Can you stay overnight at Istanbul Airport?

Istanbul Airport is one of the largest in the world, and it offers several options for resting while you wait for your next flight.

If you have a long layover, there’s a hotel inside the airport where you can book a night. But if you just want to take a short nap or sleep for three to four hours, you can pay for a room in the boarding area hotel or a private cabin to recharge.

In this terminal, you also have free options, like reclining chairs in six waiting areas where you can rest. However, it’s best to read the full article to learn about costs and other options, including places to stay outside the airport.

Can you stay overnight at Istanbul International Airport?

You can sleep at Istanbul Airport, as there are areas set up for passenger rest. There are both paid and free options where you can take a nap or get a few hours of sleep before your next flight.

Paid options also come with extra amenities for added comfort, such as a bathroom, shower, workspace for your laptop, high-speed Wi-Fi, and even a massage session if you want.

Keep in mind these services depend on availability, operating hours, and the rate you choose. If you prefer not to pay, no worries. The airport also has areas with reclining chairs where you can rest comfortably. Just be sure to take precautions with your personal belongings.

Sleeping at Istanbul International Airport

To help you get some rest at Istanbul Airport, we’ve put together a few tips and recommendations so your time in the terminal is comfortable and you can recharge before continuing your journey.

We will guide you on how to access the rest areas and what fees you might pay for hotel rooms or VIP lounges at the airport. We will also cover the items you may need to ensure a comfortable rest during your long wait.

1. iGA Napzone and safety tips

Inside the airport, there are six free rest areas called Napzones, with space for up to 278 people. Finding a spot can be a bit tricky since they are often full, but it is not impossible!

Safety tips for this alternative form of rest:

1. Keep your luggage close by for security.
2. Do not leave technological or luxury items visible.
3. Bring items to help you rest, such as a blanket, sleep mask, pillow, and earplugs.
4. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
5. Try not to talk too loudly or use your cell phone at high volume in this area. (There are other passengers resting.)
6. Keep your identity and travel documents in a secure pocket, preferably in your coat, as the authorities may ask to see them at any time.

If you can’t find a spot in the reclining chairs and want to rest, look for other areas where you won’t block doors, corridors, or emergency zones. It’s important to follow airport rules and any instructions from security to avoid problems while you sleep.

2. Paid options: Nap zones, IGA Sleepod, and Yotel

For paid options, you don’t need to bring your own rest items, as most are included in the fee. Blankets, eye masks, and pillows are provided, along with meals, drinks, and entertainment areas. Let’s take a closer look at what each option offers.

2.1 YotelAir and Yotel

Istanbul International Airport has two hotels located in two different parts of its facilities:

YotelAir is located in the international departure area, and you need to show your boarding pass for an international flight and your passport to access it. It’s perfect for a short rest close to your flight time.

The hotel offers two types of rooms with different rates. The Recharge Cabin can be booked for 1 to 6 hours at around $27 per hour. The Premium Queen room costs about $335 and allows you to stay overnight or for a minimum of 4 hours.

The other Yotel location (Landside), is near the airport entrance and is designed for slightly longer stays. For example, if you have an early flight the next day, you could spend the night there to make your check-in easier, whether your flight is domestic or international.

The hotel has a total of 451 rooms across its two locations, offering maximum comfort along with 24-hour gym access, a buffet restaurant, a bar, and meeting rooms. You can choose the option that best fits your travel plans.

The rate for a standard cabin in this part of the hotel ranges from $250-325 per night. Check-in starts at 6 pm and check-out is by 9 am at the latest. If you are arriving from abroad, you will need to show your visa. If you are coming from another city in Turkey, presenting your passport is enough to access the hotel.

2.2 IGA Sleepod Rooms

This option is much simpler but still comfortable if you just need a short rest in a more private setting. The cabins let you sleep peacefully, though they do not have a bathroom or shower.

They are open to the public all day, with rates around $13 per hour from 7 am to 7 pm and $19 per hour from 7 pm to 7 am. If you need it, there is an additional charge for a pillow with a cover and a blanket, which costs between $5-7.

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While sleeping options inside the airport are the most convenient, you can also look for accommodation outside. Prices and amenities vary depending on the place. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at some options that can also work well for a short stay in Istanbul.

Sleeping near Istanbul International Airport

Around the airport, you can also find some comfortable places to sleep while waiting for your next flight. Prices and distances vary depending on the services offered, especially at hotels.

Here are several accommodation options including Airbnbs, hotels, and apps where you might be able to find a place to stay for free.

Hotels near Istanbul International Airport

These options can be the easiest way to rest and recharge during a layover. People appreciate them for their comfort, convenience, helpful services, and how close they are to the airport.

However, the rates can be high because they include services you might not need, like the gym, pool, sauna, jacuzzi, or activities such as city tours.

Airbnb near Istanbul Airport

Some Airbnbs have adapted to welcome travelers on long layovers in Istanbul. They offer rooms with services like laundry, kitchen access, or full meals.

This option works well if you have several hours before needing to return to the airport, since most Airbnbs are a bit farther away than hotels. With a little planning, you can still make the most of your rest.

Apps for free accommodation

For free accommodations in Istanbul, you could create a profile on a travel exchange app. These platforms connect travelers with hosts who can offer a place to sleep, meals, and a chance to socialize, all aimed at creating a cultural exchange.

Make sure to follow all the safety advice from the apps, and try to line up a host a few days before your stop in Istanbul. That way, your arrival will be easier and you won’t spend too much time waiting at the airport.

• Trustroots: This app lets you easily find accommodation by checking an interactive map to see which hosts are closest to Istanbul Airport and whether they are available.
• Couchsurfing: It is one of the most popular platforms among travelers because of the security its interface and booking process provide. You can check each host’s profile, send a request, and chat with them to ask about the place they are offering.

Frequently asked questions about sleeping at Istanbul International Airport

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Paula Henderson

Spanish-English Translator

Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍

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