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Plovdiv to Istanbul from $10: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Plovdiv to Istanbul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$10 by trainBest price
373.4 kmDistance
4h 5m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Plovdiv to Istanbul with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
7h 
Estimated price
$14-45
Recommended
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$10-22
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 373.4 km
Duration: 4h 5m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  5m
Estimated price
$65-95
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
6h  29m
Estimated price
$267-506

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $23 $23 $23 $24 $23 $23 $23
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Plovdiv to Istanbul

This journey from Plovdiv, with its rich history and charming streets, to Istanbul, a bustling metropolis blending cultures, offers a fascinating contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and vibrant atmospheres.

Beyoğlu
• Home to Istiklal Avenue's lively shopping scene.
• Lively nightlife with diverse bars and restaurants.
Sultanahmet
• Historical landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque nearby.
• Rich culture with traditional Turkish cuisine options.
Kadıköy
• Known for its vibrant market and street art.
• Trendy cafes and local boutiques line the streets.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Plan your visit to Istanbul’s iconic spots for a smoother experience.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays are best; aim for opening hours to explore leisurely.
Grand Bazaar
Arrive just after opening for a quieter environment and better deals.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the ideal times for exploration. Seasonal weather significantly influences outdoor activities, so planning your itinerary around climate conditions can enhance your travel experience.

Dining in Istanbul: A Flavorful Adventure

Savor the rich spices and diverse ingredients of a traditional kebab at Zübeyir Ocakbaşı, where the lively atmosphere and open grill create an engaging dining experience. This contrasts with Plovdiv's more rustic flavors, offering a vibrant taste of Turkish culture that you won’t find back home.

Plovdiv - Istanbul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Plovdiv and Istanbul, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
0850 222 34 55
Website
https://www.metroturizm.com.tr/en

Bus from Plovdiv to Istanbul Otogari

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$14-28
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
http://citylines.eu

Bus from Plovdiv Hristo Botev to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$23-26
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Plovdiv Bus Station South to Istanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$35-55
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
https://www.bdz.bg/en

Train from Plovdiv to Svilengrad

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$3-7

Train from Svilengrad to Halkali

Average Duration
5h 9m
Estimated price
$5-13
Shuttle
Contact phone
+359 89 345 5533
Website
https://atlastaxi.eu/

Shuttle from Plovdiv to Sofia Airport

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$130-190
Plane Show flights
Website
http://turkishairlines.com

Plane from Sofia Airport (SOF) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$140-390
Website
http://en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Sofia Airport (SOF) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$140-600

Plovdiv to Istanbul: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Plovdiv and Istanbul offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

💸 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from €60 to €87 for the journey, ensuring a budget-friendly adventure from start to finish. 🌆 Arrive in the vibrant city of Istanbul after a scenic 4-hour drive, ready to explore its diverse attractions and immerse yourself in its captivating atmosphere.
Average price
€60 - €88
🚂 The journey from Plovdiv to Istanbul by train takes approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes, with transfers at Svilengrad and Halkali. 🎫 Train tickets between Plovdiv and Istanbul can range from €9 to €20, offering an affordable and scenic way to travel between the two popular destinations. Bulgarian Railways operates the train services on this route.
Departure Point
Plovdiv station
Arrival Point
Halkali station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the train from Plovdiv to Istanbul may include a catering car offering meals and beverages. Look out for a menu that may feature Bulgarian and Turkish cuisine, as well as drinks like coffee and traditional tea. If you're looking for something specific, it's a good idea to check the onboard catering offerings beforehand or bring some snacks.
• Seating options vary on this route. You can expect to find Economy Class, which tends to be the most affordable with basic seating, and First Class, which offers more spacious and comfortable seats with added amenities. Business Class is not typically available on this route, but First Class seats are usually a good upgrade for added comfort during your journey.
• For your train trip, there are a couple of operators you can consider: the Bulgarian State Railways (BDŽ) and TCDD (Turkish State Railways). You can check their respective schedules and book tickets through their websites: BDŽ and TCDD. Additionally, here are some useful links to consider: Local Transport Schedules and Edirne Train Station Map.
🛫 Flying from Plovdiv to Istanbul is a convenient and quick option for travelers. The quickest flight from Sofia Airport to Istanbul Airport only takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Departure Point
Sofia Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
🚌 Experience a convenient and efficient journey from Plovdiv to Istanbul by bus. Departing every four hours, the direct bus operated by Metro Turizm will take you to Istanbul Otogari station in approximately 7 hours. 🌟 Enjoy a comfortable ride as you travel through picturesque landscapes between Plovdiv and Istanbul. With daily services available, you can easily plan your trip and explore both cities at an affordable price ranging from €13 to €41 for the bus ticket.
Departure Point
Plovdiv station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Otogari station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Plovdiv to Istanbul.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Plovdiv and Istanbul is approximately 373.4 km. If you choose to drive, it would take you approximately 4 hours and 12 minutes to cover the 412.3 km distance. Alternatively, you can take a train which would take around 9 hours and 22 minutes. Another option is to take a shuttle and then a flight, which would take approximately 6 hours and 29 minutes. Buses are also available, and it takes around 7 hours to reach Istanbul from Plovdiv.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Plovdiv to Istanbul is by train with ticket prices ranging from €9 to €18. Although it takes 9 hours and 22 minutes, it offers a budget-friendly option. Alternatively, driving is the quickest way to reach Istanbul, taking only 4 hours and 2 minutes. However, it is also more expensive, with costs ranging from €55 to €87.
The prices for traveling from Plovdiv to Istanbul vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The train prices range from €9 to €18, while the bus prices range from €8 to €37.
To get from Plovdiv to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The distance between the two cities is 412.0 km and it takes approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Plovdiv to Istanbul can vary from €55 to €87 depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.
To travel from Plovdiv to Istanbul without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and the ticket prices range from €8 to €37.
No, there is no direct train from Plovdiv to Istanbul. However, you can take a train from Plovdiv to Halkali, which includes transfers and takes approximately 9 hours and 22 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service that departs from Plovdiv and arrives at Istanbul Otogari. The bus journey takes around 7 hours and operates daily.
The flight between Plovdiv and Istanbul usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from Sofia Airport to Istanbul Airport. As for the cost, it is important to check with airlines as it can vary depending on the time of year and availability. Generally, flights between these two cities can range from around $100 to $200 USD.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a variety of options that suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Istanbul start at around €22 per night, offering a range of choices for different budgets.