Airports in Turkey: Major Airports with Codes, Airlines & Facilities

Turkey’s unique position bridging Europe and Asia makes it home to some of the most important air travel hubs in the world. From Istanbul to Antalya, the best airports in Turkey combine modern design, excellent connectivity, and world-class amenities that make traveling effortless. Whether you’re exploring for business or leisure, the International Airport List in Turkey includes major terminals that link you to top tourist destinations, cultural centers, and scenic coastlines across the country.

This complete Turkey airports list highlights the most convenient options for travelers from premium international gateways to the cheapest airports in Turkey ideal for budget trips. Discover key facilities, ground transport options, and travel tips to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Airport Name	Type	Airport Code
Istanbul Airport	Domestic & International	IST
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport	Domestic & International	SAW
Antalya Airport	Domestic & International	AYT
Ankara Esenboğa Airport	Domestic & International	ESB
Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport	Domestic & International	ADB
Dalaman Airport	Domestic & International	DLM
Milas-Bodrum Airport	Domestic & International	BJV
Trabzon Airport	Domestic & International	TZX
Hatay Airport	Domestic & International	HTY

1. Istanbul Airport (IST) – Turkey’s Global Aviation Hub

Istanbul Airport stands as Turkey’s most impressive aviation achievement, having officially opened in 2019 to replace the historic Atatürk Airport. As the crown jewel among airports in Turkey, it serves as Turkish Airlines’ main hub and one of the world’s largest airports, designed to handle up to 200 million passengers annually at full capacity.

Address: Tayakadın, Terminal Caddesi No:1, 34283 Arnavutköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/StZ7kuzBWc5rCyZr9
Airport Code: IST
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +904441442
Distance from City Center: 50 km from Taksim Square (European side)

Operating Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, SunExpress, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and numerous other international carriers operate from this flagship among airports in Turkey.

Terminals: One massive terminal divided into five concourses, handling both domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Massive multi-floor parking facility for up to 40,000 vehicles
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal with high-speed internet
• Extensive duty-free shopping areas with international brands
• Diverse dining options featuring Turkish and international cuisine
• Premium lounges, including the award-winning Turkish Airlines Business Lounge
• Prayer rooms are located throughout the terminal
• Children’s play areas and family rooms
• Medical services and pharmacies

Nearby Attractions:

• Hagia Sophia: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that began as a Byzantine cathedral in 537 CE, later became a mosque, then a museum, and now serves again as a mosque. Its massive dome and intricate mosaics are among the most recognizable symbols of Istanbul.
• Topkapi Palace: Once the heart of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years, this grand palace houses imperial treasures, sacred relics, and beautifully preserved courtyards and harem chambers.
• Grand Bazaar:  Located just a short drive from Istanbul Airport, this is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, home to over 4,000 shops selling handmade carpets, spices, jewelry, and Turkish ceramics.
• Bosphorus Strait: A must-see natural landmark dividing Europe and Asia, offering scenic cruises with views of Ottoman palaces, ancient fortresses, and Istanbul’s glittering skyline.

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2. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) – Istanbul’s Asian Side Gateway

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Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, located on the Asian side of Istanbul, is one of the most important facilities in the International Airport List in Turkey. Since its opening in 2001, it has rapidly expanded and become a key player among the airports in Turkey, especially for travelers seeking affordable flights. Recognized as one of the cheapest airports in Turkey for budget-friendly airlines, it serves as a convenient alternative to the main Istanbul Airport and offers efficient connections to domestic and international destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Address: Sanayi, 34906 Pendik/Istanbul, Turkey
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SVKyY5eTtozymtfNA
Airport Code: SAW
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +902165888888
Distance from City Center: 57 km away from Taksim Square

Operating Airlines: Pegasus Airlines, AJet, Turkish Airlines, AnadoluJet, and various international carriers serve this important airport in Turkey’s largest city.

