Istanbul Airport Metro Line M11 Guide: Best Tips for Your Trip

Traveling between Istanbul Airport and the city center has never been easier, thanks to the M11 Istanbul Airport Metro Line. Opened in 2023, this metro line provides a fast, budget-friendly, and traffic-free way to reach central Istanbul in just 44 minutes. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the M11 Metro Line is the most convenient alternative to taxis, buses, or private transfers.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including ticket prices, schedules, transfers, and step-by-step directions to major tourist districts.

At a Glance: Istanbul Airport Metro Line M11

The M11 Istanbul Airport Metro Line is the newest addition to Istanbul’s public transport system. It was specifically designed to make airport transfers easier, faster, and more affordable. Here’s why it’s the best option for reaching the city:

• 🚄 Fast & Traffic-Free – Takes 44 minutes from Istanbul Airport to Gayrettepe, bypassing Istanbul’s notorious congestion.
• 💰 Budget-Friendly – A single ride costs around 27-40 TL, making it cheaper than taxis or shuttles.
• 🔄 Seamless Transfers – Connects to other metro lines, buses, and trams for easy access to Taksim, Sultanahmet, Beşiktaş, and Kadıköy.
• 📶 Modern Amenities – Offers free Wi-Fi, elevators, luggage space, and a smooth ride for travelers.
• ⏰ Frequent Service – Trains operate every 8-10 minutes during peak hours and every 15-20 minutes off-peak.

For travelers looking for an efficient airport transfer, the M11 Metro Line is the best way to reach central Istanbul without spending too much.

M11 Metro Route & Stations: Where Does It Go?

The M11 Istanbul Airport Metro Line covers 10 stations, connecting Istanbul Airport to Gayrettepe with transfer points to other metro lines.

Full List of M11 Metro Line Stations:

1. Istanbul Airport (IST)
2. Kargo Terminali
3. Taşoluk
4. Arnavutköy
5. İhsaniye
6. Göktürk
7. Kemerburgaz
8. Üniversite-Hasdal
9. Kağıthane (Transfer to M7 Metro Line)
10. Gayrettepe (Transfer to M2 Metro Line)

💡 About Stations:

• Gayrettepe: Main transfer hub to M2 Metro Line, which connects to Taksim, Sultanahmet, and other tourist districts.
• Kağıthane: Connects to the M7 Metro Line for travel to Şişli, Beşiktaş, and Mecidiyeköy.

How to Take the M11 Metro from Istanbul Airport

Where to Find the Metro at Istanbul Airport

The M11 Metro Station is located on the -2 Arrivals Floor of Istanbul Airport (IST). Simply follow the “Metro” signs after exiting baggage claim.

How to Buy a Ticket for the M11 Metro Line

To board the M11 Istanbul Airport Metro, you’ll need an Istanbulkart, the city’s universal public transportation card.

Where to Buy an Istanbulkart at Istanbul Airport?

You can purchase an Istanbulkart from:

• Vending Machines – Located at the metro entrance on the -2 floor.
• Havaist Airport Shuttle Counters – Near the exit gates.
• Authorized Kiosks & Exchange Offices – Located in the arrivals hall.

💡 Tip: Get your Istanbulkart immediately, as cash is not accepted on the metro, buses, or shuttles.

How to Top Up Your Istanbulkart?

• Use the vending machines at metro stations.
• Top up via the Istanbulkart Mobile App (supports online payments).
• Visit authorized kiosks in the city.

M11 Metro Line Schedule & Operating Hours

• First Train: 06:00 AM
• Last Train: 00:40 AM (from Gayrettepe)
• Peak Hours: Every 8-10 minutes
• Off-Peak Hours: Every 15-20 minutes

💡 Tip: Always check updated schedules on the Istanbul Metro website or transit apps like Moovit for real-time updates.

Fares & Ticket Prices for the M11 Metro

💳 M11 Metro Line Fare: 27-40 TL per ride

💡 Istanbulkart:

• Cheaper than single-use tickets.
• Works on all metro, tram, bus, and ferry lines.
• Allows discounted transfers within 2 hours.

🚆 Comparison of Istanbul Airport Transport Costs:

• M11 Metro Line: 27-40 TL (~44 min)
• Havaist Airport Bus: 275 TL (~60-90 min, depends on traffic)
• Taxis: 1,300-1,600 TL (~40-70 min, depends on traffic)

How to Get to Popular Districts from Istanbul Airport

From Istanbul Airport to Taksim (55 minutes total)

1. Take the M11 Istanbul Airport Metro to Gayrettepe (44 minutes).
2. Transfer to the M2 Metro Line toward Yenikapı.
3. Get off at Taksim Station (3 stops, 10 minutes).

From Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet (1 hour total)

1. Take the M11 Metro to Gayrettepe.
2. Transfer to M2 Metro Line and get off at Vezneciler-Istanbul University.
3. Walk to Laleli Tram Station and take T1 Tram to Sultanahmet.

From Istanbul Airport to Beşiktaş (1 hour total)

1. Take the M11 Metro to Kağıthane.
2. Transfer to M7 Metro Line and get off at Mecidiyeköy.
3. Take a public bus or taxi to Beşiktaş.

💡 Tip: Public buses from Gayrettepe and Kağıthane also connect to Besiktas and Kadikoy.

FAQs about Istanbul Airport Metro

Where can I find the M11 Metro Station at Istanbul Airport?

The M11 Metro Station at Istanbul Airport is located on the -2 Arrivals Floor. After exiting baggage claim, follow the signs marked “Metro”, which will guide you to the entrance. The station has ticket vending machines, Istanbulkart kiosks, and escalators/elevators for easy access.

How do I transfer from the M11 Metro to other metro lines?

You can transfer from the M11 Metro Line at two key stations:

• Gayrettepe Station: Connect to the M2 Metro Line for Taksim, Sultanahmet, and Yenikapı.
• Kağıthane Station: Transfer to the M7 Metro Line for Şişli, Mecidiyeköy, and Beşiktaş.

Simply tap your Istanbulkart at the turnstiles and continue your journey.

What are the peak and off-peak hours for the M11 Metro?

• Peak hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, with trains every 8-10 minutes.
• Off-peak hours: Trains run every 15-20 minutes but still offer frequent service.

If you want a less crowded experience, avoid traveling during rush hours, especially if carrying luggage.

Where can I store my luggage if I want to explore the city before checking in?

If you arrive early and don’t want to carry your luggage, you can use luggage storage services available near Taksim, Sultanahmet, and major metro stations. Some hotels also offer early bag drop-off options.