How to Get from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Eyup Sultan Mosque: Step-by-Step Directions
04 November 2026 - Eyüp Sultan Camii
Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is located in Pendik on Istanbul's Asian side, while Eyup Sultan is on the European side, on the shore of the Golden Horn. This means you need to cross the Bosphorus on your journey. The good news is that thanks to the M4 metro from the airport, you can complete the trip by rail without getting stuck in traffic.
Option 1: M4 + Marmaray + T5 (Fastest by Rail)
- Take the M4 metro: Follow the "Metro" signs in the terminal and board the M4 towards Kadıköy at Sabiha Gökçen Havalimanı station.
- Get off at Ayrılık Çeşmesi: This station is the interchange between the M4 and Marmaray.
- Transfer to Marmaray: Board a Marmaray train towards Halkalı. The train crosses under the Bosphorus to the European side.
- Get off at Sirkeci: Exit Sirkeci station and walk a few minutes towards Eminönü square.
- Take the T5 tram: At the Eminönü T5 stop, board a tram towards Alibeyköy.
- Get off at Eyüpsultan Teleferik: This is the closest tram stop to the mosque. The ride from Eminönü takes about 20-25 minutes.
Total time: About 1.5 - 2 hours including transfers.
Option 2: M4 + Ferry + T5 (Most Enjoyable)
If you are not in a hurry, enjoy greeting Istanbul from the water:
- Take the M4 metro to the last stop, Kadıköy.
- Board a ferry from Kadıköy Pier to Eminönü. The crossing takes about 20-25 minutes and offers a unique view of the Historic Peninsula.
- At Eminönü, take the T5 tram and get off at Eyüpsultan Teleferik.
There are also ferries from Kadıköy that join the Golden Horn line and go all the way to Eyup, but the number of departures is limited. Check current times with Şehir Hatları.
Option 3: Taxi
The distance between Sabiha Gokcen and Eyup Sultan is about 50-55 km and the journey involves crossing one of the Bosphorus bridges. Depending on traffic it can take from 1 to 2 hours, and the bridge toll is added to the fare. It is a good choice if you have heavy luggage or land late at night.
Time Comparison
- M4 + Marmaray + T5: About 1.5 - 2 hours
- M4 + ferry + T5: About 1 hour 45 minutes - 2 hours (depending on ferry times)
- Taxi: About 1 - 2 hours (depending on traffic)
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I take the tram after Marmaray?
After leaving Sirkeci station, walk to Eminönü to reach the Eminönü stop of the T5 tram. Signs and map apps will guide you.
Which is easier, Marmaray or the ferry?
Marmaray is more practical if you have luggage. If you travel light and the weather is good, the ferry ride will be an unforgettable experience.
The Last Step: From the Stop to the Mosque
For those arriving by the T5 tram, the closest stop to Eyup Sultan Mosque is Eyüpsultan Teleferik. From this stop it is a short walk to the mosque, the tomb and the Eyup bazaar; simply follow the signs or your map app. The lower station of the cable car to Pierre Loti Hill is also in this area. Those arriving by ferry reach the mosque with a short walk from Eyup Pier.
Important: The M7 metro line does not have a station next to Eyup Sultan Mosque. Metro travellers should transfer to the T5 tram at Alibeyköy station.
Before You Set Off
- Get an Istanbulkart: The Istanbulkart is valid on metros, trams, buses and ferries. Card sale and top-up machines are available at airports, major stations and piers.
- Check current information: Timetables and routes can change. Before travelling, check Metro Istanbul, Şehir Hatları (city ferries) or IETT, or use apps such as Moovit, Google Maps or İstanbul Senin.
- Know the busy times: The area is very crowded before Friday prayer, on weekend afternoons, on holy nights (kandil) and during Eid holidays.
- Plan around prayer times: If you want to arrive in time for a prayer, check our prayer times page. For tomb visiting hours, see Tomb Visiting Hours and Rules.
- Dress modestly: Women are expected to cover their hair when entering the mosque, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair users can read our guide Accessibility and Facilities.