If you're heading to Dokuz Eylül University's main campus in Buca for student registration, a graduation ceremony, or an academic meeting, clear up the name first: the campus once called "Tınaztepe" is now officially "Central Campus" (Merkez Yerleşke). Both names are still searched online and recognized by local taxi drivers. Here's how the name changed, and the practical details of getting there from the airport.
Tınaztepe or Central Campus — Which Name Is Right?
The campus was officially renamed "Dokuz Eylül University Central Campus" by a board decision on 14 November 2024, though the old name Tınaztepe is still in wide use. Dokuz Eylül University itself was founded on 20 July 1982. You can use either name when booking a transfer or giving directions to your driver — there's no confusion either way.
How to Get from the Airport to Buca?
From Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, a private transfer takes you straight to the campus gate, or you can ride the İZBAN commuter rail to the Şirinyer, Koşu, or İnkılap stations in Buca and continue by a short taxi ride. During registration weeks or graduation, when luggage is heavier, a chauffeured private transfer skips the switch between train and taxi.
Egem VIP Transfer runs a dedicated route to Buca; just tell your driver the faculty or building name when you book. Private airport transfer to Buca
Which Faculty Are You Going To?
Central Campus isn't a single gate — it spreads across a large area hosting the Faculties of Law, Engineering, Architecture, Science, Literature, and Business, among others. Simply saying "DEU" to your driver isn't enough; name the faculty or department instead. Because the grounds are so large, walking between faculties can take a few minutes on its own.
Who Is This Transfer For?
This route matters most for families of newly registered students, incoming exchange students, and academics attending a conference or exam on campus. In the 2022–2023 academic year, the university had around 68,000 students, including more than 4,600 international students from 103 countries — meaning plenty of new arrivals pass through the airport each term. For families unfamiliar with the city and carrying heavy luggage, a chauffeured transfer saves time and avoids a transit change. A student making it to a single class without luggage, who already knows the campus, is usually fine with public transport instead.
When Should You Leave?
Traffic around Buca and the campus gets heavier than usual in late September, when the autumn term starts, and during re-registration weeks; building in an extra half hour beyond your flight time is a safe call during those periods. Booking with your flight number means your driver waits if the flight is delayed. For payment options, confirm details in advance when you book.
Comparing It to Other Campuses
If you are heading to Ege University in Bornova instead, our airport transfer guide to Ege University covers that campus in detail. If you want to add a short outing to your campus visit, Buca's own history is worth a look — the district's Levantine mansions sit a short distance from the campus.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take from the airport to campus?
It depends on traffic at the time of day; going by İZBAN with a taxi transfer usually takes longer overall than a direct private transfer. Rather than quoting a fixed number, ask your driver for a current estimate when you book.
Can I still use the name Tınaztepe?
Yes — even though the official name is Central Campus, Tınaztepe is still widely recognized in addresses and navigation apps, so either name gets you there.
Can this transfer work with a child or an elderly family member?
Yes; just mention a child seat or extra luggage space when booking. For busy family visits like graduation, arranging more than one vehicle is also possible.
Can I reach campus by İZBAN?
Yes, the İZBAN line passes through the Şirinyer, Koşu, and İnkılap stations in Buca, from where it's a short taxi ride or walk to campus.