Where to stay near Istanbul airport
Table Of Contents
Istanbul offers countless activities and attractions, from cobblestone streets, bustling markets and grandiose mosques to nightlife. Istanbul has the best cuisine in the country, and no matter your preference, there are hotels, serviced apartments, guesthouses and hostels we can recommend. Whether you are looking for a romantic luxury stay or a budget stay with plenty to explore, we have you covered. It is quite easy to find the right accommodation near the airport.
The tourist part of European Istanbul is divided into two regions: the Fatih region and the Beyoglu region. In this guide to the best areas in Istanbul, you will learn what to expect in each neighborhood, what attractions are nearby, the pros and cons, and which Istanbul accommodations you should book.
Understanding Istanbul Airport
Location and accessibility of Istanbul Airport
Istanbul International Airport is on the European side of Istanbul. The airport is close to major highways, making it easily accessible by car and public transportation. Travel from IST Airport to Istanbul city center is 42 km, about a 45-minute ride.
Types of terminals at Istanbul Airport
The terminal building has five concourses, but there is only one airport security area for domestic flights and another for international passengers. The lack of an internal transit system increases the risk of missing an upcoming flight, and the moving walkways are insufficient. The walking distance between gates and from the central terminal zone to each pier makes the transfers inside the airport time-consuming and demanding.
Airlines operating from Istanbul Airport
- Turkish Airlines
- Pegasus Airlines
- Aegean Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- AtlasGlobal
- KLM
- Iraqi Airways
- Etihad Airways
- British Airways
- Aeroflot
- Emirates
- Lufthansa
- Egyptair
- Air France
- Air Moldova
- Kuwait Airways
- Gulf Air
- Iran Air
Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation Near Istanbul Airport
Proximity to the airport.
Think about the distance. Consider living within walking distance of places you would like to visit regularly. Apart from considering how far the accommodation is from the Istanbul airport, you might also consider the specific location.
Transportation options to and from the airport
If you are not using your car, you might want to use a shuttle, a rental car, or public transport. Choose accommodation close to your transport of choice.
Budget considerations
Think about your price range. It has to be a maximum figure of how much you would be happy to spend on accommodation. Knowing how much you can spend on accommodation helps when considering other factors and considering options later.
Amenities and facilities offered by the accommodation
Consider the amenities offered by a range of accommodations. Different types of accommodation offer various advantages, so ranking preferred amenities becomes a personal choice. If you want to cook most of your meals, look for self-catered homes. are the way to go.
Reviews and ratings of the accommodation
Reviews and ratings help you find the best accommodation of your choice. These are first-hand experiences from guests (Hubspot.com).
Types of Accommodation Near Istanbul Airport
Hotels
- Operla Hotels İstanbul Airport
- MQ Hotel Suites
- Airport Express Hotel İstanbul
- Skylon Airport Hotel
Serviced apartments
- YOTEL Istanbul Airport (Landside)
- Istanbul Airport Hotel
- EXPRESS PLUS HOTEL
- MENALO SUITES GARDEN NEW AIRPORT
Guesthouses
- Skylon Airport Hotel
- House Airport Hotel
- Gloria Airport Hotel
- Yeniköy house
Hostels
- Skylon Airport Hotel
- Airport Express Hotel İstanbul
- HANCHI Hostel
- House Airport Hotel
Top Accommodation Options Near Istanbul Airport
MQ Hotel Suites
MQ Hotel Suites has a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge, and a garden in Arnavutköy. It also provides guests with a sun terrace. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, a shuttle service, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property.
The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a wardrobe, a kettle, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a bidet. Istanbul is 43 km from MQ Hotel Suites, while Taksim is 41 km from the property. The nearest airport is Istanbul Airport, 16.3 km from the hotel. The standard room starts from 74.
World Class Airport Hotel
The hotel is in Arnavutköy and with Istanbul Sapphire reachable within 31 km. World Class Airport Hotel provides allergy-free rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi, and a bar. This 3-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The accommodation features airport transfers, while a car rental service is also available.
Guest rooms at the hotel come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom with a shower, toiletries, and a hairdryer. Some rooms have garden views and a coffee machine.
