Transfer from Istanbul Ataturk Airport to Sabiha Gokcen Airport
I occasionally come across this question in travel forums and the similar: “How can I go to Sabiha Gokcen Airport from Istanbul International (Ataturk) Airport?” As there is no direct shuttle available, people who like to travel without a tourism company and with a tight budget usually want to learn if there is an economic way. Well, yes, there is.
A little geography first. Istanbul Airport is the main international air gateway for Turkey and situated on the almost far western edge of Istanbul, at the European side as the locals call it. Whereas the recently built Sabiha Gokcen is on the far eastern edge, at the Asian side, mostly used for domestic flights and some charters. The following is not only the cheapest but also maybe the fastest way if you strike rush hour traffic. It is convenient, relaxed and air-conditioned all the way.
After you clear customs at Istanbul airport, please look for Havas (one of the ground handling companies) Bus Service signs. Havas operates shuttles to downtown and Bakirkoy Sea bus port, which is your destination in this case. You will take the shuttle to Bakirkoy Sea bus terminal, the rate should be a few dollars per person and there are frequent trips so you do not have to wait long. The trip will last approximately 15 minutes.
Once you arrive the sea bus terminal, get a ticket for Bostanci, your second destination. There is at least one trip available in every hour. If you are a smoker, do not forget to satisfy your lungs before entering the terminal. You are not allowed to smoke inside, even at the open areas. The rate is slightly less than 4.00 usd at the time of writing this article and your trip will last 40/50 minutes, depending on the route of the sea bus. The last sea bus is at 21:15.
When you arrive Bostanci, you can have another fag if you wish. Just outside the terminal you will wait for your bus. That’s right, you do not even have to walk. IETT, Istanbul Public Transport Company is running hourly services to Sabiha Gokcen from the sea bus terminal. The departures are at the hour, travel time about 30 minutes, cost again around 2.00 usd. Your bus has a call-sign (If I can use the term) of E-9, and an airport sign is clearly visible on the bus. One final note: All buses use an electronic ticketing system and if you are planning to stay and use public transport in Istanbul, you should get an electronic ticket. Otherwise, don’t bother. Pay the driver in cash (all of the drivers have their own smart tickets) and he will take care of the rest.
Have a safe trip.
