Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) Transfers: Everything You Need to Know

Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is Istanbul's second major airport, located on the Asian side of the city. It is popular with low-cost and regional carriers, and it serves millions of travellers each year. Because it sits across the water from many famous sights, planning your transfer in advance is especially worthwhile. This guide from Private Transfers Istanbul covers distances, travel times and practical tips for arriving at SAW.

Where is Sabiha Gokcen and why it matters

SAW lies in the Pendik district on the Asian side, well to the east of the city centre. If your hotel is on the European side, your route will cross the Bosphorus by bridge, which means traffic can have a noticeable impact on travel time. Knowing this in advance helps you set realistic expectations and avoid surprises.

Distances and typical travel times

• SAW to Kadikoy (Asian side): around 35-50 minutes by car
• SAW to Taksim (European side): usually 60-90 minutes by car
• SAW to Sultanahmet (European side): usually 55-80 minutes by car

These figures vary with the time of day. Crossing to the European side during peak hours can take longer, so build in a buffer if you have onward plans.

Your transfer options from SAW

Metro and public transport

The metro now reaches Sabiha Gokcen and connects to the wider network, making it an economical choice. As with any public transport, expect changes, walking with luggage and busier conditions at peak times.

Shuttle buses

Shuttle services link SAW with central points and are a reasonable middle option. They follow fixed stops, so plan how you will cover the final stretch to your accommodation.

Taxis

Taxis are available outside the terminal. They are convenient, but the metered fare for a long cross-city journey to the European side can become significant and hard to predict in traffic.

Private VIP transfer

A private transfer from Private Transfers Istanbul gives you a professional chauffeur, meet and greet and a fixed price agreed before you travel. With the Mercedes Vito for families, the Mercedes Sprinter for groups and the Mercedes S-Class for added comfort, you arrive relaxed and head straight to your door.

Practical tips for arriving at SAW

• Account for the crossing: If you are heading to the European side, allow extra time for the Bosphorus crossing.
• Share your flight number: This lets the team track your arrival and wait if your flight is delayed.
• Confirm your address: Provide the district and full address so your chauffeur takes the best route.
• Travel light through the terminal: Meet and greet means help with your bags as soon as you reach arrivals.

Why book ahead for Sabiha Gokcen

Because SAW journeys can be longer, the certainty of a fixed price and a waiting chauffeur is even more valuable here. There is no need to negotiate, no meter anxiety and no scramble for a vehicle after a late flight. You simply walk out and your transfer is ready.

Book your SAW transfer

To arrange your transfer, fill in the booking request form and we will reply with a fixed price. Arrive on the Asian side and reach your destination in comfort.