That's so cool that you got a free hotel. It's a really nice one too! Long layovers sound positive. Full days traveling can be exhausting so it's nice to have somewhere to stay to break it up.
Oh my goodness I LOVE staying at hotels during a long layover, especially if it's over night. It's so good to be able to shower and have a proper sleep before heading home. I had no idea that you could get a free hotel, so that's such a great tip! And you get dinner and breakfast, what an amazing deal.
Thanks for the info,i am flying with TA in October from JFK to Athens and has a connection in Istanbul with an 8 hour layover,i do qualify for a free tour,but i have been to Istanbul and saw all the attractions,so will just chill out in the First Class lounge until my flight.
The free hotel looks amazing! Thanks for the tip. It is interesting tho, that Turkish Airline do STPC for 12 hours instead the usual 8 hours that other airlines offer. The new IST airport looks very grand. Thanks for the tips!
Within the scope of the Stopover in Istanbul program, our passengers with a connection period of at least 20 hours can stay free of charge and accumulate unforgettable memories in Istanbul. Is that connection period not 20 hours?
interesting experience, I was on Istanbul old Airport for 8 hours and I used the lounge as my hotel. this new hotel look a way better and the hotel is neat.
Thanks for this video!! I will have a layover of 14 hours at Istanbul Airport with Turkish Airlines, so I'm really excited to stay for free in this hotel! I'm not sure if you mentioned, but what is the name of the hotel? Thank you :)
I can't remember the name of the hotel, I was so tired haha. It was really nice through and the food buffet was incredible, so much delicious Turkish food :)
Johana, but you not explain clearly how can I get a free hotel from Turkish Airlines. Can you tell me more details? Thanks a lot Hello from Colombia, South America
[Update in comments for whoever is interested] Good thing I saw this video. I'm flying in 3 weeks from Romania to South Africa with a 3-day layover in Istanbul (it was a 2h layover initially but they changed my second plane departure a day after I booked my tickets). I checked and there are no other available flights from Turkish Airlines those 3 days. I was panicking and I didn't know what to do for 3 days in an airport. Hopefully nothing changes because of this pandemic. I also have to check where I can do the PCR test for South Africa in the Istanbul airport since it will be long expired if I do it from Romania (way over 72h if I do it a day before I leave my country). I'm also vaccinated.
@@JoannaNemes yeah it’s a massive overlay but I checked and there are no available flights to SA for 3 days. Does the requirement refer to only Turkish airlines flights? Because I haven’t checked if there are from other airlines
@@raven_jpg5100 A few other airlines have a similar offer as well, but not all. They usually do it at their hub. In case of Turkish Airlines, Istanbul is their hub.
@@JoannaNemes hey thank you for getting back to me. I meant to ask that one of the requirements to get free accommodation is to not have any other flight alternatives during your layover. Does it refer only to available options from Turkish Airlines or they can fix me a flight from a different company?
It's not a trick or something new but this is your right. I think that turkish airlines are very good also the business and first class lounge is the best among world vip lounges
I only flew Turkish a few times, but the service was always excellent. Much better than any other airline I flew with, at least on short haul. Long haul, I don't think any airline compares with Emirates.
About visa. If passport holder need visa to enter Turkiye then you need visa. Your air tiket doesnt mean anything to custome officer because you entering Turkiye. You call embassy or consulate od Turkiye in your country and ask about visa. Check online is another option.
I didn't know about this! My mom was yesterday at Istanbul airport but she arrived at 11:00 at night and waited for 9 hours. Her flight to Panama city was at 8:30 in the morning. Can you stay if you have to wait 9 hours?
It depends if she was flying economy or business. For economy, the layover must be longer than 12 hours to receive a free hotel. For business is 9 hours.
Thank you :) I actually travelled hang luggage only so I don't know the answer to this question. I got my luggage lost twice, so I only travel carry on since then :)
Is it all (including dinner?!) just free by default if you have a 12 hour+ layover in Istanbul or do you actually have to do something before you get to Istanbul? The room looks pretty good, although not sure if I'm a fan of the 50 shades of brown look (especially that sofa) 😂 Anyway, pretty good that you got a free room, food AND the city tour. Great hack.
Thanx for this video I m also travelling via Istanbul next week and 22 hours transit time there .. can u tell me please that do we need to collect our all luggage to go to the hotel ?
I traveled hand luggage only so I didn't have any bags to collect. Normally the checked in luggage is delivered to your final destination, so better have a change of clothes and toiletries in your hand luggage.
@@winnethisoma8396 apply for a transit e-visa on the Turkish website, you can find the link in your réservation code you received via mail by clicking on it. Then at the airport Istanbul, check for the yellow information point and they gonna guide you through there. Save journey
Helpful information and awesome video! By any chance, did you see people taking the free accommodation service with pets? Are the partner hotels pet friendly? I contacted Turkish but they’re asking for the reservation code in order to give that information :(
I haven't seen anyone with pets during my layover so I'm afraid I can't help you with this information. Indeed, their customer service is not the best in answering questions to the point. But try again, maybe you will reach a different agent.
Out of curiosity, do you happen to know how much a taxi 🚕 would cost from the hotel that Turkish Airlines accommodates their customers to the center of Istanbul where the museums are?
Unfortunately I don't. I have no idea where the hotel was located in relation to the city centre. I arrived there quite late and didn't leave the hotel until I was picked up the next day.
