Istanbul International Airport (IST) is Turkey’s largest and busiest airport, serving as a major gateway to the country. Situated approximately 40 km (25 miles) northwest of the domed castles and gilded minarets of Istanbul’s stunning historic city centre, the airport connects millions of passengers to destinations across the world. The sheer number of countries served by this airport is staggering, with Istanbul Airport (IST) connecting key cities across the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Europe, and the Caribbean. In the UK alone, it offers direct flights to London Heathrow Airport (LHR), London Gatwick Airport (LGW), London Luton Airport (LTN), Birmingham International Airport (BHX), Manchester Airport (MAN), Edinburgh International Airport (EDI), and Bristol Airport (BRS), primarily operated by Turkish Airlines and Wizz Air. In the United States it provides numerous direct routes including Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in the scenic state of Georgia, Dallas-Fort Worth Airport (DFW) in the rugged state of Texas, star-studded Los Angeles (LAX) in coastal California, the Florida sassy salsa city of Miami International Airport (MIA) and Seattle/Tacoma (SEA) in historic Washington state, with most flights operated by Turkish Airlines. Across Europe, Istanbul Airport connects to major cities such as Athens Airport (ATH), Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Rome International (FCO), and Madrid International Airport (MAD), and is one of a few airports to serve the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (North Cyprus) into the island’s largest airport, Ercan International Airport in to capital city Lefkosa.

Opened in 2018, the state-of-the-art facility is one of the world’s largest aviation hubs, designed to handle 200 million passengers annually at full capacity. The airport’s modern architecture and facilities make it a comfortable and convenient entry point for tourists. The airport boasts an impressive terminal equipped with all the amenities a traveller might need. From duty-free shops offering Turkish delights, spices, and luxury goods to a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisines, there’s plenty to enjoy while waiting for your journey to begin. Car rental desks are conveniently located in the arrivals area, with numerous reputable agencies such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar offering a wide selection of vehicles to suit your travel needs. Whether you’re looking for a compact car for city driving or a spacious SUV for a road trip across the whole of Turkey, you’ll find an option that’s right for you. If Istanbul International Airport isn’t your point of arrival, you might land at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), located on the Asian side of the city, about 45 km (28 miles) southeast of the historic district. While smaller than IST, Sabiha Gökçen is well-equipped and offers car hire services, making it a convenient alternative for exploring the Asian side of Istanbul or destinations like Bursa and Sapanca.. Plan your trips during off-peak times to avoid rush hour congestion and use navigation apps to find the fastest routes. Istanbul’s road network is extensive, with major highways and bridges connecting the city’s European and Asian sides. The O-1 and O-2 highways (part of the Trans-European Motorway system) are key routes linking the city with surrounding regions. The iconic Bosphorus bridges, including the 15 July Martyrs Bridge and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, offer breathtaking views while connecting both continents. For scenic drives, the D020 road winds through the lush Belgrad Forest and charming Black Sea coastal towns. There are some toll systems outside of the city when an electronic toll payment system (HGS or OGS) is required, and your rental car is likely equipped with one.