06 · Airport Istanbul FAQ
Airport Istanbul Taxi & Transfer FAQ
The questions every traveller asks about Airport Istanbul taxis, fares, payment and transfers from IST or Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). Click any item to expand.
Updated
Where is the official taxi rank at Istanbul Airport (IST)?
Follow the "Taxi" signs from the arrivals hall down to the lower kerb. There is a single official rank with marshals directing the queue. Never accept rides from people approaching you inside the terminal — those are unlicensed and routinely overcharge.
What does a taxi from IST to Sultanahmet cost?
Roughly ₺1,200–1,500 (around €35–45) on the metered fare, plus motorway tolls of ~₺50 reimbursed to the driver. The exact amount depends on traffic. There is no fixed-price option from the official rank — refuse any "fixed" offer.
Can I pay with a foreign card?
In apps (Uber, BiTaksi, iTaksi) — yes, foreign Visa/Mastercard work. In street taxis — increasingly yes via POS terminals, but always carry some TL cash as backup. Metro turnstiles accept contactless bank cards directly.
Is the metro accessible with luggage?
The M11 (IST) and M4 (SAW) airport lines have dedicated luggage space and step-free access. Most central stations have lifts. The older M1 and tram lines on the historic peninsula have stairs at some stops.
What if my flight lands at 03:00 — is anything running?
Yes. The official taxi ranks at IST and SAW operate 24/7. Havaist (IST) and HAVABUS (SAW) coaches run all night with reduced frequency. Metro lines do not run overnight — first M11 trains start around 06:00.
Are app prices different from street taxis?
No. BiTaksi, Uber and iTaksi all dispatch the same metropolitan licensed taxis on the same regulated meter. You're paying for the booking trust layer (driver name, plate, live tracking), not a different fare.
Are you affiliated with any operator?
No. This site is an independent traveller guide. We don't sell rides, take commission or partner with any taxi operator, app or transport authority. Information is collected from public sources and corrected by readers.