It is best to check with the Turkish border rules, each country has its own requirements for entry to Turkey. I didn't need a visa because my passport is eligible for 30 days visa-free entry for touristic purposes.
Hi, so if a booked a flight with a long layover of 25h but when i was booking it , was another option a littel more expensives but with long layover of 6 hr ( boths are economy seats ), i can t apply to the free hotel? to be honest when i booked it, i didnt know it about the free hotel , and of course the conditions to get it :/
You should always check the requirements to enter Turkey, they are different for each nationality, fact which I mention in the video and in the comments below. I personally don't have to pay to enter Turkey, my nationality - same as many others - is allowed 60 days visa free entry for touristic purposes. Others do need to pay to get a visa, this is why is very important to check before you plan a trip. The hotel is free and it is provided by Turkish Airlines, the visa is your responsibility and it is required by Turkey's immigration rules. They are completely different, so that FREE hotel is actually FREE if you are a responsible tourist and do your homework before you travel.
What what services can i get inside airport i have 20 hr layover in istanbul but for my country requirements i need a valid visa to go out so what turkish airlines provides inside airport for long layover could you please tell me?
There's not much to do inside the airport. There are plenty of places to eat and shop, but that's about it. The WiFi also only lasts for one hour unfortunately.
Are you flying business class? If you fly economy your layover has to be over 12 hours in order to get a free hotel. For business is 9 hours. No matter how long the layover though you can apply for a free tour of Istanbul, if you won't be able to get a hotel.
I like your video I am traveling to Cyprus but I will have a transit at Istanbul for 18hr 40min... boarding from Senegal on the 18th September, it’s possible for me to have a free hotel for my layover? Please help
I have checked your flight and you shouldn't have any problems getting a free hotel. Make sure you don't need a visa for Turkey or that you already have it and can enter the country, because the Hotel Desk is after the immigration check. Once you pass immigration and get into the main hall of the airport, the Hotel Desk is on the left, under the big yellow cube. I hope this helps. :)
100% if your layover is over 12 hours and if there is no other earlier flight in between. For example, I was coming from Tanzania and flying to Spain. I landed at 5PM and my next flight was at 1PM the following day. However, there was another flight leaving towards my destination in Spain at 9AM. They took that one in consideration, and not my 1PM one. However, as the layover in both cases was longer than 12 hours, I did get the hotel.
Hi, thanks a lot for such useful info. I have a layover flight of 19h but I will have to transfer from IST to Sabiha Gokcen aiport. Would I be eligible for free accommodation?
Hi Joanna, Thank you for all the info you provided. I'm traveling with my wife and our 16 months daughter. Our layover is of 29hours and the flight I selected showed stopover and touristanbul both (one some of the flights it only showed stopover) so does that mean we would get a free hotel accommodation and tour of Istanbul too?
As long as there is no other earlier flight connecting the destinations you are flying to and from, yes, you will get the free hotel. However, you can't get the hotel and the tour, you have to pick one. I chose the tour on my outbound flight, and the hotel on my way back.
Thank you for your notes and for taking the time to write this comment. As you surely noticed, I am not a videographer, I just created this video in order to help other people. If the sound bothers you, then don't watch. :)
Hi Joanna, thanks for sharing the tip to me for the free hotel, I have 12hours 30 minutes layover and my next flight will fly at 3am next day, so when the bus will come to pick me up at the hotel to the airport? Or I can set up the time for the bus come to pick me up at anytime I want? Thanks
Good luck! Yes, you do need a transit visa. The Turkish Airlines Hotel desk is after the security as well, and you can't get to it if you don't have the visa.
Hello joana, thanks for the video really helpful!!. I wanna ask, i fly from prague to jakarta, so my route is prague-istanbul-muscat-jakarta. Is it possible for me to get the hotel vocher because i have transit time 14 hour in istanbul, but my second flight from istanbul to muscat and jakarta is with oman air. Thank you
Hi Muhammad, have you purchased your ticket directly through Turkish Airlines all the way to Jakarta? If yes, then you should be eligible for the free hotel, as you will be flying onwards with Turkish Airlines partners.
Hi , Joanna dear , I am expected to travel from UK to Pakistan on Turkish Airlines on Return Ticket and on both outbound & inbound flights my layover at Istanbul air port is 27 hours . Shall I be eligible for free hotel stay from both sides transit ? Secondly , At the time of booking if air line is showing that you are eligible for free hotel , still we shall need to check for early flight to destinations . Thanks
You should definitely check if there is any other flight departing to your final destination earlier, as that's how they calculate the layover time. If there is none, then yes, for a 27 hours layover you are entitled to a free hotel both ways.
Hi, kindly guide me im from pakistan and i booked this ticket on 7th october with 21 hours in istanbul to UK, will i be eligible for free hotel, i can now see another flight from my city but with a shorter layover in istanbul but the departure timings are same as mine 5.55am. Can you please help me as i did not know about this before even though the websites page showed that i qualify for the istanbul tour and layover hotel while i was booking.
The free hotel is available for layovers over 24 hours as well, as long as there is no other earlier flight connecting the destinations you are flying to and from.
