Jul 21, 2015, 8:54 pm
Last edit by: ISTFlyer
It's strange this thread has no Wiki, so here it is, created 7/21/2015
PLEASE READ THE OP Post first
For case related questions ( ex: Am I eligible, etc... ) contact[email protected] first before posting your question here.
TK free hotel room rules:
Note:
- You still need e-VISA to enter Turkish for a Tour or Hotel. The prices vary by countries ($60 USD for Canadian, $20 for USA, etc...)
You can apply here at https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/
Tour website is at http://www.istanbulinhours.com/
There are 3 tours offered (Schedule)
A Bosphorus cruise, with food and drinks, is available for business class passengers of more than 7 hour layover (€183 as of Nov. 2017)
Here's a list of the common hotels that are reported in this thread:
Marriott Renaissance Polat Istanbul Hotel (72% TripAdvisor – most common)
Akgün Istanbul Hotel (44% TripAdvisor–common – far from the airport)
Wow Airport Hotel (56% TripAdvisor–common - very close to airport)
DoubleTree
Wyndham İstanbul Petek (92% TripAdvisor)
Radisson Blu Conference & Airport Hotel (53% TripAdvisor)
Hilton Garden Inn
Courtyard by Marriott Istanbul International Airport
Gonen Hotel Istanbul
Pullman Istanbul Airport Hotel
PLEASE READ THE OP Post first
For case related questions ( ex: Am I eligible, etc... ) contact[email protected] first before posting your question here.
TK free hotel room rules:
A complimentary hotel accommodation (maximum 2 nights) will be provided to our valuable passengers when there are more than 10 hours (for economy cabin passengers) and 7 or more hours (for business cabin passengers) waiting during their international connecting flights due to Turkish Airlines’ schedule structure. However, if your destination can be reached by an alternative flight to your first flight and the waiting time is less, you cannot take advantage of the hotel service. This service is not applicable when there is a shorter connection available within the time frame mentioned above. The first and the connecting flights must be with Turkish Airlines. All passengers must hold a confirmed reservation for the first and the connecting flights. Complimentary accommodation will be arranged with Turkish Airlines’ corporate partners and will be provided through the “Hotel Desk” located after the customs’ check point at the arrival. Passengers must check for any visa requirements when entering Turkey. In the event where a visa is not granted, Turkish Airlines assumes no responsibility for providing complimentary hotel accommodation.
Note:
- You still need e-VISA to enter Turkish for a Tour or Hotel. The prices vary by countries ($60 USD for Canadian, $20 for USA, etc...)
You can apply here at https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/
Tour website is at http://www.istanbulinhours.com/
There are 3 tours offered (Schedule)
- Tour 1 8:30am - 11am - Sightseeing Tour
- Tour 2 9am - 3pm - Tour
- Tour 3 9am - 6pm - Tour
- Tour 4 12pm - 6pm - Tour
- Tour 5 4pm - 9pm - Cultural Walk Tour
A Bosphorus cruise, with food and drinks, is available for business class passengers of more than 7 hour layover (€183 as of Nov. 2017)
Here's a list of the common hotels that are reported in this thread:
Marriott Renaissance Polat Istanbul Hotel (72% TripAdvisor – most common)
Akgün Istanbul Hotel (44% TripAdvisor–common – far from the airport)
Wow Airport Hotel (56% TripAdvisor–common - very close to airport)
DoubleTree
Wyndham İstanbul Petek (92% TripAdvisor)
Radisson Blu Conference & Airport Hotel (53% TripAdvisor)
Hilton Garden Inn
Courtyard by Marriott Istanbul International Airport
Gonen Hotel Istanbul
Pullman Istanbul Airport Hotel
FAQ 8: Free hotel/tour/cruise when connecting at IST
Feb 28, 2015, 4:02 am
#376
Moderator, Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles & Accor ALL
Original Poster
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: BRU
Programs: TK*G, Accor ALL Platinum
Posts: 7,586
If you are national of a country requiring a visa you will need to get a visa to avail of the TK hotel offer. Alternatively you can book at your own expense the TAV hotel which is airside.
Apr 8, 2015, 9:51 pm
#377
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: CMH
Posts: 231
My flight bkk-ist gets in at 5PM and I can't find any flight westbound that has a 7 hour layover, since there are several flights later that same day. Should I assume I'm out of luck and need to go East or I need to reroute to get in closer to midnight?
Apr 9, 2015, 3:56 am
#378
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: DSS
Posts: 827
If your layover is 4-7 hrs.and you are in J or E+ you would be eligible for one of the suites in the CIP lounge ! ?
