Istanbul Airport (IST) is one of the world’s busiest hubs, connecting travelers between Europe, Asia, and beyond. Located on the European side of Istanbul, about 40 km (25 miles) from the city center, the airport offers a gateway to one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Whether you have a long layover or a short stay, there are plenty of incredible sights, cultural landmarks, and unique experiences to explore near Istanbul Airport.
Take advantage of Stasher’s convenient luggage storage locations around Istanbul and ensure you can tackle the steep streets without feeling burdened!
Getting Around from Istanbul Airport (IST)
Istanbul Airport is well connected to the city and surrounding areas:
- Metro (M11 Line): The new metro line connects the airport to Gayrettepe station, reducing travel time to the city center.
- Havaist Buses: A convenient option with routes to major districts like Sultanahmet and Taksim, costing around 100-150 TRY ($3-5 USD).
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: A taxi to the city center costs 600-900 TRY ($20-30 USD), depending on traffic.
- Private Transfers: Many travelers opt for private shuttles for comfort and fixed pricing.
Now, let’s explore the best things to do near Istanbul Airport!
1. Explore the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
📍 Distance: ~50 km (1-hour drive)
⏰ Hours: Mon-Sat, 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed Sundays)
💰 Entry: Free
One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar is a sensory overload of colors, sounds, and scents. With over 4,000 shops, it’s the perfect place to buy Turkish rugs, spices, jewelry, and ceramics. Even if you don’t shop, walking through the bazaar is an unforgettable experience.
🚍 How to Get There: Take a Havaist bus to Beyazıt, or a taxi for a faster ride.
2. Visit the Iconic Hagia Sophia
📍 Distance: ~45 km (~1 hour)
⏰ Hours: Open daily, 9 AM – 11 PM
💰 Entry: Free
The Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, blending Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Originally a church, later a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again, it showcases Istanbul’s rich history. Don’t miss the stunning dome, mosaics, and breathtaking interiors.
🚇 How to Get There: Take the metro from Istanbul Airport to Gayrettepe, then transfer to the tram at Kabataş to reach Sultanahmet.
3. Take a Bosphorus Cruise
📍 Distance: ~45 km (~1 hour)
⏰ Hours: Various, but sunset cruises are highly recommended
💰 Entry: Starts at 350-600 TRY ($12-20 USD)
A Bosphorus cruise is the best way to see Istanbul’s skyline, Ottoman palaces, and famous bridges from the water. Whether you choose a short 1-hour cruise or a longer dinner cruise, the view is spectacular. Some cruises even include traditional Turkish entertainment.
🚍 How to Get There: Head to Eminönü Pier via metro and tram from the airport.
4. Discover the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
📍 Distance: ~45 km (~1 hour)
⏰ Hours: Open daily, closed during prayer times
💰 Entry: Free
Right across from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is famous for its six towering minarets and stunning blue-tiled interior. It remains an active place of worship, so visitors should dress modestly.
🚇 How to Get There: Follow the same route as to Hagia Sophia—metro + tram to Sultanahmet.
5. Enjoy a Turkish Breakfast at Emirgan Sütiş
📍 Distance: ~40 km (~45 minutes)
⏰ Hours: 7 AM – 12 AM
💰 Cost: 300-600 TRY ($10-20 USD per person)
If you have time for a traditional Turkish breakfast, head to Emirgan Sütiş, a legendary spot by the Bosphorus. Their menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs), simit (sesame bagel), and honey with clotted cream are must-tries.
🚕 How to Get There: Taxi or private transfer is the best option for speed.
6. Visit Miniatürk – Turkey in Miniature
📍 Distance: ~35 km (~40 minutes)
⏰ Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM daily
💰 Entry: 200 TRY ($7 USD)
For a quick yet comprehensive tour of Turkey, visit Miniatürk, an open-air museum showcasing miniature replicas of Turkey’s most famous landmarks. It’s a great stop if you have a short layover.
🚍 How to Get There: Taxi or ride-share for a fast trip.
7. Relax at a Traditional Turkish Hammam
📍 Distance: ~45 km (~1 hour)
⏰ Hours: 9 AM – 11 PM
💰 Cost: 1000-2500 TRY ($35-85 USD)
For a relaxing experience, visit a traditional Turkish hammam (bathhouse). Çemberlitaş Hamamı and Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı are two famous ones offering authentic Turkish bath treatments, including a full-body scrub and foam massage.
🚇 How to Get There: Take the metro and tram to Sultanahmet, then walk.
8. Visit Vialand (Isfanbul) Theme Park
📍 Distance: ~35 km (~45 minutes)
⏰ Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM daily
💰 Entry: Starts at 800 TRY ($25 USD)
If you’re traveling with kids or just want some fun, Vialand (formerly Isfanbul) is Istanbul’s top theme park, featuring roller coasters, water rides, and shopping areas. It’s a great way to spend a few hours before heading back to the airport.
🚍 How to Get There: Taxi or ride-share for the fastest trip.
Bonus: Short on Time? Stay Inside the Airport!
If your layover is under 4 hours, you might prefer to stay inside Istanbul Airport. Here are some options:
- IGA Lounge: A premium lounge with food, showers, and nap rooms (access costs around 1500 TRY).
- YOTEL Airport Hotel: Located inside the terminal for a quick rest.
- Shopping & Dining: IST Airport has world-class duty-free shops and restaurants, including Turkish favorites like Simit Sarayı and Nusr-Et Burger.
Istanbul Airport is surrounded by historic sites, unique attractions, and delicious food options, making it perfect for a layover adventure. Whether you explore Hagia Sophia, take a Bosphorus cruise, or relax at a Turkish hammam, you’ll leave Istanbul with unforgettable memories.
🚀 Pro Tip: Plan your return trip carefully, as Istanbul traffic can be unpredictable. Always allow at least 2-3 hours to get back to the airport before your flight!
Hi! I’m James, the marketing manager at Stasher. I’m passionate about slow travel, immersing myself in new cultures and building unique memories in different places. On our blog, I share insights and stories to inspire and help you avoid pitfalls. Most importantly, I hope to make sure that you have the most rewarding travels!