Hi Ann, It depends on what passport you are holding. Here is a list with the countries that require a visa for Turkey: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Turkey
Hey, I have a weird situation. There is only one flight that goes to my destination. but I can take a flight from my home country that has 21 hrs layover and there is another flight that has only 2.5 hrs layover. Unfortunately, I did not notice that while booking so I booked the longer layover :). Do I still get the free hotel because there are no flights to my destination within 21 hrs? Or would they deny me for not coming to Turkey on the later flight? I know you might not have the answer, but thanks in advance
I don't think you can't get the free hotel because of this technicality. They might argue that there is another flight that reduces your layover to 2.5 hours. But you should try anyway! However, you can still go on one of their free tours of Istanbul, as for those it doesn't matter. When I started my trip I chose to pay and stay at a hotel near the new airport, and go on a free tour. On my return, I picked the free hotel. If it doesn't work out, you can find very affordable hotels near the airport, that include a shuttle to and from as well.
Hey Joanna nice video... Can you tell me were there any conditions to avail free hotel room other than flying in Turkish airlines and having a layover of 22 hours?? I am also flying next month and I have a layover of 22 hours but I will not have any transit visa of turkey. Kindly guide me thanks
Hi Shan, the only condition is to have a layover longer than 12 hours if you are flying economy, and 9 hours if you are flying business. Make sure that there isn't any other flight leaving towards your destination earlier than your connection, as they will take that one in consideration, even if you are booked on a later one. I highly recommend applying for a transit visa because the Turkish Airline office is after passport control, in the arrivals hall, and you won't be able to reach it unless you clear customs. Also, all the hotels are in Istanbul, not around the airport. I hope this helps. :)
@@JoannaNemes yeah I am on a beginner level for these hacks so it is definitely very helpful. So I have to get a transit visa if I have to avail the free hotel stay. But I will be getting my Residence permit on 7th and I have flight on 13th and i have heard it takes two weeks to get transit. I will call embassy on Monday let's see if there is a way out.
@@shanhanif9075 I don't think you should have problems getting a transit visa, they are usually pretty easy to obtain because you already have a ticket that proves you are only in Istanbul overnight. Try the e-visa online system, might be faster.
@@JoannaNemes yeah i thought I won't be eligible for e-visa but after searching for hours I came to know I am eligible. Thankyou so much for the help it means a lot.
Hi @Joanna Nemes I have to travel with Turkish airlines next week with a 12hours layover in Istanbul and I have an Italian passport Do I need transit visa to get the free hotel ?
It depends on your nationality. You should check the entry requirements into Turkey, as the hotels are in the city and you will need to clear immigration in order to get to the Hotel Desk.
Hey I'm traveling to Canada (student visa) at mid Dec I have almost 20-22 hrs transit in Istanbul but my travel agency didn't mention any of this. So how do we exactly get free room there? Can you please help❤️❤️
You first have to check that there are no other flights to your destination at an earlier time, the the flights were booked by someone else. Then you have to go to the Hotel desk once you land in Istanbul and request a hotel based on your long layover. I explained in the video where exactly the hotel desk is and how to reach it from when you exit the security zone.
@@sonikadangol9552 I don't need a visa to visit Turkey. I can't advise you on visa requirements because each nationality has different rules. You must check with the official sources in your country if you need a visa or not to enter Turkey.
You can only book the hotel once you land in Istanbul, at the Tour Istanbul office. If you watch the video, I tell you where it is and how to get there once you clear customs.
You must have a layover longer than 12 hours if you are flying economy, and 9 hours if you are flying business. Make sure that there isn't any other flight leaving towards your destination earlier than your connection, as they will take that one in consideration, even if you are booked on a later one. I hope this helps :)
@@winnethisoma8396 I didn't need a visa because my nationality doesn't require a visa for Turkey, I can visit for 30 days without needing one. But you might do, depending on your nationality, so make sure to check. Yes, the hotel was outside of the airport. It was close to the old Istanbul Airport, about 40-50 minutes away by bus.
@@JoannaNemes just to clarify, I have a 13 hr layover and there’s also another shorter layover available for more $. So, they won’t consider giving me the hotel?
@@Aby-zy4ku If there is a shorter layover available on the same route, unfortunately no, they won't offer you a free hotel. You can however go on their free tour of Istanbul, if you are there during the day.
It doesn't matter what passport you have, you are eligible for a free hotel with a 20h layover. Just make sure you get a transit visa for Turkey, as the hotels are outside of the airport.
Awesome, thank you so much. How much for the transit visa ? Can i apply at the immigration there ? Or they can offer me the hotel inside the airport ?. Thank you so much.
@@Mgorkiacademy You should check with the official authorities what you need for a transit visa. All hotels are outside of the airport, and the hotel desk is after passport control, so to reach it you will need to have the right paperwork to enter Turkey. I don't know if you can get the visa on arrival as I didn't experienced this process on my trip to Istanbul.
Touristanbul is a marketing ploy so be careful. TK sell tickets on their website with a banner next to the flight combinations saying “free hotel” but when you’re there they refuse on the pretext there was an earlier flight even though the earlier flight connection is impossible. They failed to honour the free hotel even though it was sold as part of the ticket and the staff on the day were dismissive and refused any assistance. Had to spend 18hrs at the airport and out of pocket for own accommodation. Queried customer service on why they have the “free hotel” on the flights combinations I booked if it is not eligible and after multiple email exchanges, they never responded to the question and would give scripted replies that would deflect from the issue at hand. This is blatant false advertising and as a frequent traveller, please be warned. The Emirates scheme is much better than TKs and they are more transparent and friendly.