Apr 18, 2015, 4:03 am
#379
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: SRQ
Programs: UA Plat-Million Miler (1.6MM), IHG-Plat Amb; Amex Plat-P, Marriott-Gold;Hertz Gold; Hilton-Gold
Posts: 762
Instanbul Tour during Layover
Oh Wise TK Flyertalkers,
I am interested in joining one of the TK sponsored tours of Istanbul.
Here is my itinerary:
Two Separate Tickets (I am a UA 1K *G)
ORD-YYZ-IST Air Canada Metal, UA Ticket in Business Class arr IST 9:30am
IST-BAH Turkish Air Metal UA Ticket (separate ticket) Business Class departing IST, same day, 8:30pm.
I see that the Tour Program pertains to pure TK thru tickets connecting in IST. However, my question, does TK offer the tour (for free or at a promotional cost) to Star Alliance Elite members arriving on Star Alliance Business Class and connecting to TK business class service ?
Your kind replies and insight are appreciated.
I am interested in joining one of the TK sponsored tours of Istanbul.
Here is my itinerary:
Two Separate Tickets (I am a UA 1K *G)
ORD-YYZ-IST Air Canada Metal, UA Ticket in Business Class arr IST 9:30am
IST-BAH Turkish Air Metal UA Ticket (separate ticket) Business Class departing IST, same day, 8:30pm.
I see that the Tour Program pertains to pure TK thru tickets connecting in IST. However, my question, does TK offer the tour (for free or at a promotional cost) to Star Alliance Elite members arriving on Star Alliance Business Class and connecting to TK business class service ?
Your kind replies and insight are appreciated.
Apr 23, 2015, 12:07 am
#380
Join Date: Apr 2015
Posts: 1
Hi FTers,
long time lurker/positng first time.
My wife and I are flying Berlin-IST-Singapore in 700-->1050 AM then connecting out IST at 120 AM next day.
There are shorter flights out of IST--Singapore, some less than 10 hours, however we bought it as part of some orbitz deal.
From your experiences, would we still qualify for the free tour (that my wife is super excited about)?
Thanks for your help.
- Pistol Pete
long time lurker/positng first time.
My wife and I are flying Berlin-IST-Singapore in 700-->1050 AM then connecting out IST at 120 AM next day.
There are shorter flights out of IST--Singapore, some less than 10 hours, however we bought it as part of some orbitz deal.
From your experiences, would we still qualify for the free tour (that my wife is super excited about)?
Thanks for your help.
- Pistol Pete
Apr 23, 2015, 3:43 am
#381
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: NAP
Programs: LH, BA, TK
Posts: 2,409
Hi FTers,
long time lurker/positng first time.
My wife and I are flying Berlin-IST-Singapore in 700-->1050 AM then connecting out IST at 120 AM next day.
There are shorter flights out of IST--Singapore, some less than 10 hours, however we bought it as part of some orbitz deal.
From your experiences, would we still qualify for the free tour (that my wife is super excited about)?
long time lurker/positng first time.
My wife and I are flying Berlin-IST-Singapore in 700-->1050 AM then connecting out IST at 120 AM next day.
There are shorter flights out of IST--Singapore, some less than 10 hours, however we bought it as part of some orbitz deal.
From your experiences, would we still qualify for the free tour (that my wife is super excited about)?
All international transit passengers who have flight through İstanbul can attend touristanbul.
Both flights should be with Turkish Airlines' flight numbers (codeshared or operated) Connection times between flights should not be longer than 24 hours and shorter than 6 hours.
Passengers may not get both accomodation service and Touristanbul on the same journey.
If you prefer accomodation, you may contact with our hoteldesk for terms and conditions ([email protected]). They will inform you that your booking is eligible or not.
Both flights should be with Turkish Airlines' flight numbers (codeshared or operated) Connection times between flights should not be longer than 24 hours and shorter than 6 hours.
Passengers may not get both accomodation service and Touristanbul on the same journey.
If you prefer accomodation, you may contact with our hoteldesk for terms and conditions ([email protected]). They will inform you that your booking is eligible or not.
May 11, 2015, 2:35 pm
#382
Join Date: May 2015
Posts: 3
Latest news on TK overnight stay?
Greetings folks, my first post here:
My family is traveling to Romania (Constanta) from Houston via Istanbul (overnight stay) in early June and I have been trying to get an e-mail response from the TK Hotel Desk unsuccessfully. They have not responded to two of my e-mails. I wanted to get re-assurances that everything will be ok.
