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by Hareesh Bahuleyan
Source: Photo by AXP Photography
Make the most of your layover in
Istanbul
Istanbul Airport | IST
by Hareesh BahuleyanLast Edit: May 2025
Istanbul Airport (IST) is a major international hub operating primarily from a single, vast terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. Turkish Airlines is the dominant carrier, using IST as its main base. For layovers, the airport offers extensive shopping, diverse dining options, numerous lounges, and even a museum (Istanbul Airport Museum) showcasing Turkish art and culture. It's designed for passenger comfort and efficient transfers, providing ample opportunities to relax or explore during transit.
Link to Airport's Official Website: https://www.istairport.com/
Transportation from Airport
🚇
Metro (M11 Line)
🚌
Havaist Airport Shuttle
🚖
Taxi
🚗
Private Transfers
Luggage Storage Options
🧳
Airport Lockers
🧳
Luggage Hero / Bounce
Must-See Attractions
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Category
Price Level
Layover Duration
Showing 5 of 5 attractions:
Photo by Haroon Ameer
Distance from Airport:40 km
cultural experience$$Long Layover
Topkapi Palace
Former residence of Ottoman sultans, now a museum showcasing imperial treasures and architecture.
💡
Our Tip: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season
Opening Hours:Open 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, closed Tuesdays
Photo by Hans-Jürgen Weinhardt
Distance from Airport:40 km
cultural experience$Long Layover
Sultanahmet District
The heart of Istanbul's Old City, featuring iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
💡
Our Tip: Consider booking a guided tour to maximize your time and skip lines at popular sites
Opening Hours:Open daily, hours vary by specific site
Photo by Mahmut Yıldız
Distance from Airport:42 km
cultural experienceFreeMedium Layover
Grand Bazaar
One of the world's largest and oldest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops.
💡
Our Tip: Practice your bargaining skills and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas
Opening Hours:Open 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, closed Sundays
Photo by Siamak Masnavi
Distance from Airport:40 km
cultural experience$$Medium Layover
Bosphorus Strait Cruise
Enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline and landmarks from the water.
💡
Our Tip: Choose a shorter cruise option if time is limited. Some tours include airport pickup
Opening Hours:Various departure times throughout the day
Photo by Efe Kekikciler
Distance from Airport:29 km
natureFreeMedium Layover
Belgrad Forest
A vast forest area perfect for hiking, picnicking, and escaping the city bustle.
💡
Our Tip: Bring comfortable shoes and water. Consider hiring a guide for hiking trails
Opening Hours:Open 24/7
Local Cuisine
Photo by Engin Akyurt
Main Course
Kebab
Various types of grilled or roasted meat dishes, including cağ kebab - thin slivers of marinated lamb cooked horizontally and served on skewers.
Photo by Tripadvisor
Appetizer
Manti
Small dumplings filled with spiced meat, typically served with yogurt sauce and spices.
Photo by Mahsa Shamshiri Fard
Street Food
Pide
A boat-shaped flatbread topped with various ingredients, often described as Turkish pizza.
Photo by Engin Akyurt
Dessert
Baklava
A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
Photo by Gabriele Stravinskaite
Beverage
Turkish Coffee
A strong, unfiltered coffee served in small cups, often accompanied by a glass of water.