Terminals: One main passenger terminal handles both domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• A variety of shopping options, including duty-free
• Multiple dining choices from cafés to restaurants
• Business and VIP lounges for premium travelers
• Currency exchange and ATM services
• Prayer rooms for religious observance
• Children’s play areas and family facilities
• Car rental desks from major providers

Nearby Attractions:

• Bağdat Avenue:A highlight on the airports in Turkey travel list, Bağdat Avenue is a glamorous shopping street on Istanbul’s Asian side. Known for its luxury boutiques, trendy cafés, and elegant restaurants, it’s a perfect stop for travelers arriving through the best airports in Turkey who want to experience authentic local life away from the main tourist spots.
• Kadıköy Market: One of the most authentic and lively stops on any Turkey airports list, Kadıköy Market is a true local market in Turkey where visitors can enjoy street food, fresh produce, seafood, spices, and vintage finds. It’s the perfect introduction to Istanbul’s culinary and cultural diversity.
• Princes’ Islands: Easily accessible via ferry from Istanbul’s international airports list in Turkey, the Princes’ Islands offer serene escapes from the city. These nine car-free islands feature stunning Ottoman villas, pine forests, and leisurely horse-drawn carriage rides.
• Fenerbahçe Park:A coastal retreat near Istanbul’s Asian side, this scenic park is a favorite for both locals and travelers. With its picturesque lighthouse, picnic areas, and walking trails, it’s a peaceful getaway that complements any itinerary planned from the best airport in Turkey.

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3. Antalya Airport (AYT) – Mediterranean Tourism Gateway

Antalya Airport stands out as a key hub on the International Airport List in Turkey, serving as the primary gateway to the country’s breathtaking Mediterranean coast. Known as one of the best airports in Turkey for leisure travelers, it handles millions of passengers each year especially during the summer season. As one of the busiest air ports in Turkey, Antalya Airport plays a vital role in connecting global tourists to Turkey’s top beach destinations and resorts, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the country’s tourism hotspots.

Address: Yeşilköy, Antalya Havaalanı Dış Hatlar Terminali 1, 07230 Muratpaşa/Antalya, Türkiye
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hzx6xRxYx6xxe4XD7
Airport Code: AYT
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +904449298
Distance from City Center: 15 km away from Antalya city

Operating Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, SunExpress, Corendon Airlines, and numerous European charter airlines operate from this key tourism hub among airports in Turkey.

Terminals: Two international terminals and one domestic terminal serve passengers, with Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 handling international traffic.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout all terminals
• Extensive duty-free shopping options
• A wide range of dining venues from fast food to traditional Turkish cuisine
• VIP services and lounges for premium travelers
• Currency exchange and banking services
• Car rental from multiple providers
• Children’s play areas for traveling families

Nearby Attractions:

• Konyaaltı Beach: Stunning 7-kilometer pebble beach flanked by the Beydağları mountains with crystal-clear water, numerous amenities including restaurants, water sports facilities, and the Beach Park mall complex.
• Kaleiçi (Old Town): Enchanting historic center of Antalya enclosed by ancient Roman walls, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses with wooden balconies, boutique hotels, and landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate and the Fluted Minaret.
• Aspendos Theater: One of the best-preserved ancient Roman theaters in the world, built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Marcus Aurelius, featuring remarkable acoustics and seating for up to 15,000 spectators.
• Antalya Museum: One of Turkey’s largest museums, housing an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts spanning 2,500 years of Anatolian history, with particular emphasis on findings from nearby ancient cities like Perge and Side.

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4. Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) – Capital City Aviation Center

Ankara Esenboğa Airport is the primary aviation hub on the International Airport List in Turkey, serving as the main entry point to the nation’s capital. Among the best airports in Turkey, it stands out for its modern infrastructure and efficient services. After major renovations in 2006, the airport now features a state-of-the-art terminal that seamlessly manages both domestic and international flights, making it one of the most convenient and well-equipped air ports in Turkey for travelers exploring Ankara and beyond.

Address: Esenboğa Merkez, Özal Bulvarı, 06750 Akyurt/Çubuk/Ankara, Türkiye
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GoxvxgLxoNeCgTSB9
Airport Code: ESB
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +903125904000
Distance from City Center: 34 km away of Ankara city center (Kızılay)

Operating Airlines: Turkish Airlines, AnadoluJet, Pegasus Airlines, and various international carriers connect Turkey’s capital with domestic and international destinations.

Terminals: One integrated terminal serving both domestic and international flights, with clear separation between sections.

