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Flights to Istanbul

Last minute flights to Istanbul

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Prices shown below were available within the past 3 days for the period specified and should not be considered the final price offered. Please note that availability and prices are subject to change.
Edinburgh Istanbul
BEST
DEAL
Mon, 06 Jan EDI - SAW
Fri, 10 Jan SAW - EDI
-20 %
£254 £202
Prime price per passenger
Ankara Istanbul
BEST
DEAL
Thu, 02 Jan ESB - SAW
£14 £13
Prime price per passenger
London Istanbul
BEST
DEAL
Wed, 08 Jan LTN - IST
Fri, 10 Jan IST - LTN
£113 £109
Prime price per passenger
Kuwait Istanbul
BEST
DEAL
Mon, 30 Dec KWI - SAW
Wed, 01 Jan SAW - KWI
£161 £156
Prime price per passenger
Leeds Bradford Istanbul
BEST
DEAL
Mon, 30 Dec LBA - SAW
Thu, 02 Jan SAW - LBA
£350 £330
Prime price per passenger
Edinburgh Istanbul
BEST
DEAL
Mon, 30 Dec EDI - IST
Fri, 03 Jan IST - EDI
£1242 £1209
Prime price per passenger

Popular flight routes to Istanbul

AYT
Flights from Antalya to Istanbul
£16 £15
Prime price per passenger
LON
Flights from London to Istanbul
-10 %
£21 £19
Prime price per passenger
BRS
Flights from Bristol to Istanbul
£31 £30
Prime price per passenger
MAN
Flights from Manchester to Istanbul
£33 £32
Prime price per passenger
EBL
Flights from Arbil to Istanbul
£39 £38
Prime price per passenger
BUH
Flights from Bucharest to Istanbul
£41 £40
Prime price per passenger

Flights to Istanbul

Are you searching for cheap flight tickets to Istanbul?

Originally known as Byzantium in the 7th century BC, modern Istanbul is a spectacle to behold. Over thousands of years, Istanbul's constantly evolving culture has been a product of influences from all over the world. Renowned as the most populated city in Europe, Istanbul is a treasure filled with opportunities for adventure. Boasting a rich history that features odes to Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and more, few cities can measure up to Istanbul's long legacy.

During your travels throughout the city, you can expect to encounter astounding architecture, sights of historic, cultural, and religious importance, and, of course, stalls filled to the brim with delectable foods. From the Column of Constantine to food tours, which straddle both sides of the continent, there’s something here for everyone. Unsurprisingly, each year, over 13 million people visit Turkey’s most famous gem, and with good reason.

Here at Opodo, we’re seasoned travellers, which is why we’ve put together this exclusive guide on how to plan your perfect Istanbul trip and experience. Whether you’re looking to spend a weekend in the summer or a longer trip over winter, opportunities with us cover all tastes.

Here is a tip for you: booking your flight and hotel at the same time and not separately can make you save up to 40%. Take advantage of a flight + hotel package in Istanbul to your destination and save time searching for hotels separately. If you have already purchased your flight and you’re only looking for a hotel, you can find it here.

Seeing Istanbul in a weekend

Heading out for a weekend trip in Istanbul, but unsure as to how you’re going to cram in all your sightseeing adventures? Rest assured, whilst you might not be able to take in ALL Istanbul has to offer, there’s certainly a lot you can experience in a few days.

One thing to factor into your considerations from the very get-go is the time difference: keep in mind that the time in Istanbul now is two hours ahead of the UK, so you’ll have to adjust your plans accordingly. We’ve compiled just a few of our must-see hotspots in this beautiful and bustling metropolis, but this is by no means a definitive list. Along the way, we’d recommend you adopt a flexible approach and incorporate spontaneous ventures as and when the opportunities arise!

Day 1: Try Istanbul’s doner kebabs

To ease you into the first day, we recommend taking it slow. After you’ve deposited your bags at your hotel, we’d suggest scoping out the local amenities. You can get an idea of some tourist sightseeing trips by picking up brochures and leaflets from your hotel’s reception desk, as they always have handy paperwork with summaries of what to do in Istanbul, as a visitor. Of course, what’s on offer will depend entirely on how far from the city's hotspots you are. But don’t worry, there will always be options available.

The best way to recharge and ease into the culture is by getting something to eat, and what better way to start than with something authentically Turkish? If you’re like us, chances are you’ve eaten many doner kebabs in your life, and now’s the perfect chance to try Istanbul’s authentic take. Vegetarians and vegans can also check out kızartma, a fried vegetable dish found all over the city.

