Here you can find detailed information about how to get from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to the city center and vice versa.” We have listed all transportation alternatives, including our insider tips, to help you easily plan your journey between Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Istanbul city center.
- Approximate distance: about 45–55 kilometers depending on the route you choose.
- Travel time by private transport or taxi: usually between 60 and 75 minutes without traffic, and may reach 100–120 minutes during peak hours.
- Public transport: the trip may take about an hour and a half to two hours depending on transfers and waiting times.
Choosing the appropriate means of transport ensures that you reach city center with maximum comfort and safety, whether you are traveling alone or with family.
- Havabus airport shuttle service is considered the most practical option, while public or private transfer services are the most comfortable and convenient ways to travel between the airport and central Istanbul.
- Public buses are the cheapest option but also the most inconvenient and difficult, with a one-way fare of approximately 45.70 Turkish lira or 65.40 Turkish lira, depending on the route.
- Taxi fares are around $45 from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Istanbul city center, covering a distance of about 45 km. (Additional toll fees apply if bridges are crossed.)
- There is a direct metro line to Sabiha Gökçen Airport from Kadıköy.
- Pendik suburban/high-speed train station on the Gebze–Halkalı line (European side) is about 14 km away. From Pendik Train Station, you can reach Sabiha Gökçen Airport by public buses or taxi.
To reach Sabiha Gökçen Airport from the city center, we recommend planning your time so that you arrive at the airport at least one hour before domestic flights and two hours before international flights departing from Istanbul New Airport.
Transfer From Sabiha Airport to city center all Options
1. Private Transfers from Sabiha Gokcen airport to city center with Mercedes Vito or Sprinter Vans
Private transfer to city center offers a fixed price and comfortable, safe transportation, including meet-and-greet service at the airport, transfer services, and assistance with luggage to your hotel from the airports or vice versa.
We provide private transfer services at low, fixed prices, including airport meet-and-greet and luggage assistance. Our large fleet of comfortable taxis, minibuses, luxury vehicles, and passenger vans for 6 to 16+ people can meet any needs, ensuring fast and safe trips to and from Sabiha Gökçen Airport. These services are faster and more comfortable than shuttle buses and regular taxis.
- Distance: approximately 45–55 km
- Travel time: about 75 minutes under normal conditions
- Cost: varies depending on the type of van and the number of passengers, but it remains reasonable considering the comfort and ease the service provides.
It is considered the optimal means of transport from Sabiha Airport to city center, whether for families or small groups ranging from 3 to 10 people, as it saves time. You can also easily load your luggage, as these vans can accommodate between 5 and 10 large suitcases depending on the type of van chosen.ce, as these vehicles can accommodate between 5 to 10 large suitcases depending on the model.
Choose best car for your transfer service
These vans also come with multiple pricing tiers. Luxury options are available, equipped with features like TV screens and Wi-Fi. You also have the flexibility to choose which routes you’d prefer to take.
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 Sabiha Airport to city center starts at $70.
- 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 Sabiha Airport to city center starts at $60.
- 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 Sabiha Airport to city center starts at $80.
- The pickup service is available 24/7.
- It can accommodate up to 15 people and 10 large suitcases.
What Are the Benefits of Booking an Advance Transfer from Sabiha Airport to city center ?
Sabiha Airport Transfer Company is your top and most reliable choice for Transfer from Sabiha Airport, offering the following advantages:
- Competitive Prices
Enjoy a luxurious travel experience at competitive rates. We offer high-quality service at the lowest possible cost, with fixed prices 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 ready to go at any time. - 24/7 Service
Our transfer service is available 24 hours a day, with the option to cancel your reservation free of charge. - Our Vehicles Are Distributed Across Most Areas of Istanbul
If you need to book a last-minute airport transfer and are looking for a car as quickly as possible, don’t worry—we can usually provide a vehicle within 10 to 15 minutes in most areas.
What to Expect During Your Transfer
Choosing our private transfer service means enjoying a seamless, stress-free transportation experience. Here’s what you can expect during your journey:
- Meet and Greet Service: Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport, Our representative will be waiting at our sign outside the airport. This ensures a smooth start to your journey without the stress of looking for transportation.