Services & Amenities:

• Modern terminal with 18 passenger boarding bridges
• Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal
• 138 check-in counters for efficient processing
• A variety of shops, including a duty-free shop in the international area
• Dining options range from fast food to traditional Turkish cuisine
• Lounges for business travelers and premium passengers
• Prayer rooms are conveniently located throughout the terminal
• Car rental services from multiple providers

Nearby Attractions:

• Anıtkabir:Easily accessible from the best airports in Turkey, Anıtkabir stands as the monumental resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. This stunning landmark features a grand marble plaza, a museum displaying Atatürk’s personal items, and the serene Peace Park, symbolizing unity and national pride.
• Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: A top cultural destination featured in the International Airport List in Turkey, this award-winning museum is housed in a beautifully restored 15th-century building. It displays extraordinary artifacts from ancient Anatolian civilizations such as the Hittites, Phrygians, and Urartians—making it a must-visit for history lovers exploring Ankara.
• Kocatepe Mosque: Among the most iconic religious landmarks near major air ports in Turkey, Kocatepe Mosque dominates Ankara’s skyline with its elegant Ottoman-style dome and four soaring 88-meter minarets. Completed in 1987, it can host up to 24,000 worshippers, showcasing the city’s spiritual and architectural grandeur.
• Atakule Tower:A modern highlight in Turkey’s capital and conveniently reachable from the cheapest airport in Turkey, Atakule Tower is a 125-meter-high structure offering panoramic city views. Its revolving restaurant and observation deck make it a favorite for visitors wanting to experience Ankara’s contemporary charm alongside its historic legacy.

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5. Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) – Aegean Region’s Main Airport

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Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport serves as the primary gateway to Turkey’s Aegean coast and its third-largest city. This important facility among airports in Turkey connects visitors to ancient sites like Ephesus, beautiful beaches, and the vibrant cultural center of Izmir.

Address: Dokuz Eylül, 35410 Gaziemir/İzmir, Türkiye
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6Dsqjph5GxF9oFhs9
Airport Code: ADB
Category: Operates both domestic and international flights
Phone: +902324550000
Distance from City Center: 26 km southwest of Izmir city center (Konak Square)

Operating Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, SunExpress, and various European carriers operate from this key Aegean hub among airports in Turkey.

Terminals: One integrated terminal handling both domestic and international flights, renovated and expanded in 2006.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Duty-free shopping in the international section
• Various food and beverage options, including Turkish and international cuisine
• Airport lounges for premium travelers
• Currency exchange and ATM services
• Car rental counters from multiple providers
• Pharmacy and medical services
• Prayer rooms for religious observance

Nearby Attractions:

• İzmir Clock Tower:A must-see landmark near the best airports in Turkey, the İzmir Clock Tower stands proudly in Konak Square as a symbol of the city’s heritage. Designed by French architect Raymond Charles Père and inaugurated in 1901 to celebrate Sultan Abdulhamid II’s 25th anniversary, this 25-meter marble tower features ornate ironwork and four beautiful fountains, making it one of the most photographed attractions in the region.
• Kemeralti Bazaar:Among the liveliest cultural hubs mentioned in the International Airport List in Turkey, the Kemeralti Bazaar is a historic 17th-century marketplace filled with winding alleys and thousands of shops. Visitors can explore spices, textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts offering an authentic taste of local Turkish life. It’s often referred to as one of the best markets in Turkey for cultural shopping experiences.
• Agora Open Air Museum: Located close to major air ports in Turkey, this ancient Roman marketplace built under Emperor Marcus Aurelius showcases İzmir’s fascinating history. With colonnaded walkways, intricate arches, and underground cisterns, the Agora Open Air Museum gives travelers a glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient trading hub once central to Mediterranean commerce.
• Ephesus Archaeological Site: Frequently visited by travelers arriving through the cheapest airport in Turkey for the Aegean region, Ephesus is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Located just an hour from İzmir, this ancient Greek-Roman city features the magnificent Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theatre—offering a journey through time along its marble-paved streets lined with history.

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6. Dalaman Airport (DLM) – Southwestern Coastal Gateway

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Dalaman Airport is a key hub on the International Airport List in Turkey, serving as the main gateway to the country’s stunning southwestern coast. Among the best airports in Turkey for holidaymakers, it plays a vital role in connecting travelers to famous resort towns such as Marmaris, Fethiye, and Ölüdeniz. As one of the busiest air ports in Turkey during the summer season, Dalaman Airport efficiently manages heavy tourist traffic and stands as a cornerstone of the region’s thriving tourism industry.

Address: Ege, 48770 Dalaman/Muğla, Türkiye
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1YMohobWNYbgeCB8A
Airport Code: DLM
Category: Operates domestic and international flights, particularly busy during summer
Phone: +902527925555
Distance from City Center: 8 km away from Dalaman town 

Operating Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, SunExpress, and numerous charter airlines serve this coastal gateway among airports in Turkey, with significantly increased traffic during summer months.

