Are you tired of long and boring layovers? What if we told you that you can turn your layover into an opportunity to explore a new city and get a free hotel room? Yes, you read that right! Turkish Airlines offers a stopover program that allows passengers with layovers of more than 20 hours to enjoy a complimentary hotel stay in Istanbul. In this guide, we will share everything you need to know about Turkish Airlines stopover program and how to make the most of your layover in Istanbul.
Turkish Airlines: Free Hotel and a Guided Tour (IST)
Are you flying with Turkish Airlines and having a layover in Istanbul? The Turkish Airlines Stopover program is the perfect solution for you! This program offers passengers with layovers of more than 20 hours a complimentary hotel stay in Istanbul.
To qualify for the program, your layover must be at least 20 hours. Booking the program is easy! You can book it through the Turkish Airlines website or at the Turkish Airlines sales office in the airport.
The program includes a complimentary hotel stay, airport-hotel transfers, and a guided tour of the city. You can choose from a variety of hotels ranging from 3-star to 5-star hotels.
How to Get a Free Turkish Airlines Hotel Room in Istanbul Airport (IST)
To apply for the Turkish Airlines stopover program, follow these steps:
- Make a reservation at least 72 hours before your first flight.
- Send your name-surname, reservation code (PNR) and ticket number, desired accommodation dates, preferred room type, telephone number and e-mail address information to the e-mail address corresponding to your country of departure, as listed on the Turkish Airlines website.
- Alternatively, you can send the information via the booker above with the PNR and surname information.
How to Spend a Layover in Istanbul
Istanbul is a city with a rich history and culture, and there is no shortage of things to do and see. Here are some of the best attractions to visit during a layover in Istanbul:
- Hagia Sophia
- Blue Mosque
- Topkapi Palace
- Grand Bazaar
- Spice Bazaar
In addition to the must-see attractions, there are also plenty of local food and drinks to try during your layover. We recommend trying Turkish coffee, baklava, and the famous Turkish delight.
Or don’t waste time and choose the layover tour from the best guides in the city
If you would like to spend your layover in the airport instead of exploring Istanbul, we have an article that may interest you. Check out our guide on what to do in Istanbul Airport, which includes a variety of activities and amenities to make your layover more comfortable and enjoyable.
Free Layover Tour at Istanbul Airport (IST) from Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines also offers a free guided tour of the city called Touristanbul. The tour is available to passengers with layovers of more than 6 hours.
The tour includes a visit to popular tourist attractions such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. In addition, passengers can enjoy a traditional Turkish meal during the tour.
Taking the Touristanbul layover tour is a great way to make the most of your layover in Istanbul and get a taste of the city’s culture and history.
To book Touristanbul, follow these steps
- After your Turkish Airlines connecting international flight lands in İstanbul, head to the Hotel Desk in the International Arrivals Terminal of İstanbul Airport.
- Ask the hotel desk to sign up for Touristanbul. Note that Touristanbul is only available for flights operated by Turkish Airlines.
- Provide your ticket number, which must be issued by Turkish Airlines stock number starting 235.
- Before visiting Türkiye, make sure to obtain an e-visa at www.evisa.gov.tr/ website. Check your country’s requirements to see if it is necessary to obtain a visa to enter Türkiye.
- If you are eligible for an e-visa, you may obtain it from the Turkish Airlines Sales / Ticket Desks before or on the day of your departure.
Free Hotelin Istanbul with Connecting Turkish Airlines Flights
Economy Class passengers of Turkish Airlines having a connection time of 12 hours or longer and Business Class passengers having a connection time of 9 hours or longer are eligible for a free hotel stay in Istanbul.
The free hotel stay includes a room at one of the airport hotels, airport-hotel transfers, and meals. The duration of the free stay depends on the length of your layover.
Istanbul Airport Hotel
If you prefer to stay close to the airport, Istanbul Airport Hotel is a great option. The hotel is conveniently located inside the airport and offers comfortable rooms and amenities.
Turkish Airlines also offers airport hotel options for passengers who prefer to stay close to the airport.
Turkish Airlines Stopover Policy
It’s important to note the terms and conditions of the Turkish Airlines stopover program. Passengers can extend their stay in Istanbul for an additional fee.
If you miss your connecting flight, Turkish Airlines will provide you with accommodation and meals until you can catch the next available flight.
Conclusion: Book Free Hotel in Istanbul is Possible
In conclusion, the Turkish Airlines stopover program is a great option for travelers with long layovers in Istanbul. With a free hotel stay, airport-hotel transfers, and a guided tour of the city, you can make the most of your layover and explore the city’s rich culture and history.
Don’t waste your time at the airport during your layover, take advantage of the stopover program and turn your layover into an opportunity to explore a new city.
You Might Be Interested in
- 24-hour Public Transport in Istanbul: Night Metro, City Buses, Marmaray, and Metrobus (2023)
- Accessible Transportation for People with Disabilities in Istanbul: Transfers, Ferries, Buses, Metro, Trams (2023)
- Cable Cars in Istanbul: Eyup and Macka, Routes, Schedule and Price (2023)
- Enjoy the City by Public Transportation: Tram, Ferry, and Metro Routes for Every Tourist
- Ferries in Istanbul: Piers, Routes, Schedule, Map & Fare (Summer 2023)
- HAVAIST New Istanbul Airport Shuttles/Buses (Routes, Ticket Price Today, 2023)
- How to Get from Asian Side to European in Istanbul: Ferry, Bus, Marmaray (2023)
- How to Get from European Side to Asian in Istanbul by Ferry, Bus & Marmaray (2023)
- How to Get from New Istanbul Airport (IST) to Bakirkoy and Back: Shuttle, Bus, Metro and Transfer (2023)
- How to Get to Princes’ Islands from Istanbul and Back: Full Ferries Guide with Fares, Stations, and Schedule (2023)