Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) Lounges and Food Options

The Gateway to the Asian Side

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is Istanbul's second busiest airport, located on the far Asian side of the city. Primarily serving low-cost carriers like Pegasus Airlines and AnadoluJet, it is incredibly popular for domestic flights and budget-friendly routes across Europe and the Middle East.

Because it is a hub for low-cost carriers, the terminal is almost always bustling and crowded. Finding a quiet corner to work or relax before your flight requires a bit of insider knowledge.

Lounge Access: Escaping the Crowds

The best investment you can make at SAW is lounge access. The terminal features several lounges, but the standout is the Plaza Premium Lounge, located in both the domestic and international departure halls.

• Amenities: The lounge offers hot buffet food, comfortable quiet zones, high-speed Wi-Fi, and panoramic views of the runway.
• Access: You can enter using a Priority Pass, DragonPass, or simply by paying a walk-in fee at the door. It is highly recommended if you have a layover exceeding two hours.

Food Options in the Terminal

If you prefer not to use a lounge, SAW has a large food court located on the mezzanine level after security. You will find global chains like Burger King, McDonald's, and Starbucks, alongside local favorites like Simit Sarayı and Usta Dönerci.

Warning: Airport food and drink prices in Turkey are significantly inflated compared to city prices. A simple coffee and sandwich can easily cost upwards of €15. We recommend eating a hearty meal in the city before heading to the airport.

Getting to SAW Stress-Free

SAW is located nearly 50 kilometers from the European city center (Taksim/Sultanahmet). The journey requires crossing the Bosphorus Bridge or taking the undersea Marmaray tunnel, both of which are highly susceptible to severe rush-hour traffic.

Do not risk missing your flight by relying on public buses (Havabüs) that can get stuck in traffic, or standard yellow taxis that may try to renegotiate the fare halfway there. Pre-book a VIP Transfer. Our drivers track traffic patterns in real-time, know alternative routes, and provide a comfortable, climate-controlled space where you can relax on the long drive to the Asian side.