A Complete Guide to Istanbul Airport Facilities and Amenities

As one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, Istanbul Airport (IST) offers a wide range of services and amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for all passengers. Whether you're on a long layover or a quick stopover, you’ll find everything from luxury lounges to duty-free shopping and restaurants to business centers. This guide explores all the essential facilities at Istanbul Airport, so you can make the most of your time before, after, or between flights.

Istanbul Airport Amenities

Istanbul Airport is packed with a variety of amenities to cater to every type of traveler. You’ll find everything from charging stations, family-friendly areas, and medical services to prayer rooms and Wi-Fi access. The airport also offers business centers for professionals, VIP services, and pet facilities for those traveling with animals.

Whether you need a place to relax, work, or shop, Istanbul Airport has it all.

Istanbul Airport Lounges

One of the standout features of Istanbul Airport is its collection of luxury lounges. Travelers can unwind in comfort at the IGA Lounge, the Turkish Airlines Lounge, or other airline-specific lounges that offer free Wi-Fi, showers, sleeping areas, and complimentary food and beverages. Access can be purchased at the airport or gained through membership programs like Priority Pass.

For those wondering, yes, alcohol is served in many of the lounges, so you can enjoy a drink while you relax.

How to Get Free Lounge Access:

Passengers flying business or first class with Turkish Airlines or other premium airlines automatically gain access to certain lounges. Additionally, Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles elite members and Priority Pass holders can also enter for free. Otherwise, you can purchase access at the door if you don’t meet the criteria.

Istanbul Airport Shopping Options

Istanbul Airport is a shopping paradise with a huge variety of duty-free shops offering everything from luxury goods and designer brands to local Turkish products and souvenirs. You’ll find top names like Dior, Chanel, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton, as well as a selection of local Turkish products such as Turkish Delight, spices, and handcrafted goods.

Duty-Free Shopping:

Located in the duty-free zone near Terminal 1, passengers can enjoy tax-free shopping before their flights. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, electronics, or Turkish souvenirs, the duty-free area has it all.

Istanbul Airport Restaurants

Istanbul Airport boasts a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Whether you're craving traditional Turkish cuisine, international fast food, or a quick coffee, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top dining places include Simdi Lokanta, Turcuisine, and Turkish restaurants offering delicious meze, kebabs, and baklava.

You can also enjoy a variety of cafes like Starbucks and Cafe Nero for a quick coffee, or you can find a cafe for breakfast near the departure gates.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity at Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal for passengers. Simply connect to the airport's Wi-Fi network and follow the instructions to sign in. There are also charging stations scattered throughout the airport to keep your devices powered.

Istanbul Airport Baggage Handling and Storage

The baggage handling services at Istanbul Airport are efficient and reliable. If you need to store your luggage during a long layover, there are baggage storage facilities available on the land side and air side. These facilities are located near the Lost and Found department in the arrivals section.

For passengers needing assistance with their baggage, the airport offers porter services.

Istanbul Airport Parking

There are several parking options at Istanbul Airport, including short-term, long-term, and valet services. The parking lots are easily accessible from the terminals and provide disabled parking spaces close to the entrances. Istanbul Airport offers a user-friendly online reservation system, allowing you to book your parking spot in advance.

Currency Exchange and ATM Machines

You can find multiple currency exchange counters and ATM machines throughout Istanbul Airport. These are located in both the arrivals and departures areas, ensuring you have access to cash in various currencies.

Medical Services and Prayer Rooms

Istanbul Airport offers 24/7 medical services for travelers who may need assistance. There are also designated prayer rooms for both men and women, located in different parts of the terminal.

For those who wish to relax or freshen up, there are spa and wellness services available at the IGA Lounge and other premium lounges.

Family Facilities at Istanbul Airport

Traveling with kids? Istanbul Airport has family-friendly facilities, including play areas for children, baby care rooms, and services that make traveling with little ones easier. The play areas are equipped with toys and activities to keep children entertained during layovers.

VIP Services and Business Centers

If you’re a VIP traveler or need to work while at the airport, Istanbul Airport provides VIP services and business centers. These areas offer quiet works paces, meeting rooms, and concierge services to make your trip smoother.

Transportation and Car Rental

Once you land at Istanbul Airport, you'll have plenty of transportation options. Taxis, airport shuttles, and public transportation are available to take you to the city center or other destinations. Additionally, car rental services, including Rento, are available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Rento offers reliable airport transfer services and car rental with driver options to help you navigate Istanbul comfortably.

Sleep Pods and Rest Areas

Istanbul Airport is equipped with sleep pods that passengers can rent by the hour for a quick rest. These pods are ideal for travelers with long layovers or those needing to catch up on sleep. The price of a sleep pod depends on the duration, and you can rent them at various points throughout the airport.

Can You Sleep in Istanbul Airport?

Yes, Istanbul Airport offers designated rest areas and sleep pods for travelers to use between flights. Additionally, there are several airport lounges equipped with sleeping areas and showers for passengers to freshen up.

Free Showers:

Showers are available for passengers at select lounges, including the Turkish Airlines Lounge and the IGA Lounge. However, some lounges may charge a fee for access if you're not a member.

Lost and Found

The Lost and Found office at Istanbul Airport is located in the Arrivals section. If you've misplaced an item, you can report it online or visit the office directly to inquire about lost items.

Layovers and Customs at Istanbul Airport

Many travelers wonder if they can leave the airport during a long layover at Istanbul Airport. The good news is, yes, you can leave the airport during a layover, in which case you might want to know more about things to do near IST Istanbul airport , but you need to consider the time required to pass through customs and security.

How Long Does It Take to Get Through Customs?

It typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour to clear customs, depending on the time of day and the number of passengers. If your layover is long enough, you can explore the city or enjoy the various amenities within the airport.

Customs During Layovers:

If you’re just connecting through Istanbul Airport on an international flight and not leaving the airport, you don’t need to go through customs. However, if you're changing terminals or exiting the airport, customs clearance will be necessary.

Final Thoughts: How Rento Enhances Your Istanbul Airport Experience

If you need seamless transportation to or from Istanbul Airport, Rento provides premium airport transfer services with reliable drivers who ensure you reach your destination comfortably. We also offer car rental with driver services for travelers who want to explore Istanbul at their own pace.

Whether you’re looking for a smooth airport transfer or a rental car, Rento has you covered.

FAQs

Is alcohol served in Istanbul Airport?

Yes, alcohol is available at various restaurants, cafes, and airport lounges.

How can I get free lounge access at Istanbul Airport?

Flying business class, holding elite airline status, or having a membership with Priority Pass can grant you free access to select lounges.

How long does it take to get through customs at Istanbul Airport?

On average, it takes between 30 minutes and an hour to pass through customs, depending on the time of day and volume of passengers.

What are the amenities at Istanbul International Airport?

Amenities include lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, Wi-Fi, sleep pods, prayer rooms, and more.

Is there a room to sleep in Istanbul Airport?

Yes, you can rent sleep pods by the hour or access lounges with sleeping areas.

How much is a sleep pod in Istanbul Airport?

Prices vary depending on the duration of rental but are typically affordable for a few hours of rest.

Can you leave Istanbul Airport during a layover?

Yes, passengers can leave the airport during a layover, but customs clearance may be required.

Do you have to go through customs on a layover in Istanbul Airport?

Not unless you are leaving the airport or changing terminals.

A Complete Guide to Istanbul Airport Facilities and Amenities

Contents