Istanbulkart for Cruise Passengers

In this guide, we'll explain how to buy istanbulkart for cruise passengers and how to use the Istanbulkart from Galataport. So you can easily the reach top attractions using public transport like trams, funiculars, and ferries, all with one simple card.

Need to know what Istanbulkart is? Read the full guide here: Istanbulkart Guide

Where Is Galataport?

Galataport is Istanbul’s new cruise port, located right on the European side in the Karaköy neighborhood. It’s close to major tourist spots like:

• Taksim Square

• Galata Tower

• Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia)

• Grand Bazaar

• Istiklal Avenue

And the best part? Public transport options are right next to the port.

Buy Istanbulkart Near Galataport

Once you exit the cruise terminal:

Walk 2–3 minutes to:

• Karaköy Tram Station (T1 Line)

• IETT bus stops nearby

• Or head up to Tünel Square for the historic Tünel funicular

There are yellow Istanbulkart machines at the tram station and nearby kiosks.

Machines accept cash (Turkish Lira) or cards. You can:

• Buy a new Istanbulkart (160TL deposit)

• Top it up with extra balance (recommended: 150–200 TL for short trips)

Getting Around from Galataport

Once you have your Istanbulkart, you can easily reach any part of the city. Here are the top routes:

To Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia)

• Take T1 Tram from Karaköy → get off at Sultanahmet Station

• ~15 minutes ride

• One card tap per person

   

To Grand Bazaar

• Stay on the T1 Tram → get off at Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı Station

• Then walk 3–5 minutes to the Grand Bazaar gate

 To Taksim Square

• Walk 10 minutes to Karaköy Tünel Station

• Take the Tünel funicular up to İstiklal Avenue

• From there, either walk to Taksim or take the nostalgic tram

 To Asian Side

• Take the ferry from Karaköy Pier to Kadıköy or Üsküdar

• Ferries accept Istanbulkart too!

• Enjoy amazing Bosphorus views during the ride

Top Up and Check Balance

You can check your balance and top up at:

• Any tram or metro station

• Ferry terminals

• Istanbulkart machines near tourist areas

 Top up early to avoid lines later!

Extra Tips for Cruise Visitors

• Trams are perfect for cruise passengers — easy to use, scenic, and go straight to key spots.

• Istanbulkart works on all public transport — no need to buy individual tickets.

• Save your time and money by loading enough credit at the beginning.

• One card can be used for up to 5 people if you’re traveling as a group.

With your Istanbulkart, you can explore Istanbul’s treasures without needing taxis or expensive tours. From Galataport, trams and ferries take you to all the main attractions — fast and budget-friendly.

Buy your card, tap and go — it’s that simple!

You can also take the Havaist shuttle — here’s the guide.
If you prefer the metro, see our Istanbul Airport Metro tutorial.
Don’t forget, you’ll need an Istanbulkart to ride the metro or bus.

Istanbul's airport, officially named Istanbul Airport (IST), is now fully operational, replacing Ataturk Airport for commercial flights. This state-of-the-art facility is poised to become one of the largest airports in the world, with an ambitious goal of processing 200 million passengers annually. If you're planning a trip to Istanbul, here's everything you need to know about getting to and from Istanbul's airport, located northwest of the city.

Location and Overview

Where is Istanbul Airport? Istanbul Airport is situated approximately 43 kilometers northwest of the city center. Easily accessible via the national road D020, it aims to be the second-largest airport globally, after Dubai International Airport.

Transportation Options

How to Get to Sultanahmet (Old City) and Taksim from Istanbul Airport

1. By Car
   • Distance: 43 kilometers
   • Travel Time: Approximately 50 minutes
   • Directions: The airport is well-connected by road, and you can easily drive to the city center via the D020 highway.
2. Public Transport
   • Havaist Shuttles: Reliable and cost-effective, these shuttles connect the airport to various parts of Istanbul. You'll need an Istanbulkart, which costs 24 liras per person and is essential for bus travel. Visit our havaist shuttles page4 for chart, schedule and prices. Make sure you buy istanbulkart before you get in to the bus because it's the only way to pay it. It costs 24 liras per person and it takes you until the Hagi Sophia Square. And check this page where to buy istanbulkart in istanbul new airport.
   • Routes: Havaist buses provide a direct route to Hagia Sophia Square in Sultanahmet and other key locations. For detailed schedules and prices, check the Havaist website.
3. Taxi Transfer
   • Convenience: Taxis are the quickest and most comfortable way to travel.
   • Cost: Approximately TRY 950 for a ride to the city center.
   • Availability: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal.
4. Private Transfer
   • Comfort: Ideal for groups or travelers with multiple bags, private transfers typically use large minivans or minibuses.
   • Cost: Prices start from 35 to 50 euros, depending on the number of passengers.
   • Booking: For hassle-free transfers, consider booking through services like Kiwi.com.
5. Car Rental
   • Providers: Major companies like Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Budget, and Enterprise have desks at the airport.
   • Tip: Book in advance to save time and money.
6. Airport Parking
   • Options: Istanbul Airport offers premium and low-cost parking, with additional alternatives nearby.
   • Tip: Book online for the best rates.

