This comprehensive guide gives you the transportation details of how to take the bus from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet, Istanbul. We also cover options from Sultanahmet to the airport.
The new Istanbul Airport, the main international airport for Istanbul, is one of the busiest airports in the world, and Turkish Airlines has dozens of flights landing there every day. After reading, you’ll know the best option for you.
Visiting Istanbul is very exciting, but you might panic about how to get around for a moment or two after you realize just how vast the city is. It is literally HUGE. It’s also famous for its ridiculous traffic. All of this means you might wonder how you will get from the airport to where you’re staying.
Handily, it’s all taken care of for you!
Despite the traffic, public transportation in Istanbul is very high quality, reliable, and comfortable. Regular ferries, buses, Metros, trains, yellow or black taxis, and trams take people around the city 24/7.
But when you land at Istanbul Airport, you’re probably going to want to get to your hotel as quickly as possible and freshen up. If you’re staying in Sultanahmet, taking the bus from the airport is very easy.
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!
The HAVAIST Buses From Istanbul Airport To Sultanahmet
You can catch a Havas bus from most large airports in Turkey, which will take you into the city and town centers. However, in Istanbul, this service is called HAVAIST Airport Shuttle and is much larger. There are shuttle bus services that take people to all different parts of the city, depending on where they want to go.
Buses are large coaches, and they’re super comfortable. They have air conditioning, TVs, comfortable seats with enough legroom, Wi-Fi, and USB charging units. Most buses can seat 46 people on a first-come, first-served basis.
Buses travel from various parts of the city to Istanbul Airport on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen Airport on the Asian side of Istanbul. That means you can easily get around no matter where you’re arriving and where you want to go.
HAVAIST Shuttle To Sultanahmet Square, Including Times
Sultanahmet is one of the most popular parts of Istanbul, if not the most popular part. This is where you’ll find most of the famous sights all close together, including Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and Basilica Cistern, to name just a few.
Most will visit this part at least once, even if they’re not staying in Sultanahmet. It’s also famous for its traditional restaurants, serving authentic cuisine in a tourist-friendly way.
If you want to get from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet, you will walk out of the airport arrivals terminal and see the HAVAIST stops almost in front of you. Look for the bus that says ‘Sultanahmet/Eminonu,’ and that’s the one you want.
A ticket kiosk is right next to the stop, and you head there to book your ticket. However, again, this is first come, first served, and if the bus is too full for however many people are in your party, you’ll have to wait for the next one.
The good news is that the next bus will only ever be 30 minutes away! Buses run 24 hours per day in both directions.
The journey between Istanbul Airport and Sultanahmet is 45 minutes, but traffic can often play a part and increase your journey time quite significantly in some cases. It really depends upon the time of day you’re traveling, but there is always some amount of traffic, regardless of the time. Traveling over the weekends or between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. will undoubtedly land you in a traffic jam.
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How Much Does HAVAIST To Sultanahmet Cost?
It’s worthwhile double-checking before you travel as prices can always change, but at the time of writing, a one-way ticket from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet (and back in the other direction) is 87 Turkish Lira.
You will get your ticket from the kiosk at the bus station.
When traveling from the airport to Sultanahmet, you will pay in cash or by credit card, although they prefer cash if possible. Currently, you can only pay by credit or debit card when traveling back to the airport from Sultanahmet, but this may be subject to change.
HAVAIST From Sultanahmet To Istanbul Airport
To catch the bus back to the airport from Sultanahmet, you wait in the square across from Hagia Sophia and look for the HAVAIST stop.
Buses are regular, leaving every 30 minutes. Again, the journey time should be 45 minutes but depends heavily upon traffic.
Is the bus from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet reliable?
Yes, the bus service, such as Havaist, from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet is generally reliable and frequently available.
Does the Havaist bus from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet take long?
The total travel time of the Havaist bus from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it usually takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
How to get from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet the quickest?
The quickest way to get from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet is by taking a taxi or private airport transfer, especially if there’s minimal traffic.
How do we get from the new Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet the cheapest?
For a more budget-friendly option, you can take the public metro and tram. It may take longer than other methods, but it is cost-effective.
How to get to Sultanahmet from AtatĂĽrk Airport the best way?
Since Ataturk Airport is closed for commercial flights, you’ll need to use Istanbul Airport (IST). Refer to previous questions for transportation options from IST to Sultanahmet.
How to get to Taksim Square from Sultanahmet the quickest?
The quickest way to travel from Sultanahmet to Taksim is by taking a taxi or using a rideshare service, depending on the traffic conditions.
How do you go from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet with kids?
Traveling with kids, you may prefer the comfort and convenience of a private airport transfer service or a regular taxi for a hassle-free journey.
How do I get from Istanbul Airport to the Blue Mosque?
To reach the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) from Istanbul Airport, you can use various transportation options, including black or yellow taxis, private transfer, or public transport options like Havaist, metro, and tram.
What is the busiest time to go from Istanbul Airport to the Istanbul city center?
The busiest time for transportation from Istanbul Airport to the city center, including Sultanahmet, is during rush hours, which are typically in the early morning and late afternoon on weekdays.
What are the Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet travel times?
The travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation, traffic conditions, and your exact location in Sultanahmet. On average, it takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Sultanahmet from Istanbul Airport.
Where does the bus stop in Saltanahet?
The bus stops at the square opposite the Sophia Hagia Mosque on one side and the Blue Mosque on the opposite side.
Now you know the most convenient option for you. So will it be by private shuttle using professional drivers or those fabulous public buses that will get you to the Istanbul city center?
Everything You Need To Know About The New Istanbul Airport
The New Istanbul Airport, a marvel of modern infrastructure, has quickly become one of the world’s largest and busiest airports. Here’s what you need to know to navigate it with ease:
Location & Size
Situated on the European side of Istanbul, the airport spans a massive area and is designed to accommodate the growing number of passengers traveling through Turkey.
Transportation Links
The airport is well-connected, with multiple transportation options available. Besides buses to various parts of the city like Sultanahmet, you’ll find taxis, private car services, and in the near future, a metro line directly linking to the city center.
Facilities & Services
The airport boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a wide array of dining options, shopping centers, lounges, and even a hotel for layovers or early flights. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
Shopping Options
Shopping at the New Istanbul Airport is a delight for any traveler. The airport features a vast array of stores, ranging from high-end luxury brands to local Turkish goods. Whether you’re looking for designer fashion, electronics, cosmetics, or souvenirs, the shopping area has it all. Turkish delights, traditional crafts, and unique Istanbul-themed items make for perfect gifts or mementos of your trip. The Duty-Free area, in particular, offers a wide selection of products at competitive prices.
Check-In & Security
With a focus on efficient service, the airport has numerous check-in counters and a streamlined security process. However, due to its size, it’s recommended to arrive well in advance of your flight.
Navigating the Airport
The terminal is vast, so it’s advisable to check your flight details and terminal maps, which are available on the airport’s website and displayed throughout the airport.
Cultural Insights
Reflecting Istanbul’s blend of tradition and modernity, the airport incorporates elements of Turkish culture and art, making even transit a unique experience.
By understanding these key aspects of the New Istanbul Airport, you’ll be better prepared for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Whether you’re just passing through or starting your exploration of Istanbul here, the airport is an impressive gateway to this historically rich and vibrant city.
Where in Sultanahmet does the airport bus stop? Are there several stops or just the one?
The bus stops at the massive square opposite the Sophia Hagia Mosque on one side and the Blue mMsque on the opposite side. I’ll update the info to include this detail.
Hello. Is there toilet on the bus?
No there is not.