Istanbul, a city that connects two continents, is served by two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Both airports offer various transportation options to the city centre, conference venue, and the hotels.
Istanbul Airport (IST)
Located on the European side of the city, Istanbul Airport is closer to the conference venue.
Transportation Options
Havaist Buses: (https://www.hava.ist/?lang=en)
This is a comfortable and efficient shuttle service connecting the airport to various parts of the city. There are multiple lines serving different routes, so you can choose the one that best suits your destination. Havaist Ticket Prices: 5-6 Euros per person
Taxi: Taxis are available 24/7 at the airport. Ensure that the taxi meter is running to avoid any surprises with the fare. The ride to the city centre can take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic and your exact destination.
Private Car Services: Several companies offer pre-booked private transfers. This option provides a more personalized and comfortable experience.
Metro: From IST you can use the M11 line to go directly to Gayrettepe and then transfer to the M2 to go to Taksim or Yenikapi. (Approx 1 Euro per ride)
Public Bus: Various public bus services are accessible from IST, offering routes to key locations throughout the city. (Approx 1 Euro per ride)
For a comprehensive list of all transportation options from IST Airport, please refer to the airport’s transportation page: IST Airport Transportation.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
Situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen Airport is a bit further from the city centre and the conference venue compared to Istanbul Airport.
Transportation Options
Havabus Shuttles: Havabus offers a straightforward and cost-effective way to travel to and from Sabiha Gökçen Airport. The buses have routes to key areas in Istanbul, including Taksim and Kadıköy, which are well-connected to other parts of the city.
Havabus Ticket Prices: 3.6-4 Euros per person
Taxi: Taxis are available around the clock outside the terminal. As always, ensure that the taxi meter is on to get a fair rate.
Private Car Services and Rentals: For those preferring a more comfortable ride or needing to head directly to a specific location, private car services and car rentals offer flexibility and convenience.
Metro: From SAW you take the M4 to Kadiköy and then you can transfer to a boat to reach Eminönü or Kabatas. (Approx 1 Euro per ride)
Public Bus: Various public bus services are accessible from SAW, offering routes to key locations throughout the city. (Approx 1 Euro per ride)
For detailed information on all transportation options from SAW Airport, visit: SAW Airport Transportation.
Venue and Hotel Access Information
For those looking for directions to hotels and more detailed venue-related information, please visit the Venue Page. Here, you’ll find a map and detailed guidance on how to navigate to your accommodation and the event venue.
Istanbul Card
For travelling within Istanbul, the Istanbul Card is an essential tool. It is a rechargeable smart card used for paying fares on public transportation, including buses, trams, ferries, and the metro. The card can be purchased and topped up at kiosks and machines found at major transit stations, airports, and many convenience stores throughout the city.
Istanbul Card – approx. 2.1 Euros for the card and you can top up as you wish (approx. 0.55 Euros for one pass.)
Mobile Applications for Transportation
Here are some apps you can use to help find your route in the city.
Moovit app: https://moovitapp.com/ (install the app on your phone before you go…)
Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps