1map logoGo to main page

London to Istanbul from $86: 13 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
London, United Kingdom
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from London 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.

$86 - PlaneBest price
2513 kmDistance
6h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from London 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
Plane
Average Duration
6h  23m
Estimated price
$166-730
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  50m
Estimated price
$86-408
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2513 km
Duration: 6h 23m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
27h  47m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
49h  9m
Estimated price
$94-153
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  57m
Estimated price
$138-526
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  22m
Estimated price
$158-994
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  15m
Estimated price
$164-1081
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
46h  22m
Estimated price
$167-189
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$185-762
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
42h  36m
Estimated price
$203-228
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
44h  43m
Estimated price
$278-712
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
38h  7m
Estimated price
$350-755
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
28h  59m
Estimated price
$561-837

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Fly $47 $51 $46 $58 $53 $51 $46

Traveling From London to Istanbul

Your journey from London to Istanbul takes you from the bustling streets and historic landmarks of a modern metropolis to the vibrant colors and rich heritage of a city that bridges East and West.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul's neighborhoods showcase a vibrant blend of culture and lifestyle.

Karaköy
• Trendy cafes and street art attract creative spirits.
• Proximity to historic Galata Tower enhances exploration.
Kadıköy
• Bustling markets offer local delicacies and fresh produce.
• Vibrant nightlife with bars and music venues.
Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
• Rich in history, perfect for cultural immersion.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Istanbul's bustling sites.

Hagia Sophia
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer quieter moments to appreciate its beauty.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays, especially in the off-peak season, result in fewer tourists.
Grand Bazaar
Visiting on weekdays helps you explore shops without the weekend rush.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Visiting during spring or fall offers pleasant weather and allows you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and sights without the peak tourist crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Istanbul

Savor the rich flavors of a traditional kebab at Zübeyir Ocakbaşı, where the aroma of grilling meat fills the air and the vibrant atmosphere invites a communal dining experience. Unlike London's dining scene, Istanbul's culinary offerings showcase fresh local ingredients and a sense of heritage that transforms every meal into a celebration.

London - Istanbul operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from London Heathrow to Istanbul

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$190-1200

Plane from London Gatwick to Istanbul

Average Duration
3h 56m
Estimated price
$140-1100

Plane from London Stansted to Sabiha Gokcen

Average Duration
3h 56m
Estimated price
$90-850

Plane from London City to Sabiha Gokcen via Frankfurt

Average Duration
5h 55m
Estimated price
$190-700

Plane from London City to Sabiha Gokcen via Amsterdam Schiphol

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$190-700
Website
britishairways.com

Plane from London Heathrow to Istanbul

Average Duration
4h 1m
Estimated price
$160-1000

Plane from London Heathrow to Sabiha Gokcen

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$140-950

Plane from London Gatwick to Istanbul via Frankfurt

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
$250-900
Website
airserbia.com

Plane from London Heathrow to Istanbul via Belgrade

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
$190-800
Train
Contact phone
+44 3451 27 29 20
Website
southernrailway.com

Train from London Victoria to Gatwick Airport

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$12-18
Contact phone
+44 345 850 1530
Website
gatwickexpress.com

Train from London Victoria to Gatwick Airport

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$19-27
Contact phone
0345 026 4700
Website
thameslinkrailway.com

Train from London St Pancras Intl to Luton

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$19-40
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+40 745 766 766
Website
maxibustravel.ro

Bus from London Victoria to Bucharest

Average Duration
30h
Estimated price
$152-152
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.eu

Bus from Bucharest to İstanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
11h 10m
Estimated price
$50-75
Contact phone
07001 8282
Website
union-ivkoni.com

Bus from Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Sofia

Average Duration
20h 34m
Estimated price
$60-100
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Belgrade to Istanbul Hotel Montenegro

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
$49-55
Contact phone
0040263701919
Website
latinoexpres.ro

Bus from London Barking to Bucharest

Average Duration
40h 2m
Estimated price
$75-110
all-pages.other Show other routes
Website
eurotunnel.com

Other from Folkestone to Calais-Fréthun

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
0-0
Ferry
Contact phone
01304 448866
Website
poferries.com

Ferry from Port of Dover to Calais

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$55-75
Contact phone
+353 818 300 400
Website
irishferries.com

Ferry from Port of Dover to Calais

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$35-50

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

Traveling between London 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary by operator, with the most common ones being Eurostar, TCDD, and various regional services providing catering options. For instance, Eurostar offers a range of meals and snacks from their café bar, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Be sure to check each operator's website closer to your journey for details on food availability, as catering can differ significantly.
• Train travel between London and Istanbul typically involves multiple operators such as Eurostar, TCDD (Turkish State Railways), and regional European rail services. Eurostar offers comfortable seats in Standard, Standard Premier, and Business Premier classes. TCDD provides options such as Sleeper Class for longer journeys. You can visit their websites for booking and seating options: Eurostar - eurostar.com, TCDD - tcdd.gov.tr
• Once you arrive in Istanbul at the main train station, Sirkeci, be prepared to navigate the station efficiently. There are storage lockers available for luggage, and you'll find restrooms but no showers. For the fastest transfer to the city center, use the tram service from Sirkeci Station; take Tram Line T1 towards Kabataş. Stops such as Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu are ideal for accessing popular tourist attractions.
🛫 Flying from London Heathrow Airport to Istanbul Airport is a convenient option, especially with direct flights that only take 3 hours and 40 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Istanbul and London can range between £131 to £575, offering flexibility for different budgets and travel preferences.
Departure Point
London Heathrow Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST), be prepared for extensive security checks and ensure you have all your documents readily available, as the airport is one of the busiest in the world and can have longer processing times.
• For transportation from IST to the city center, expect taxi fares to range from approximately 300 to 500 Turkish Lira (around £10-£20), depending on traffic and your destination, so consider using Istanbul’s Havaist Shuttle buses as a cost-effective alternative with fixed fares.
• Before your flight, check the meal services provided by British Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Air Serbia through their official websites for the menu options and pre-ordering meals, ensuring you enjoy a convenient dining experience in-flight: British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Air Serbia.
🚌 Embark on an epic 42-hour journey by bus from London to Istanbul. Explore the scenic route covering 2,942 km with four transfers along the way. 🌍 Experience the diverse landscapes and cultures as you travel through different cities such as Dortmund, Bratislava, Haskovo, Varna, and Bursa. Enjoy the convenience of various bus agencies like FlixBus and Arda Tur for a comfortable trip. ✈️ Immerse yourself in the adventure of a lifetime as you make your way to Istanbul Bus Station, marking the end of a memorable two-day, 10-hour bus ride from London to Istanbul.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Prepare for your journey by downloading the FlixBus app and checking the schedules for your trip's key leg from Brussels to Bratislava, as bus timings can occasionally vary; here's the link: global.flixbus.com
• Be aware of the local currency and have some Turkish Lira handy upon arrival in Istanbul, as you may need cash for public transport or snacks; consider exchanging some currency at the Vienna bus station during your transfer.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Bus Station (Esenler Otogar), it's essential to use the organized taxi services located outside the station to reach the city center safely, as navigating public transport from here can be daunting for first-time visitors; familiarize yourself with a map of the station at Istanbul Bus Station Map.

Trips from London