AJet
Cheapest Flights to Istanbul
AJet
Pegasus
Pegasus
Flynas
flyadeal
flyadeal
Flynas
flyadeal
Last update: 09 November 2026 17:50
About Istanbul
Istanbul, the largest city in Türkiye, is a vibrant metropolis that straddles two continents—Europe and Asia—offering a unique blend of cultures, history, and modernity. As of 2023, Istanbul has a population of over 15 million people, making it one of the most populous cities in the world.
The climate of Istanbul is temperate, with hot, humid summers and cold, wet winters. The city receives most of its rainfall during the winter months, particularly from November to February. The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city’s numerous outdoor attractions can be enjoyed to the fullest.
Istanbul is served by two major international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Both airports are major hubs in the region, offering extensive connectivity to cities around the world, including direct flights from Saudi Arabia. Airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Saudia, and Pegasus Airlines operate frequent flights to Istanbul from major Saudi cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
Istanbul’s cuisine is a feast for the senses, reflecting the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Traditional dishes like Döner, Meze, and Kebab are widely enjoyed, while the city’s sweets, such as Baklava and Turkish Delight, are famous worldwide. The bustling markets, like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, are perfect places to sample local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs.
Istanbul is home to some of the world’s most iconic historical sites. The Hagia Sophia, originally a cathedral, later a mosque, and now a museum, is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. The Blue Mosque, with its stunning blue-tiled interior and six minarets, is another must-see landmark. The Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the empire's rulers.
For those interested in modern attractions, the bustling Istiklal Avenue and the chic Nişantaşı district offer shopping, dining, and entertainment options that rival any global city. The Bosphorus Strait, which divides the city into its European and Asian parts, provides breathtaking views and can be explored via a scenic boat cruise.
Outdoor activities in Istanbul include exploring the historic Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city, taking a stroll along the Bosphorus promenade, or enjoying a picnic in one of the city’s many parks like the Emirgan Park, especially beautiful during the tulip season.
Saudi Arabian nationals visiting Istanbul can enter Türkiye without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, thanks to the visa-free entry agreement between Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. However, it is always recommended to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before planning your trip.
Transportation to Istanbul City Center from Airport
Sabiha Gökçen Intl. Airport
Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located in Pendik, on the Anatolian Side of Istanbul. From the airport, you can get to the city center by metro, municipal bus, Havabus, public transport with a Marmaray transfer, taxi, car rental, or transfer service.
Metro- The airport is the terminus of the M4 Kadıköy–Sabiha Gökçen Airport metro line. The line takes about 50 minutes to get from the airport to Kadıköy.
- You can transfer to Marmaray at Ayrılık Çeşmesi station and to the Metrobus at Ünalan station.
- Timetables and weekend night services vary according to the current IBB (Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality) schedule. For up-to-date information, you can check Metro Istanbul's announcements.
- You board the metro with an Istanbulkart. To buy a card, you can use the ticket machines at the stations.
- With Havabus services, you can reach Taksim and Kadıköy without transfers.
- The Taksim line follows the Kavacık and Zincirlikuyu route. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- The Kadıköy line also stops at Yenisahra. The journey to Kadıköy takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic.
- For current timetables and fares, you can check Havabus's official website.
- E10: Kadıköy via Kurtköy
- E3: 4. Levent Metro (European Side)
- 16S: Uzunçayır Metrobus
- MR60: Pendik YHT (Marmaray)
- Routes and schedules may change. For up-to-date information, you can check the official IETT website or mobile app.
- With Marmaray, you can reach many parts of the city by transferring.
- You can take the MR60 bus to Pendik YHT station and transfer to Marmaray.
- You can also take the M4 metro to Ayrılık Çeşmesi station and switch to Marmaray.
- You can take a taxi from the airport to anywhere in the city.
- Bridge and tunnel tolls are paid by the passenger.
- There are offices of international and local car rental companies at the airport.
- If you make a reservation in advance, you can pick up your car without waiting in line.
- You can travel comfortably from the airport to different parts of the city with a private transfer service.
- It is recommended to book your transfer at least one day in advance.
Istanbul Airport
You can reach the city by metro, bus, Havaist shuttle, taxi, rental car, or private transfer. Public transportation may require an additional connection.
MetroThe M11 metro line connects Gayrettepe, Istanbul Airport, and Halkalı, with 15 stations along its 69-kilometer route. The trip between the airport and Gayrettepe takes about 30 minutes. Check the timetable for current service hours, especially for late-night or early-morning trips.
- Stops between the airport and Gayrettepe: İhsaniye, Göktürk, Kemerburgaz, Üniversite-Hasdal, and Kağıthane
- Transfer at Gayrettepe: M2 Hacıosman – Yenikapı metro line (for Taksim) and the Metrobus at Zincirlikuyu
- Transfer at Halkalı: Marmaray
İETT runs five bus lines from the airport to destinations across the city, including Mahmutbey, Mecidiyeköy, Halkalı, Arnavutköy, and Sarıyer. Bus trips take longer than the metro and depend on traffic.
- Lines: H-1, H-2, H-3, H-6, and H-8
Havaist runs shuttles from the airport to more than 10 destinations across the city. The Taksim shuttle stops at Beşiktaş on the way. Fares and accepted payment methods depend on the route, so check the Havaist website or app for current details.
- Destinations include Sultanahmet, Taksim, Aksaray, Kadıköy, Bakırköy, Esenler Bus Terminal, Beylikdüzü, Avcılar–Bahçeşehir, Halkalı–Başakşehir, Silivri, Arnavutköy, and Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Yellow, turquoise, and black taxis serve the airport 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All taxis charge by meter, and you pay any bridge crossings, bus terminal exit fees, and toll roads on top of the fare. Turquoise and black taxis cost more than yellow taxis (currently about 15% and 70% more).
Car RentalSeveral car rental companies have desks at the airport. A rental car gives you flexibility to visit the Historic Peninsula, Taksim, Kadıköy, Üsküdar, Florya, Polonezköy, Çatalca, and Şile. Book before you arrive to speed up pickup.
TransferA private transfer takes you from the airport to your chosen destination in Istanbul. It generally costs more than public transportation, but you travel door to door in comfort. Booking in advance is recommended.
Istanbul Weather
5-Day Forecast • Min / Max Temperature
More Information About Istanbul
Istanbul Quick Access
Popular Travel Articles About Istanbul
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Wingie offer the cheapest flights to Istanbul?
To which airport are the flights to Istanbul arranged?
How many hours does it take to travel to Istanbul by plane?
Which airlines have direct flights to Istanbul from which cities?
Get exclusive deals on the WINGIE app!
Trusted by travelers, with over 18 million installs. Download the WINGIE app now and enjoy great hotel deals!
DOWNLOAD NOW