Following your meal, consider taking a walk around one of Istanbul’s many luscious parks like Emirgan (great in spring) or Yildiz (walk between the trees on rope bridges!), and rest well for a big day coming up tomorrow.

Day 2: Visit the Hagia Sophia

The second day of your trip gives you the time to explore deeper into the full range of Istanbul’s experiences. To begin with, consider a full traditional Turkish breakfast. Available in Istanbul all day, don’t worry if you slightly oversleep, you’ll still be able to catch this hearty breakfast food. Called kahvalti, this meal generally includes olives, cured meats, cheese, fresh tomatoes, pastries, eggs, and dips. Once your stomach is full, it’s time to weigh your choices for the busy day ahead.

Fans of architecture and history can consider the Byzantine-style Hagia Sophia, one of the most impressive and longest-standing churches in Europe. Once a Christian church, the Hagia Sophia morphed into a mosque to reflect the city’s rapidly diversifying culture and religious evolution. Also of note are the Basilica Cistern, the Suleymaniye Mosque, or a simple walking tour around the old town.

When night falls, a tour of the Bosphorus River reveals a fantastic view of Istanbul’s many illuminated landmarks. If you’re after local drinks, local guides can help with pub crawls while testing famous Turkish raki. Partiers might also find a home at Kadikoy or Uskudar, which are famous for their active club scenes.

Day 3: Shop at the Grand Bazaar

The last day of travel is the time to consolidate what you’ve experienced and put a cap on your unforgettable Istanbul adventure. The most popular area to visit, by far, is the Grand Bazaar. One of the world’s most famous shopping sites, the Grand Bazaar is full of wonderful and weird gifts, alongside an appropriate final meal before you head out. Just remember not to get too caught up and miss your flight, no matter how tempting another few days might seem!

In order to discover the beautiful landscapes of the surroundings, you can always rent a car in Istanbul and travel the open road.

FAQs on your Istanbul travel

How can I request assistance for children travelling alone?

To request assistance for children travelling alone, you should contact the airline you’ve booked with. It’s best to check with an airline before you book to see what level of support it offers for children travelling alone, as not all services will be equal, and some might not offer support.

How can I travel with an assistance dog?

To travel with an assistance dog, you must contact the airline your purchased tickets from. Note that not all airlines will offer the same level of support for assistance animals, so it’s best to check policy thoroughly on airline websites before purchasing a ticket.

How do I find cheap flights to the destination city that have flexible change policies at Opodo?

When you book with us, you have the opportunity to sort your flights by cost by using the cheap flights tab. Once you’ve found a flight you’re interested in, clicking on it will bring you to a page that will reveal the different flexible ticket plans available.

How can I book cheap hotels on Opodo in my destination city?

Booking with us allows you the opportunity to conveniently include hotel stays in your search. When planning your trip to Istanbul, all-inclusive arrangements can be made by using the flight and hotel tab to book both elements simultaneously and save up to 40 per cent.

What baggage do I need to check on my flight?

This will depend on the airline used, so be sure to check their official policy before buying your tickets. Checked luggage will usually have weight limits and size limits before it becomes more expensive. You can’t usually check electronic items, they’ll require storage in your carry-on.

How can I check in with Opodo?

With Opodo, you can check in by printing your ticket and showing it to the corresponding airline desk at the airport. Some airlines, like British Airways, also provide online check-ins via their website.

Do I need to pay a cancellation fee if I cancel my flight from my departure city to Istanbul?

Cancellation fees will depend on the type of ticket you purchased and the airline you booked with. Flexible fares will tend to have lower or no cancellation fees but are also more expensive. The cheaper the ticket, the more expensive the cancellation fee will tend to be.

How do I know if my flight is eligible for compensation?

If you booked a flight with us, then you’re open to compensation if the flight arrived at its final destination at least three hours behind schedule. Compensation is available if the flight is delayed thanks to a fault from the airline (bad weather doesn’t count).

Key Istanbul airports information

Istanbul features two international airports, each sitting on one side of the European/Asian divide. The larger of the two, the Istanbul Airport, is located 30 miles to the west of the city, on the European side. The smaller of the two, the Sabiha Gokcen Airport, sits on the Asian side, serving a small number of airlines. When it comes to how far Istanbul Airport is from the city centre, it’s actually a little closer than the Sabiha Gokcen Airport, being just 27 miles away. Especially when considering the public transport links, this distance is incredibly convenient.

