Türkiye
⭐ Review
A modern mega-hub with striking architecture and world-class facilities; main base of Turkish Airlines. Overall: 4.5/5 ModernCompleteTourist-Friendly
🌐 Official Website
🚗 How to Get There
🚇 Metro (M11)
Fast connection between IST ⇄ Gayrettepe; link to the wider metro and Marmaray.
🚌 Havaist Buses
Frequent shuttles to Taksim, Sultanahmet, Beşiktaş and more; luggage-friendly.
🚘 Private Transfers
Convenient door-to-door option for families, late arrivals, or lots of luggage.
🛎️ Facilities & Services
Free Services
- ~1h Free Wi-Fi
- Spacious waiting areas & family lounges
- Prayer rooms & kids’ play zones
Paid Services
- VIP Lounges & Meet-and-Assist
- Fast Track
- YOTEL Istanbul Airport Hotel
- Duty Free & international restaurants
💳 How to Buy Extra Services
- Via the IST Official Website
- Service counters inside the terminal
- Official mobile apps (operators vary by service)
ℹ️ Quick Info
- IATA: IST
- Distance to Taksim: ~40–60 min by car (traffic-dependent)
- Arrive: 3h before international / 2h domestic
- Special assistance available on request
🔗 Book & CTA
Some external buttons may be affiliate and help support us at no extra cost to you.
🚘 Private Transfer (IST) 🚌 Havaist Timetables 🏨 Hotels near IST (Booking)❓ Istanbul Airport (IST) – FAQ
How do I get from IST to the city center?
Use Metro M11 to connect with the wider network, Havaist shuttles to Taksim/Sultanahmet, official taxis, ride-hailing (Uber/BiTaksi), or a private transfer.
Is there free Wi-Fi at IST?
Yes—about one hour of complimentary Wi-Fi, with paid options for longer access.
How early should I arrive?
Plan for ~3 hours before international flights and ~2 hours for domestic flights.
Does the M11 metro reach central Istanbul?
M11 links IST to Gayrettepe, where you can transfer to other metro lines or continue by taxi/bus to Taksim and beyond.
