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Trip to Istanbul

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Buses from Athens to Istanbul

🚌 Depart from Athens station with Crazy Holidays bus service, operating once a week on Fridays, for a scenic journey to Istanbul. The 13-hour trip promises stunning views along the way. 🌍 Explore the diverse landscapes as you cover approximately 1,046 km with transfers en route. Step off in Thessaloniki before continuing your adventure towards the vibrant city of Istanbul.

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  • Yes, there is a direct bus between Athens and Istanbul. The bus service departs once a week on Fridays, with a journey time of approximately 13 hours. This direct bus route provides a convenient option for travelers looking to commute between the two cities without the need for transfers.
  • To catch the Athens to Istanbul bus, you will need to head to Athens station, where the bus services are operated by Crazy Holidays. Athens station serves as the departure point for this direct route to Istanbul. It's recommended to arrive at the station well in advance of the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process for your journey.
  • The Athens to Istanbul bus, operated by Crazy Holidays, arrives at Istanbul station. Istanbul station serves as the final destination for this bus route, offering travelers a convenient drop-off point in the heart of the city. Upon arrival, passengers can easily access various transportation options to reach their accommodations or explore the vibrant city of Istanbul.
  • The cost of a bus ticket from Athens to Istanbul typically ranges from €80 to €112. Prices may vary depending on the bus company, time of booking, and any promotional offers available. Travelers are encouraged to check for updated fares and book tickets in advance to secure the best possible rate for this intercity bus journey.
  • There are multiple bus routes available between Athens and Istanbul each with varying durations and transfer points. The routes range from direct journeys taking around 13 hours to longer trips with transfers, lasting up to 1 day. Travelers can choose from different options provided by agencies like KTEL Thessalonikis SA and Arda Tur, with distances ranging from approximately 869 km to 1,222 km. It is recommended to check the schedules and plan according to preferences for a comfortable and convenient bus journey between these two destinations.
  • The Athens to Istanbul buses are likely to be the most crowded during peak travel seasons such as summer and holidays when there is increased demand for transportation between the two cities. On the other hand, the buses may be less crowded during off-peak times, such as mid-week departures or non-holiday periods. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to secure a seat, especially if traveling during busy periods, to ensure a more comfortable journey.
  • The first bus of the day to travel from Athens to Istanbul typically departs in the early morning, around 7-8 AM, depending on the specific bus route chosen. The last bus of the day usually leaves in the late afternoon or early evening, around 5-6 PM. It is advisable to confirm the exact departure times with the bus operator, as schedules may vary. Additionally, booking tickets in advance is recommended to secure a seat on the desired departure.

Will you be returning to Athens by bus?

If you are looking for a return bus ride, please check out the buses from Istanbul to Athens.

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