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Budapest to Istanbul from $70: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Budapest, Hungary
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Budapest 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.

$70 by busBest price
1073 kmDistance
3h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Budapest 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
3h  4m
Estimated price
$110-353
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
23h  15m
Estimated price
$70-87
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1073 km
Duration: 3h 4m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
23h  10m
Estimated price
$80-96
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
26h  56m
Estimated price
$81-119
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
31h  1m
Estimated price
$84-114
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$102-397
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
12h  39m
Estimated price
$230-340

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Fly $59 $43 $49 $46 $52 $46 $52
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Budapest to Istanbul

The journey from Budapest to Istanbul offers a fascinating blend of Central European charm and Middle Eastern vibrancy, showcasing diverse cultures, cuisines, and architectural styles along the way.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul is home to diverse neighborhoods, each with its distinct charm.

Beyoğlu
• Vibrant nightlife and a hub for art lovers.
• Historic Galata Tower offers stunning city views.
Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
• Rich historical atmosphere with traditional Turkish cuisine.
Kadıköy
• Bohemian cafes and bustling markets abound.
• Offers local street art and a lively vibe.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and avoid peak tourist hours.
Topkapi Palace
Late afternoon visits typically see fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.
Grand Bazaar
Weekdays are best for a less hectic shopping experience, especially early in the morning.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a mix of Mediterranean and continental climates, with hot summers and mild winters. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant times to visit, as the weather is usually comfortable and ideal for exploring the city's rich history and vibrant streets.

Dining in Istanbul: A Culinary Adventure

Indulge in the iconic dish, kebab, at Zübeyir Ocakbaşı, where the smoky flavors of grilled meats are beautifully complemented by fresh herbs and spices unique to Turkish cuisine. Unlike the hearty stews and rich pastries of Budapest, dining in Istanbul immerses you in vibrant street scenes and the lively atmosphere of traditional meyhanes, making each meal an experience for the senses.

Budapest - Istanbul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Budapest 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 Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
2h 11m
Estimated price
$140-550

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$90-300
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
2h 1m
Estimated price
$70-390
Website
wizzair.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
2h 17m
Estimated price
$50-300
Website
airserbia.com

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST) via Belgrade

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$110-500
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+90 444 8 233
Website
tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr

Train from Ayrilikcesme to Yenikapi

Average Duration
14m
Estimated price
$1-3
Contact phone
0219521
Website
cfrcalatori.ro

Train from Budapest-Keleti to Videle

Average Duration
15h 30m
Estimated price
$65-80
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Videle to Halkali

Average Duration
13h 53m
Estimated price
$14-35
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Budapest Népliget bus station to Novi Sad MAS

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$25-35
Contact phone
+381 11 7620255
Website
fudeks.rs

Bus from Budapest Népliget to Novi Sad

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$15-26
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Novi Sad Central Bus Station to Istanbul Hotel Montenegro

Average Duration
16h 15m
Estimated price
$50-60
Contact phone
+359 2 8120810
Website
karat-s.com

Bus from Budapest Nepliget to Burgas Bus Station South

Average Duration
18h 40m
Estimated price
$65-95
Contact phone
056 844 966
Website
mbus-bg.com

Bus from Burgas to Malko Tarnovo

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$4-9
Contact phone
05952/ 36 35
Website
strandja.bg

Bus from Burgas to Malko Tŭrnovo

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+4-0241-831.491
Website
transevren.ro

Bus from Malko Tarnovo to Istanbul - Aksaray

Average Duration
4h 6m
Estimated price
$11-14

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

Traveling between Budapest 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.

