Flights to Istanbul Gökcen

Travel from Nigeria to Istanbul Gökcen Airport (SAW)

Planning your trip from Nigeria to Istanbul Gökcen Airport? Whether you're departing from Lagos (LOS), Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja (ABV), or Port Harcourt (PHC), we've got you covered with useful information and inspiration to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Lagos (LOS)

Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos is Nigeria’s busiest airport and offers several flight options to Istanbul Gökcen. Many airlines operate direct and connecting flights, making it convenient for travelers heading to Turkey.

Abuja (ABV)

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport serves the capital city, Abuja. From here, you can catch connecting flights through major hubs that connect to Istanbul Gökcen, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Port Harcourt (PHC)

Port Harcourt International Airport welcomes travelers from the Niger Delta region. Flights to Istanbul Gökcen usually require a connection, but with well-coordinated schedules, your transfer can be seamless.

Why Choose Istanbul Gökcen Airport?

Close to Istanbul’s city center
Less crowded than the main Istanbul Airport
Efficient transport links to the city and beyond

Travel Tips for Nigerian Travelers

Ensure your Turkish visa is sorted before departure.
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight.
Bring some Turkish Lira or use currency exchange services upon arrival.
Use shuttle buses or taxis to reach your Istanbul accommodation comfortably.

Get Inspired: What to Explore in Istanbul

Once you arrive, Istanbul offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life. From the majestic Hagia Sophia and bustling Grand Bazaar to scenic Bosphorus cruises, there’s something for every traveler.

We hope your journey from Nigeria to Istanbul Gökcen is the start of a memorable adventure. Safe travels!

How to Reach Istanbul City Center from Istanbul Gökcen Airport (SAW)

Traveling from Istanbul Gökcen Airport to the city center is straightforward and offers several convenient options. Here are some practical tips to help Nigerian travelers make the most of their journey:

Shuttle Bus (Havatas)

The Havatas shuttle bus is a budget-friendly and reliable choice. It operates regularly between SAW airport and key points in Istanbul, such as Taksim Square and Kadıköy.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic
Cost: Affordable ticket price, payable in cash or by card onboard
Convenient pick-up points outside the terminal

Metro

For a faster and cost-effective trip, use the Metro service:

Take the M4 metro line from the SAW airport metro station
Transfer at Kadıköy to reach other parts of Istanbul, including central areas like Taksim and Sultanahmet
Tickets can be purchased via Istanbulkart, a smart travel card

Taxi

Taxis are widely available outside the arrivals terminal and offer a comfortable, direct route:

Approximate travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand
Ideal for travelers with heavy luggage or arriving late at night

Ride-Sharing Apps

Services like Uber and BiTaksi operate in Istanbul and provide a cashless, convenient option:

Book your ride directly from your smartphone
Transparent pricing and driver tracking
Good option for solo travelers or small groups

Pro tip: Consider purchasing an Istanbulkart upon arrival. It can be used on buses, metro, and ferries, saving you time and money during your explorations.

Top Flight Routes from Nigeria to Istanbul Gökcen (SAW)

Lagos (LOS) → Istanbul Gökcen (SAW)

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) → Istanbul Gökcen (SAW)

Port Harcourt (PHC) → Istanbul Gökcen (SAW)