Saiga's Guide to an Istanbul Stopover

Ben Johnson

June 3, 2025

Getting to many of our destinations that we run tours in will likely mean a stop in Istanbul. Simply put Istanbul is the best connected airport for Central Asia and the Middle East and of course the usually unconventional destinations that we travel to. Many people will choose to spend a day or two in Istanbul on the way to the start of your Saiga tour, so here is our guide to an easy, breezy, Istanbul stop.

Whether you’re flying into Istanbul International or Sabiha Gokcen, this blog can apply to both.

Getting into the city

Bus

There are several buses that depart from each airport and even between both airports if you need to change airport. Head downstairs to the Havaist Bus counter and buy your ticket there. Take the bus that goes to Taksim (this is where we recommend staying). This will leave you in the centre of Istanbul and within walking distance of many hotels, shops, restaurants and the crazy Istiklal Street. You can pay by card and it will set you back 67 Turkish Lira or around $3.50 USD.

Train

There is  now a metro stop that is connected to Istanbul Airport (not yet for Sabiha). From here you can get all over Istanbul and is probably better for you if you plan to stay on the Asian side.

Taxi or Uber

Uber is technically not allowed to pick you up from the airport but it is possible if you go meet them in the carpark. We recommend this over a taxi but it can be a bit of a hassle. For taxis, honestly, we think this should be the last resort as taxis in Istanbul are notorious for ripping off tourists (this is also from our own personal experience). Expect them to add several toll charges to your fee if you do take a cab.

Where to stay?

We think the best spot is anywhere near Taksim square, especially if you’re only there for one or two nights. Taksim is a fantastic central point in Istanbul city which has amazing restaurants, shopping and is also close to the bus that can take you back to the airport. It is super easy and quick to get from here to the main tourist sites of the blue mosque, Galata Tower and down to the Bosporus.

If you have a stopover and choose to stay near the airport there are several draw backs. You will have to get a taxi and will probably get ripped off, food options are much more limited and the price of a hotel really isn’t that much better for what you get.

The area around Taksim has many hotels which you can easily get for about $30. Even if the hotel is a little crappy it doesn’t really matter you’re really only there one night. Just be aware if you get a hotel near the bar street it will be noisy on the weekend.

What to do?

If this is your first time in Istanbul, then you should head to Sultanahmeht where you can visit both the Blue Mosque and the amazing Hagia Sophia. These are two true icons of the city and are a must visit. From here you can then easily visit the Istanbul souq, one of the biggest in the world.

If you have a full day in the city we also think you should head over to the Asian side of Istanbul to a district called Kadikoy. You can walk (downhill from taksim) to the ferry terminal and get a super cheap ferry across the straight. This area is buzzing with bars and restaurants which have some of the best food in the city.

If you just want to shop, then head down and explore the stores on Istiklal street close to Taksim. Just be aware that this street is super busy and you should keep an eye out for pick pockets. As long as you’re aware you’ll be absolutely fine!

Istanbul is an amazing city for a quick stop but can definitely be a bit overwhelming with its size and crowds. Hopefully this guide will help you have a nice visit before joining us on tour in Central Asia or the Middle East.

If you’d like to join us on a Turkmenistan tour or any other Central Asia tour then check out our website here or send us an email to [email protected] .