Car Rental at Sabiha Gökçen Airport: A 1-Day Istanbul Tour

Why Rent a Car from Sabiha Gökçen Airport?

Sabiha Gökçen Airport, located on the Asian side of Istanbul, is a key point of entry for many travelers coming to the city. Renting a car from the airport makes it easy to access various parts of the city and gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary. Car rental provides you with convenience, freedom, and the ability to explore Istanbul’s diverse areas more comfortably. This is especially ideal for those with limited time.

Suggested Routes for a 1-Day Istanbul Tour

Istanbul is a vast city, with a mix of historical and modern attractions, as well as scenic views of the Bosphorus. By renting a car from Sabiha Gökçen Airport, you can see many of the city’s most important landmarks in one day. Here's a suggested route for your one-day Istanbul tour:

1. Morning: Kadıköy and Moda

Start your day in Kadıköy, a lively and vibrant district on the Asian side. You can walk around Kadıköy Market, shop at the local stores, or enjoy a relaxed breakfast. Afterward, head to Moda, a quiet and picturesque neighborhood, perfect for a morning stroll. Enjoy a coffee by the Moda coastline while taking in the sea view.

2. Midday: Üsküdar and Çamlıca Hill

From Kadıköy, head towards Üsküdar and explore the area around Üsküdar Square. After that, drive up to Çamlıca Hill, one of the highest points in Istanbul, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Take some time to have lunch at one of the restaurants in Üsküdar, overlooking the Bosphorus.

3. Afternoon: Sultanahmet Square and Hagia Sophia

In the afternoon, head to Sultanahmet Square, the heart of Istanbul’s historical peninsula. This area is home to famous landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The historical atmosphere of the square offers an immersive experience of Istanbul’s rich past.

4. Evening: Galata and Karaköy

As evening approaches, head to Galata Tower for stunning views of the city. The surrounding area, especially Karaköy, is vibrant and full of life in the evening. Enjoy dinner in Karaköy and have a cup of tea, taking in the modern side of Istanbul while experiencing its unique charm.

Tips for a 1-Day Istanbul Tour

1. Start Early: Since Istanbul is a large city, distances between key attractions can be long. Starting early will help you make the most of your time and visit all the major sites.

2. Traffic and Parking: Traffic can be heavy in Istanbul, especially during peak hours. Also, parking in popular tourist areas may be difficult to find, so it’s a good idea to research parking options in advance.

3. Use Navigation: Navigating the city can be tricky. Make sure to use Google Maps or Yandex Maps for real-time directions to avoid getting lost.

4. Try Local Delicacies: Don’t miss out on tasting local Turkish dishes like döner, fish sandwiches (balık-ekmek), and baklava while you’re in the city. Enjoying authentic food adds to the experience of your trip.

Advantages of Renting a Car from Sabiha Gökçen Airport

• Flexibility and Comfort: Renting a car from Sabiha Gökçen Airport gives you the freedom to travel wherever and whenever you want. You won’t have to rely on public transport and can set your own schedule.

• Time Efficiency: Renting a car is especially useful for those with limited time. It allows you to visit multiple attractions efficiently and make the most of your day in the city.

• Comfort: With a variety of car options, you can choose the vehicle that best suits your needs, allowing for a comfortable and relaxing tour of the city.