To the point
Are you a business class passenger with a stopover in Istanbul? Visit one of the largest lounges in the world, the Turkish Airlines International CIP lounge.
After a few hours flight from Nice to Istanbul, we are now in the flagship lounge of Turkish Airlines: International CIP Lounge of Atatürk Airport.
Turkish Airlines International CIP Lounge
Istanbul’s geographical position makes Atatürk Airport a hub for flights between the Americas and Asia as well as Europe to Africa and the Middle East.
Most of the passengers who are in transit here are there for several hours. When it is more than 6-7 hours, it is better to leave the airport to enjoy the city.
For the others, the CIP Lounge is a very interesting option to explore… as Alexandra did!
Conditions of access to the CIP Lounge
This lounge is known in the world of frequent travelers as one of the largest in the world.
All passengers traveling in business class on Turkish Airlines – or any Star Alliance airline – have access to the CIP Lounge.
Access is also possible with Star Alliance Gold status. No Priority Pass here.
Location of the CIP Lounge
Atarturk Airport has only one – huge – terminal. The lounge occupies a large space within it, almost in the center of the terminal (L5 on the map).
CIP Lounge Tour
To access the lounge, simply scan your boarding pass. If you have any requests regarding your next flight, you can ask at the lounge reception desk (e.g. seat changes).
The Turkish Airlines CIP Lounge is composed of 2 floors and is divided into many different areas. Even though this one is particularly busy, we never felt like we were running out of room.
Secure storage
At the entrance, on the right, there is a space to store your cabin luggage in secure compartments. Very practical if you don’t need all your stuff.
Internet access
To access the lounge’s WiFi, simply scan your boarding pass to obtain an individual code.
Rest areas
The individual rooms of the CIP Lounge
If your connection lasts between 4 and 7 hours, you are entitled to a private room – subject to availability. I recommend that you go to the concierge as soon as you arrive at the salon. It is located on the entrance level (2nd floor) opposite the computers provided.
This is what we did and we were able to take possession of one of the rooms. This allows you to store your belongings if you are traveling together and one of you wants to rest.
The room has a bed, television, plenty of water bottles and a closet.
Showers and toilets in the CIP Lounge
If you wish to take a shower, I also advise you to ask the concierge when you arrive because there is a lot of waiting. As for me, I waited too long: the waiting list was 2 hours long at the time of my registration and therefore I can’t “show you the showers”.
However, for your pleasure, here is a picture of the men’s room:
The different exhibitions
The CIP Lounge has numerous lounges with sofas and armchairs.
The catering areas
Savory buffets
There is something for everyone: Asian, Western and of course Oriental.
Sweet buffets
In various spaces that recreate “brasseries”, you will find particularly succulent dessert buffets.
The drinks
On both sides of the lounge are drinks of all kinds, alcoholic or not.
Next to the dessert stands are tea and coffee (particularly good).
Entertainment areas
The children’s lounge
Go to the children’s area: television, slide, and other games to pass the time for your children. Alexandra loved it and spent much of our correspondence time there.
The library
Across from the entrance is “the library” with a pool table (first time I’ve seen this in a living room… like many other things that will follow).
The cinema
Next to the entrance is a movie theater with a popcorn stand.
This room is in the dark and has particularly comfortable armchairs. This can be a good fallback solution if you can’t get a single room and want to rest.
Video games
In several places in the living room there are game consoles. Team games are emphasized in order to play with others: basketball and soccer in particular.
The remote control car circuit
On the lower level of the show, you will find… a remote control car circuit.
The golf instructor
If you want to learn golf or improve your swing, a golf instructor is at your disposal!
Massage
Although we did not take advantage of it, you should know that a masseur comes into the salon to massage your back and shoulders. To reserve it, contact the salon concierge.
Bottom line
We spent almost 5 hours in this lounge….without finding time to get bored. It is simply gigantic. If you are in Istanbul, don’t hesitate to visit it… the experience is unique!
Come to discuss that topic in our Facebook Group!
