444 51 56
From the Airport to the Hotel: Taxi, Private Transfer, Shuttle Transfer, or Bus - Which Adventure Will You Choose?
After landing in Turkey, the real vacation begins – but before heading to the hotel pool or the beach, an important decision needs to be made: What is the best way to get from the airport to the hotel?
Whether in Antalya, Istanbul, or Dalaman – there are different transport options, each with its own pros and cons in terms of comfort, price, and time. To find out which option is best, I tested them myself. Here are my experiences and recommendations for a smooth arrival.
Experience report on my transfer from Antalya Airport to Side:
Antalya Airport (AYT) is one of the largest holiday airports in Turkey. However, between exiting the arrival hall and reaching the hotel lies the first big challenge: choosing the right transport option.
For those who don’t want to move more than necessary after a long flight, a private transfer is the royal solution. The driver waits with a name sign, the car is air-conditioned, and within minutes you head directly to the hotel – no detours, no discussions, no spontaneous city tours through unfamiliar Antalya.
✅ Perfect for: People who want to relax and not participate in a city rally.
💰 Price: Often cheaper than a taxi for groups.
📌 Tip: Book in advance to avoid negotiations with enthusiastic drivers at the airport.
I’d like to describe this experience in more detail: I booked the private transfer through Travelassistant24. Last time, I didn’t even have to pay in advance. They had a campaign where you could "Pay upon pickup or arrival." Admittedly, this seemed a bit unusual at first, but why not? Worst case, I still had other ways to get from Antalya Airport to Side. So, I decided to book the private transfer for just 49 euros on the Travelassistant24 online portal.
The driver met me at the airport with a name sign, and I must say, he was hard to miss – he was a proud 1.98m tall! :) He led me to a very comfortable 6-seater Mercedes minivan. The car was not only clean but also smelled fresh. The interior was air-conditioned and extremely comfortable. It reminded me of a luxury limousine – with a TV, floral ceiling lighting, a mahogany-style table, a drink box, and tinted windows for a relaxing atmosphere.
Everything was of the highest quality and truly stylish. Without any long waiting times, we headed straight to Side. The drive from Antalya Airport to Side took about an hour, but honestly, I wouldn’t have minded taking a few extra rounds in that minivan! :) The ride was smooth, and the service top-notch – definitely an experience I’d repeat.
A taxi is always an option – but in Antalya, it can also turn into a small negotiation marathon. Taximeter? Sometimes. Fixed price? Depends. Surprise detours? Maybe.
✅ Good for: People with negotiation skills or those who can bargain with just a look.
❗ Warning: Always ask for the price in advance or use a taxi app like BiTaksi or Uber.
📌 Tip: Have small change ready, as drivers often say, “I don’t have any change.”
Experience Report:
After a bit of price negotiation, we started the ride. The driver told me during the trip that I absolutely had to take a city tour with him – and that he also had a cousin who sells jewelry. Overall, an entertaining but slightly business-oriented ride.
The cheapest convenient option is a shuttle service or shared bus. You share the vehicle with other travelers, and the trip can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an eternity, depending on the number of stops.
✅ Ideal for: Patient travelers who prefer saving a few euros over getting to the hotel pool right away.
💰 Price: Cheaper than a taxi but comes with some waiting time. Waiting times vary from 30 to 60 minutes depending on the provider.
📌 Tip: Check how many stops are planned before booking.
Experience Report:
I thought: “Why not try the shuttle?” So, I pre-booked a cheap shared bus, more precisely, the cheapest no-name provider :)
Mistake number one: I paid the price for it because I didn’t consider that there’s no real rush in Turkey. The driver picked up passengers from three more flights while I wondered if I’d reach my hotel before sunset.
The first half-hour felt like a road trip with strangers. The mood was good, but after an hour and ten hotel stops, I started wondering if I had booked a city tour instead.
For those who really want to travel cheaply, Antalya offers public buses or the tram (AntRay) to get to the city center.
✅ Ideal for: Adventurous travelers with light luggage.
