Istanbul Airport

✈️ Istanbul Airport (IST) Guide 2025: Detailed Information for First-Time Visitors Welcome to Istanbul! If this is your first time arriving at Istanbul Airport or you’re looking for detailed info before your trip, you’re in the right place. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Istanbul Airport: services inside, shopping and dining options, apps, and much more. Let’s get started! 🌍 📍 Where is Istanbul Airport? Istanbul Airport (IATA code: IST) is located on the European side, in the Arnavutköy district. About 40-45 km from the city center (for example, Taksim), this massive airport is one of Europe’s largest, serving over 90 million passengers annually. 🛬 First Steps Inside the Airport: What’s Inside? Istanbul Airport is modern, spacious, and well-organized. When you step inside, you’ll find these main areas: Area Description Floor 2: Departures (Check-in & boarding) Floor 1: Arrivals (Passport control & baggage claim) Floor -2: Metro connection & technical areas Common Areas Duty Free, restaurants, banks, prayer rooms, luggage storage 🧭 Fear of Getting Lost? Here’s How to Navigate Istanbul Airport Although the airport is large, there are many help points to guide you: 📱 IGA Mobile App: Flight info and indoor maps at your fingertips. 🧭 Electronic Signage: Clear directions to gates, passport control, baggage claim, etc. 👩‍💼 Information Desks: Staff speak English, Turkish, and some also speak Arabic. 🍽️ What to Eat at Istanbul Airport and Where? If you want to grab a bite before your flight or after landing, you have plenty of options: Turkish Cuisine: Tadında Anadolu – Traditional meats, mezes, and olive oil dishes Simit Sarayı – Simit, pastries, tea, and classic Turkish breakfast International Options: Burger King, McDonald’s – Quick and filling meals Plus Kitchen – Healthy and fresh choices Starbucks, Gloria Jean’s – Perfect for coffee lovers 🛍️ Shopping Fun: Duty Free and More For shopping enthusiasts, Istanbul Airport offers a large Duty Free zone. Also find: Perfumes, cosmetics, electronics Turkish delights and souvenirs Watches, glasses, bags 📌 Prices are usually listed in Euros, so it’s helpful to compare with your local prices. 📶 Tech Services & Practical Tips Wi-Fi: Free 1-hour connection with your passport number Charging Stations: Plenty of power outlets and USB ports throughout seating areas Luggage Storage: Hourly paid luggage lockers available 🤲 Rest & Prayer Areas at Istanbul Airport Prayer Rooms: Available on both arrivals and departures floors Lounges: Free for business/first-class ticket holders; paid access for others Kids’ Play Areas: Small play zones designed for families 💡 5 Golden Tips to Save Time at Istanbul Airport! Arrive 2-3 hours before your flight. Download the IGA app for instant gate updates. Double-check your luggage tags to avoid mix-ups in this large terminal. Use online check-in for faster processing. Carry a small snack for quick energy during busy times. 🎯 Summary: Istanbul Airport — A Modern & Comfortable Starting Point Whether you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time or just making a transfer, this airport offers a comfortable experience with its modern design, comprehensive services, and user-friendly layout. Being prepared will make your time at the airport much more enjoyable. 🚗 Easy Transport from Anywhere in Istanbul! Whether you’re at Sabiha Gökçen Airport, Istanbul Airport, or staying in the city center… Whether at a hotel or another location — no matter where you are, we get you to Yerebatan Cistern in comfort. ✅ Airport transfers ✅ Hotel pickups ✅ Private city transportation ✅ Best prices guaranteed ✅ 24/7 support