Istanbul Airport

The main airlines that fly to Istanbul Airport include British Airways, KLM, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa. At the moment, this site offers one terminal, which is under development and expansion. Luckily, this means you won’t have to worry about getting lost in the labyrinths of the airport. You have four main choices in getting from Istanbul Airport to the city centre:

Sabiha Gokcen Airport

The main airlines of the Sabiha Gokcen Airport include British Airways, AnadoluJet, and Pegasus Airlines. It contains two terminals. Moving from this airport to the city centre offers three options:

Whether using either airport, an important part of how to use public transport in Istanbul revolves around the Istanbul Kart magnetic card. Preloading these cards with cash gives an easy scan-and-go way to navigate Istanbul’s public transport services.

Facilities and services in both of these airports include:

Sabiha Gokcen International Airport

Top airlines

Relatively newer, the airport operates many of the budget and internal airlines including: Aegean Airlines and Etihad.

Location

It is situated 35km from the southeast of central Istanbul, closer to the Asian side.

Transport options

There are multiple options including the TEM highway, private bus (Hava? and Havata?) and trains.

Istanbul Ataturk Airport

Top airlines

The busiest airport in Turkey handles over 20 million passengers a year. Among a number of airlines, the main ones that use this airport include: Delta Airlines, Adria Airways and Emirates.

Location

The centre for Turkish Airlines, the airport is located 24km from the mainland city.

Transport options

Having been operating for many years as one of the main airports in Turkey, transportation to and from the site is readily available and well-situated. There is a metro service which runs along a number of routes, Seabus which takes the passengers on a facilitated ferry as well as public buses, taxi and rental car services.

The best time to visit Istanbul

The best time to book a flight and hotel to Istanbul will depend on your wants, needs, and budget. For example, if you’re looking for the best weather the city can offer, you should consider mid-spring and autumn as the optimum times to visit Istanbul.

However, in general, the weather here is usually mild. Going in spring nets you the chance to see the flowers blooming in April’s Tulip Festival, with temperatures of around a maximum of 17℃. Meanwhile, Istanbul’s weather in October is around 20℃ at its highest, which is manageable. Even with packed streets and tourists galore during these more popular months to fly, the city’s charm is evergreen.

Another option, if you’re more focused on the experience itself than the weather, is travelling with an Istanbul all-inclusive tour. This package deal will help you to create sweet, nostalgic memories of the old walled city.

If you’re looking to experience the local music scene, you’ll probably be best flying over in June and July. The Istanbul International Music Festival is typically held during this time and celebrates the nation’s broad musical history and culture. The Istanbul International Jazz Festival is also held around this time, so it could be an ideal “two birds, one stone” situation.

If you’re on a budget, you might look to the December to February period as the best time to plan your trip. This is the cooler season in Istanbul and, naturally, one of the quietest. This means you’ll have more choices as to where to stay in Istanbul, and they’ll likely be cheaper too.