💰 Price: Extremely cheap but involves waiting and transfers.
📌 Tip: If you don’t speak Turkish, research the correct route in advance.
Experience Report:
The tram was modern, clean, and fast. The bus? Crowded, noisy, and a bit confusing. If you have patience, you can save money – if you want to get directly to the hotel, it's better to choose another option.
In Istanbul (IST & SAW), you face two major challenges: the vast city and unpredictable traffic.
The new Metro M11 connects Istanbul Airport (IST) with the city – and is often faster than any car.
✅ Ideal for: People who prefer to travel with a plan rather than a prayer.
💰 Price: Very affordable, reliable.
📌 Tip: If you’re heading to Sultanahmet or Taksim, you’ll need to transfer. Find more information about stations and departure times here.
Experience Report:
The metro was fast, modern, and quiet. The perfect contrast to the sometimes chaotic Istanbul.
Taxis and Uber are available, but traffic congestion can double the travel time.
✅ Good for: People who don’t mind an extended city tour.
❗ Important: Travel time varies greatly!
📌 Tip: If you're in a hurry, take the metro instead.
If you’re flying to Istanbul and considering taking a taxi from Istanbul Airport to Taksim or Sultanahmet, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Taxis in Istanbul, especially at the airport, offer both comfort and potential challenges. This guide provides key information such as cost estimates, how to avoid scams, and alternative transport options like public transit or private transfers. Learn how to navigate the taxi system efficiently and avoid inconveniences during your trip.
Location of Istanbul Airport:
Due to its distance from the city center, fares tend to be higher compared to airports that are closer. The most popular districts – Sultanahmet and Taksim – are about 30 km away, so expect longer travel times and higher fares if you take a taxi.
Do You Need a Taxi from Istanbul Airport?
In reality, taxis in Istanbul can present some challenges. The cars are often not the most comfortable, but the real issue is the frequent scams where drivers charge tourists double or even more than the standard fare.
Fortunately, excellent public transportation options are available from the airport. You can take the Havaist or Havabus shuttles, which go directly to Taksim or Aksaray. From Aksaray, it’s easy to transfer to the T1 tram if you’re staying in Sultanahmet or Eminönü. Additionally, Istanbul’s metro system is connected to the airport via the M11 metro line, which allows seamless travel to central locations after transferring to the M2 line.
Given these efficient and affordable options, do you really need a taxi? If you prefer comfort and convenience, a private transfer is a better alternative to avoid scams and ensure a stress-free journey.
How Taxis Work at Istanbul Airport
Taxis can be booked via apps like Uber or BiTaksi, which calculate fares based on the taximeter. The airport offers free Wi-Fi, so you can easily connect and book your ride right after landing.
If booking through an app, send the driver your location and floor number or ask for details, as they may not speak fluent English. Many drivers call to confirm the meeting point, and clear communication can prevent confusion.
Istanbul Airport offers several taxi options, including BiTaksi, Uber, and traditional taxis at the stand. Alternatively, you can go to the official taxi ranks in front of the arrivals terminal. Follow the signs to the taxi stand, where you can either go by the taximeter or negotiate a fixed price. Always be cautious when negotiating fares, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid overpricing.
Pre-booked taxis and transfer pickups usually meet passengers on the -2 floor.
The Havaist buses are a great choice for travelers looking for a budget-friendly yet comfortable mode of transport. They run regularly from Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) and Istanbul Airport (IST) to the city center.
✅ Ideal for: Those looking for a budget-friendly yet comfortable alternative.
💰 Price: Much cheaper than a taxi, slightly more expensive than the metro.
📌 Tip: Check schedules online, as departure times may vary.
Dalaman Airport (DLM) is the gateway to the beautiful Aegean coast, with popular holiday destinations such as Marmaris, Fethiye, and Göcek. But before taking the first dive into the sea, there's the question: What is the best way to get from the airport to the hotel?
A private transfer is the perfect choice for those who don’t want to deal with waiting times or detours. The driver waits at the exit with a name sign, the car is air-conditioned, and the journey goes directly to the hotel.
