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Rome to Istanbul from €79: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Rome, Italy
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Rome 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.

$79 by busBest price
1381 kmDistance
5h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rome 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
5h  36m
Estimated price
€123-436
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
48h  8m
Estimated price
€79-121
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1381 km
Duration: 5h 36m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
€107-324
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
28h  42m
Estimated price
€148-1230
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  15m
Estimated price
€149-496
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
33h  10m
Estimated price
€1231-1232
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
45h  35m
Estimated price
€1231-1232
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
20h  50m
Estimated price
€1233-1234

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Fly $122 $87 $62 $72 $82 $99 $153
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Rome to Istanbul

The journey from Rome to Istanbul showcases a fascinating contrast, where the ancient ruins and rich history of Rome meet the vibrant bazaars and diverse cultures of Istanbul.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for travelers.

Beyoğlu
• Home to the historic Istiklal Avenue
• Great nightlife and dining options
Sultanahmet
• Central to major historical sites
• Offers stunning views of the Bosphorus
Kadıköy
• Cultural hub with local markets
• Lively arts scene and cafés

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Time your visits to Istanbul’s top spots for a more enjoyable experience.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning to enjoy its beauty without large crowds.
Topkapi Palace
Afternoons offer fewer visitors, allowing for a leisurely exploration.
Grand Bazaar
Weekday visits avoid weekend rush, making shopping more pleasant.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul enjoys a Mediterranean climate, featuring hot summers and mild winters, with the best times to visit typically from late spring to early fall for comfortable sightseeing. Be mindful that the city's weather can influence your plans, as rainy days in winter may affect outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Istanbul

A visit to Istanbul wouldn't be complete without savoring a plate of manti, Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat, often drizzled with yogurt and garlic sauce; try them at Doyuran, a beloved local spot. This culinary experience contrasts with Rome's pastas, offering a unique blend of flavors and an inviting atmosphere that reflects the rich tapestry of Turkish culture.

Rome - Istanbul operators

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

Plane
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Rome (FCO) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
2h 37m
Estimated price
1239-4360
Website
airserbia.com

Plane from Rome (FCO) to Istanbul (IST) via Belgrade

Average Duration
4h 42m
Estimated price
107-4364
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Rome (FCO) to Istanbul (SAW)

Average Duration
2h 33m
Estimated price
4363-1234
Website
croatiaairlines.com

Plane from Rome (FCO) to Istanbul (IST) via Split

Average Duration
4h 59m
Estimated price
4365-4366
Train
Contact phone
+90 444 8 233
Website
tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr

Train from Ayrilikcesme to Yenikapi

Average Duration
14m
Estimated price
4368-4369
Contact phone
+39 06 68475475
Website
trenitalia.com

Train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
790-791

Train from Roma Termini to Bari Centrale

Average Duration
4h 7m
Estimated price
43695-107

Train from Roma Termini to Venezia Mestre

Average Duration
3h 48m
Estimated price
793-107
Bus
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Roma Tiburtina TiBus to Istanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
33h 25m
Estimated price
436870-1218

Bus from Bucharest to Istanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
11h 10m
Estimated price
1214-1219
Contact phone
+355 69 31 41 219
Website
artanitravel.com

Bus from Rome - Tiburtina to Elbasan

Average Duration
18h 6m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+90 212 658 18 51
Website
alparturizm.com.tr

Bus from Tiranë to Istanbul

Average Duration
14h 30m
Estimated price
793-796

Bus from Elbasan to Istanbul

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
793-1210

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

Traveling between Rome 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.

🚗 Begin your exciting road trip from Rome to Istanbul, covering a distance of 1389 miles. With approximately 20 hours and 50 minutes of driving ahead of you, prepare for a scenic journey through multiple countries. 🌍 Enjoy the fluctuating landscapes as you traverse through picturesque towns, historic landmarks, and breathtaking views. The prices for this unforgettable adventure range from €369 to €554, varying based on your preferences and choice of route.
Average price
€369 - €553
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Rome to Istanbul is by taking a direct flight that lasts approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. Airlines such as Alitalia, Croatia Airlines, Air Serbia, and Turkish Airlines offer flights between Rome Airport and Istanbul Airport. 🌍 The total flight duration from Rome to Istanbul is around 5 hours and 36 minutes, including any layovers or connections. This provides travelers with a convenient and efficient way to reach their destination in Turkey from Italy. 💸 Prices for flights between Istanbul and Rome can vary, ranging from €127 to €450 depending on the airline, booking time, and availability.
Departure Point
Rome Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider flying with Turkish Airlines for a direct flight from Rome to Istanbul, as they offer top-notch onboard service and allow one free checked bag, enhancing your travel comfort.
• Once you arrive at Istanbul Airport, be prepared for a large terminal; follow the signs for customs and baggage claim, and consider using the airport's complimentary Wi-Fi to access the Istanbul Airport app for real-time information on your flight and to find your connecting transport efficiently.
• The approximate taxi fare from Istanbul Airport to the city center is around 300-400 Turkish Lira (about €10-€15), and it's advisable to use the official taxi stands located at the airport for a safe and reliable ride.
🚌 Setting off from Rome - Tiburtina, your bus journey to Istanbul will take approximately 33 hours and 10 minutes with transfers along the way. 🌍 The route will cover a distance of 2,189 kilometers with multiple transfers in cities such as Munich, Sofia, Haskovo, and Bursa before reaching Istanbul.
Departure Point
Roma Tiburtina TiBus station
Arrival Point
İstanbul Esenler bus station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Rome to Istanbul.

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The distance between Rome and Istanbul is 1380.8 km. The quickest way to travel between the two cities is by taking a plane, which takes around 5 hours and 36 minutes. If you prefer train travel, it takes approximately 6 hours and 21 minutes, with a transfer at Sabiha Gokcen airport. Alternatively, driving from Rome to Istanbul takes approximately 20 hours and 47 minutes by car. Bus travel is the longest option, as it takes around 39 hours to reach Istanbul from Rome.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Rome to Istanbul is by flying. The flight takes approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes and costs between €101 and €458. If cost is a priority, another option could be taking a combination of bus and train, which takes 42 hours and 2 minutes and costs between €110 and €146.
The prices of a train ticket from Rome to Istanbul range from €201 to €349. Alternatively, the prices for a bus ticket from Istanbul to Rome vary from €109 to €162.
To get from Rome to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can opt to drive by car. The total driving distance between the two cities is approximately 2230.6 km, which usually takes around 20 hours and 47 minutes. However, it's important to consider the cost of fuel and tolls, which can range from €366 to €549.
To travel from Rome to Istanbul without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. The total travel time for this route is approximately 35 hours and 44 minutes, with costs ranging from €146 to €275.
There is no direct train or bus link between Rome and Istanbul. However, there are train services available which involve transfers and can take approximately 2 days and 4 hours. The train journey includes transfers at stations such as Venezia Mestre, Wien Hbf, Gara Bucureşti Nord, and Halkali. Alternatively, there are also bus services available with transfers at Sofia, which can take around 39 hours.
The flight between Rome and Istanbul typically takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, ranging from €104 to €459.
There are various hotel options available near Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, travelers can find accommodations to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Istanbul start at €22, making it accessible for different types of travelers.