Istanbul flights FAQs

How can I search for low-cost flights to Istanbul on Opodo UK?
At Opodo UK, you can find flights to Istanbul starting from just £13. We use cutting-edge technology to create great offers that give you a variety of options to choose from. Whether you’re searching for the best prices or the most convenient flight times, we’re here to help you find the perfect choice for your trip to Istanbul.
In which month is it best to buy flights to Istanbul?
According to the booking patterns of our Opodo UK customers, the optimal time to book flights to Istanbul is July. By choosing this month for your reservations, you can take advantage of better pricing and availability, ensuring a smoother travel experience. The upcoming peak period for booking flights to Istanbul is September. Finally, August is the third-best month to book your flight to Istanbul. We are referring to the preferred time for travelers to book their tickets. To discover the best time to visit Istanbul, keep reading for more information.
What month is the best time to visit Istanbul?
We analyzed the flight searches made by our customers, and the optimal month for flying to Istanbul is August. You might want to fly to Istanbul on July, as it’s the second-best month for a memorable trip to that destination. And we can't ignore October, which ranks as the third most popular month to visit Istanbul. If you enjoy a more peaceful travel experience, we’d like to share that the month with the lowest demand for flights to Istanbul is January. This means you can expect fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere during your trip.
What carriers provide flights from the UK to Istanbul?
Airlines that operate direct flights from the UK to Istanbul are as follows:
  • Pegasus Airlines operates direct flights originating from Kayseri and London to Istanbul. Additionally, this airline also offers services from Sharjah to the same destination.
  • Ajet offers flights from Nevsehir and Kayseri to Istanbul. Moreover, they also provide services from Sharjah.
Here are also some options for indirect flights from the UK to Istanbul:
  • IndiGo, an airline known for offering flights from various cities, operates routes fromBangkok, Phuket, and Singapore.
  • Qatar Airways offers flights to Istanbul from Bali, Lahore, as well as Islamabad, providing multiple convenient departure options for travelers.
  • Finally, Etihad Airways operates flights to Istanbul, departing from numerous locations, including Bangkok, Lahore, and Kuala Lumpur.
Which airlines provide the lowest-cost flights to Istanbul?
Based on the pricing trends from our UK customers' bookings to Istanbul, the following low-cost carriers are among the best options for securing cheap flights:
  • Pegasus Airlines offers an average one-way fare of £147.78. Additionally, flying from London to Istanbul costs about £144.01, while a trip from Manchester is priced at £164.54.
  • Turkish Airlines is among the most affordable airlines available and offers an average one-way ticket price of £167.02). This average includes: a fare of £121.14 for flights from Edinburgh to Istanbul, as well as a price of £138.49 for flights originating from Birmingham.
How far in advance should I arrive at the airport for my flight to Istanbul?
To ensure a smooth trip to Istanbul, it’s important to arrive at the airport at least two to three hours before your flight. This extra time is essential for navigating various procedures such as check-ins, security screenings, customs, boarding, and baggage drop-off, as well as any potential delays that might occur. When you choose Opodo for your travel needs, you’ll discover fantastic flight deals to Istanbul from over 162 cities. Plus, Opodo UK offers a variety of services to enhance your airport experience, including priority boarding, additional luggage allowances, and lounge access. For added peace of mind, consider selecting a refundable fare or purchasing travel insurance when you book your flight. This way, you can embark on your journey to Istanbul with confidence and ease!
How many airports are there in Istanbul?
The city of Istanbul is served by 3 airport[s]. Among them, Istanbul Airport offers flights to a variety of domestic and international destinations, connecting travelers to 162 cities. Some of the most frequented routes include London, Manchester, and Antalya, making these the top choices for passengers. Whether you’re looking to explore nearby locations or travel abroad, this airport provides numerous options to suit your travel needs.
What is the distance from the airport in Istanbul to the city center?
The Istanbul Airport serving Istanbul is located about 21 miles kilometers from the heart of the city, making it easy for visitors to access popular attractions and amenities.
How much does it cost to get from Istanbul airport to the city center?
Traveling by Public Transport: The cost of using public transport for your journey is approximately 0.45 £ per individual. Taking a Taxi: If you have a more flexible budget and would like to opt for a taxi from Istanbul Airport, the typical fare to the center of Istanbul is about 0.68 £ per kilometer. This option can be particularly convenient if you’re traveling with luggage or prefer a direct route. Renting a Car: For enhanced convenience and the freedom to explore at your own pace during your visit, Opodo offers excellent car rental options in Istanbul. You can choose your desired vehicle type and drive from Istanbul Airport to the city center of Istanbul on your own schedule, allowing for spontaneous stops along the way.
What is an appropriate budget for planning a trip to Istanbul?
If you're planning a trip to Istanbul, here's a breakdown of the average costs for various items you might want to buy:
  • Affordable Dining: 9.04 £
  • Moderate Dining: 36.14 £
  • Cheap Restaurant: 6.32 £
  • Local Beer: 3.16 £
  • Imported Beer: 4.07 £
  • Coffee: 2.67 £
  • Soft Drinks: 1.13 £
  • Bottled Water: 0.38 £
This list can help you budget for your expenses while enjoying your time at Istanbul.
  • Inexpensive Restaurant: 9.04 £
  • Mid Range Restaurante: 36.14 £
  • Cheap Restaurant: 6.32 £
  • Domestic Beer: 3.16 £
  • Imported Beer: 4.07 £
  • Coffee: 2.67 £
  • SoftDrink: 1.13 £
  • Water: 0.38 £
How's the weather in Istanbul?
If you’re seeking a sunny getaway, the ideal months to visit Istanbul are June, July and August. During this time, the average temperature soars to 25.39 °C. Additionally, the sun shines brightest in July, May, and June, which are the top three sunniest months of the year, offering an impressive average of 141.07 hours of sunshine daily. On the other hand, if you prefer cooler weather, consider planning your trip to Istanbul during the months of January, February and March. During these months, the average temperature is 8.05 °C. For travelers who are less concerned about temperature but want to stay dry, it's wise to steer clear of visiting during July, February and April. During these months, the average precipitation in Istanbul reaches 6.58 mm. In contrast, the months of January, February and March, are much drier, averaging 0 mm of rainfall.
Airport code IST The IATA code for the arrival airport on flights to Istanbul is IST
Most popular airline Wizz Air UK Most popular airline with flights to Istanbul
High season August According to search data from our customers, August is the busiest time to fly to Istanbul
Low season January According to search data from our customers, January is the least busy time to fly to Istanbul

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