Flight Information

• Departures and Arrivals: For the latest flight status, check Istanbul Airport's official website.
• Cheap Flights: Use flight search engines to find and book budget-friendly flights.

Accommodation

Hotels Near Istanbul Airport

• For convenient stays close to the airport, explore our selection of the best nearby hotels on our accommodations page.

Hotels in Istanbul

• Whether you’re staying in Sultanahmet or another part of Istanbul, we have recommendations for the best hotels across various price ranges. Check out our "Where to Stay in Istanbul" page.

Things to Do

Tours and Activities

• Book tickets, activities, and tours in Istanbul to save time and money. For more ideas, visit our "Things to Do in Istanbul" page or consider luxury transfers through Istanbul Luxury Transfer.

Planning a trip to Istanbul is now easier than ever with the airport's comprehensive transportation options and world-class facilities. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, Istanbul Airport ensures a smooth and efficient travel experience.

We will inform you about how to go from the Sabiha Gökçen Airport Istanbul to Sultanahmet in this post and explain you the most common transportation ways, from private to public transportation, from expensive to cheap and from fast to long. Sabiha Gökçen is located on the Asian Side of the city.

If your destination is from the Sabiha Gökçen Istanbul Airport to Taksim please read this post about how to go from Sabiha Gokcen airport to Taksim?

Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet

Havabus / Havatas Bus

Havabus is a private bus company that operates only at the Sabiha Gökçen airport in Istanbul. The company was known as Havatas before.

This is one of the most convenient ways to go from Sabiha Gokcen airport in Istanbul to Sultanahmet with less interchange. Comfortable, clean and budget friendly Havabus bus provides free wifi service.  Price is 18 Turkish Liras per person.

Havabus will take you until Taksim Square and then you need eitherway a taxi to Sultanahmet or use the Funicular (F1 Tram Line) in order to go down to Kabataş T1 tram. T1 tram goes through Karakoy, Eminonu, Sultanahmet, Beyazıt (Grand Bazaar) and Aksaray.

You can also get on Havabus until Kadikoy. It's still at the Asian side. After that you need to take ferry in order to cross the sea and reach to Eminonu or Karakoy area. Then you need to take T1 Tram until Sultanahmet, Beyazit. This option is more enjoyable if you have plenty of time especially if it's sunset time. So you can watch the sun goes down behind Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque while you are in the middle of the Bosphorus on ferry.

Check the Havabus Schedule below or go to their website www.havabus.com

Important notes:

• Be informed that Sabiha Gökçen Airport Havabus service stops at 01:00 am and starts to operate again at 03:30 am. Keep that in mind if your plane arrives after 01:00 am.
• Be cautious about the taxi drivers at Taksim square.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Shuttles (shared)

Sabiha Gokcen shared shuttle is also one of the budget friendly options comparing to private services. Shuttle fees are around 15 euros per person and it will help you to go from Sabiha Gokcen airport to Sultanahmet (until your hotels door) with less hassle.

Important notes:

• Always check the timetable and your flight departure time! Sabiha Gökçen Airport shuttle buses pick up many people from several different locations. And not everybody is punctual as you are. Arrange your shuttle for minimum 4 hours before the departure of your flight.
• It can be a long journey if you travel during rush hours. Consider packing some snacks and bottled water in your bag.
• If you are more than 3 people, it's not very smart to pay for shared shuttle. You can arrange a private minivan directly to your hotel for about 40 euros in total.
• If you arrive at midnight, they might keep you waited until there is enough passenger in shared shuttle option.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Taxi Prices

Taxi service is one of the easiest way to go from Sabiha Gokcen International Airport to Sultanahmet . There is 24 hour taxi available, especially at the international arrivals.