It is clearly mentioned in the terms and conditions that there must not be another earlier flight in order to get the free hotel. If you choose a later flight just to get a free hotel, you won't be able to take advantage of this scheme. I also mention this several times in the video.
@@JoannaNemes yes, I was aware of that; however, the earlier connection was impossible for even a smaller airport than IST. The flight combinations in question I booked, to this day have a banner on the left that says free hotel. They shouldn't be advertising it this way given the earlier impossible flight connections. It is blatant false advertising to get you to book with them. No doubt people have good experiences with the scheme.. My comments are just to make travellers aware that it may show up as a "free hotel" at the booking stage but even if there is an impossible 20 min connection between flights for an earlier one, they will deny the hotel.
@@JoannaNemes yes but how will you get documentation to prove that you are staying at that hotel. Will customer service organize everything.in this case will you have to go through security again
@@duaneowens7777 I am not sure I understand what you mean. To get the free hotel you have to go to the Hotel Desk, which is after the security, not before. There is no documentation needed, all you have to do is present your boarding pass to the hotel desk, they will check your layover and book the hotel for you. Then a shuttle will come to pick you up and take you to the hotel. They work with many hotels and you never know which one you will end up at.
To be honest I can't remember the name of the hotel. I was so tired after the flight that all I wished for was to go to sleep. The bus journey from the airport to the hotel took an hour because we got stuck in the Istanbul rush hour traffic.
Please don't share your booking code, someone can modify your reservation!!! Please watch the video to see what you need to do to get the free hotel, you can't apply for it before arriving at Istanbul Airport.
That's so cool that you got a free hotel. It's a really nice one too! Long layovers sound positive. Full days traveling can be exhausting so it's nice to have somewhere to stay to break it up.
I love to explore cities during long layovers, but if it's night time I definitely settle for a comfy hotel :)
Oh my goodness I LOVE staying at hotels during a long layover, especially if it's over night. It's so good to be able to shower and have a proper sleep before heading home. I had no idea that you could get a free hotel, so that's such a great tip! And you get dinner and breakfast, what an amazing deal.
Yes, I had no idea that they will give me breakfast and dinner as well. It was such a nice surprise.
@@JoannaNemes How long was your layover?
Thanks for the info,i am flying with TA in October from JFK to Athens and has a connection in Istanbul with an 8 hour layover,i do qualify for a free tour,but i have been to Istanbul and saw all the attractions,so will just chill out in the First Class lounge until my flight.
The free hotel looks amazing! Thanks for the tip. It is interesting tho, that Turkish Airline do STPC for 12 hours instead the usual 8 hours that other airlines offer. The new IST airport looks very grand. Thanks for the tips!
They do have it for 8 hours but only if you fly in business. If you fly economy, then it's 12 hours.
@@JoannaNemes thanks for this video! Do you know if you can you avail both the hotel and free tour? We have potentially a 20hrs layover!
@@deanthadeus No, you can either go for the tour or the hotel.
@@JoannaNemes thank you for the reply! Appreciate it
Within the scope of the Stopover in Istanbul program, our passengers with a connection period of at least 20 hours can stay free of charge and accumulate unforgettable memories in Istanbul. Is that connection period not 20 hours?
interesting experience, I was on Istanbul old Airport for 8 hours and I used the lounge as my hotel. this new hotel look a way better and the hotel is neat.
I had a 19 hours layover, as much as I love lounges, for this amount of time I needed the hotel. :)
It is nice to see the new Istanbul airport. I remember the old one was far more congested.
The new airport is so big, you need at least 2 hours between flights in a layover to make sure you don't miss your connection.
Thanks for this video!! I will have a layover of 14 hours at Istanbul Airport with Turkish Airlines, so I'm really excited to stay for free in this hotel! I'm not sure if you mentioned, but what is the name of the hotel? Thank you :)
I can't remember the name of the hotel, I was so tired haha. It was really nice through and the food buffet was incredible, so much delicious Turkish food :)
Johana, but you not explain clearly how can I get a free hotel from Turkish Airlines.
Can you tell me more details?
Thanks a lot
Hello from Colombia, South America
@Louise how was your trip? Did you get a free hotel too, if so which hotel?
Ohhh I am so glad you got the Free Hotel in Istanbul . 😊❤( Thanks for telling us how to do it.)
Very very interesting, we were wondering if other flying companies are doing the same. Thank you so much for sharing this useful tip!
There are other companies which do it, mostly in Asia and Middle East though :)
In the US they dont give a sh***.
[Update in comments for whoever is interested] Good thing I saw this video. I'm flying in 3 weeks from Romania to South Africa with a 3-day layover in Istanbul (it was a 2h layover initially but they changed my second plane departure a day after I booked my tickets). I checked and there are no other available flights from Turkish Airlines those 3 days. I was panicking and I didn't know what to do for 3 days in an airport. Hopefully nothing changes because of this pandemic. I also have to check where I can do the PCR test for South Africa in the Istanbul airport since it will be long expired if I do it from Romania (way over 72h if I do it a day before I leave my country). I'm also vaccinated.
Wow, that's a massive layover. At least you will get to explore Istanbul, which is such a beautiful city. :)
@@JoannaNemes yeah it’s a massive overlay but I checked and there are no available flights to SA for 3 days. Does the requirement refer to only Turkish airlines flights? Because I haven’t checked if there are from other airlines
@@raven_jpg5100 A few other airlines have a similar offer as well, but not all. They usually do it at their hub. In case of Turkish Airlines, Istanbul is their hub.
