Arriving in Istanbul from Australia: airport to accommodation

Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen (SAW)?

Look for the three-letter code on the last flight on your itinerary. Istanbul Airport (IST) is on the European side. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is on the Asian side. Search for a route from that specific airport to your accommodation, using the full street address to account for any crossing or connection.

Plan from the airport, bus terminal or train station

Save the name of your arrival point and your destination, then check the last leg from the final stop to the door. With luggage, an uphill walk or a stair-only exit can affect your choice. For a late arrival, check the last departure on each leg and save a backup option from the terminal or station.

Ease into Istanbul after the long haul

Pick a neighbourhood for night one: Save the name of the closest tram or metro stop alongside your accommodation address.

Across the Bosphorus when you’re ready: Save the ferry for a day with time to explore near the pier on the other shore.

A low-key first meal: Look for a sit-down meal or somewhere to grab a bite near where you’re staying.