Hotels near Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Istanbul · 1 hotel nearby
About Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) serves as Istanbul's second international airport, located on the Asian side of the city in the Pendik district. Opened in 2001 and named after Turkey's first female aviator, it handles tens of millions of passengers annually and is a major hub for low-cost carriers operating across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
Location and Connectivity
Situated approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Istanbul's historic center, Sabiha Gökçen is the primary gateway for travelers arriving on the Asian side of the Bosphorus. The airport is well connected to the city via Havaş express buses, public metro lines, and taxi services. Journey times to central districts like Kadıköy or Taksim typically range from 45 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic.
Terminals and Facilities
The airport operates a single integrated terminal building that includes international and domestic departure halls, a range of dining and retail outlets, currency exchange counters, and car rental desks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Airlines including Pegasus and SunExpress use SAW as a primary base, making it a busy hub for domestic Turkish routes as well as international flights.
Practical Tips
- Allow extra travel time during peak hours, as road congestion between the airport and central Istanbul can be significant.
- The Marmaray rail line and metro connections offer a reliable alternative to road transport.
- If you plan to visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, or the Basilica Cistern, factor in a cross-city journey of at least 60–90 minutes from SAW.
- Currency exchange is available inside the terminal, though rates may vary compared to city center bureaux.
Frequently asked questions
Which airlines operate from Sabiha Gökçen Airport?
Sabiha Gökçen is a primary base for Pegasus Airlines and SunExpress, along with several other low-cost and regional carriers serving European, Middle Eastern, and domestic Turkish routes.
How do I get from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to central Istanbul?
Options include Havaş airport buses, public metro connections, taxis, and ride-hailing services. Travel times to central districts typically range from 45 minutes to 90 minutes depending on traffic and your chosen route.
Is Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the European or Asian side of Istanbul?
The airport is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, in the Pendik district, roughly 45 kilometers southeast of the historic European center.
How far is Sabiha Gökçen Airport from major attractions like Hagia Sophia?
Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the Basilica Cistern are all located in the historic European quarter. From SAW, expect a journey of approximately 60–90 minutes by public transport or taxi.