It costs around 150 Turkish Liras . Check the image below to see how much it approximately costs and how long does it take. Shortest route is the Avrasya Tunnel passage and it costs additional 36 Liras . Drivers may use the other paid highway and bridges depends on the traffic. So Add around 10 to 20 TRL on the bill for bridge toll . And add another 10 to 20 liras if there is traffic. So it usually costs 200 -220 Turkish Liras.

Important notes :

• Always get one of the Sabiha Gökçen airport taxis on the queue. They have blue/black logo and SAW airport taxi (Sabiha Gokcen Airport Code) is written on their doors. Do not take any other taxi passing by, you might think that they are cheaper but it can cost you twice or triple time, if they scam.
• No matter which taxi you get, always write the plate number somewhere.
• Do not use 50 TRL bills for the payment. It looks a lot like 5 TRL bills. We are not saying that all the drivers are bad but some drivers can change it with fast hand trick and tell that you gave them 5 TRL, not 50.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport by Metro

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Istanbul metro line connection is still under construction. Reaching to Sultanahmet or Taksim will be much more effortless for travelers after it's completed. But until then here is how you should do if you prefer to travel by public transportation.

Find the public bus station after you go out of the terminal. Its on the right side. E-10 bus line passes from the closest metro station. Get in to M4 Kartal-Kadikoy metro and go until Ayrilikcesme station. That's where you will make interchange to Marmaray in order to cross the Bosphorus. You need to go out in Yenikapi and make another interchange to T1 tram. Or you can walk about 1 or 2 kms to reach your destination.

This way will cost you about 10 TRL per person. İt's the most difficult way to go from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet and we recommend you to use this way only if you are on a very tight budget.

Important notes :

• Don't forget to buy Istanbulkart if you want to use the public transportation. Click here to find out where to buy Istanbulkart.
• It will be a long and tiring journey, especially if you have heavy bags.
• Metro is not available after 12 midnight.

We hope it will be helpful for you during your travel to Istanbul if you chose Sabiha Gokcen International Airport as your arrival point.

There are many options and ways to go from the Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet. It's not that difficult and long as you think. We believe that it worths using Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul because of the budget airliners always give better price. Especially as of 2020, journey from the new airport takes almost same time as from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet center.

Pay attention to the warnings and advices of your local guides (it can be a local website like us, your guide book, or even someone who travelled before), then you will make the best out of this enchanting city.

If Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet post was helpful to you, make sure that you Subcribe to our weekly newsletter and don't want to miss the news about things to do and travel advices in Turkey, especially in Istanbul.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Private Transfer

Another convenient way is to arrange a private transfer from Sabiha Gokcen international airport to Sultanahmet or to Taksim areas.

There are many companies and usually, it costs around 35 to 40 euros up to 4-6 people. The welcoming person will hold your name on a signboard.

We would recommend international trusted companies for hassle free transfer companies like kiwitaxi.com. You can check the prices for comparison by clicking here or on the sidebar banner.

Private transfer companies in the Sabiha Gökçen Airport Istanbul use minivans or minibuses mostly. That's really good if you have many bags. They know the address of every single hotels in Istanbul. Or they can at least call and find out the address.

Important notes :

• Get the number of the company in case you can't meet the welcomer or the driver.
• Do not hesitate to ask to other welcomers in case you can't find yours. They all know each other. Just tell the company name.
• Have some change with you if you need to pay to the driver directly. They don't have change all the time.
• Have the hotel's or apart's phone number in your phone or show your reservation form, in case driver doesn't know the address.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport ↔ Sultanahmet 35 €

Sabiha Gokcen Airport ↔ Taksim 35 €

Istanbul New Airport (IST) ↔ Sultanahmet 35 €

Istanbul New Airport (IST) ↔ Taksim 35 €

In this post we will inform you about how to go from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim in different ways and you will see detailed explanation about the most common ones, from private to public transportation, from expensive to cheap.

If your need to go from Sabiha gokcen airport to Sultanahmet, check on How to Go from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet to get detailed information about it.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim

Havabus / Havatas Bus

Havabus is a bus company that operates only at the Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul. The company was known as Havatas before.

This is the most convenient way to go from Sabiha Gokcen airport to Taksim. It's comfortable, affordable and provides free wifi . Price is 18 TRL per person .

Check the Havabus Taksim Schedule below or go to their website www.havabus.com

Important notes:

• Be informed that Havabus service stops at 01:00 am and starts to operate again at 03:30 am. Keep that in mind if your plane arrives after 01:00 am.

