How to get from Istanbul Airport to the Blue Mosque?

Travelling from Istanbul Airport to Blue Mosque can be overwhelming, especially for first-timers. You can take the 24/7 HAVAIST Airport Shuttle Number HVIST-12 from New Istanbul Airport to Beyazit Square, which can accommodate up to 46 passengers and takes approximately 90 minutes. Upon arrival at Beyazit Square, just 1.5 km from Sultanahmet Square, you can take a 5-minute tram ride to the Blue Mosque. The HAVAIST Airport Shuttle stops at various locations, including Beyazit Square, Aksaray, Ulubatli, Ayvansaray, Nurtepe Viyaduk, and New Istanbul Airport.

Good to Know:

Since there is no direct public transport like airport shuttles or buses from IST to Sultanahmet, the private shuttle is the most comfortable and convenient option for travelling between New Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sultanahmet.

You cannot get from Istanbul airport to Blue Mosque by metro as there is no direct metro line connecting the new Istanbul airport and the city centre. However, a new metro line (Gayrettepe station) is currently under construction and is expected to be finished by the end of 2021.

1. Take the M11 Kagithane-Istanbul Airport Metro from Istanbul Airport to Kagithane station, which is a 24-minute ride, to reach the Blue Mosque

2. Transfer to M7 Yildiz-Mahmutbey Metro Line for a 5-minute ride to Mecidiyekoy station, then take M2 Yenikapi-Haciosman Metro Tram Line for 5 minutes to Taksim station.

3. Take the F1 Taksim Square-Kabatas Funicular line to Kabatas and transfer to the T1 Kabatas-Bagcilar Tram line, which will arrive at Sultanahmet stop in approximately 20 minutes over seven stops.

It takes 1 hour to reach Sultanahmet from Istanbul Airport via the M11 metro line with transfers.

Good to Know:

• Istanbul Airport Metro operates from 6:00 a.m. to midnight, so for flights outside these hours, consider private airport transfers available 24/7.
• Private Transfer avoids metro line transfers and mode switching.

Taxes are available outside the airport terminals to travel from Istanbul Airport to the Blue Mosque. A taxi from Istanbul airport usually takes 1 hour. However, there are toll roads that may increase the taxi fare, and bridge crossings require separate payments. Also, tourists should be aware of the possibility of overcharging by taxi drivers. A taxi from Istanbul Airport to the Sultanahmet Mosque costs around €50 - €60.

Good to Know:

• Private airport transfer services offer a stress-free journey from Istanbul New Airport to the Blue Mosque, with fixed prices and professional drivers.

If you prefer a more spacious and personal ride to Istanbul, a bus rental from Istanbul Airport or city center is a great option. You’ll avoid sharing with strangers and enjoy a direct journey. Your private driver will meet you at the terminal, help with your luggage, and take you straight to your destination in Istanbul. This is ideal for large families, tour groups, or business teams. You can choose the type of vehicle you want. Pricing is fixed, and you won’t face any surprise charges. Contact AirportTransfer.com to arrange your private coach or minivan.

AirportTransfer.com offers smooth and reliable transfers from Istanbul Airport (IST) to your hotel in the city. Your professional driver will meet you at the arrival hall and take you directly to your accommodation without hassle. By pre-booking your Istanbul hotel transfer, you can avoid long taxi lines, language barriers, and unexpected delays.
Here are some popular hotels in Istanbul:
Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, Ciragan Palace Kempinski, Sirkeci Mansion, Pera Palace Hotel, The Marmara Taksim, Vault Karaköy House Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel Sisli, and 10 Karaköy Istanbul, GLK PREMIER Sea Mansion Suites & Spa, Biz Cevahir Hotel Sultanahmet, Hotel Sultanahmet Palace, Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, and Curio Collection by Hilton.