Istanbul Airport to city centre

All the ways for a quick and safe transfer from Istanbul Airport to the city centre!

Istanbul, one of the most enchanting cities in the world, is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning architecture. Arriving at the new Istanbul Airport can be the start of an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will explore all available transport options from Istanbul Airport to the city centre, with a particular focus on using Terravision buses, which offer the most economical and convenient choice for travellers.

Transport Options from Istanbul Airport to the City Centre

1. Taxis

One of the most popular transport methods is by taxi. Taxi ranks are located just outside the terminal and are available 24 hours a day. Taxis in Istanbul are usually yellow and easily recognisable. The journey from the airport to the city centre takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around 150-200 Turkish Lira (about 15-20 euros).

2. Private Vehicles

For greater comfort and luxury, you can book a private vehicle in advance. Many companies offer this service, and you can make a reservation online. The price for a private vehicle transfer ranges from 30 to 60 euros, depending on the type of vehicle and the company you choose.

3. Public Transport

Public transport is an economical option for getting from the airport to Istanbul city centre. The main choices are buses and the metro.

Terravision Buses

Terravision offers an excellent solution for travellers seeking economical and comfortable transport from the airport to Istanbul city centre. Terravision buses are known for their reliability and the excellent service they provide.

Advantages of using Terravision buses:

1. Economical Transfer: The ticket cost is just 18€, making it one of the most affordable options for travellers.
2. Free Luggage Transfer: Passengers can transport their luggage at no extra cost, which is ideal for those travelling with many bags.
3. Free WiFi: Terravision buses offer free WiFi, allowing passengers to stay connected during the journey.
4. Comfort and Safety: The buses are equipped with comfortable seats and modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant and safe journey.

Terravision buses depart frequently from the airport and stop at central locations in the city, such as Taksim Square and the Sultanahmet area. The journey takes approximately 60-90 minutes, depending on traffic and your destination.

To book tickets, you can visit the Terravision website or purchase tickets directly from the ticket offices at the airport. The process is simple and quick, allowing travellers to easily arrange their transfer.

Havaist and IETT Buses

In addition to Terravision buses, there are other bus options such as Havaist and IETT.

• Havaist: Offers luxury buses with frequent departures from the airport to various points in the city. The ticket price is approximately 18-25 Turkish Lira (about 1.8-2.5 euros).
• IETT: The public bus service offers economical solutions, with ticket prices ranging from approximately 5-10 Turkish Lira (about 0.5-1 euro).

Metro

The Istanbul metro is constantly expanding and now also serves the airport. Metro line M11 connects the airport to various areas of the city. The metro journey is quick and reliable, lasting from 35 to 45 minutes, and the ticket price is approximately 10-15 Turkish Lira (about 1-1.5 euros).

4. Car Hire

For those who prefer autonomy, car hire is an excellent option. At Istanbul Airport, there are many car hire companies offering a wide range of vehicles. The rental prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the rental. Car hire allows travellers to explore the city and surrounding areas at their own pace.

5. Ride-Sharing Services

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and BiTaksi, are also available in Istanbul. You can use the app on your mobile phone to call a vehicle. Prices for ride-sharing services are similar to those of taxis, but the convenience and ease of using the app make them particularly popular.

Travelling to Istanbul from Greece

Flights from Athens and Thessaloniki

Istanbul is a popular destination for Greek travellers, and there are many flights connecting major Greek cities with Istanbul. Specifically, Athens and Thessaloniki offer daily flights to Istanbul, making the journey quick and easy.

Flights from Athens

Athens, as the capital of Greece, offers many flight options to Istanbul. The main airlines serving this route are Aegean Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Pegasus Airlines.

• Aegean Airlines: The national airline of Greece offers daily flights from Athens to Istanbul. Flights last approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and ticket prices start from around 60 euros for a one-way trip.
• Turkish Airlines: The national airline of Turkey also offers daily flights from Athens to Istanbul. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and ticket prices are similar to those of Aegean Airlines.
• Pegasus Airlines: A low-cost airline offering competitive prices for flights from Athens to Istanbul. Flights last approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and ticket prices start from around 40 euros for a one-way trip.

Flights from Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, also offers direct flights to Istanbul. The main airlines serving this route are Turkish Airlines and Aegean Airlines.

• Turkish Airlines: Offers daily flights from Thessaloniki to Istanbul. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and ticket prices range from 50 to 70 euros for a one-way trip.
• Aegean Airlines: Also offers flights from Thessaloniki to Istanbul, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Ticket prices are similar to those of Turkish Airlines.

Booking Flights

To book flights from Greece to Istanbul, you can use various online platforms such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, the official websites of airlines, and Travelo.gr! Ticket prices may vary depending on the season and demand, so it's advisable to book in advance to secure the best possible price.

Additionally, many airlines offer special deals and discounts for loyalty program members. Sign up for these programs to enjoy extra benefits, such as free luggage and access to VIP lounges.

Points to Consider for your Journey

When preparing for your trip from Greece to Istanbul, there are a few points to consider:

1. Passport and Visa: Ensure your passport is valid and that you have checked the visa requirements for Turkey. For Greek citizens, a visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
2. Travel Insurance: It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and lost luggage.
3. Currency Exchange: Be informed about the euro-Turkish Lira exchange rate and consider exchanging some money before your trip or using a credit card.

Istanbul is a destination that uniquely combines history, culture, and modern life. Whether you choose to fly there or explore the many transport options from the airport to the city centre, your trip will surely be an unforgettable experience. Using Terravision buses is the best choice for economical, comfortable, and reliable transport, ensuring a pleasant start to your adventure in Istanbul.