@@JoannaNemes hey thank you for getting back to me. I meant to ask that one of the requirements to get free accommodation is to not have any other flight alternatives during your layover. Does it refer only to available options from Turkish Airlines or they can fix me a flight from a different company?
@@raven_jpg5100 No, the flight has to be with Turkish Airlines.
It's not a trick or something new but this is your right. I think that turkish airlines are very good also the business and first class lounge is the best among world vip lounges
I only flew Turkish a few times, but the service was always excellent. Much better than any other airline I flew with, at least on short haul. Long haul, I don't think any airline compares with Emirates.
About visa. If passport holder need visa to enter Turkiye then you need visa. Your air tiket doesnt mean anything to custome officer because you entering Turkiye. You call embassy or consulate od Turkiye in your country and ask about visa. Check online is another option.
Thanks. I almost got myself into a big problem. This video made it clear
I'm glad it helped :)
I didn't know about this!
My mom was yesterday at Istanbul airport but she arrived at 11:00 at night and waited for 9 hours.
Her flight to Panama city was at 8:30 in the morning.
Can you stay if you have to wait 9 hours?
It depends if she was flying economy or business. For economy, the layover must be longer than 12 hours to receive a free hotel. For business is 9 hours.
Hi, did you check the baggage all the way through the final destination or you had to check in again in Istanbul? Great video!
Thank you :) I actually travelled hang luggage only so I don't know the answer to this question. I got my luggage lost twice, so I only travel carry on since then :)
Did you get an answer? I have the same question.
Thank you for the video, it was helpful!
Imagine, I travelled around the world and I had no idea about this rule :D
Is it all (including dinner?!) just free by default if you have a 12 hour+ layover in Istanbul or do you actually have to do something before you get to Istanbul? The room looks pretty good, although not sure if I'm a fan of the 50 shades of brown look (especially that sofa) 😂 Anyway, pretty good that you got a free room, food AND the city tour. Great hack.
Yes, it is free by default. You don't have to do anything, just show up at the hotel desk once you land in Istanbul :)
When you go to the hotel, you should definitely ask about the color of the sofa. 😂😂😂
Thanx for this video I m also travelling via Istanbul next week and 22 hours transit time there .. can u tell me please that do we need to collect our all luggage to go to the hotel ?
I traveled hand luggage only so I didn't have any bags to collect. Normally the checked in luggage is delivered to your final destination, so better have a change of clothes and toiletries in your hand luggage.
@@JoannaNemes thanx for quick reply I m ur new subscriber 👍👍👍.
@@travelwithoutborders2037 Thank you very much :)
Omg how did you manage? I have a 22 hour layover too
@@winnethisoma8396 apply for a transit e-visa on the Turkish website, you can find the link in your réservation code you received via mail by clicking on it.
Then at the airport Istanbul, check for the yellow information point and they gonna guide you through there. Save journey
Thanks, this helped me
Helpful information and awesome video! By any chance, did you see people taking the free accommodation service with pets? Are the partner hotels pet friendly? I contacted Turkish but they’re asking for the reservation code in order to give that information :(
I haven't seen anyone with pets during my layover so I'm afraid I can't help you with this information. Indeed, their customer service is not the best in answering questions to the point. But try again, maybe you will reach a different agent.
thanks for information for free hotel in Turkish air line
Hello Joanna, very helpful video! Did you have to collect your checked bag during this long layover?
I travelled hand luggage only. Usually your luggage will be checked in all the way to your final destination.
Hello, could you tell me which hotel you stayed? Sometimes they are pretty out of the way
I can't remember the name of it, but it was about one hour away from the airport.
Hi, Thanks for the video. Do we need to book the hotel first in advance? Or we can just show up at the hotel desk when we arrive?
You can't book it in advance, you have to request it at the hostel desk when you arrive
Out of curiosity, do you happen to know how much a taxi 🚕 would cost from the hotel that Turkish Airlines accommodates their customers to the center of Istanbul where the museums are?
Unfortunately I don't. I have no idea where the hotel was located in relation to the city centre. I arrived there quite late and didn't leave the hotel until I was picked up the next day.
super, thanks for the info- I have a 18 hour layover-was wondering if i could do a tour and hotel room?
You can only choose one, the hotel or the tour :)
Hi, do we need a transit visa fee to go to the hotel if we have a Canadian passport?
It is best to check with the Turkish border rules, each country has its own requirements for entry to Turkey. I didn't need a visa because my passport is eligible for 30 days visa-free entry for touristic purposes.
Hi, so if a booked a flight with a long layover of 25h but when i was booking it , was another option a littel more expensives but with long layover of 6 hr ( boths are economy seats ), i can t apply to the free hotel? to be honest when i booked it, i didnt know it about the free hotel , and of course the conditions to get it :/
we are a married couple passengers? that could help? :/
hey did u need to have a visa prior or get a visa on arrival for this?
Yes, you need to clear customs before you get to the hotel desk, so you must check the entry requirements for your nationality.
$60 USD for a Turkey VISA now to be allowed to leave the Airport. So no, that FREE hotel is NOT all that free is it?