Terminals: One international terminal and one domestic terminal, with the international terminal renovated in 2018.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout both terminals
• Duty-free shopping in the international terminal
• Various dining options, including cafes and restaurants
• ATMs and currency exchange services
• Car rental counters from major providers
• Information desks for tourist assistance
• Prayer rooms for religious observance
• Baby care facilities and children’s areas

Nearby Attractions:

• Dalyan: A top destination easily accessible from the best airports in Turkey, Dalyan is a scenic riverside town known for its ancient Lycian rock tombs, therapeutic mud baths, and the protected İztuzu Beach — a nesting ground for endangered sea turtles. Its tranquil river system and natural surroundings make it a favorite stop for travelers flying into the International Airport List in Turkey for eco-friendly tourism.
• Ölüdeniz (Blue Lagoon): Frequently ranked among the best beaches near air ports in Turkey, Ölüdeniz captivates visitors with its turquoise lagoon and calm, crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the most photographed beaches in the world and a hotspot for adventure seekers, especially those paragliding from the 1,969-meter-high Babadağ Mountain.
• Fethiye: A charming harbor town featured in many itineraries from the cheapest airport in Turkey for the Mediterranean coast, Fethiye offers a blend of history and relaxation. Visitors can explore the lively marina, traditional Paspatur Old Town, Lycian rock tombs like the Tomb of Amyntas, and the hauntingly beautiful Kayaköy ghost village nearby.
• Marmaris: A highlight among coastal destinations connected by the airports in Turkey, Marmaris is a vibrant resort city with a picturesque marina, Ottoman castle, colorful bazaar, and inviting beaches. Known as a major yachting hub on the Turkish Riviera, it’s a must-visit for travelers seeking sun, sea, and lively nightlife.

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7. Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV) – Aegean Resort Destination Hub

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Milas-Bodrum Airport connects travelers to one of Turkey’s most popular holiday destinations. This seasonal facility among airports in Turkey primarily serves the Bodrum Peninsula and surrounding Aegean coastal resorts known for beautiful beaches, ancient history, and vibrant nightlife.

Address: Bodrum Airport Street, Ekinanbarı, 48200 Milas/Muğla, Türkiye
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pos9WM83F34bMYVR9
Airport Code: BJV
Category: Operates domestic and international flights
Phone: NA
Distance from City Center: 36 km from Bodrum city center, 16 km from Milas

Operating Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, SunExpress, and numerous European charter airlines connect to this popular destination among airports in Turkey.

Terminals: One terminal serving both domestic and international flights, with clear separation between sections.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Duty-free shopping for international passengers
• Cafes, restaurants, and bars offering refreshments
• Banking services and currency exchange
• Car rental desks from multiple providers
• Tourist information services
• Prayer rooms for religious observance

Nearby Attractions:

• Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: Ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, built between 353-350 BC as the tomb of Mausolus, with an exhibition hall displaying models of the original 45-meter-tall monument.
• Bodrum Marina: An elegant waterfront area lined with restaurants, cafes, and boutiques where luxury yachts dock alongside traditional Turkish gulets, creating a vibrant atmosphere, especially at sunset.
• Bitez and Gümbet Beaches: Popular golden sand beaches with clear, shallow waters ideal for swimming and water sports, lined with restaurants and accommodation ranging from budget to luxury.
• Ancient Theater of Halicarnassus: Well-preserved 4th century BC Greco-Roman theater carved into the hillside with seating for 13,000 spectators and impressive views of Bodrum and its harbor.

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8. Trabzon Airport (TZX) – Black Sea Region’s Primary Airport

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Trabzon Airport serves as the main gateway to Turkey’s beautiful Black Sea region. This vital hub among the airports in Turkey connects travelers to the country’s lush, mountainous northeast an area celebrated for its green valleys, misty highlands, and rich cultural heritage. Conveniently located near the city center, it provides easy access to the region’s natural wonders and historical landmarks, making it one of the most important entries on the International Airport List in Turkey for both domestic and international visitors.

Address: Konaklar, Trabzon Havaalanı, 61100 Ortahisar/Trabzon, Türkiye
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iixX7q243vaPgkXV7
Airport Code: TZX
Category: Operates domestic with selected international flights
Phone: +904623280941
Distance from City Center: 8 km from Trabzon city

Operating Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, AnadoluJet, and some Middle Eastern carriers serve this regional hub among airports in Turkey.