- Comfortable and Spacious Vehicles: Our vehicles are specifically chosen to provide maximum comfort. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or in a group, you’ll enjoy a clean, air-conditioned ride with plenty of room for all your luggage.
- Quick and Direct Route to Beşiktaş: The trip from the airport to Beşiktaş typically lasts between 45 to 60 minutes. Our experienced drivers know the quickest routes to avoid traffic, ensuring you reach your destination promptly.
- Child Seats Available: For those traveling with young children, we offer child seats upon request to ensure their safety throughout the journey.
- Wi-Fi on Board: Stay connected during your ride with our in-car Wi-Fi service, perfect for catching up on emails, social media, or simply browsing the internet.
- No Hidden Costs: Unlike taxis or ride-sharing services that may surprise you with additional charges due to traffic or waiting times, our prices are fixed and transparent.
- Direct and Private Service: Enjoy a private vehicle just for you or your group, with no stops along the way. This is a significant advantage over buses or metro services, where you have to follow predefined routes.
- Safe and Reliable: All our vehicles undergo regular maintenance checks, and our drivers are professionals with extensive experience, ensuring a safe and secure journey to your destination.
- Luxury Experience: Traveling in our high-end vehicles adds a touch of luxury to your journey, making your arrival in Istanbul an even more special experience.
2. Transfer From Sabiha Airport to city center By IETT Municipal Public Buses
Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality public buses operate on fixed, regular routes departing from many locations in the city center.
IETT airport buses or Havabus will take you to the city center, after which you will need to take a taxi or walk again, which can be more difficult if you are traveling with children and luggage. Private transfers, on the other hand, take you directly to the entrance of your hotel.
Municipal public buses currently operate 10 routes, detailed below. For more information and schedules, please visit the official Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality public bus website.
- Line E3: 4. Levent – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Line E9: Bostancı – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Line E10: Kadıköy – Kurtköy – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Line E11: Kadıköy – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Line 16S: Sabiha Gökçen Airport – Uzunçayır Metrobus
- Line SG1: Kadıköy – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Line SG2: Taksim – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Line 132H: Pendik High-Speed Train Station – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Line 131C: Sultanbeyli, Ümraniye – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Line 122H: 4. Levent – Yenişehir – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Pricing
Municipal public buses charge the fare of two tickets or a single ticket priced at 47.70 Turkish lira.
3. Using Taxi to Transfer from Sabiha Airport to city center
Taxis are available at Sabiha Airport around the clock, and you can take one directly from the arrivals area without needing to book in advance. A taxi is a practical and quick option compared to some public transport methods; however, it does not offer the same level of comfort and flexibility provided by private transfer services, especially if you are carrying a lot of luggage or traveling with family.
- Trip cost: usually between 1,600 and 2,000 Turkish Lira (approximately $40–50 USD), depending on traffic and the route taken.
- Travel time: usually ranges between 75 and 90 minutes without traffic and can reach up to 120 minutes during peak hours.
It is always recommended to ensure the official meter is running at the start of the trip and to keep some cash in Turkish Lira, as some drivers may refuse card payments.
A taxi is a good option for transport to and from Sabiha Airport for individuals or small groups of 1 to 3 people with light luggage. It can sometimes be cheaper than a private transfer, but not always, as the fare is calculated by the meter. This means the cost may vary depending on traffic and the driver’s approach—whether they take the shortest, fastest route or deliberately use longer routes if they notice you are unfamiliar with the way, aiming to increase the fare.
Advantages of Taxis:
- Speed: Taxis are the fastest option sometimes.
- Comfort & Privacy: Taxis offer a private and comfortable ride, especially suitable for those carrying luggage or seeking a quick and secure trip.
Disadvantages of Taxis:
- Unstable Pricing: There’s no fixed rate—fares depend on the meter, which may increase significantly during traffic.
- Potential for Overcharging: Some drivers might exploit tourists by taking longer routes to raise the fare.
- Variable Comfort: Not all taxis are clean or comfortable, which may disappoint travelers looking for a premium experience.
- Availability Issues: You may have to wait to find a taxi, especially during peak hours or when many passengers are arriving at once.
4. Transportation from Sabiha Gokcen airport to city center by Havabus Airport Buses
Havabus airport shuttle service operates regular transfers between Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Kadıköy, Yenisahra (Metro Station), and Taksim.