Each room is fitted with bed linen and towels. Turk Telekom Stadium is 31 km from the hotel, while Halic Congress Center is 32 km away. The nearest airport is Istanbul Airport, 9 km from the World Class Airport Hotel.
There is daily housekeeping, an airport shuttle, a 24-hour front desk, air conditioning, grocery shopping service, lobby fireplace, front-desk safe, laundry service, TV in a common area, and lockers available.
Other Accommodation Options Near Istanbul Airport
Durusu Club Hotel
Durusu Club Hotel is the closest hotel to New Istanbul Airport. The hotel is peaceful. All the rooms come with modern furnishings. They all feature a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Its spacious rooms offer a large seating area.
The hotel has an à la carte restaurant serving traditional and international cuisine. You can also have snacks and cocktails at Su Bar, and the wine house offers a cozy place to drink your wine with its fireplace.
Park Inn
It is a 4-star hotel, about 15,4 km and 16 mins from the New Istanbul Airport. The hotel has 97 guest rooms featuring Free High-speed Wireless Internet, individual climate control, 43-inch LED smart televisions and magnificent views. The hotel also offers a good restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Other amenities include a bar/lounge, 24-hour room service, and a business center.
Kemer Country Hotel
Kemer Country Hotel is a 5-star hotel, about 24 km and 25 mins from the New Istanbul Airport. It is accessible from the New Istanbul airport. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, and taxi service. Kemer Country Hotel has 35 inviting rooms, a clothes rack, complimentary tea, a dressing room, and linens in some rooms.
Tips for Booking Accommodation Near Istanbul Airport
Best time to book accommodation
Istanbul hotels are vest to book at their most economical in March. The rates you are charged may be 33% lower than in the high season and this is the best time to get a great deal.
Tricks for getting the best deals on accommodation
- Book upfront
- Book online via well-known hotel websites
Safety and security considerations
- Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when flashing cash or walking down back streets.
- Avoid some parts of it that are considered somewhat dangerous.
- Avoid walking around the city alone at night.
Top Restaurants and Attractions Near Istanbul Airport
- Mirror Restaurant & Bar
- Souq Istanbul
- Cemiyet Meyhane
- Salon Galata
- Nosh E Jaan Restaurant
- Divella Bistro Restaurant
Transportation Options to and from Istanbul Airport
Public transportation options
The best way to travel from Istanbul New Airport to the city center (Taksim Square) is via the H2 Line to Şişli-Mecidiyeköyis Station. Find the metro line M2 to Taksim Square. Alternatively, take the Havaist Line from Sultanahmet the IST 1S into the city center.
Taxi and private transfer options
You can hop in a taxi to take you anywhere in the city. Negotiate the price before getting in the cab or ask that the taxi meter be on for your trip. Most cabs will only take Turkish Lira in the form of cash. If you plan to venture outside of Istanbul, try renting a car. The roads in Turkey are well constructed and easy to drive on (Rac.co.uk). However, within Istanbul, the roads can be very chaotic. It is quicker to get around on public transportation.
How to Get Around Istanbul from Near the Airport
Overview of the transportation options available in Istanbul
The public transportation system in Istanbul is the best, the largest, and the most efficient in Turkey. Buses are the most affordable and economical way to get around in Istanbul. They serve nearly all of the city’s districts and cover most tourist areas, but they don’t have maps inside, and the stops are not announced. Buses are frequently overcrowded and difficult to catch has caused residents to seek out other modes of transit instead.
Take a taxi to Istanbul. Download one of the taxi Istanbul apps or hail one from a taxi stand. The Bitaksi app allows you to call a taxi to your location. Pre-trip information on your driver, including their rating, is available. Use a credit card in advance or after the trip. When it arrives, inform the driver of your destination. Use the navigation to determine the best route, as some taxi drivers may attempt to overcharge you by taking a longer route to your location. A taxi in Istanbul may be unaffordable, and it’s not always faster than taking public transportation.
Best modes of transportation for different types of travelers
Shuttles are for dailies and taxes for families. Public transport or driving yourself may be a good idea for solo travel.
