How to Get from Sabiha Gokcen to Taksim and Back: Metro, Shuttle Bus, Transfer, Taxi (2023)

Are you planning to travel to Istanbul and wondering how to get from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim? Look no further, we have got you covered! In this article, we will provide you with comprehensive information on the various transport options available, their prices, and durations. We will also give you some general tips that will ensure you have a smooth journey from Sabiha Gokcen to Taksim.

How Far is Sabiha Gokcen Airport from Taksim?

The distance between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and Taksim Square is approximately 40 km. Depending on the traffic situation, it can take anywhere from 70 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes to travel between the two destinations.

General Tips for Smooth Journey

Get Turkish Liras – Most transportation options mentioned below do not accept foreign currencies or big Turkish lira notes, so make sure to have some 5, 10, 20, or maximum 50 notes handy.
Get an Istanbul Kart – If you plan to use public transportation, getting an Istanbul Kart at the airport is a must. It’s not only cheaper, but it’s also mandatory on most public transportation lines these days.
Hotel Address – Make sure to have the exact address of your hotel written down or printed out, along with its telephone number.
Plan Your Trip or Book Transfer Online – This can save you time and hassle, especially if you are arriving during peak hours.
Arrive Early – We recommend arriving at least 1.5 hours before domestic flights and 2.5 hours before international flights.

Transport Options: Sabiha Gokcen Airport from Taksim

Option	Time	Price
Havabus Shuttle (SG-2)	2 hours 15 min, more during rush hour	67.85 TL
Private Shuttle	About 70 min	About 55$ (about 1 100 TL)
Taxi	About 70 min	No fixed price, but about 650 TL
Car Rental	About 70 min	From 650 TL for 24 hours + gas
Metro M4 Line + D36 Bus	2 hours	About 20 TL

Metro M4 Line + D36 Bus

If you do not mind using public transportation, then the best option for you is the Metro M4 Line. The line passes through all of Kadikoy and ends at the Kadikoy pier (near the Mood District). The Metro M4 is operational 24/7 from Friday to Sunday and from 06:00 to 00:00 on weekdays.

Take the M4 Line from Sabiha Gokcen to Goztepe Metro Station, and then change to the D36 Bus at the Goztepe Stop. Take off at the Taksim Stop.

Operating Hours: 24 hours a day from Friday to Sunday, and from 06:00 am to 00:00 am on weekdays
Journey Time: Approximately 75 minutes
Cost: 9.90 TL with Istanbul Kart

To make your journey smooth, ensure you have an IstanbulKart or Travel City Pass with sufficient funds, as it’s required for most public transportation lines and offers cheaper fares compared to single-use tokens.

How to Use the Metro M4 Line:

Locate one of the three entrances to the Metro M4 station at Sabiha Gokcen Airport terminal:
- Entrance No. 1: Domestic Terminal CIP Hall & Carpark
- Entrance No. 2: Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel
- Entrance No. 3: Terminal
Board the train towards Kadikoy and disembark at your desired station.

Keep in mind that during rush hours, the metro can become crowded, so be prepared for a bustling environment and plan your journey accordingly.

Havabus Shuttle (SG-2)

The Havabus Shuttle is a good option if you are looking for an affordable ride to Taksim without changes. However, it does have a schedule, so if you are in a hurry, it may not be the best choice for you. The bus operates between 06:30 am – 00:30 am, leaving every 30 minutes. The stops are Sabiha Gokcen Airport, Kavacik, FSM (2nd) Bridge, 1.Levent, Zincirlikuyu Metrobus stop, Dolapdere, and Taksim.

For the return journey from Taksim to Sabiha Gokcen, the bus operates between 03:30 am – 22:00 pm, leaving every 30 minutes. The departure point is Taksim Gezi Park Metro Exit, and the stops are Taksim, Besiktas, Bosphorus (1st) Bridge, TEM Access Road, and Sabiha Gokcen Airport.

Check the schedule on the official site.

Free Havabus Shuttle Service with Your Istanbul E-pass

Arrive in Istanbul stress-free with the Havabus shuttle service to/from Sabiha Gokcen Airport, available for free with your Istanbul E-pass. Travel comfortably and affordably between the airport and the city center. Don’t miss this fantastic perk – click the button below to get your Istanbul E-pass and secure your complimentary Havabus shuttle service.

