Easiest and most economical are not the same. Easiest at a decent price is the airport bus to Taksim Square and from there taking the funicular to the streetcar that goes over to the Blue Mosque area. Most economical is to take a city bus to the subway, then the subway to Taksim Square, then the funicular etc. But don't dawdle, whichever option you choose because after the anticipated arrivals the buses leave and suddenly all transportation is gone. Take a look at my trip report; click on my name to find it.

One more thing: arriving at the domestic side of the terminal, one is less likely to see vans taking passengers to their hotels and looking for extra passengers to add to the group, which is how we first got to our hotel.

Many of the hotels have shuttle pickups.. check it outfor your hotel. We stayed at Tash Konak and they were there(at the airport) when we arrived..No hassle and no charge.

I agree with the above post-check with your hotel. Our hotel will pick us up at no extra charge. I think they mentioned the stay had to be at least three nights to get the free pick up.

Thanks everyone. I contacted the hotel and they said that they will arrange a transfer for 50 euros. I hope that is for both of us, but I will check with them.