Terminals: Domestic and international terminals connect travelers to this distinctive region of Turkey.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Duty-free shop in the international terminal
• Multiple shops and cafés offering local and international cuisine
• 24-hour food and beverage options
• Prayer rooms for religious observance
• Baby care facilities and family services
• Car rental desks and taxi services
• ATMs and basic banking services

Nearby Attractions:

• Sumela Monastery: Dramatic 1,600-year-old Greek Orthodox monastery perched on a cliff 1,200 meters above sea level, featuring remarkable frescoes and breathtaking views of the Altındere Valley.
• Uzungöl: Picturesque lake and village surrounded by mountains and forests, famous for its natural beauty, traditional wooden houses, and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and experiencing Black Sea culture.
• Atatürk Köşkü: Historic villa where Turkey’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, stayed during his visits to Trabzon, now a museum preserving the original furnishings, personal items, and beautiful gardens.
• Boztepe: Hilltop area offering panoramic views of Trabzon and the Black Sea coast, popular for its tea gardens where visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish tea while taking in the scenery.

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9. Hatay Airport (HTY) – Southeastern Regional Hub

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Hatay Airport connects travelers to Turkey’s southernmost province, renowned for its rich cultural mosaic and world-famous cuisine. This developing facility among the airports in Turkey provides essential access to Antakya, the ancient city of Antioch, celebrated for its historical sites and interwoven religious heritage. As one of the notable entries on the International Airport List in Turkey, Hatay Airport plays a vital role in linking southeastern Turkey with the rest of the country and supporting both tourism and regional trade.

Address: Dış Kapı, Paşaköy, Hatay Havaalanı, 31121 Antakya/Hatay, Türkiye
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Lw51oqY4UBFbzZJo6
Airport Code: HTY
Category: Operates domestically with limited international flights
Phone: +903262351300
Distance from City Center: 33 km from Antakya city

Operating Airlines: Turkish Airlines, AnadoluJet, Pegasus Airlines, SunExpress, and some regional carriers connect this southeastern city to major Turkish hubs.

Terminals: One terminal serves both domestic and international passengers.

Services & Amenities:

• Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the terminal
• Dining options include cafes and restaurants
• ATMs and limited banking services
• Duty-free shops in the international section
• Car rental agencies and taxi services
• Prayer rooms for religious observance
• Medical facilities for emergency assistance
• Information desk for tourist inquiries

Nearby Attractions:

• Hatay Archaeology Museum: World-renowned museum housing one of the largest collections of Roman and Byzantine mosaics, including the 2nd-century “Oceanus and Tethys” and other masterpieces excavated from ancient Antioch.
• Church of St. Peter: One of Christianity’s oldest churches, carved into the side of Mount Starius, dating from the 1st century AD and recognized as the first place where followers of Jesus were called Christians.
• Habib-i Neccar Mosque: The first mosque built in Anatolia after the Arab conquest in 638 AD, named after the first person in Antioch to embrace Islam, with a distinctive minaret and historical significance.
• Titus Tunnel: Remarkable Roman engineering achievement at Çevlik (ancient Seleucia Pieria), a 1.4km water tunnel hand-carved through solid rock in the 1st century AD to divert mountain streams and prevent harbor silting.

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Top 5 Places You Must Visit in Turkey

Turkey connects past and present in ways few countries can match. Sip tea by the Bosphorus where two continents meet, float above Cappadocia’s moon-like valleys, or touch marble in Ephesus that still holds Roman fingerprints. 

Place	Location	Highlights
Hagia Sophia	Istanbul	Byzantine/Ottoman architectural marvel, stunning mosaics, and unique heritage
Cappadocia	Central Turkey	Fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, hot air balloon rides, and underground cities
Ephesus	Near Izmir	Ancient Roman city, Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, Temple of Artemis
Pamukkale	Denizli Province	White travertine terraces, thermal pools, and ancient Hierapolis ruins
Antalya Old Town	Mediterranean Coast	Charming historic district, Hadrian’s Gate, beautiful beaches, and ancient ruins

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s greatest architectural marvels, sits in Istanbul—a city served by some of the busiest airports in Turkey. This 1,500-year-old landmark has functioned as a cathedral, mosque, museum, and now mosque again, reflecting Istanbul’s rich cultural history. Travelers visiting via the best airport in Istanbul can easily access this iconic site.

Inside, Hagia Sophia features a massive dome that seems to float above, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Sunlight streams through intricate mosaics, gold tiles, calligraphy, and marble elements, blending Byzantine and Ottoman artistry under one roof. Visitors flying into the International Airport list in Turkey can experience this fusion of history and architecture firsthand.

For those seeking convenience and cost-effectiveness, exploring the cheapest airport in Istanbul allows travelers to enjoy this landmark without stretching their budget. Hagia Sophia remains a must-visit, easily reachable from major hubs included in any air ports in Istanbul or airports list in Turkey itinerary.