You should always check the requirements to enter Turkey, they are different for each nationality, fact which I mention in the video and in the comments below. I personally don't have to pay to enter Turkey, my nationality - same as many others - is allowed 60 days visa free entry for touristic purposes. Others do need to pay to get a visa, this is why is very important to check before you plan a trip. The hotel is free and it is provided by Turkish Airlines, the visa is your responsibility and it is required by Turkey's immigration rules. They are completely different, so that FREE hotel is actually FREE if you are a responsible tourist and do your homework before you travel.
For the rule you mentioned at the end, Is it the same with their tour service? Because im not sure if theres another flight between our layover
no, the rule doesn't apply to tours. You can go on a free tour no matter long your layover is :)
What what services can i get inside airport i have 20 hr layover in istanbul but for my country requirements i need a valid visa to go out so what turkish airlines provides inside airport for long layover could you please tell me?
There's not much to do inside the airport. There are plenty of places to eat and shop, but that's about it. The WiFi also only lasts for one hour unfortunately.
Hi , I have a question. I am going to jfk soon and I have 10 hours layover to turkey. How do I get free hotel ?
Are you flying business class? If you fly economy your layover has to be over 12 hours in order to get a free hotel. For business is 9 hours. No matter how long the layover though you can apply for a free tour of Istanbul, if you won't be able to get a hotel.
I like your video I am traveling to Cyprus but I will have a transit at Istanbul for 18hr 40min... boarding from Senegal on the 18th September, it’s possible for me to have a free hotel for my layover?
Please help
I have checked your flight and you shouldn't have any problems getting a free hotel. Make sure you don't need a visa for Turkey or that you already have it and can enter the country, because the Hotel Desk is after the immigration check. Once you pass immigration and get into the main hall of the airport, the Hotel Desk is on the left, under the big yellow cube. I hope this helps. :)
Nice video!! Can you get a free hotel room for a 100% sure if you have a 12+ hours transit? Or do you have to get lucky?
100% if your layover is over 12 hours and if there is no other earlier flight in between. For example, I was coming from Tanzania and flying to Spain. I landed at 5PM and my next flight was at 1PM the following day. However, there was another flight leaving towards my destination in Spain at 9AM. They took that one in consideration, and not my 1PM one. However, as the layover in both cases was longer than 12 hours, I did get the hotel.
did they also offer for city tour ? or can we avail both hotel and city tour?
Hi, thanks a lot for such useful info.
I have a layover flight of 19h but I will have to transfer from IST to Sabiha Gokcen aiport. Would I be eligible for free accommodation?
In theory, you should still get the free hotel. But it's best to email them and ask.
Hi Joanna, Thank you for all the info you provided. I'm traveling with my wife and our 16 months daughter. Our layover is of 29hours and the flight I selected showed stopover and touristanbul both (one some of the flights it only showed stopover) so does that mean we would get a free hotel accommodation and tour of Istanbul too?
As long as there is no other earlier flight connecting the destinations you are flying to and from, yes, you will get the free hotel. However, you can't get the hotel and the tour, you have to pick one. I chose the tour on my outbound flight, and the hotel on my way back.
Do I need to take my checked in luggage during the layover?
Good information, but your audio levels are horrible. Turn down your music audio so that it is balanced with your verbal audio. Thank you.
Thank you for your notes and for taking the time to write this comment. As you surely noticed, I am not a videographer, I just created this video in order to help other people. If the sound bothers you, then don't watch. :)
25 July I have flight From turkeys airlines 20 hours layover in Istanbul
god information to mach peupel confiused ther missing the plean and location
It's not possible to miss your flight, as they will take you back to the airport three hours before it departs :)
Hi Joanna, thanks for sharing the tip to me for the free hotel, I have 12hours 30 minutes layover and my next flight will fly at 3am next day, so when the bus will come to pick me up at the hotel to the airport? Or I can set up the time for the bus come to pick me up at anytime I want? Thanks
Hey, the hotel will let you know when the bus will come to pick you up. If your flight is at 3am, I assume you will get picked up at around 11pm.
Thanks a lot for this information. I am having a 13hrs lay over on 29th July. Is a transit visa required to access the free hotel?
Good luck! Yes, you do need a transit visa. The Turkish Airlines Hotel desk is after the security as well, and you can't get to it if you don't have the visa.
I'm flying on 23rd December, I have 32hrs stay. So for this free hotel shall I need to apply for transit visa or e-visa?
Yes, if your nationality requires it. The hotels and the hotel desk are outside of the security area.
Hello joana, thanks for the video really helpful!!. I wanna ask, i fly from prague to jakarta, so my route is prague-istanbul-muscat-jakarta. Is it possible for me to get the hotel vocher because i have transit time 14 hour in istanbul, but my second flight from istanbul to muscat and jakarta is with oman air. Thank you
Hi Muhammad, have you purchased your ticket directly through Turkish Airlines all the way to Jakarta? If yes, then you should be eligible for the free hotel, as you will be flying onwards with Turkish Airlines partners.
Hi , Joanna dear , I am expected to travel from UK to Pakistan on Turkish Airlines on Return Ticket and on both outbound & inbound flights my layover at Istanbul air port is 27 hours . Shall I be eligible for free hotel stay from both sides transit ?
Secondly , At the time of booking if air line is showing that you are eligible for free hotel , still we shall need to check for early flight to destinations . Thanks
You should definitely check if there is any other flight departing to your final destination earlier, as that's how they calculate the layover time. If there is none, then yes, for a 27 hours layover you are entitled to a free hotel both ways.
