Sabiha Gokcen Airport

🛬 Sabiha Gökçen Airport Guide 2025 Planning a trip to Istanbul and landing at Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)? Then this guide has everything you need. As Istanbul’s second major airport, it’s especially ideal for travelers heading to the Anatolian (Asian) side of the city. Let’s dive into the details! ✈️ 📍Where is Sabiha Gökçen Airport? Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located in the Pendik district on the Asian side of Istanbul. Named after Turkey’s first female fighter pilot, it serves over 35 million passengers annually. 🗺️ Distance to Taksim: Around 45–50 km 🚗 Distance to Kadıköy: Approximately 30 km 📍 Best choice if you’re staying or exploring the Asian side of Istanbul 🛬 First Step: Terminal Layout at Sabiha Gökçen The airport has a single terminal serving both domestic and international flights. Though not very large, it’s well-organized and easy to navigate. Floor What’s there? Ground Floor Departures (Check-in area) Lower Floor Arrivals (Baggage claim & exit) Upper Floors Food & beverage, shopping, lounge areas 🍽️ Where to Grab a Bite or Coffee? Need a break while waiting for your flight or after landing? Here are some top spots inside SAW: Local Turkish Flavors: Simit Sarayı – Classic Turkish breakfast and tea Pidem – Fresh pide and warm Turkish meals Café Nero & Kahve Dünyası – Perfect for coffee lovers International Chains: Burger King, Popeyes – Quick and filling options Starbucks – A familiar and comfy place to sit and sip 🛍️ A Mini Paradise for Shoppers Though not as massive as Istanbul Airport, Sabiha Gökçen has a well-planned duty-free zone. You'll find: Souvenirs Perfumes & cosmetics Turkish delights, coffee, and chocolates Bookstores like D&R 📌 Great way to pass the time before or after your flight 🧭 Navigate SAW with Ease 📱 ISG Mobile App – Flight info and airport map 📍 Signage – Clear directions in Turkish and English 👩‍💼 Information Desks – Helpful staff always nearby 📶 Technology & Practical Services Wi-Fi – 1 hour of free internet Charging Stations & USB ports – Available throughout waiting areas Left Luggage Lockers – Pay-per-hour lockers for your bags 🤲 Prayer & Resting Areas Mosques (Mescit) – Separate areas for departures and arrivals Lounges – Free for business class; paid access available too Family & Baby Rooms – Convenient spaces for families with young children 💡 Lifesaving Tips at SAW 📍 Arriving 2 hours before your flight is usually enough (less crowded than Istanbul Airport) 🧳 Don’t lose your baggage tag — the terminal is small but mix-ups can happen ☕ Compare duty-free café prices with outside options after entering the terminal 🎯 Final Word: Compact Yet Efficient Sabiha Gökçen Airport is the perfect choice for those looking to avoid the busy traffic around Istanbul Airport. Especially if you’re heading to the Asian side, flying here saves you time. With a single terminal, you’re unlikely to get lost and the process is generally faster. 🚗 Easily Reachable from Anywhere in Istanbul! Whether you land at Sabiha Gökçen or Istanbul Airport… Whether you’re staying at a hotel in the city center or another location — We get you to your destination, like the Basilica Cistern, in comfort. ✅ Airport transfers ✅ Hotel pick-up ✅ Private city rides ✅ Multilingual drivers ✅ 24/7 customer support