✅ Perfect for: Families, groups, and travelers with a lot of luggage.
💰 Price: Often cheaper than a taxi for larger groups.
📌 Tip: Book in advance to avoid stress and spontaneous price negotiations.
A taxi is a convenient way to get to the hotel, but in Dalaman, taxi fares are often higher than in other cities. A trip to Fethiye or Marmaris can quickly become expensive.
✅ Good for: Travelers who want to leave immediately.
❗ Warning: Always negotiate the price in advance or use a taxi app.
📌 Tip: Uber is not available in Dalaman, so a pre-booked transfer is worth considering.
If reaching the hotel immediately isn’t a priority, a shuttle transfer shared with other travelers is an option.
✅ Ideal for: Those who want to save money and have some extra time.
💰 Price: Much cheaper than a taxi but includes multiple stops.
📌 Tip: Check the route in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
There are buses operated by MUTTAŞ and HAVAŞ to the city center of Fethiye and Marmaris, but the schedules are not always ideal.
✅ Ideal for: Adventurous travelers with light luggage.
💰 Price: Very cheap but requires transfers.
📌 Tip: Check departure times in advance as buses do not operate 24/7.
Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) connects travelers to popular holiday destinations like Çeşme, Alaçatı, and Kuşadası. But what is the best way to get there?
A private transfer is the most relaxing way to get from the airport to the hotel without detours or delays.
✅ Perfect for: Families, larger groups, and anyone who wants to start their vacation stress-free.
💰 Price: Often cheaper than a taxi, especially for multiple people.
📌 Tip: Book in advance to secure the best prices.
A taxi can be a quick solution, but during peak season, prices are often inconsistent.
✅ Good for: Travelers without pre-bookings who are in a hurry.
❗ Warning: Always ask for the price in advance to avoid surprises.
📌 Tip: If heading to Çeşme or Alaçatı, a transfer is a better option.
The Havaş buses run regularly to the city center and Çeşme.
✅ Ideal for: Solo travelers with light luggage.
💰 Price: Very cheap but not as fast as a transfer.
📌 Tip: Check schedules in advance as buses do not run 24/7.
Bodrum-Milas Airport (BJV) is the perfect starting point for a holiday in Bodrum, Torba, or Turgutreis.
After a long flight, those who want to avoid detours should opt for a private transfer.
✅ Perfect for: Groups, families, and travelers with a lot of luggage.
💰 Price: Often cheaper than a taxi for multiple people.
📌 Tip: Reserve online to get the best price.
A taxi is a convenient choice, but prices vary depending on the time of day and season.
✅ Good for: Those who want to leave quickly.
❗ Warning: Negotiate prices in advance to avoid surprises.
📌 Tip: If traveling beyond Bodrum city, a transfer is usually more affordable.
The Havaş buses run regularly to the center of Bodrum.
✅ Ideal for: Those who want to save money.
💰 Price: Very cheap, but not a direct route to the hotel.
📌 Tip: If staying outside Bodrum, take a taxi from the bus station.
Regardless of the choice - Turkey welcomes its guests with open arms!
Which transport option would I recommend for a family with children?
For a family with children, I would definitely recommend a private transfer.
According to my research, the average prices for private transfers from major airports in Turkey to popular destinations fall within the following range. Of course, there are variations – depending on the provider, vehicle type, season, and booking time, prices can be higher or lower. But for those who want to plan ahead and avoid last-minute decisions at the airport, here’s a reference guide.
This price list gives you a rough idea of what a private transfer costs – the most convenient way to get from the airport without waiting or detours to your hotel. This is especially a great option for families with children, groups, or travelers with a lot of luggage.
