Sabiha Gökçen International Airport serves Istanbul, Turkey as a major gateway connecting Europe and Asia. Opened in 2008 on the Asian side of the city, it handles millions of passengers each year with modern facilities including terminals, shops, restaurants and transport links to central Istanbul via ferry or metro. The airport operates around the clock, supporting both domestic flights within Turkey and international routes across continents. Its strategic location near the Bosphorus Strait makes it a practical choice for travelers crossing between Europe and Asia by air.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Turkish Lira (TRY) £1 ≈ TRY 66.29 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payment is common in urban areas, but smaller vendors in rural regions may only accept cash.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary but not mandatory in Turkey. In restaurants, leaving 5-10% is typical. Tips for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and guides are also appreciated. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not widely accepted, though it is allowed in some urban areas and tourist zones. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in indoor public areas and transport, with designated outdoor smoking zones available. |
| Republic Day (October) |
Expect parades and national celebrations. |
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| Eid al-Fitr (Varies) |
Closures and family gatherings are common. |
| Eid al-Adha (Varies) |
Similar closures and festive activities across the country. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | BiTaksi, Uber |
| Other: | Turkey offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Bargaining is common in markets, and modest dress is appreciated in religious sites. |
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is Turkey’s secondary airport in Istanbul, located on the Asian side of the city. Though smaller than Istanbul Airport, it has grown rapidly with more flight options especially for budget and regional carriers. The terminals are modern and easy to navigate but can get crowded at peak times.
Many travelers like the airport for its shorter lines and less hectic atmosphere compared to Turkey’s main international hub. However, the airport lacks the extensive variety of lounges and luxury shops available elsewhere and some basic amenities are still catching up. The journey between terminals or to the city can require patience, especially during traffic-heavy hours.
While staff are generally friendly, some visitors note occasional communication challenges and slower service during busy periods. Food choices are decent though not abundant, with a focus on Turkish flavors. Transportation options to Istanbul or nearby areas continue to improve, making the airport more accessible than ever.
For those flying budget airlines or wanting quicker access to Istanbul’s Asian districts, Sabiha Gökçen is an efficient, if less glamorous, choice that embodies practical Turkish hospitality.
A premium lounge offering comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities. Access is available to business class passengers, members, or via pay-per-use options at approximately €25 – 30 (£20.99 – 25.19). It aims to provide a peaceful respite in the otherwise busy terminal.
For Turkish Airlines business class and elite travellers, this lounge provides high-quality food, relaxation areas, and workspaces. Located in the international terminal, it focuses on premium service and traditional Turkish touches.
This lounge focuses on comfort with Turkish hospitality, offering snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a quiet environment. Available for select passengers and with day passes, fees range around €20 – 30 (£16.79 – 25.19).
Numerous hotels are available near the airport as well as in central Istanbul’s bustling districts. Budget to mid‑range options are prevalent close to SAW, while luxury stays cluster nearer to the historic city center.
To Istanbul City Center (European Side):
The Havatas airport shuttle bus runs frequently between Sabiha Gökçen and Taksim Square, taking approximately 90 minutes and costing about TRY 18 (£0.27) (~€1). Metro connections are planned but limited currently, so buses and taxis are the primary options. Taxis usually take 60-90 minutes depending on traffic, costing TRY 150 – 200 (£2.26 – 3.02) (~€8-11).
To Kadiköy (Asian Side):
Frequent buses and minibuses connect the airport with Kadiköy ferry terminal in about 40-60 minutes. Fares are around TRY 10 – 15 (£0.15 – 0.23) (~€0.5-0.8). From Kadiköy, ferries and metro offer easy access to other parts of Istanbul.
To Pendik and Tuzla:
Local buses serve industrial and residential districts near the airport such as Pendik and Tuzla, with travel times from 15-45 minutes. These buses run regularly but schedules may vary, so checking ahead is recommended.
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