Relax and Unwind in Designated Zones
Istanbul Airport, one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, offers a range of amenities to ensure comfort and convenience for all travelers, including those who smoke. With a wide selection of smoking areas located throughout the terminal, passengers can easily find a place to enjoy a cigarette or relax in designated smoking zones. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or transferring, the airport’s smoking areas are strategically placed to accommodate every passenger’s needs.
Here’s a detailed guide to the smoking areas at Istanbul Airport, so you can easily locate a smoking zone during your journey.
Smoking Areas by Location
Arrival Floor
If you’re arriving at Istanbul Airport and need to smoke, there’s a smoking terrace conveniently located near Exit Gate 8. Whether you’ve just stepped off a long flight or are waiting to meet someone, this area offers a comfortable spot to unwind and enjoy a smoke before heading into the city.
Departure Floor
Passengers departing from Istanbul Airport can find smoking areas in the following key locations:
- Next to Check-In Area A – This is a popular area for passengers checking in for flights from this section of the terminal. It’s a spacious, accessible smoking terrace where you can relax before your flight.
- Next to Check-In Area S – Another smoking zone is situated next to Check-In Area S, providing easy access for travelers departing from this part of the airport. It’s a great spot to take a break and enjoy some fresh air before heading to the security check.
Transfer Area

Travelers with a layover or connecting flight will find a smoking area next to the Transfer Desk, making it convenient for those needing to step outside for a quick smoke between flights.
Smoking Areas in Domestic Terminal

For passengers flying within Turkey, Istanbul Airport has several designated smoking areas in the domestic terminal:
- Food Court Area Entrance – Located near the entrance of the food court, this smoking area is ideal for passengers looking to enjoy a cigarette while grabbing a bite to eat.
- Food Court Area – Inside the food court, you’ll find another comfortable smoking space, where you can relax with a smoke after enjoying your meal or snack.
- Near Flight Gate G11 – If you’re waiting for a flight from Gate G11, you’ll find a nearby smoking area to relax before your departure.
- Across from Baggage Claim Belt 1 – For those who have just arrived in Istanbul and are heading to collect their luggage, there’s a smoking area conveniently located across from Baggage Claim Belt 1.
Smoking Areas in International Terminal

The international terminal at Istanbul Airport has several well-positioned smoking areas spread across various gates and sections of the terminal:
- Next to A-B Area Gourmet Trilogy – One of the smoking zones is located near the A-B Area Gourmet Trilogy, where passengers can enjoy a peaceful smoke in a comfortable setting before their international flights.
- Next to Flight Gate A11 – Another smoking terrace is positioned next to Flight Gate A11, offering travelers a chance to step outside for a smoke while waiting for their flight.
- Near Flight Gate B18 – Travelers waiting to board at Gate B18 can find a smoking area nearby, allowing them to enjoy fresh air before heading to the boarding gate.
- Flight Gate C1, Next to Napzone – If you’re near Gate C1 or the Napzone, there’s a smoking area nearby for those who need a quick break before boarding.
- Next to Flight Gate D16 – For passengers traveling through Gate D16, there is a smoking area conveniently located close by.
- Next to Flight Gate F13 – Another smoking area is situated near Gate F13, where you can enjoy a moment of relaxation before your international flight departs.
- Across from Baggage Claim Belt 25 – If you’re arriving on an international flight and need to relax, there’s a smoking area located across from Baggage Claim Belt 25.
- Fresh Air Terrace, Across from Flight Gate B1 – The Fresh Air Terrace located across from Gate B1 provides a spacious, open-air space for passengers who want to enjoy a smoke in a comfortable environment.
- Fresh Air Terrace, Across from Flight Gate F8 – Another Fresh Air Terrace is situated across from Gate F8, offering another pleasant spot for smokers to enjoy a cigarette while waiting for their flight or connecting transfer.
Smoking Areas Overview
- 13 Smoking Terraces: Istanbul Airport boasts a total of 13 smoking terraces, with the majority located on the international airside (10), and 3 located on the domestic airside.
- Six Smoking Balconies: In addition to the terraces, there are six smoking balconies available for passengers to use. These balconies provide more private and relaxed spaces for smokers to enjoy a break.
- Operational Status: It is always a good idea to verify the current operational status of the smoking areas with the airport’s operations unit, as the availability of some smoking zones may vary depending on security measures, construction, or other operational factors.
Conclusion: Convenient Smoking Zones for Every Traveler
Istanbul Airport is dedicated to providing a comfortable and accessible experience for all travelers, including those who smoke. With 13 smoking terraces and 6 balconies located throughout the airport, passengers can find a designated space to unwind and enjoy a cigarette at any point during their journey. Whether you’re on the arrival floor, departure floor, transfer area, or within the domestic or international terminals, you’ll find a smoking area nearby.
So, if you’re passing through Istanbul Airport and need a break, take advantage of the conveniently located smoking zones for a quick rest before continuing your travels.