Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | Airport Transit Travel

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)

Country: Turkey

City: Istanbul

Climate:

• Summers: Hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F).
• Winters: Mild and rainy, with average temperatures between 5-12°C (41-53°F).

Tourist Attractions:

Within Easy Reach of the Airport:

• Viaport Outlet Center: A vast shopping mall featuring over 250 stores.
• Sea of Marmara: A scenic coastal area with parks, beaches, and restaurants.

In Istanbul Proper (Accessible via Public Transportation or Taxi):

• Hagia Sophia: A magnificent Byzantine basilica, later transformed into a mosque and now a museum.
• Blue Mosque: An iconic Ottoman mosque renowned for its blue tiles and soaring minarets.
• Topkapi Palace: The former imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans, now a museum showcasing their opulent lifestyle.
• Grand Bazaar: One of the world's largest and oldest covered markets, offering a myriad of goods.
• Galata Tower: A 14th-century stone tower providing panoramic views over the city.
• Istiklal Street: A lively pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
• Dolmabahçe Palace: An extravagant 19th-century palace built by the Ottoman Empire.
• Beylerbeyi Palace: A beautiful palace located on the Asian side of Istanbul, offering stunning views of the Bosphorus.

Additional Information:

• Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the city center.
• It is a hub for Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and other low-cost carriers.
• The airport offers a wide range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, currency exchange, and free Wi-Fi.
• Public transportation options from the airport include buses, shuttles, and taxis.

Explore the Enchanting Attractions near Sabiha Gökçen International Airport

Just a short distance from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), travelers will discover a wealth of captivating tourist attractions that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here's a detailed review of these must-visit destinations:

1. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts:

Immerse yourself in the exquisite world of Turkish and Islamic art at this renowned museum, which houses over 40,000 artifacts. From intricate calligraphy to stunning ceramics, this collection offers a fascinating glimpse into Islamic civilization.

2. Beylerbeyi Palace:

Step back in time at the opulent Beylerbeyi Palace, a magnificent summer residence built in the 19th century for Ottoman sultans. Admire its elaborate architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking Bosporus views.

3. Maiden's Tower:

Embark on a captivating boat trip to the iconic Maiden's Tower, a historical structure situated on a tiny islet in the Bosporus Strait. Explore its various levels, enjoy the stunning panoramic vistas, and learn about its intriguing legends.

4. Princes' Islands:

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city on the tranquil Princes' Islands, a group of nine islands accessible by ferry from SAW. Stroll through charming streets, admire the Victorian architecture, and experience a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

5. Aqua Florya:

Indulge in water park fun at Aqua Florya, located just 15 minutes from the airport. This state-of-the-art facility features thrilling rides, a wave pool, and a variety of entertainment options for all ages.

6. Mall of Istanbul:

For those seeking a shopping paradise, Mall of Istanbul offers an unparalleled retail experience. With over 350 stores, a wide range of dining options, and entertainment venues, it's a shopper's dream destination.

7. Belgrad Forest:

Escape into the serene embrace of Belgrad Forest, a vast green space just a short drive from the airport. Explore its beautiful trails, relax by the lake, and enjoy the tranquility of nature amidst the urban landscape.

Conclusion:

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is not only a convenient gateway but also a starting point for unforgettable adventures. With its close proximity to enchanting tourist attractions, travelers can easily extend their stay and discover the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders that Turkey has to offer.

A Family Adventure near Sabiha Gökçen International Airport

As a family of four, we recently embarked on an unforgettable trip to the enchanting region surrounding Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Our adventure was filled with laughter, discovery, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Accommodation:

We stayed at the family-friendly DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul Airport North, which is just a stone's throw from SAW. The spacious rooms, friendly staff, and amenities like the outdoor pool and kid's club made it the perfect base for our family adventure.

Activities:

1. Istanbul Aquarium:

A short drive from SAW, Istanbul Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for all ages. We spent hours exploring the underwater world, marveling at the vibrant marine life. Our kids were particularly fascinated by the massive shark tank and the interactive touch pools.

2. Pendik Marina:

Located a scenic 10-minute drive from SAW, Pendik Marina offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. We took a peaceful boat tour, enjoyed a delightful dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, and watched the stunning sunset over the Marmara Sea.

3. Viaport Marina:

Just a short distance from Pendik Marina, Viaport Marina boasts a delightful mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Our kids had a blast at the amusement park, while we perused the boutiques and savored the local cuisine.

4. Burgazada Island:

A 20-minute ferry ride from SAW, Burgazada Island is a charming car-free oasis. We rented bikes and cycled through the picturesque streets, admiring the historic mansions and lush gardens. The café terraces offered the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch with stunning views of the archipelago.

Food and Drink:

The area around SAW is teeming with family-friendly restaurants. We highly recommend Köfteci Yusuf Usta for traditional Turkish meatballs, Ada Kokoreç for a unique and delicious street food experience, and Simit Sarayı for freshly baked pastries and Turkish coffee.

Conclusion:

Our family trip near Sabiha Gökçen International Airport exceeded all our expectations. The diverse attractions, convenient accommodation, and friendly atmosphere made it the perfect destination for an unforgettable family adventure. We highly recommend this region for families seeking a memorable and enriching vacation.