Best For: History enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and photography buffs.

Cappadocia, Central Turkey

Cappadocia presents one of the world’s most surreal landscapes, where volcanic eruptions and erosion created a dreamscape of “fairy chimneys” and undulating valleys. These soft rock formations have been carved into dwellings, churches, and even entire underground cities since ancient times.

The region is renowned for hot air balloon rides at sunrise, offering breathtaking aerial views of this otherworldly terrain. Visitors can explore Byzantine cave churches with remarkable frescoes, hike through colorful valleys, and stay in unique cave hotels. 

Best For: Photographers, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers.

Ephesus, Near Izmir

Ephesus, one of the Mediterranean’s most complete ancient cities, offers a glimpse into Greco-Roman life. Travelers arriving through the best airport in Izmir can stroll its marble streets to see the Library of Celsus, the grand Theater, and other impressive structures.

Once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Ephesus was a major Roman port and early Christian center. Its preserved buildings, homes, and mosaics reveal a rich past. Visitors can plan their trip via the cheapest airport in Izmir or check the airports list in Turkey for convenient options.

Ephesus is also easily reachable from major hubs included in the International Airport list in Turkey, making it a top destination for history lovers.

Best For: History buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and ancient world admirers.

Pamukkale, Denizli Province

Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle,” offers one of nature’s most extraordinary sights. Cascading white calcium terraces filled with mineral-rich thermal waters have created a surreal landscape that has attracted visitors for millennia, with the ancient city of Hierapolis built at its summit.

Visitors can wade through warm, mineral-rich pools as they ascend the hillside of gleaming white travertine. At the top, explore the extensive ruins of Hierapolis, including a remarkably preserved theater with panoramic views and the Antique Pool where you can swim among ancient marble columns.

Best For: Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and history buffs.

Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi), Mediterranean Coast

Antalya’s historic heart, Kaleiçi, combines a picturesque Ottoman-era district with stunning Mediterranean views. Enclosed by ancient walls, its narrow winding streets reveal beautifully preserved timber houses, hidden courtyards, and boutique hotels alongside Roman monuments like Hadrian’s Gate.

The area offers charming shops selling traditional crafts, cozy cafes in historic buildings, and restaurants serving local Mediterranean cuisine. Beyond the old town, discover beautiful beaches, the impressive Düden Waterfalls, and ancient sites like Perge and Aspendos.

Best For: Cultural travelers, history enthusiasts, and beach lovers.

FAQs

What are the accommodation options near major airports in Turkey?

Major airports in Turkey offer a range of lodging, from budget to luxury. Istanbul Airport has an on-site YOTEL, while Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Antalya Airport have nearby hotels and resorts, often with shuttle services.

What are some of the facilities at Turkish airports?

Facilities include prayer rooms, duty-free shops, diverse dining, free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, and lounges. Top airports also offer car rentals, baggage assistance, and family-friendly services.

How does the visa process work when arriving at airports in Turkey?

Travelers can obtain an e-Visa online before arrival or a visa-on-arrival at major airports. The e-Visa is simple to apply for via the official Turkish government website.

What are the transportation options available from airports in Turkey?

Options include airport shuttles (Havaist, Havabus), metro links in some cities, taxis, car rentals, and private transfers. Istanbul Airport connects via dedicated buses, while Izmir and Ankara airports link to city centers by train.

How long does a Turkish tourist visa last?

Tourist e-Visas are valid for 180 days, allowing stays of 30–90 days depending on nationality. Some visas offer multiple entries, and e-Visas are usually processed within 24 hours.

What items cannot be brought into Turkey?

Prohibited items include narcotics, unlicensed firearms, certain medications without prescriptions, counterfeit goods, and pornographic material. Limits apply to tobacco, alcohol, and valuable items.

How much is 1 TRY in USD?

1 Turkish Lira (TRY) equals approximately $0.031 USD (April 2025). Rates may fluctuate, so check current rates before traveling.

Which are the nearest airports to popular Turkish destinations?

Key airports include Istanbul Airport (IST) for Istanbul, Antalya Airport (AYT) for resorts, Dalaman Airport (DLM) for the Turquoise Coast, Kayseri Airport for Cappadocia, and Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) for Ephesus and the Aegean coast.

What procedures should be followed if belongings get lost inside a Turkish airport?

Contact the airport’s lost property office immediately. If lost on the aircraft, reach out directly to the airline.