I am an Indian and do we need transit visa to get a free hotel there?
You need to check the entry conditions to Turkey for Indian citizens.
Hi, kindly guide me im from pakistan and i booked this ticket on 7th october with 21 hours in istanbul to UK, will i be eligible for free hotel, i can now see another flight from my city but with a shorter layover in istanbul but the departure timings are same as mine 5.55am. Can you please help me as i did not know about this before even though the websites page showed that i qualify for the istanbul tour and layover hotel while i was booking.
Unfortunately, if there is a flight that has a shorter layover on the same route, you won't be eligible for the free hotel.
is it the free hotel only for layover not more than 24 hours? or more than 24 hours as well?
The free hotel is available for layovers over 24 hours as well, as long as there is no other earlier flight connecting the destinations you are flying to and from.
Hi Joanna. I have 9 hour's layover in Istanbul. I will arrived at 9 a.m and my another flight at 7 pm should I need transit visa?
Hi Ann, It depends on what passport you are holding. Here is a list with the countries that require a visa for Turkey: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Turkey
Hey, I have a weird situation. There is only one flight that goes to my destination. but I can take a flight from my home country that has 21 hrs layover and there is another flight that has only 2.5 hrs layover. Unfortunately, I did not notice that while booking so I booked the longer layover :). Do I still get the free hotel because there are no flights to my destination within 21 hrs? Or would they deny me for not coming to Turkey on the later flight?
I know you might not have the answer, but thanks in advance
I don't think you can't get the free hotel because of this technicality. They might argue that there is another flight that reduces your layover to 2.5 hours. But you should try anyway! However, you can still go on one of their free tours of Istanbul, as for those it doesn't matter. When I started my trip I chose to pay and stay at a hotel near the new airport, and go on a free tour. On my return, I picked the free hotel. If it doesn't work out, you can find very affordable hotels near the airport, that include a shuttle to and from as well.
@@JoannaNemes Thank you so much for the reply ❤️ I'll definitely try.
Hey Joanna nice video... Can you tell me were there any conditions to avail free hotel room other than flying in Turkish airlines and having a layover of 22 hours?? I am also flying next month and I have a layover of 22 hours but I will not have any transit visa of turkey. Kindly guide me thanks
Ok I got the answer at the end 😄
Hi Shan, the only condition is to have a layover longer than 12 hours if you are flying economy, and 9 hours if you are flying business. Make sure that there isn't any other flight leaving towards your destination earlier than your connection, as they will take that one in consideration, even if you are booked on a later one. I highly recommend applying for a transit visa because the Turkish Airline office is after passport control, in the arrivals hall, and you won't be able to reach it unless you clear customs. Also, all the hotels are in Istanbul, not around the airport. I hope this helps. :)
@@JoannaNemes yeah I am on a beginner level for these hacks so it is definitely very helpful. So I have to get a transit visa if I have to avail the free hotel stay. But I will be getting my Residence permit on 7th and I have flight on 13th and i have heard it takes two weeks to get transit. I will call embassy on Monday let's see if there is a way out.
@@shanhanif9075 I don't think you should have problems getting a transit visa, they are usually pretty easy to obtain because you already have a ticket that proves you are only in Istanbul overnight. Try the e-visa online system, might be faster.
@@JoannaNemes yeah i thought I won't be eligible for e-visa but after searching for hours I came to know I am eligible. Thankyou so much for the help it means a lot.
Hi @Joanna Nemes I have to travel with Turkish airlines next week with a 12hours layover in Istanbul and I have an Italian passport
Do I need transit visa to get the free hotel ?
I can't advise on visa requirements, you should check the entry requirements to Turkey for Italian citizens. :)
Thank you 😊💗
What do you mean we don't need visa? What passport has visa free entry to Turkey?
There are about 70 countries which don't need a visa to enter Turkey for touristic reasons. I did not need a visa to enter Turkey.
Do you need Turkish Visa for leaving the airport?
It depends on your nationality. You should check the entry requirements into Turkey, as the hotels are in the city and you will need to clear immigration in order to get to the Hotel Desk.
What was the name of 4 star hotel
I can't really remember the name as I was very tired after a really long flight
Hey I'm traveling to Canada (student visa) at mid Dec I have almost 20-22 hrs transit in Istanbul but my travel agency didn't mention any of this. So how do we exactly get free room there? Can you please help❤️❤️
You first have to check that there are no other flights to your destination at an earlier time, the the flights were booked by someone else. Then you have to go to the Hotel desk once you land in Istanbul and request a hotel based on your long layover. I explained in the video where exactly the hotel desk is and how to reach it from when you exit the security zone.
@@JoannaNemes Do I need any type of transit visa or something?
@@sonikadangol9552 You should check with your embassy, every country has its own visa agreements and requirements.
@@JoannaNemes Did you have visa or you just asked and got it?
@@sonikadangol9552 I don't need a visa to visit Turkey. I can't advise you on visa requirements because each nationality has different rules. You must check with the official sources in your country if you need a visa or not to enter Turkey.
If you want other option short Istabul trip.
That is correct, I've made a video about the tour as well, here: ua-cam.com/video/fUmMTRqRvuI/v-deo.html
I have a stay of 21 hours is it possible for me to get free transit hotel??