Right now I called the Turkish Airlines customer service (800 #) and the rep said that there is not a possibility of a hotel choice even if one is willing to pay his own way to the hotel. He said that the hotel will be in the airport (no need for visa). Not sure what does this mean. Also he could not give me an e-mail and/or phone number for the TK Hotel Desk.
So any thoughts on this please? What's the latest on this policy for recent travelers through IST with more than 10 hours layover? Do you still need a visa from the US for US citizens?
Very appreciative of any feedback.
My family is traveling to Romania (Constanta) from Houston via Istanbul (overnight stay) in early June and I have been trying to get an e-mail response from the TK Hotel Desk unsuccessfully. They have not responded to two of my e-mails. I wanted to get re-assurances that everything will be ok.
Right now I called the Turkish Airlines customer service (800 #) and the rep said that there is not a possibility of a hotel choice even if one is willing to pay his own way to the hotel. He said that the hotel will be in the airport (no need for visa). Not sure what does this mean. Also he could not give me an e-mail and/or phone number for the TK Hotel Desk.
So any thoughts on this please? What's the latest on this policy for recent travelers through IST with more than 10 hours layover? Do you still need a visa from the US for US citizens?
Very appreciative of any feedback.
May 11, 2015, 2:43 pm
#383
Join Date: Mar 2007
Posts: 4,784
Greetings folks, my first post here:
My family is traveling to Romania (Constanta) from Houston via Istanbul (overnight stay) in early June and I have been trying to get an e-mail response from the TK Hotel Desk unsuccessfully. They have not responded to two of my e-mails. I wanted to get re-assurances that everything will be ok.
Right now I called the Turkish Airlines customer service (800 #) and the rep said that there is not a possibility of a hotel choice even if one is willing to pay his own way to the hotel. He said that the hotel will be in the airport (no need for visa). Not sure what does this mean. Also he could not give me an e-mail and/or phone number for the TK Hotel Desk.
So any thoughts on this please? What's the latest on this policy for recent travelers through IST with more than 10 hours layover? Do you still need a visa from the US for US citizens?
Very appreciative of any feedback.
My family is traveling to Romania (Constanta) from Houston via Istanbul (overnight stay) in early June and I have been trying to get an e-mail response from the TK Hotel Desk unsuccessfully. They have not responded to two of my e-mails. I wanted to get re-assurances that everything will be ok.
Right now I called the Turkish Airlines customer service (800 #) and the rep said that there is not a possibility of a hotel choice even if one is willing to pay his own way to the hotel. He said that the hotel will be in the airport (no need for visa). Not sure what does this mean. Also he could not give me an e-mail and/or phone number for the TK Hotel Desk.
So any thoughts on this please? What's the latest on this policy for recent travelers through IST with more than 10 hours layover? Do you still need a visa from the US for US citizens?
Very appreciative of any feedback.
I thought the reply above you and this link should explains itself already
http://www.istanbulinhours.com/how-to-apply
TK isn't the easiest/greatest on communication, so you'll find out at IST desk
Yes you need a VISA, it'll cost $20 USD for US Citizen for e-Visa (sigh, $60 USD for CANADIAN passport, such a ripoff)
May 11, 2015, 3:32 pm
#384
Join Date: May 2015
Posts: 3
Thanks for the quick reply. The itinerary going outbound is as follows:
IAH-IST 20:35 - 16:20 (next day)
IST-CND 12:40 - 15:05 (two days after departure from Houston)
IAH-IST 20:35 - 16:20 (next day)
IST-CND 12:40 - 15:05 (two days after departure from Houston)
What is your EXACT routing? both TK flights?
I thought the reply above you and this link should explains itself already
http://www.istanbulinhours.com/how-to-apply
TK isn't the easiest/greatest on communication, so you'll find out at IST desk
Yes you need a VISA, it'll cost $20 USD for US Citizen for e-Visa (sigh, $60 USD for CANADIAN passport, such a ripoff)
I thought the reply above you and this link should explains itself already
http://www.istanbulinhours.com/how-to-apply
TK isn't the easiest/greatest on communication, so you'll find out at IST desk
Yes you need a VISA, it'll cost $20 USD for US Citizen for e-Visa (sigh, $60 USD for CANADIAN passport, such a ripoff)
May 11, 2015, 9:06 pm
#385
Join Date: May 2015
Posts: 3
jerryhung, sorry I must clarify that the itinerary from Houston to Constanta via IST is all on TK. Also my inquiry is about the hotel stay, NOT the tours in Istanbul
May 12, 2015, 6:50 am
#386
Join Date: Mar 2007
Posts: 4,784
Sorry I misread it, but then the #1 post and TK's own link is the guideline for you to use
