Istanbul Cheap Flights - IST

By far the larger of the two is Ataturk International Airport (IST). Despite an annual turnover of more than 20 million people, Ataturk International Airport manages to retain a feeling of spaciousness and ease. With over 60 check-in counters, passengers on flights to and from Istanbul will find that the time from landing to reaching the airport exit is a relatively stress-free 30 to 40 minutes. Modern in d?cor and business like in ambience, this Istanbul airport often contrasts with the image of an Arabian night adventure. Originally built in the seventies, constant investment, development and improvement have created a fresh attractive environment here. Its two terminals are connected by escalators and walkways.

Ataturk is located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the bustling city center, generally considered to be Galata (where the nightlife is also located). Ataturk is very well connected by transport. It is only 45 minutes away from the ancient Constantinople remains that permeate the Sultanahmet area of the city. Heading northeast from the Ataturk airport is easy as there are many options. Taxis are in abundance, should you desire the personal touch. Many travelers may prefer a slightly more economical option however, such as the metro train, or Havas airport buses. Be wary of those who offer special shuttle buses as these are often expensive and heavily commissioned.

If your flights are just passing through Istanbul airport, fret not. There are many hotels within a small radius, so stopovers and brief rests are easy to organize. The food and drink in the airport itself can be expensive, so a trip to the airport hotel for a quick nap at the hourly rate and snack is well worth it if you have the time.

The second airport in Istanbul is the Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), sometimes spelled as one word: SabihaGokcen. This airport is on the eastern Anatolian side of Istanbul. Budget flights and budget airlines often use this airport, but don't think that cheap flights equal a cheap Istanbul airport. This airport is equally well connected to Istanbul. There is again a Havas bus service to Taksim, the heart of Istanbul. Alternatively, you could catch the E10 bus for a cheap price and head to the river. One of the delights of the city is the ability to take ferries. River journeys are often enjoyable affairs. Kadikoy, 70 minutes away, has ferries that stop at many interesting water stops.