You should, if there is no other flight towards your final destination earlier. :)
hi, how can I book free accommodation? do I have to send an email? I have a layover for over 30 hours
You can only book the hotel once you land in Istanbul, at the Tour Istanbul office. If you watch the video, I tell you where it is and how to get there once you clear customs.
do we need to claim our buggage and recheck in tomorrow to our final destination?
What were the conditions they gave before you qualified for the hotel?
You must have a layover longer than 12 hours if you are flying economy, and 9 hours if you are flying business. Make sure that there isn't any other flight leaving towards your destination earlier than your connection, as they will take that one in consideration, even if you are booked on a later one. I hope this helps :)
@@JoannaNemes Hi did you need a transit visa? Was the hotel outside the airport?
@@winnethisoma8396 I didn't need a visa because my nationality doesn't require a visa for Turkey, I can visit for 30 days without needing one. But you might do, depending on your nationality, so make sure to check. Yes, the hotel was outside of the airport. It was close to the old Istanbul Airport, about 40-50 minutes away by bus.
@@JoannaNemes just to clarify, I have a 13 hr layover and there’s also another shorter layover available for more $. So, they won’t consider giving me the hotel?
@@Aby-zy4ku If there is a shorter layover available on the same route, unfortunately no, they won't offer you a free hotel. You can however go on their free tour of Istanbul, if you are there during the day.
I have a 20hr layover what should i do to get the free hotel, my passport is nigerian.
It doesn't matter what passport you have, you are eligible for a free hotel with a 20h layover. Just make sure you get a transit visa for Turkey, as the hotels are outside of the airport.
Awesome, thank you so much. How much for the transit visa ? Can i apply at the immigration there ? Or they can offer me the hotel inside the airport ?. Thank you so much.
@@Mgorkiacademy You should check with the official authorities what you need for a transit visa. All hotels are outside of the airport, and the hotel desk is after passport control, so to reach it you will need to have the right paperwork to enter Turkey. I don't know if you can get the visa on arrival as I didn't experienced this process on my trip to Istanbul.
Touristanbul is a marketing ploy so be careful. TK sell tickets on their website with a banner next to the flight combinations saying “free hotel” but when you’re there they refuse on the pretext there was an earlier flight even though the earlier flight connection is impossible. They failed to honour the free hotel even though it was sold as part of the ticket and the staff on the day were dismissive and refused any assistance. Had to spend 18hrs at the airport and out of pocket for own accommodation. Queried customer service on why they have the “free hotel” on the flights combinations I booked if it is not eligible and after multiple email exchanges, they never responded to the question and would give scripted replies that would deflect from the issue at hand. This is blatant false advertising and as a frequent traveller, please be warned. The Emirates scheme is much better than TKs and they are more transparent and friendly.
It is clearly mentioned in the terms and conditions that there must not be another earlier flight in order to get the free hotel. If you choose a later flight just to get a free hotel, you won't be able to take advantage of this scheme. I also mention this several times in the video.
@@JoannaNemes yes, I was aware of that; however, the earlier connection was impossible for even a smaller airport than IST. The flight combinations in question I booked, to this day have a banner on the left that says free hotel. They shouldn't be advertising it this way given the earlier impossible flight connections. It is blatant false advertising to get you to book with them. No doubt people have good experiences with the scheme.. My comments are just to make travellers aware that it may show up as a "free hotel" at the booking stage but even if there is an impossible 20 min connection between flights for an earlier one, they will deny the hotel.
How about if layover is exactly 12 hours?
You should be able to get the free hotel, as the layover must be 12 hours or over.
@@JoannaNemes Thank you
Are you sure anyone who is transitting in istanbul for 10hr get a free hotel.
For over 12 hours, and only if there is no other earlier flight towards your final destination.
@@JoannaNemes yes but how will you get documentation to prove that you are staying at that hotel. Will customer service organize everything.in this case will you have to go through security again
@@duaneowens7777 I am not sure I understand what you mean. To get the free hotel you have to go to the Hotel Desk, which is after the security, not before. There is no documentation needed, all you have to do is present your boarding pass to the hotel desk, they will check your layover and book the hotel for you. Then a shuttle will come to pick you up and take you to the hotel. They work with many hotels and you never know which one you will end up at.
Malaysians, do check your visa for Turkey!
Yes, everyone must check the visa requirements, as the hotels are after immigration
Is it transit visa requer or not ? 14Hours stay
It depends on your nationality. You should check before your trip as the Hotel Desk is located after the immigration checks.
How can you apply the transit visa
It depends on your nationality, you should check on the embassy of your country for accurate details.
Hi.What is that hotel name?
I can't remember the name unfortunately.
did they give ua free tour as well?
No, you can either choose the tour or the hotel.
@@JoannaNemes oh got it
Hote is much better if my layover is 22h lol
Areyou not allowed to name the hotel?
To be honest I can't remember the name of the hotel. I was so tired after the flight that all I wished for was to go to sleep. The bus journey from the airport to the hotel took an hour because we got stuck in the Istanbul rush hour traffic.
where are you from you are very pretty
Shoutout
hiiiiiiiiii joooooo!
Heeeeeeey Joeeeeee! :D
If it's not a secret- are you married?
I want to get a free hotel from Turkish Airlines my PNR SZBY4J
Please don't share your booking code, someone can modify your reservation!!! Please watch the video to see what you need to do to get the free hotel, you can't apply for it before arriving at Istanbul Airport.