The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to Yenisahra, 1 hour to Kadıköy, and 1.5 hours to Taksim, but this may vary depending on traffic conditions.
You can pay in cash or using the ISTANBULKART (Istanbul public transport card). Credit cards are not accepted.
From Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Taksim
- The trip takes about 1.5 hours, but may vary depending on traffic.
- One-way ticket price: 121 Turkish lira
- Buses operate between 06:30 AM and 00:30 AM, every 30 minutes.
- Stops: Sabiha Gökçen Airport – Kavacık – FSM Bridge (Second Bridge) – Levent 1 – Zincirlikuyu Metrobus Station – Dolapdere – Taksim
From Taksim to Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Buses operate between 03:30 AM and 10:00 PM, every 30 minutes.
- Departure point: Exit from Taksim Metro at Gezi Park. See location map.
- Stops: Taksim – Beşiktaş – Bosphorus Bridge (First Bridge) – TEM access road – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Sabiha Gökçen Airport – Kadıköy Line
- The journey takes about 1 hour, but may vary depending on traffic.
- One-way ticket price: 91 Turkish lira
- Buses operate between 06:30 AM and 00:30 AM, every 30 minutes.
- Stops: Sabiha Gökçen Airport – TEM access road – Yenisahra – Kadıköy
From Kadıköy to Sabiha Gökçen Airport
- Buses operate between 04:15 AM and 09:15 PM, every 30 minutes.
- Departure point: Kadıköy Public Bus Station (Pier). See location map.
- Stops: Kadıköy – Yenisahra – TEM access road – Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Sabiha Gökçen Airport – Yenisahra Line
- This is the Sabiha Gökçen – Kadıköy Havabus line that passes through Yenisahra Metro Station, for passengers using the metro line to Yenisahra.
- Departures from Yenisahra run between 04:30 AM and 09:30 PM, every 30 minutes. See Yenisahra Metro Station location map.
- The journey takes about 45 minutes, but may vary depending on traffic.
- One-way ticket price: 91 Turkish lira
Bus Advantages:
- Low cost: The bus is the cheapest way to travel from Istanbul Airport to city center.
- Comfort and regular schedule: Buses are comfortable and operate 24/7 on regular schedules, ensuring service availability at any time.
Disadvantages of using the bus:
- No door-to-door service: The bus does not drop you off at your hotel or exact address; it stops at specific points, which may require you to take a taxi or walk an additional distance.
- Waiting time and multiple passengers: You may need to wait at the station until the bus departs, and the presence of many passengers can cause some inconvenience.
- Luggage limitations: Carrying a large number of suitcases is not allowed, especially if you are traveling alone.
- Lack of privacy: Unlike private cars, buses do not provide the level of privacy desired, particularly for families.
Comparing Transfer from Sabiha Gokcen airport to city center Options
Transportation options from Sabiha Airport to city center vary in terms of comfort, cost, and travel time:
Public transport (buses like Havaist): The cheapest option, but sometimes requires transfers between different modes of transport. The trip may take about 1 to 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it more suitable for travelers on a budget or those accustomed to using public transportation in Istanbul.
Private transfer: The best option for those who prefer privacy and comfort, as it includes direct pickup from the airport and delivery to your destination’s door. This option is the fastest and easiest, but also the most expensive compared to other options.
Taxi: A mid-range option that combines speed and comfort, with some variation depending on the driver. A taxi trip offers a travel time similar to a private transfer at a lower cost, but it may be less comfortable if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with family.
Travel Tips
- Book in Advance: It’s best to arrange your Transfer ahead of time to avoid delays or last-minute issues.
- Avoid Rush Hours: Try to travel outside peak traffic times for a smoother ride.
- Check Schedules: Always confirm bus times or taxi availability before heading out.
Considering the available options, each traveler can choose the method that best suits their needs for getting transfer from Sabiha Airport to city center in the most convenient way possible.
Fill out the booking form now so we can confirm your request and contact you directly.
To avoid any delays or hassle, it’s recommended to book your Sabiha Airport transfer online in advance. Many companies offer this service, allowing you to choose your vehicle type, set your destination, and pay upfront for a smooth, worry-free experience.