Istanbul Airport (IST)

There are lots of parking options for travellers driving to Istanbul Airport, including short-term and long-term rates, valet services and dedicated family parking facilities. The Blue, Yellow and Red Car Parks are ideal for those flying out of the International Departures area of the airport, while the Turquoise and Purple Car Parks will likely be more convenient for those catching domestic flights.  

A number of car rental companies, including Budget, Europcar and Sixt, are available in the Domestic Arrivals area of Istanbul Airport. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

There are three different taxi categories for travellers catching a ride from Istanbul Airport: Orange (the most affordable), Turquoise (middle tier) and Black (luxury service). 

Airport shuttles and hotel transfers provide a good balance of convenience and affordability when travelling to or from Istanbul Airport. It’s worth organising this in advance, so ask your Travel Expert to help you book airport or hotel transfers today! 

The Istanbul Metro is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get from Istanbul Airport to the city centre, with the M11 metro line running frequently between the airport and Gayrettepe station with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes. IETT and Havaist buses are also good options for those looking to get from Istanbul Airport to Istanbul’s city centre via public transport. See the relevant transport websites for up-to-date information on timetables and fares. 

Flights to and from Istanbul Airport all operate out of a single terminal, so there’s no need to worry about terminal transfers. 

As a busy international hub, there are lots of different airlines servicing Istanbul Airport (IST). Major carriers include Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways and Emirates. For a more complete list, see the page above. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Istanbul Airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of transport options available from Istanbul Airport to the city centre (and vice versa), including airport shuttles, car rentals, taxi transfers and public transport connections like the M11 metro line or IETT and Havaist buses. 

Yes, there are several lounges at Istanbul Airport, including iGA Lounge, the Turkish Airlines Domestic Lounge and the Turkish Airlines International Lounge. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access airport lounges at Istanbul Airport. 

If you’re looking for showers or a quiet space to relax while you wait for your flight, check the facilities, opening times and whether you’re able to access any of the airport lounges at Istanbul Airport. Ready to book accommodation for your trip to Turkey? Ask your Travel Expert to help you find the perfect airport hotel or city stay today! 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Istanbul booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions.

Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, access to competitions, exclusive deals and access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Istanbul Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.  

All flights operate from a single terminal at Istanbul Airport, although due to the airport’s size, it’s a good idea to double-check your departure gate and arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.  

Yes, short-term and long-term parking is available at Istanbul Airport. Check with the airport directly for more information on airport parking and the current rates. 

Travelling with the little ones? At Istanbul Airport, passengers can make use of the family priority security checkpoint services, baby care rooms (equipped with changing tables and nursing areas), children’s playgrounds and dedicated family first parking spaces.  

Keen to do a little retail therapy at the airport? A number of souvenir, retail stores and dining options are available for you to enjoy before your flight, including duty-free shopping. Check the Istanbul Airport terminal map or website for an up-to-date list of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Istanbul Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially when booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds.