SAW Airport to Istanbul (IST) Transfer: Shuttle, Taxi and Private Options
Confused about how to get from SAW to IST without wasting time or overpaying? Here’s everything you need — from real taxi fares to the smartest shuttle and private transfer options
Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) to Istanbul Airport (IST)
Contents
Last updated: May 2026
Travel times and taxi fares on this page are based on:
- Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality transport data
- Average taxi tariffs for 2026
- Real transfer booking prices across Istanbul
Prices may vary depending on traffic, toll roads and season.
Need to travel between Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) and Istanbul Airport (IST)?
This airport-to-airport route is one of the most stressful transfers in Turkey because the airports sit on opposite sides of Istanbul, separated by heavy traffic and the Bosphorus.
Whether you’re catching a connecting flight or planning a long layover, choosing the right transport can save 1–2 hours of travel time and unnecessary stress.
This guide compares taxi, shuttle, public transport and private transfer options so you can choose the best way to travel between Istanbul’s two airports.
But if you want less things on your mind and a driver waiting for you at the gate Book your Airport-to-Airport shuttle service now.
Reservation also available via WhatsApp +90 543 615 2061
Why This Transfer Is Tricky
Distance between airports: 85 km
Average travel time: 75–120 minutes
This journey crosses:
- The Bosphorus strait
- One of Europe’s busiest highway networks
- Two different continents
That’s why planning your SAW to IST transfer in advance is highly recommended.
Taxi from SAW to Istanbul Airport (IST)
Taking a taxi from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Istanbul Airport is the fastest on-demand option.
Travel time: 75–90 minutes
Average taxi fare (2026): 1,500–2,000 TL (€45–65)
Best for:
- Tight connections
- Travelers with luggage
- Late-night arrivals
Tip: Always ensure the taxi meter is running and expect additional toll fees if the driver uses the 3rd Bosphorus Bridge.
Airport Shuttle & Public Transport
There is no direct airport shuttle between SAW and IST, but you can combine services.
Route:
- Havabus → SAW to Taksim
- Havaist → Taksim to IST
Total cost: 250–300 TL (€8–10)
Travel time: 3–3.5 hours
Ultra-budget alternative:
- M4 Metro → Marmaray → Metro → Bus
Possible under 100 TL, but requires multiple transfers and is not ideal with luggage.
Best for:
- Backpackers
- Long layovers
- Budget travelers
Private Airport Transfer (Most Popular Choice)
Private transfers are the most reliable way to travel between the airports.
Why travelers choose this option:
- Fixed prices
- Flight tracking
- Driver waiting at arrivals
- No taxi negotiation
- Door-to-door travel
Average Private Transfer Prices
Using the 3rd Bridge route can reduce travel time but adds ~€10 toll.
👉 For a reliable and pre-booked ride, many travelers arrange a Istanbul airport transfer in advance to avoid last-minute stress and ensure a driver is waiting on arrival.
Reliable Sabiha Gökçen Transfers – Professional Drivers, 24/7 Service - Book Now and Pay online or to the driver
Or Simply Contact us via WhatsApp +90 543 615 2061
Which Option Is Best?
If you have a connection flight or limited time, private transfer or taxi is strongly recommended.
Public transport is only suitable if you have 3–4 hours to spare.
Booking your airport transfer before arrival guarantees:
- Fixed pricing
- No waiting in taxi queues
- A smooth connection between flights
Book a Private IST between SAW Airport Transfer
Traveling between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) can take 75–120 minutes depending on traffic. If you have luggage, tight connections, or are traveling with family, pre-booking a private transfer is the most reliable option.
Private airport-to-airport transfers offer:
- Fixed prices with no surge pricing
- Door-to-door pickup and drop-off
- Professional English-speaking drivers
- Flight tracking and flexible pickup times
- Comfortable vehicles for individuals and groups
Typical prices range from 1,800–2,500 TL, depending on vehicle size and passenger count.
Unlike taxis or public transport, you won’t need to change vehicles, wait in lines, or worry about delays.
Why travelers choose private transfer
- Ideal for tight flight connections
- Best option when traveling with luggage
- Safest late-night transport option
- Fastest door-to-door journey between airports
Pre-book your transfer
Secure your ride in advance and lock in a fixed price. No hidden fees, no last-minute stress — just a smooth airport-to-airport journey.
Book your Istanbul airport transfer online at fixed rate or contact us WhatsApp +90 543 615 2061
