Reviving a somewhat dormant thread: My flight arrives after mid-night at the new airport and I suspect I will be done with immigration/baggage etc. around 2am. I am wondering if there is a way to spend around 3-4 hours at the airport (landside) before heading out to the city, perhaps using the now functional metro. I could go to a close to a nearby hotel (though the airport Yotel is way too expensive) but then again I will have to deal with a taxi situation, First time in Istanbul and I hear horror stories about taxis and would like to avoid a late night unpleasantness if possible. Not sure if the airport bus works at night (I will be staying in Taksim area). I do not think I can use the Priority Pass lounge since that will be on the airside (and besides they will want a departure boarding card, I guess). Advice/suggestions will be welcome.