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Istanbul’s Airports: Between East and West
Istanbul lies between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea and is the most populous city in Turkey. This metropolis on the Bosphorus is not only culturally and historically fascinating but also a major transport hub connecting Europe and Asia. In the following article, you’ll find everything you need to know about Istanbul’s airports and the sights that await you in this vibrant city.
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Overview of Istanbul’s Airports
Istanbul is home to three international airports, although Atatürk Airport has no longer been open to passenger traffic since 2019. It was replaced by the new Istanbul Airport, which is set to become one of the largest airports in the world.
The Newest Airport: Istanbul Airport
Istanbul iGA Airport (IST) is located northwest of the city centre on the European side and is the largest airport in Turkey. It replaced the former Atatürk Airport in 2018 as the primary hub for both domestic and international flights, as the latter had become too small for the continuously growing airline Turkish Airlines. Founded in 1933, the airline now has its main hub at Istanbul Airport and holds the record for the most countries served – a title it has claimed several times. This is just one of many reasons the new airport continues to grow in popularity.
However, the new Istanbul Airport is located about 50 kilometres outside the city, a fact that has made its construction somewhat controversial. For those visiting Istanbul as their final destination, the distance from the city centre is less than ideal. Nevertheless, a new metro line is being constructed to make travel between the airport and the city easier.
Although still relatively new, the iGA Istanbul Airport is already considered one of the largest airports in the world, having handled around 80 million passengers in 2024. With these figures, Istanbul is competing with Europe’s biggest airports like London and Paris. But it may soon take the number one spot in Europe – or even globally – as the airport continues to expand and is expected to handle up to 200 million passengers per year once fully completed in 2027.
An Airport with History: Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is located on the Asian side of the city and is Turkey’s second-largest airport, after Istanbul Airport. While also located far from the city centre, it is more compact and better connected than IST.
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport is mainly served by low-cost carriers such as Pegasus Airlines and AJet. It focuses primarily on domestic flights as well as international connections to nearby countries. Each year, it handles around 50 million passengers.
The airport is named after Sabiha Gökçen, who was adopted by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk – the founder of modern Turkey and namesake of Istanbul’s first airport. Gökçen became the world’s first female combat pilot and remains a symbol of the modern Turkish woman. The airport, opened in 2001 to the east of the city, was named in her honour.
By the way: In Turkish, the airport is called Sabiha Gökçen Uluslararası Havalimanı.
The First Airport in Turkey: Istanbul Atatürk
Atatürk Airport (ISL) was Istanbul’s main gateway to the world until 2019 and one of the busiest airports in Europe. Densely surrounded by residential areas, the airport could not be expanded to accommodate the growing number of flights. For this reason, the decision was made to build the new iGA Istanbul Airport (IST).
With the opening of the new airport, Atatürk Airport officially ceased public passenger operations in 2019. Today, it is mainly used for government flights, cargo transport, VIP and military operations.
Sights and Attractions in Istanbul
The city on the Bosphorus is far more than just a bridge between Europe and Asia. Whether you're on the European or Asian side – Istanbul has so much to offer.
Hagia Sophia
Originally built as a church, later converted into a mosque, and today once again used for worship – the Hagia Sophia is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Its massive dome and richly decorated mosaics make it a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Located opposite the Hagia Sophia, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque impresses with its six minarets and blue-and-white tiles, which earned it the name "Blue Mosque" in Europe. It is one of the most visited sights in Istanbul and definitely worth seeing.
Grand Bazaar
The Kapalı Çarşı, or Grand Bazaar, is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With more than 4,000 shops spread over 31,000 square metres, the bazaar is a paradise for anyone looking for spices, carpets, jewellery, or a unique souvenir.
Topkapi Palace
This centuries-old sultan's palace offers fascinating insights into the Ottoman Empire, which was once ruled from here. Highlights of the palace include the harem and the treasury.
Galata Tower
For those wanting to enjoy a spectacular view, the Galata Tower is a must. This stone tower, dating back to the 14th century, offers a breathtaking panorama of the city and the Bosphorus – especially magical at sunset from the viewing platform.
Especially in the hot summer months, the Turkish city of Istanbul is a popular travel destination and truly worth a visit. If you're flying to Istanbul, you can conveniently park your vehicle at your nearest airport with our service and enjoy exclusive benefits through our bonus programme. We wish you a pleasant journey!