http://www.turkishairlines.com/en-in...rvice-requests
Layover of 10 hours for Y or 7+ hours for J pax
You need a VISA though for hotel
http://www.turkishairlines.com/en-in...rvice-requests
Layover of 10 hours for Y or 7+ hours for J pax
1. Do You Provide Accommodation Services at Transit Locations to Passengers Who Have Connecting Flights?
A complimentary hotel accommodation (maximum 2 nights) will be provided to our valuable passengers when there are more than 10 hours (for economy cabin passengers) and 7 or more hours (for business cabin passengers) waiting during their international connecting flights due to Turkish Airlines’ schedule structure. This service is not applicable when there is a shorter connection available within the time frame mentioned above. The first and the connecting flights must be with Turkish Airlines. All passengers must hold a confirmed reservation for the first and the connecting flights. Complimentary accommodation will be arranged with Turkish Airlines’ corporate partners and will be provided through the “Hotel Desk” located after the customs’ check point at the arrival. Passengers must check for any visa requirements when entering Turkey. In the event where a visa is not granted, Turkish Airlines assumes no responsibility for providing complimentary hotel accommodation. For further information, please call +90 212 4440849.
A complimentary hotel accommodation (maximum 2 nights) will be provided to our valuable passengers when there are more than 10 hours (for economy cabin passengers) and 7 or more hours (for business cabin passengers) waiting during their international connecting flights due to Turkish Airlines’ schedule structure. This service is not applicable when there is a shorter connection available within the time frame mentioned above. The first and the connecting flights must be with Turkish Airlines. All passengers must hold a confirmed reservation for the first and the connecting flights. Complimentary accommodation will be arranged with Turkish Airlines’ corporate partners and will be provided through the “Hotel Desk” located after the customs’ check point at the arrival. Passengers must check for any visa requirements when entering Turkey. In the event where a visa is not granted, Turkish Airlines assumes no responsibility for providing complimentary hotel accommodation. For further information, please call +90 212 4440849.
May 14, 2015, 1:45 am
#387
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: LAX
Programs: AA Plat, UA Gold
Posts: 609
is there a current list hotels that people have gotten?
Is it possible to choose the hotel/hotel location?
I have an overnight layover from lisbon, arrive at 6pm, depart at 6pm the next day and i think i may qualify. however, i'd rather stay in istambul as it's my first time to turkey and i'd like to see more than just the airport!
Is it possible to choose the hotel/hotel location?
I have an overnight layover from lisbon, arrive at 6pm, depart at 6pm the next day and i think i may qualify. however, i'd rather stay in istambul as it's my first time to turkey and i'd like to see more than just the airport!
May 14, 2015, 6:32 am
#388
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: NAP
Programs: LH, BA, TK
Posts: 2,409
I don't think you can have a say on which hotel to pick.
You just getting hoarded in the first batch upon arrival at the complimentary desk.
Mine was right at the end of a runway, 10 min. shuttle from IST. (Radisson for what I recall).
You just getting hoarded in the first batch upon arrival at the complimentary desk.
Mine was right at the end of a runway, 10 min. shuttle from IST. (Radisson for what I recall).
May 14, 2015, 10:30 am
#389
Suspended
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: MAN,TLV
Programs: Silver:BA,VX,AB, QF. Gold:A3,RJ,AZ,GF, EY,SPG,Marriott,Choice, Carlson. Dia/Plat:HH,IHG,BW,Accor
Posts: 1,965
I remember somewhere saying that if there is an earlier connection flight available for the passenger, but this specific passenger is booked on a later connection flight which makes a 10+ hour stopover, no hotel is offered. Is this true? For example, if my ticket is Moscow-Istanbul arriving 4pm, and then instead of connecting to the 18:20 flight (TK11) , i am connecting to the next morning flight (TK3) - is a hotel offered? Does it make a difference why my flight was booked that way - If because cheaper, then no hotel, if because no availability on earlier flight, yes hotel?
Thanks.
Thanks.
May 14, 2015, 11:39 am
#390
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: LAX
Programs: AA Plat, UA Gold
Posts: 609
are all the hotels around the airport? if they are, i'm tempted to just book a hotel in town instead so i can get more of a feel of the city.