Here you’ll find detailed information and answers to the most common question: “How to get from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to central Istanbul—specifically to Taksim—and back?”
We’ve listed all available transportation options, including our insider tips, to help you plan your trip between Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Taksim smoothly and efficiently.
Travel time from the airport to Taksim typically takes about 90 to 100 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
You can travel between Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Taksim using:
- IETT municipal buses
- Havabus airport shuttles
- Metro (via Kadıköy)
- Taxi
- Shared shuttles
- Private transfers
Among these, Havabus airport shuttles are considered one of the most practical options, while private and public transfers are the most comfortable and convenient methods of transport.
Transportation options from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Taksim
1. Private Car Transfer by IST Airports Transfer
If you’re traveling with family, children, or a large group with luggage, private airport transfer is highly recommended. It offers a fixed price, personalized pickup, and a safe, comfortable ride directly to your hotel.
We provide reliable, fixed-rate private transfer services with meet-and-greet at the airport and luggage assistance.
Our large fleet includes comfortable sedans, luxury vehicles, and passenger vans (for 6 to 19+ people), ensuring a smooth and efficient journey to and from Sabiha Gökçen—faster and more comfortable than taxis or shuttle buses.
Choose best car for your transfer service
This is the ideal method of transportation to and from Istanbul Airport for families or small groups ranging from 3 to 10 people. It saves you time, and you can conveniently store your luggage, as these vans can accommodate between 5 to 10 large suitcases depending on the type of van selected.
Enjoy a comfortable ride in modern private vehicles driven by professional chauffeurs. Avoid fluctuating taxi fares and long public transport delays—book your ride now and travel with confidence.
Mercedes Maybach
- The price for a transfer with a Mercedes Maybach from/to the new Sabiha Airport to Şişli starts at $60.
- The pickup service is available 24/7.
- The luxury vehicle is equipped with a TV.
- It can accommodate up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases.
Mercedes Vito
- The price for a transfer with a Mercedes Vito from/to the new Sabiha Airport to Şişli starts at $50.
- The pickup service is available 24/7.
- It can accommodate up to 7 people and 5 large suitcases.
Mercedes Sprinter
- The price for a ride with the Mercedes Sprinter from/to the new Sabiha Airport to Şişli starts at $70.
- The pickup service is available 24/7.
- It can accommodate up to 15 people and 10 large suitcases.
What Benefits Do You Get When Booking an Advance Transfer from Sabiha Gökçen Airport?
- Our Vehicles Are Spread Across Most Areas of Istanbul
If you’re looking to book an airport transfer and it’s getting late, don’t worry — we can usually provide a vehicle within 10 to 15 minutes in most cases. - Competitive Prices
Enjoy a luxurious travel experience at competitive rates. We offer top-quality service at low cost, with fixed pricing and flexible options to suit all your needs. - Fast and Easy Online Booking
Book your trip effortlessly online or via WhatsApp with instant confirmation, so you’re always ready to go. - 24/7 Service
Our transfer service is available 24/7, and bookings can be canceled free of charge.
Pros:
- High Speed: Provides a quick transfer to Şişli compared to other options.
- Comfort: Similar to a taxi, this service offers a comfortable, private ride and may suit families or small groups. Cons:
- Variable Cost: Costs may vary depending on the company and might be higher than options like the metro or bus.
Disadvantages:
- High Cost: The cost of private transfer is relatively high compared to the metro or bus.
This option is particularly suitable for those who prefer comfort and convenience over cost savings. Families with children, travelers with significant luggage, or those who simply wish to avoid the stress of navigating the public transportation system will find this option ideal.
2. Taking a Taxi from Sabiha Airport to Taksim
Taxis are usually lined up and readily available at Sabiha Gökçen Airport for arriving passengers.
It’s always a good idea to ask the driver about the estimated fare before starting your trip.
A standard taxi ride between the airport and central Istanbul—specifically Taksim—typically costs around $40, plus bridge toll fees if the route crosses to the European side.
The journey covers approximately 45 kilometers and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Pros:
- Availability: Taxis are available at any time of day, making them a great option for late-night or early-morning arrivals.
- Direct Service: Taxis provide a direct, door-to-door service to your hotel or desired location in Taksim, without the need for transfers or waiting for public transportation.
- Moderate Travel Time: Depending on traffic conditions, the journey typically takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. During rush hour, however, travel time may increase significantly.
Cons:
- Price Variability: Taxi fares in Istanbul are metered, but the cost can vary based on traffic and other factors. On average, expect to pay between 950 to 1150 Turkish Liras (TRY). The final price may be higher if there is heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.
- Space Limitations: A standard taxi can only accommodate up to four passengers. If you are traveling with a larger group or have significant luggage, you may need to hire multiple taxis or consider a larger vehicle option.
Although taxis provide a relatively fast and easy way to reach Taksim, it’s important to be aware of potential fare increases due to traffic congestion. Additionally, make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid being overcharged.