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Private Shuttle

If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient way of traveling from Sabiha Gokcen to Taksim, then a private shuttle may be your best option. Private shuttles can pick you up at the exit floor and drop you off at the entry of the airport at the time you need. You can book a private shuttle online, and the prices may vary depending on the provider.

Make Your Arrival in Istanbul a Breeze with Welcome Pickups

We know that traveling to a new city can be both exciting and a bit daunting. That’s why we want to share with you our personal recommendation for a hassle-free airport transfer experience in Istanbul: Welcome Pickups.

Welcome Pickups provides reliable and affordable private transfers from Istanbul Airport straight to your accommodation. Their friendly, English-speaking drivers will greet you with a warm smile at the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name on it. It’s like having a local friend waiting to welcome you to their city!

What makes Welcome Pickups our top pick for Istanbul Airport transfers?

Transparent, fixed pricing with no surprise fees

Round-the-clock customer support
Real-time flight tracking to adjust for any delays
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your scheduled transfer
A range of vehicle options to accommodate your needs

Ready to simplify your arrival in Istanbul? Click the button below to book your transfer with Welcome Pickups. We’re confident that you’ll enjoy their service as much as we do. Safe travels and have a fantastic time in Istanbul!

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Taxi

Taking a taxi from Sabiha Gokcen to Taksim is an option, but we recommend taking a private transfer instead. There are many scams in Istanbul taxis, and you may end up with a fare that is significantly higher than the actual cost. Private transfers cost almost the same as taxis, but they are more trustworthy and safer. If you have a layover, think twice before taking a taxi because they can be unreliable.

Layover Tours: The Perfect Solution for Short Stays

If you find yourself with a layover in Istanbul, consider taking a layover tour to maximize your time and explore the city without worrying about transfers and landmarks.

Car Rentals

If you prefer to have the freedom to explore Istanbul at your own pace, then you may want to consider renting a car. Rentalcars.com is an excellent option, offering a variety of cars to suit different budgets and preferences. Be sure to check the terms and conditions before renting a car, as some rental companies may have restrictions on where you can take the car and the distance you can travel.

Discover the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars

For a flexible and hassle-free car rental experience in Istanbul, we personally recommend Rentalcars. Enjoy these great benefits when you choose Rentalcars:

Flexible rentals: Cancel or change most bookings for free up to 48 hours before pick-up.
No hidden fees: Transparent pricing means you know exactly what you’re paying.
Price Match Guarantee: Found the same deal for less? Rentalcars will match the price.

Discover the perfect car rental for your Istanbul adventure by clicking the button below.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several options available to travel from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best option for you will depend on your budget, time, and preference. However, with the information provided in this article, you will be able to make an informed decision and have a smooth journey to your destination. Don’t forget to follow the general tips provided to ensure a stress-free travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Sabiha Gokcen Airport from Taksim?

The distance between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and Taksim Square is approximately 40 km, and depending on the traffic situation, it can take anywhere from 70 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes to travel between the two destinations.

What is the best way to get from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim?

There are different transport options available, including the Havabus Shuttle, private shuttle, taxi, car rental, and public transportation, such as the Metro M4 Line and the D36 Bus. The best option for you depends on your budget, time, and preference.

How much does it cost to get from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim?

The prices vary depending on the transport option you choose. For example, the Havabus Shuttle costs 67.85 TL, the private shuttle costs about 55$ (about 1 100 TL), and the taxi costs about 650 TL. Public transportation options are usually cheaper, with the Metro M4 Line and D36 Bus costing about 20 TL.

Do I need to have Turkish Liras to use public transportation?

Most transportation options mentioned in the article do not accept foreign currencies or big Turkish lira notes, so it’s recommended to have some 5, 10, 20, or maximum 50 notes handy.

Should I book my transfer online or plan my trip?

Booking your transfer online or planning your trip can save you time and hassle, especially if you are arriving during peak hours. It’s also recommended to have the exact address of your hotel written down or printed out, along with its telephone number.

Do I need to get an Istanbul Kart if I plan to use public transportation?

Getting an Istanbul Kart at the airport is a must if you plan to use public transportation. It’s not only cheaper, but it’s also mandatory on most public transportation lines these days. To make your journey smooth, ensure you have an Istanbul Kart or Travel City Pass with sufficient funds, as it’s required for most public transportation lines and offers cheaper fares compared to single-use tokens.