Safety Considerations When Staying Near Istanbul Airport
Istanbul enjoys an average level of safety. There are petty crimes such as purse snatching, pickpocketing, and mugging, but you can still enjoy your time in the city. Terrorist attacks do happen, but they are few and far between. For solo female travelers, you might experience harassment from men, especially in the evenings and after dark.
Some women can tolerate this to a certain point, do most of their solo exploring during the day, and stay on more populated main roads at night. You can make friends in your hostel and go out together. Avoid taxi cabs like the plague. Reserve a shared or private transfer.
Best Times to Visit Istanbul
Overview of the Weather and Climate in Istanbul
Istanbul’s average temperature is around 14 °C (57 °F), placing the city on the warmer end of the temperate zone. Its coldest month is usually February,
Best times to visit based on weather and tourist crowds
The best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That’s when crowds at the city’s attractions are manageable, room rates are average and daytime temperatures generally sit in the 60s and 70s.
Comparison of each season based on the factors listed above
May is one of the best months to travel as it has summer-like weather in most northern hemispheres without the summer crowds.
Conclusion
To sum up, there are endless accommodations near the airport. If you are on a limited budget, stay in a nearby hotel. In Turkey, taxis and hotels are reasonably priced. If you drive a few kilometers from the airport, you will discover inns with reasonable rates. Expect to pay between 30 and 90 euros for a big accommodation outside the airport. Find the best accommodation near Istanbul Airport and share experiences.
FAQs
What is the distance between Istanbul Airport and the city center?
There is a difference of 47.9km.
What is the average cost of accommodation near Istanbul Airport?
Budget 47 per night.
What are the best transportation options for getting to and from Istanbul Airport?
Taxis are the best.
How far in advance should I book accommodation near Istanbul Airport?
You can book a month before.
Is it safe to stay near Istanbul Airport?
Yes, Istanbul enjoys an average level of safety.
What are the top restaurants and attractions near Istanbul Airport?
Med Kasap Et Restaurant, The House Cafe Istanbul Airport, and SULEYMAN Turkish Regional Cuisine.
What is the weather like in Istanbul throughout the year?
The weather in Istanbul varies throughout the year, with different seasons and temperature fluctuations. January and February are the coldest months, with average highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. In March and April, the weather is milder, ranging from 12°C to 17°C. May begins summer with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C.
June, July and August are the hottest months in Istanbul, with average highs of 29°C and lows of 18-20°C. In September and October, temperatures gradually drop, with average highs of 25°C and 20°C, respectively. November and December are the coldest months after January and February, with average highs of 15°C and 11°C, respectively.
Here is a table summarizing the monthly maximum and minimum temperatures in Istanbul:
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) |
| January | 9 | 3 |
| February | 9 | 3 |
| March | 12 | 5 |
| April | 17 | 8 |
| May | 22 | 13 |
| June | 27 | 18 |
| July | 29 | 20 |
| August | 29 | 20 |
| September | 25 | 17 |
| October | 20 | 13 |
| November | 15 | 8 |
| December | 11 | 5 |
Overall, Istanbul is a beautiful city all year round, offering different experiences depending on the season.
What are the best times to visit Istanbul?
The best time to visit Istanbul is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when temperatures are mild. Average temperatures in Istanbul range from 10°C to 20°C between March and May, gradually rising throughout the season. However, it’s important to know that temperatures can fluctuate and there can be cooler or warmer days. Also, it can rain a bit during this time, so it’s a good idea to pack layers and rain gear, just in case.
How can I get around Istanbul from near the airport?
From the Airport take the underground metro to the stop Zeytinburnu. At Zeytinburnu station, switch to the above-ground tram toward the Kabataş stop.
Are there any budget-friendly accommodation options near Istanbul Airport?
Yes, these are Skylon Airport Hotel, Gloria Airport Hotel, Secret Garden Motel Restaurant, and House Airport Hotel.
- Skylon Airport Hotel: 17 min (14.2 km) via Fatih Cd
- Gloria Airport Hotel: 18 min (15.5 km) via Fatih Cd.
- Secret Garden Motel Restaurant: 23 min (20.8 km) via D020.
- House Airport Hotel: 13 min (12.0 km) via Fatih Cd.