Here are the average prices for private transfers (as of 06.04.2025), so you can plan better:
| Airport | Destination | Distance | Travel Time | Price (1-3 Persons) | Price (4-6 Persons) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antalya (AYT) | Lara | Approx. 15 km | Approx. 20 min | From €24 | From €35 |
| Antalya (AYT) | Belek | Approx. 35 km | Approx. 35 min | From €35 | From €43 |
| Antalya (AYT) | Side | Approx. 70 km | Approx. 60 min | From €52 | From €68 |
| Antalya (AYT) | Antalya City | Approx. 27 km | Approx. 30 min | From €27 | From €37 |
| Antalya (AYT) | Kemer | Approx. 60 km | Approx. 60 min | From €45 | From €60 |
| Antalya (AYT) | Alanya | Approx. 125 km | Approx. 2 hrs | From €41 | From €41 |
| Dalaman (DLM) | Marmaris | Approx. 95 km | Approx. 1.5 hrs | From €76 | From €76 |
| Dalaman (DLM) | Fethiye | Approx. 50 km | Approx. 50 min | From €36 | From €36 |
| Dalaman (DLM) | Göcek | Approx. 20 km | Approx. 20 min | From €39 | From €42 |
| Bodrum-Milas (BJV) | Bodrum City | Approx. 36 km | Approx. 40 min | From $45 | From $45 |
| Izmir-Adnan Menderes (ADB) | Çeşme | Approx. 96 km | Approx. 1 hr | From €82 | From €82 |
| Izmir-Adnan Menderes (ADB) | Alaçatı | Approx. 86 km | Approx. 1 hr | From €82 | From €82 |
| Istanbul (IST) | Taksim | Approx. 40 km | Approx. 45 min | From €50 | From €50 |
| Istanbul (IST) | Sultanahmet | Approx. 45 km | Approx. 50 min | From €50 | From €50 |
| Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) | Kadıköy | Approx. 35 km | Approx. 45 min | From €50 | From €50 |
| Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) | Taksim | Approx. 50 km | Approx. 1 hr | From €50 | From €50 |
| Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) | Sultanahmet | Approx. 50 km | Approx. 1 hr | From €50 | From €50 |
📌 Important Notes:
If child seats or specific vehicle types are needed, this should be specified when booking.
If you have experience with private transfers in Turkey or a recommendation – which provider offered you the best service?
Guest post by Roland Leemann.
I recently used the Antalya Airport transfer service, and it was fantastic! The booking was easy, and our driver was punctual and helpful. The ride to Alanya was comfortable and stress-free. Highly recommend this service for anyone traveling to Antalya to ensure a smooth arrival at your destination!
Can an airport transfer be cheap and safe at the same time?
We will be vacationing in Turkey next summer. We booked the hotel and flight separately and we are now missing the transfer to and from Antalya airport. There are so many offers on the market. It makes you dizzy. It's the first time that we didn't book a package holiday. We are now on our own and are now a bit unsettled. Can someone give me a hand here?
Hi Sebo,
The number of people who like to act more independently and think they can spend a cheaper vacation this way is increasing every year. Of course there are advantages and disadvantages to such decisions, but I can tell you one thing: an airport transfer is not a joke. Just as I share my experiences and knowledge on this site, I also pass on my advice here. Without further ado, I recommend the transfer services of Meeting Point Turkey. Prices are affordable and service is top notch.
Thank you Mehmet, I still have one question.
How much does the transfer from Antalya Airport to Side cost?
The prices for round-trip transfers from the main airports in Turkey are as follows (as of 20.04.2025)
And you can find more information about prices for other services such as private transfers in Alanya, Side, Belek, Antalya, Kemer or Istanbul using the search engine above or on this page https: //travelassistant24.com/transfers/index.php
Discover the hidden gems of Kemer with KemerTrip! Our website is your ultimate guide to the best attractions, accommodations, and dining experiences in this beautiful Turkish resort town. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, KemerTrip offers valuable insights and tips to make your visit unforgettable. Check us out at KemerTrip and start planning your dream vacation today!
Leave a comment
In this comment function you have the possibility to leave comments. It doesn't matter whether you have questions, suggestions, additions or ideas about this article or whether you would like to exchange views on our topics - we are curious about your contributions!