A special city is located literally at the border of Asia and Europe. Once the proud capital of the Byzantine Empire, it is nowadays a modern metropolis with 13 million inhabitants. In Istanbul, East and West go hand in hand. It is impossible to explain: you must experience it for yourself...
East meets west in a tantalising fusion of style in this famous Turkish city. Whether relaxing in one of the many exotic tea gardens or exploring one of the planet's greatest shopping experiences in the Grand Bazaar, the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of the city and its people will surely leave you wanting more. After taking in the awe-inspiring ancient architecture that runs throughout the city why not indulge in the famous Turkish baths, or really treat yourself with some of the seriously delicious local cuisine.
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Airport
To and from the airport:
Istanbul Atatürk Airport
Tram and Metro
The Metro runs from Ataturk Airport to Istanbul city every 15-20 minutes from about 6:00 till 23:00. The Airport Railway station is only a few minutes walk from any terminal. You should take the Metro to Zeytinburnu and change on to the tram to reach the heart of Old city and also the beginning of New City. Each journry costs TL1.95 with an Istanbulkart - do not forget to buy one at the airport before you depart. The tram is always crowded at all times of the day, and may not be suitable if you have a lot of luggage.
Airport Bus
Havatas run modern airconditioned buses from both airports to Taxsim Square, and from Sabiha Gökçen to the ferry terminal at Kadikoy where you can catch the boat to Eminönü and take the tram to your destination.. These buses have plenty of room for all your luggage.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
The Havatas buses depart Sabiha Gökçen for the Kadikoy ferry terminal every 30 minutes on the hour and half hour. The first bus departs at 04:00 am, the last bus at 01:00 am. The one-way fare is TL13, and the buses accept the Istanbulkart. This is probably the best, and often the quickest way to get to the city centre, and has the added advantage of a cheap Bosphorus cruise. You can catch the ferry from Kadikoy to Eminonu for Sultanahmet, or Karakoy for Galata and Beyoglu. Other Havataş buses go to Taksim Square on the European shore every 30 minutes on the hour and half hour from 03:30 am until 01:00 am. The journey can take as little as 90 minutes, or much longer, depending on traffic. The one-way fare is TL18
More information to be found at: Atatürk Airport / Sabiha Gökçen
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Airlines
Scheduled Airlines from the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany:
Istanbul Atatürk Airport: Jetairfly, KLM, Lufthansa, Onur Air, Turkish Airlines,
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport: Corendon, Germanwings, Pegasus Airlines, Transavia, Turkish Airlines