Cheap Car Hire Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Welcome to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport!
As one of the busiest international gateways in Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) serves as a vital hub for travellers visiting Istanbul and its surrounding regions. Located on the Asian side of this iconic city, the airport is named after Sabiha Gökçen, the world’s first female fighter pilot, symbolising Turkey’s pioneering spirit. Opened in 2001, it has rapidly grown in importance, offering modern facilities, seamless services, and connections to destinations across the globe, primarily serving low-cost carriers. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) offers direct connections to several cities in the United Kingdom, Europe, and beyond. In the UK, flying to and from London Stansted Airport (STN), Manchester International Airport (MAN), Birmingham International Airport (BHX), and Edinburgh International Airport (EDI) via Pegasus Airlines and London Gatwick (LGW) via AnadoluJet. Within Europe, the airport serves a wide range of destinations, including the Greek capital via Athens Airport (ATH), Spanish royal city of Madrid (MAD), Italian fashion city Milan (MXP) and ancient city Rome (FCO), and French capital via bother Paris CDG and Paris ORY, largely operated by Pegasus Airlines and AnadoluJet. Beyond Europe, Sabiha Gökçen Airport connects to cities in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia with key destinations including the United Arab Emirates cities of Dubai (DXB) and Sharjah (SHJ).
Whether you’re exploring Istanbul’s vibrant cultural tapestry or embarking on a road trip through Turkey’s breathtaking landscapes, Sabiha Gökçen Airport is an excellent starting point. The airport is conveniently situated about 40 kilometres (25 miles) southeast of Istanbul’s historic city centre and is well-connected to major roads, making it ideal for car hire. From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), you can easily access the E-80 motorway, which forms part of the European route E80 and connects you to key locations in both Asia and Europe. For city explorers, the D100 highway is a primary route that leads directly into the city of Istanbul’s bustling urban core. Renting a car at offers freedom and flexibility, whether you’re discovering Istanbul’s wonders or venturing into the stunning Anatolian countryside. You can transit here to other cities in Turkey via domestic flights to Ankara’s Esenboğa Airport (ESB), Izmir’s Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), Antalya Airport (AYT), Bodrum’s Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV), Trabzon Airport (TZX), Kayseri’s Erkilet Airport (ASR), Saumsun Carsamba Airport (SZF) and Dalaman Airport (DLM). As an alternative to Sabiha Gökçen Airport, you may wish to consider Istanbul Airport (IST), on the city’s European side, around 47 kilometres (29 miles) northwest of the centre. One of the world’s largest and most advanced airports, this bigger airport handles a significant portion of Turkey’s international traffic. Both airports provide extensive car hire options, with leading rental agencies offering a wide range of vehicles to suit all needs.
Driving in Istanbul
Hiring a car at Sabiha Gökçen is an ideal way to explore Istanbul and beyond. The airport’s location on the Asian side of the city makes it a convenient starting point for trips to Anatolia, the Black Sea coast, or Istanbul’s Asian neighbourhoods. Once you’ve collected your hire car, the D100 highway or the E-80 motorway provides easy access to Istanbul’s central districts. Driving into the historic heart of the city takes approximately 50 minutes, depending on traffic. As you journey into Istanbul, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait, where Europe meets Asia. Exploring the European side, you can visit the majestic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the opulent Topkapı Palace. For a taste of Istanbul’s vibrant bazaars, head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. The city is famous for its vibrant mix of colours, from the golden-hued domes shimmering under the sun and deep blue waters of the Bosphorus weaving between continents, to the red terracotta rooftops cascading down green hillsides and bazaars alive with the crimson and saffron tones of spices and fabrics. The Asian side of Istanbul, which is less touristy but equally captivating begs exploration too. The lively neighbourhoods of Kadıköy and Üsküdar are home to charming streets, bustling markets, and breathtaking waterfront views. With a hire car, you can also venture further afield to discover Istanbul’s green retreats, such as the Belgrad Forest, located about 45 kilometres (28 miles) north of the city centre, or the picturesque Princes’ Islands, accessible via a short ferry ride. Istanbul itself is a treasure trove of sights and experiences with to see and explore on the city’s outskirts. Head to the Bosphorus’s scenic shores, where you can visit the Rumeli Fortress and enjoy the vibrant cafés along the waterfront. The drive to Polonezköy, a charming village 30 kilometres (19 miles) northeast of the city, is perfect for nature lovers. This quaint settlement, originally established by Polish immigrants, offers peaceful hiking trails and authentic Turkish-Polish cuisine.
For those eager to experience Turkey’s extraordinary diversity, Sabiha Gökçen is the perfect launchpad for scenic road trips. One particularly exhilarating journey is the drive along the Black Sea coast. Starting from Istanbul, the D010 highway takes you eastward, hugging the shoreline and offering spectacular views of the sea and lush green hills. A notable destination is the town of Amasra, approximately 400 kilometres (249 miles) from Istanbul. This enchanting coastal town is renowned for its medieval castle, cobblestone streets, and fresh seafood. Another fantastic road trip is to the Cappadocia region, located about 730 kilometres (454 miles) southeast of Istanbul. The drive takes you through the heart of Anatolia, with opportunities to stop in historic cities such as Ankara, Turkey’s capital, and Konya, famous for its Whirling Dervishes. Upon reaching Cappadocia, you’ll be mesmerised by its unique fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides over the surreal landscape. For another truly unique experience, take a road trip to Gallipoli, approximately 310 kilometres (193 miles) southwest of Istanbul. This historic peninsula is a poignant reminder of the First World War and is home to moving memorials and cemeteries.
Tips and FAQs
When driving in Turkey, keep in mind that vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. The country’s highways and major roads are generally well-maintained, but rural roads may be narrower and less predictable. Toll roads are common, particularly on motorways, so ensure your hire car is equipped with an electronic toll device. Speed limits in Turkey are typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways.
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
Number of terminals: 1 main terminal
Location of car rental desks: Ground floor of the terminal
Distance to fuel station: Approx. 2 km (1.2 miles)
Nearest city: Istanbul
Major roads: D100 highway, E-80 motorway
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