This comprehensive guide provides transportation details for 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.
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Using the HAVAIST Bus to Reach Sultanahmet
Up until very recently, there was a HAVAIST bus that went from Istanbul Airport directly to Sultanahmet; however, for some reason, that has now been canceled. But don’t panic, because you can still reach Sultanahmet via bus, you just need to make a small detour.
Now, you need to take the Beyazit service, which is HVIST 12. Beyazit is a stone’s throw from Sultanahmet. Then, you just jump on the tram for two stops until you get to Sultanahmet. Look for trams that are heading in the Kabatas direction.
It’s extremely quick, and the trams are comfortable and are really easy to use. However, if you’re traveling anytime between 4 pm and 8 pm, you can expect trams to be busy, which can be tricky with a lot of luggage.
Cost Of Getting To Sultanahmet Via HAVAIST
To use the tram, you’ll need an IstanbulKart, which you can buy from kiosks at the airport and simply top it up before use. One journey costs 17.50 Lira.
The HAVAIST bus costs 87 Lira per person currently, although do check nearer the time of your travel as prices are fluctuating a lot lately. You can take two pieces of luggage with you. You simply buy your ticket from the sales booth at the HAVAIST stops outside the airport.
The only downside is traffic. To get to Beyazit, you will encounter traffic at some point. The journey should take around 1.5 hours without any stops, but if you’re traveling between 5 pm and 8 pm, you’re going to hit rush hour traffic, and that will add a lot of extra time to your journey. Even outside of those hours, there will be a few stops along the way.
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 Atatürk 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.
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.
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.
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.
Does the bus still travel from the airport to Sultan Ahmet?
Can you please confirm
Yes, and journey between Istanbul Airport and Sultanahmet is around 45 minutes, but traffic can often play a part and increase your journey time quite significantly in some cases
Does the Havaist bus still go to Sultanahmet ? When I check their website I cannot find this route and I have seen postings that say there is no direct bus from the airport to Sultanahmet. I’m confused😐
I just came back from Istanbul, and found that this bus has been discontinued as of 2024. Why I have no idea. But the good news is that you can get it to Beyazit instead, which is just two stops on the tram away.
Please correct me. I spoke to official of Havaist and they told me that there is a Havaist stop in front of the Aksaray Metro A exit door. From there, you can take our vehicle and come to Istanbul Airport. From Istanbul Airport, you can go down to Arrivals Floor -2, take our Aksaray vehicles from platform 12 and get off at our last stop, Aksaray Metro. So where is beyzait stop? I dont see on Havaist website?