🚗 Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Budapest to Istanbul, covering a distance of 1327.7 km. 💰 With prices ranging from €211 to €313 for the entire trip, hitting the road offers budget-friendly and flexible options for travelers. 🕌 Arrive in the vibrant city of Istanbul after approximately 12 hours and 39 minutes of driving.
Average price
€212 - €314
🕰️ The total travel time for this train adventure is approximately 31 hours and 1 minute, which includes transfers at Videle and Halkali. 💸 Prices for the train tickets between Budapest and Istanbul range from €77 to €105, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two vibrant European cities.
Departure Point
Budapest-Keleti station
Arrival Point
Halkali station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard services for the train route from Budapest to Istanbul often include catering options where you can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages. Be sure to check the dining cart frequently as the offerings can vary, but you might find traditional Hungarian and Turkish snacks along with international options. It's advisable to bring some local currency as some services may prefer cash transactions.
The train typically offers a variety of seating options, including First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class seats are more spacious with some additional amenities and service, while Business Class offers a comfortable experience with decent legroom. Economy Class is more affordable but still provides adequate comfort for the journey. Make sure to reserve your seats in advance, especially during peak travel times.
For the Budapest to Istanbul train route, the main operators include the Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) and Turkish State Railways (TCDD). You can find more information and book tickets through their websites: MÁV (mavcsoport.hu) and TCDD (tcdd.gov.tr). It's wise to check schedules and routes beforehand as they might differ based on the season.
🛫 Experience a swift and efficient journey from Budapest to Istanbul through a direct flight, which typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. Enjoy the convenience of flight options provided by Wizz Air, Air Serbia, and Turkish Airlines at Budapest Airport. 🌍 Traverse between these vibrant cities in just over 3 hours by plane, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of both Budapest and Istanbul. 💸 Prices for flights connecting Istanbul and Budapest can range between €101 to €324, offering various fare options to suit different budgets.
Departure Point
Budapest Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Make sure to check if your flight is landing at Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), as they are located in different parts of the city and may affect your transportation options.
• Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport, be prepared for a spacious but busy layout; follow the signs to the Havaist bus or taxi stations for easier navigation into the city.
• Expect to pay approximately 250-300 Turkish Lira (about €10-€12) for a taxi ride from Istanbul Airport to the city center, but consider using the Havaist bus service for a more economical option.
🚌 The journey from Budapest to Istanbul by bus involves multiple transfers and takes approximately 23 hours and 15 minutes. 🗺️ Route 1 spans 1,630 km with 2 transfers, including stops in Zagreb, Krakow, Plovdiv, Sofia, and Bursa before reaching Istanbul in around 1 day and 14 hours. 🛣️ Route 2 covers a longer distance of 1,853 km with 4 transfers, passing through Zagreb, Krakow, Plovdiv, Sofia, Burgas, and Varna before arriving in Istanbul after about 1 day and 14 hours.
Departure Point
Budapest Népliget bus station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Hotel Montenegro station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Budapest to Istanbul.

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The distance between Budapest and Istanbul is 1073.4 km by air and 1322.4 km by road. Travel times vary, with the fastest option being a 5 hour and 14-minute flight. Alternatively, a 5 hour and 59-minute journey combining a flight to Sabiha Gokcen Airport and a train ride is another feasible option. For those preferring a longer trip, a 35-hour and 18-minute train journey or a 23-hour and 15-minute bus ride are also possible.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Budapest to Istanbul is by taking a bus via Novi Sad, which takes approximately 23 hours and 15 minutes and costs around €59-€77. If you are looking for a faster option, flying is the best choice, with a travel time of around 5 hours and 14 minutes and a cost ranging from €68-€291.
The prices for traveling from Budapest to Istanbul by train vary from €76 to €101. On the other hand, the prices for traveling from Istanbul to Budapest by bus range from €62 to €76.
To get from Budapest to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can choose to drive the distance of 1322.9 km. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 36 minutes by car. The prices for this option range from €209 to €309, depending on the specific details and vehicle chosen.
To travel from Budapest to Istanbul without a car, the best option is to take a night bus and then a bus for a total travel time of approximately 23 hours and 10 minutes. This is a convenient and cost-effective choice, with tickets ranging from €68 to €86.
There is no direct link between Budapest and Istanbul by train. However, there are train services available with transfers that take approximately 35h 18m. The journey includes transfers at Videle and Halkali. Similarly, there is no direct bus from Budapest to Istanbul, but you can take a bus that includes transfers and takes approximately 23h 15m. The journey includes transfers at Budapest Népliget bus station and Novi Sad Central Bus Station.
The flight duration between Budapest and Istanbul is typically 2 hours and 10 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of a flight ticket varies between €70 and €291, depending on factors such as time of booking, airline, and class of travel.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of prices to suit their budget. Prices start at €22 per night, ensuring there is something for everyone's pocket.