• Be cautious about the taxi drivers when you arrive at Taksim square. Make sure you fix the price or use the Tram and Metro.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Shared Shuttle

Sabiha Gokcen shared shuttle is also one of the budget friendly options comparing to private services. Shuttle fees are around 15 euros per person and it will help you to go from Sabiha Gokcen airport to Taksim (until your hotel door) with less hassle.

Important notes:

• Always check the timetable and your flight departure time on your return to the Sabiha Gökçen Airport! Shuttle buses pick up many people from several different locations. And not everybody is punctual as you are. Arrange your shuttle for minimum 4 hours before the departure of your flight.

• It can be a long journey if you travel during rush hours. Consider packing some snacks and bottled water in your bag.

• If you are more than 3 people, it's no use to pay for shared shuttle. You can arrange a private minivan directly to your hotel for about 35 - 40 euros in total.

• If you arrive at midnight, they might keep you waited until there is enough passenger in the shuttle.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Taxi Service

Taxi service is one of the easiest way to go from International Airport Sabiha Gokcen to Taksim center . There is 24 hour taxi available, especially at the international arrivals.

It costs around 150 Turkish Liras . Check the image below to see how much it approximately costs and how long does it take. Shortest route is the Avrasya Tunnel passage and it costs additional 36 Liras .

Drivers may use the other paid highway and bridges depends on the traffic. So Add around 10 to 20 TRL on the bill for bridge toll . And add another 10 to 20 liras if there is traffic. So it usually costs 200 -220 Turkish Liras.

Important notes :

• Always get one of the airport taxis on the queue. Havalimani Taksi is written on the doors. Do not take any other taxi passing by, you might think that they are cheaper but it can cost you twice or triple time, if they scam.

• No matter which taxi you get, always write the plate number somewhere in case you forget your belongings in it.

• Do not use 50 TRL bills for the payment. It looks a lot like 5 TRL bills. We are not saying that all the drivers are bad but some drivers can change it with fast hand trick and tell that you gave them 5 TRL, not 50, and ask for more money.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Metro

Sabiha Gokcen airport metro line connection will be completed in the end of 2020, according to authorities. It will be much more effortless for travelers to reach at Taksim Square . But until then here is how you should do, if you prefer to travel by public transportation.

Find the public bus station after you go out of the terminal. Its on the right side. E-10 bus line passes from the closest metro station. Get in to M4 Kartal-Kadikoy metro and go until Ayrilikcesme station. That's where you will make interchange to Marmaray in order to cross the Bosphorus. You need to go out in Yenikapi and make another interchange to M2 Taksim metro. 3rd station will be yours.

This way might be tiring if you have many bags, and it will take very long time. So you might want to consider the HAVABUS Bus option again.

You definitely need a public transportation card which is called Istanbulkart to use public transportation in Istanbul. You can check our Istanbulkart guide for more information about where to find one and how to top-up.

Important notes :

• Don't forget to buy Istanbulkart if you want to use the public transportation

• It will be a long and tiring journey, especially if you have heavy bags.

• Metro is not available after 12 midnight.

We hope it will be helpful for you during your travel to Istanbul, If you chose Sabiha Gokcen Airport as your arrival point.  There are many options and ways to go from Sabiha Gokcen airport to Taksim. It's not that difficult and long as you think.

Pay attention to the warnings and advices of your local guides , then you will make the best out of this enchanting city.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Private Transfer

Another convenient way is to arrange a private transfer from Sabiha Gokcen airport to Taksim area.

There are many companies and usually, it costs around 35 - 40 euros up to 4-6 people. The welcoming person will hold your name on a signboard.

Private transfer companies use minivans or minibuses mostly. That's really good if you have many bags. They know the address of every single hotels in Istanbul. Or they can at least call the reception and find out about the address.

We recommend the international transfer companies such as kiwitaxi.com. You can check and compare the prices by clicking here or on the banner at the right side of the website.

Important notes :

• Get the number of the company in case you can't meet the welcomer or the driver before you .

• Do not hesitate to ask to other welcomers in case you can't find yours. They all know each other. Just tell the company name.

• Have small notes if you need to pay to the driver directly. They don't have change all the time.

• Have the hotel's or apart's phone number in your phone or show your reservation form, in case driver doesn't know the address.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport ↔ Sultanahmet 35 €

Sabiha Gokcen Airport ↔ Taksim 35 €

Istanbul New Airport (IST) ↔ Sultanahmet 35 €

Istanbul New Airport (IST) ↔ Taksim 35 €