Sabiha Gökçen Airport known as a gateway not just to Istanbul, but to many well-known Türkiye’s cities. For travelers who are heading to popular destinations like Ankara, Izmir, or Antalya, several convenient options are available. Many airlines have routes from Sabiha Gökçen to major Turkish cities, with frequent daily connections. This option saves time, especially for distant destinations, and also for other destinations that have not any airport around, there are some other options that we are going to explain on this article.
Istanbul Intercity busses
Major bus companies like Metro Turizm, Kamil Koç, and Pamukkale Turizm operate directly from the airport, providing a cost-effective alternative to air travel. These modern busses offer comfortable seats, air conditioner, Wi-Fi, and onboard entertainment systems. Also they provide complimentary snacks and beverages during the trip which is interesting.
Popular destinations include Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, and Antalya, can be accessible through intercity busses that departure from the dedicated intercity bus terminal at Sabiha Gökçen and are accessible from the main terminal building. Tickets can be purchased at company counters in the airport. You can check online the ticket availability through online booking websites in advance from official websites like Obilet . Some of popular destinations are listed below:
| Origin | Destination | Duration | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sabiha Gökçen | Ankara | 6 hours | $12 |
| Sabiha Gökçen | Izmir | 6 hours | $18 |
| Sabiha Gökçen | Bursa | 2 hours | $12 |
| Sabiha Gökçen | Konya | 10 hours | $30 |
| Sabiha Gökçen | Mersin | 13 hours | $30 |
Istanbul Ferri Boats
Exploring Turkey’s coastal cities from Istanbul’s Asian side is a breeze with intercity ferry services. These boats offer a relaxing alternative to road or air travel and connect Istanbul to several popular destinations along the Marmara Sea and beyond.
The main hub for intercity ferries locates on the European side that is the Yenikapı Terminal. From here, fast ferries operated by IDO (Istanbul Deniz Otobüsleri) connect travelers to cities like Yalova, Bursa, and Bandırma. During summer time, there are additional routes get open for tourists.
These ferries combine comfort with efficiency, featuring amenities like cafes and comfortable seating. You can reserve online the tickets for these ferries through IDO website. If you cannot pay online, you can buy tickets from kiosks at the pier.
| Origin | Destination | Duration | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yenikapı IDO | Bursa | 2 hours | $11 |
| Pendik IDO | Yalova | 45 minutes | $6 |
| Yenikapı IDO | Bandırma | 2 hours 35 mins | $18 |
| Yenikapı IDO | Aemutlu | 1 hour 30 mins | $11 |
Istanbul New Fast Metro ( YHT )
Turkey’s High-Speed Train (YHT – Yüksek Hızlı Tren) network has a revolution in intercity travels by offering a comfortable alternative to buses and planes. These trains are operating at speeds up to 250 km/h and connect major Türkiye’s cities efficiently.
The YHT network currently serves routes from Istanbul to Ankara, Eskişehir, and Konya. From Ankara, connections extend to Eskişehir, Konya, and Karaman. This system has significantly reduced travel times, with the Istanbul-Ankara journey now taking just 4.5 hours.
Trains feature comfortable seating, onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a cafe car. Passengers can choose between economy and business class options that business tickets has more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments offers.
Tickets can be purchased online, at stations, or through authorized agents. You can check schedules through online official website here.
| Origin | Destination | Duration | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pendik | Anakara | 6 hours | $12.5 |
| Pendik | Konya | 4 hours 30 mins | $23.5 |
| Pendik | Eskişehir | 2 hours 30 mins | $10.5 |
| Pendik | Denizli | 12 hour 17 mins | $19 |
Airport Private Car Services
Various companies offer private transfers, ranging from luxury sedans to spacious vans or minibuses, accommodating individuals, families, or larger groups. Vehicles are typically modern, well-maintained, and equipped with amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Booking is straightforward, usually done online or through travel agencies. Upon arrival, a professional driver greets passengers at the terminal, often holding a name placard for easy identification.
While more expensive than public options, private transfers offer fixed pricing, avoiding surprises or metering concerns. They’re particularly beneficial for long-distance journeys to cities like Bursa, Izmir, or even coastal resorts, providing comfort for extended trips.
How to transfer from Sabiha Gökçen airport to Yalova city ?
The Yalova city is particularly popular cause of the thermal springs and ski resorts in the region. The most convenient method is taking a direct bus service, which departs from the airport’s ground floor. Look for the Havaş or Çetinkaya bus companies.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi to Pendik, then catch a fast ferry to Yalova. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the Marmara Sea which is a wonderful experience.
For a more flexible option, consider renting a car at the airport and drive to Yalova city about 1.5 hours.
How to transfer from Sabiha Gökçen airport to Bursa city ?
You’ve got several options to reach this historic city. The most straightforward is the Kamil Koç bus service, departing regularly from the airport’s ground floor. This comfortable 3-hour journey takes you directly to Bursa’s city center.
For a more scenic route, consider the land-sea combo. Take a taxi to Yenikapı or Pendik, then catch a fast ferry to Bursa’s Mudanya port. The ferry ride offers breathtaking views of the Marmara Sea.
If you prefer flexibility, rent a car at the airport. The 2-hour drive via the Osmangazi Bridge lets you explore at your own pace. Just be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak hours.
For budget travelers, there’s also a public bus option to Harem, followed by an intercity bus to Bursa and it’s the most economical choice.
How to transfer from Sabiha Gökçen airport to Ankara city ?
The most popular option is flying, with frequent domestic flights from Sabiha Gökçen airport. You can buy the ticket online or from kiosks located at the main hall.
Second option is to take a train by reaching to the Pendik or Söğütlüçeşme YHT station from the airport which takes approximately 4.5 hours.
For a budget-friendly alternative, consider the intercity bus services. Companies like Metro Turizm offer direct buses from the airport to Ankara with an about 6-7 hours long.
If you prefer flexibility, rent a car at the airport. The drive to Ankara takes around 5 hours via well-maintained highways.
How to transfer from Sabiha Gökçen airport to Konya city ?
The quickest option is taking a domestic flight. Several airlines operate direct flights from Sabiha Gökçen to Konya, with a flight time of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
For budget-conscious travelers, intercity buses are a great choice. Companies like Metro Turizm and Kamil Koç offer direct services from the airport to Konya. The journey takes around 9-10 hours, but buses are comfortable with onboard amenities.
If you prefer flexibility, consider renting a car at the airport. The drive to Konya takes about 7 hours via well-maintained highways. This option allows you to explore at your own pace and perhaps stop at interesting spots along the way.
For a unique experience, combine transport methods. Take a shuttle to Pendik station, catch a high-speed train to Ankara, then transfer to another train to Konya. While longer, this route offers scenic views of the Turkish countryside.
How to travel from Sabiha Gökçen airport to Cappadocia city ?
There are some flights directly to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri Erkilet Airport that both reaching to the Cappadocia region. Multiple airlines have daily flights with 1.5 hours flight time.
For budget-conscious travelers, intercity buses provide an economical alternative. Companies like Metro Turizm and Kamil Koç offer comfortable coaches departing from Sabiha Gökçen’s bus terminal. The bus journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, often including rest stops along the way.
Those seeking flexibility might opt for car rental, available at the airport. The drive to Cappadocia spans around 750 kilometers and takes about 8-9 hours.
Hi, I’m Sofia, a passionate travel writer who traded the cold Russian landscapes for the vibrant streets of Istanbul. As the writer in here, I’m on a mission to unveil Turkey’s hidden gems and share my personal journey of discovery.
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