3. HAVABUS Bus Service from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Taksim
Havabus shuttles are one of the most practical and affordable ways to reach Taksim from Sabiha Gökçen Airport. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours, but this can vary depending on traffic conditions.
- One-way fare: 121 TL
- Operating hours (Airport to Taksim): 06:30 AM – 12:30 AM, every 30 minutes
- Operating hours (Taksim to Airport): 03:30 AM – 10:00 PM, every 30 minutes
- Departure point (from Taksim): Taksim Metro – Gezi Park exit (check location map)
Bus Stops (Airport to Taksim):
Sabiha Gökçen Airport → Kavacık → FSM Bridge (Second Bridge) → Levent 1 → Zincirlikuyu Metrobus Station → Dolapdere → Taksim
Bus Stops (Taksim to Airport):
Taksim → Beşiktaş → Bosphorus Bridge (First Bridge) → TEM Highway → Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Payment can be made in cash or via Istanbulkart, the city’s public transport card. Credit cards are not accepted.
Pros:
- Affordable: The cost of a HAVAIST bus ticket is around 80 TRY, making it the most economical option for individual travelers.
- Comfort: HAVAIST buses are modern and comfortable, offering air conditioning, luggage storage, and free Wi-Fi.
- Fixed Schedule: These buses run regularly, providing a reliable transportation option with specific departure times throughout the day.
Cons:
- Longer Travel Time: The journey can take between 1 hour and 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the time of day.
- Shared Service: Since HAVAIST is a shared shuttle service, you may have to wait for other passengers to board, and the bus may make multiple stops before reaching Taksim.
Despite the longer travel time, HAVAIST buses are an excellent option for those looking to save money while still enjoying a comfortable ride.
4. IETT Public Buses from Sabiha Airport to Taksim
Public buses operated by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IETT) run on fixed, regular routes departing from various points across the city. While these buses can get you to central locations, you’ll usually need to take a taxi or walk from the final stop to your exact destination—something that may be challenging if you’re traveling with children or carrying heavy luggage.
In contrast, private transfers offer door-to-door service, dropping you off directly at your hotel entrance in Taksim with full assistance and comfort.
Currently, IETT operates 10 main public bus routes connecting Sabiha Gökçen Airport to different parts of Istanbul. For the latest information and schedules, you can visit the official website of Istanbul’s public transportation system.
Here are the active routes:
- E3: 4.Levent – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- E9: Bostancı – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- E10: Kadıköy – Kurtköy – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- E11: Kadıköy – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- 16S: Sabiha Gökçen Airport – Uzunçayır Metrobus Station
- SG1: Kadıköy – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- SG2: Taksim – Sabiha Gökçen Airport (this is the most direct line to/from Taksim)
- 132H: Pendik High-Speed Train Station – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- 131C: Sultanbeyli, Ümraniye – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- 122H: 4.Levent – Yenişehir – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Pros:
- Lowest Cost: IETT buses are by far the most affordable option, with tickets costing around 50 to 100 TRY.
- Accessibility: Buses are available at the airport throughout the day and night, making them accessible even for late or early arrivals.
Cons:
- Multiple Transfers: Unlike the direct HAVAIST service, IETT buses may require you to make several transfers between different bus lines or modes of transportation to reach Taksim.
- Longer Travel Time: Due to the multiple transfers and additional stops, the journey can take 2 to 3 hours.
- Crowded Conditions: Public buses are often crowded, especially during peak hours, which may not be comfortable for travelers with a lot of luggage.
While the IETT bus system offers the cheapest way to travel from Sabiha Airport to Taksim, it may not be the most convenient option for tourists or those with luggage.
Distance and Travel Time from Sabiha Airport to Taksim
The approximate distance between Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Taksim is 56.7 kilometers via the O-7 highway. The travel time by car is approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes, though this can increase during rush hour or due to traffic jams. Alternate routes, such as taking the D100 highway, can take up to 1 hour and 33 minutes.
For those traveling to more distant areas such as Beylikdüzü, Esenyurt, or Başakşehir, the journey time may exceed 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken.
Other Considerations: Metro and Internet Access
There is no metro line directly connecting Sabiha Gökçen Airport to the European side of Istanbul, including Taksim. However, the nearest metro line is in Üsküdar, which can be reached by taxi. From there, you can take the Marmaray metro line to the European side, but this option is less convenient for travelers heading to Taksim.
Additionally, internet access at Sabiha Gökçen Airport is not free. Travelers can purchase access to Wi-Fi at one of the airport’s points of sale, or alternatively, buy a prepaid SIM card with data. However, if you book a private transfer service, such as the one offered by IST Airports Transfer, you won’t need to worry about connectivity at the airport since a representative will be waiting for you.
Conclusion
Transportation from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Taksim offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you prioritize convenience, speed, or affordability, you can choose between private transfers, taxis, or bus services. Prices vary based on the chosen method, with private transfers offering maximum comfort and convenience, while buses provide an economical alternative. Before your trip, it’s essential to consider your preferences and the time of day to select the best option for your journey to Taksim.