How to get from Istanbul airports to Galata & Taksim

Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side. From each one there are three practical ways to reach Galata and Taksim — this is exactly how we explain it to our own guests.

From Istanbul Airport (IST)

🚕 Taxi

The most convenient option. About 40–60 minutes depending on traffic, around 1,500–2,000 TRY (€38–50 / $42–55). Bridge and motorway tolls are charged separately.

🚌 Havaist shuttle bus

Take the Havaist bus to Taksim (60–90 minutes, 355 TRY / about €9). From Taksim it is a short taxi ride (300–400 TRY / €7–10) or a 10–15 minute walk to Galata and Beyoğlu.

🚇 Metro

Take the M11 from the airport to Gayrettepe, change to the M2 (towards Yenikapı) and get off at Şişhane for Galata, or at Taksim for Cihangir and Çukurcuma. About 85–130 TRY (€2–3) with an İstanbulkart.

From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)

🚕 Taxi

About 50–75 minutes depending on traffic, around 1,500–1,800 TRY (€38–45 / $41–50). Bridge tolls are charged separately.

🚌 Havabus shuttle bus

Take the Havabus to Taksim (60–90 minutes, 367 TRY / about €9), then a short taxi ride (300–400 TRY / €7–10) or a 10–15 minute walk.

🚇 Metro & Marmaray

Take the M4 to Ayrılık Çeşmesi and change to the Marmaray (towards Halkalı). For Galata and Karaköy, get off at Sirkeci and take the T1 tram to Karaköy. For Şişhane or Taksim, get off at Yenikapı and take the M2. About 110–150 TRY (€3–4) with an İstanbulkart.

The last step to our apartments

Galata Tower Heritage Loft With Stunning Views

Metro: Şişhane station, then a short walk down to Galata Tower. From Taksim: a 15-minute walk or a short taxi. From SAW by rail: Marmaray to Sirkeci and the T1 tram to Karaköy, then a short walk up the hill.

Magical Sea View — Only 20 Steps to Galata Tower

Just 20 steps from Galata Tower — same route: Şişhane metro station and a short walk, or Karaköy tram stop and a short walk up the hill.

Golden Horn Hidden Heaven

On Bedrettin Sokak, a 2-minute walk from Şişhane metro station. From Taksim: a 10-minute walk.

Hidden Oasis: Historic 2BR with Views in Taksim

In Çukurcuma, a 15-minute walk from Taksim station or a short taxi ride (300–400 TRY).

The Heaven on Heritage Street

On Cezayir Street (the famous “French Street”), a 10–15 minute walk from Taksim station or a short taxi ride.

Good to know

Buy an İstanbulkart from the machines at the airport metro and bus stops. One card can be tapped for several people travelling together.
Use the official taxi rank and make sure the meter is running. Taxi apps such as BiTaksi and Uber also work in Istanbul.
Prices are as of 2026 and can change with traffic and exchange rates.