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Bucharest to Istanbul from $16: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Bucharest, Romania
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Bucharest 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.

$16 by trainBest price
455.7 kmDistance
8h 39m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bucharest 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
Plane
Average Duration
4h  38m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
16h  33m
Estimated price
$16-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 455.7 km
Duration: 8h 39m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
18h  32m
Estimated price
$18-43
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
12h  22m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  10m
Estimated price
$54-61
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  39m
Estimated price
$100-150

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $40 $40 $40 $40 $40 $40 $40
Fly $62 $62 $70 $69 $71 $69 $62
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Bucharest to Istanbul

Your journey from Bucharest to Istanbul presents a fascinating shift from the vibrant, eclectic charm of Romania’s capital to the rich, historical tapestry of Turkey's largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and vibe.

Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
• Vibrant street market culture and local eateries.
Beyoğlu
• Bustling Istiklal Avenue is filled with shops and cafes.
• Rich nightlife with bars, live music, and art venues.
Kadıköy
• Trendy spot known for its food markets and cafes.
• Offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and sunset.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia
Arrive early in the morning to enjoy quieter viewing and stunning light.
Topkapi Palace
Visiting late afternoon often means smaller crowds and cooler weather.
Grand Bazaar
Weekday visits in the morning provide a more relaxed shopping experience.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the ideal times for visiting. Weather conditions can influence your travel plans, so keeping an eye on forecasts ensures you dress appropriately and enjoy outdoor attractions comfortably.

Dining Recommendation in Istanbul

Savor the iconic dish of biryani at Lokanta Maya, where fragrant rice meets tender meats and vibrant spices, offering a delightful contrast to Bucharest’s hearty stews. The rich layers of flavor and the sophisticated yet warm atmosphere of Istanbul’s dining scene create a memorable experience that showcases the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Bucharest - Istanbul operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Bucharest to İstanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
11h 10m
Estimated price
50-75
Website
https://pegasusbg.com/

Bus from Bucharest Horoscop Hotel to Razgrad Central Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
20-24
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Razgrad Central Bus Station to Istanbul Büyük Otogari

Average Duration
11h 30m
Estimated price
34-38
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
https://www.bdz.bg/en

Train from Gara Bucureşti Nord to Halkali

Average Duration
14h 44m
Estimated price
15-35

Train from Bucureşti to Halkali

Average Duration
16h 44m
Estimated price
17-40
Plane Show flights
Website
tarom.ro

Plane from Bucharest Otopeni (OTP) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
95-360
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Bucharest Otopeni (OTP) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
95-360
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Bucharest Otopeni (OTP) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
60-300

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

Traveling between Bucharest 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 a scenic road trip from Bucharest to Istanbul, spanning a distance of 638.9 km, offering a blend of picturesque landscapes and cultural experiences along the way. 💸 Budget-friendly options make this journey accessible to all travelers, with prices ranging from €92 to €138 for the entire trip from Bucharest to Istanbul by car, ensuring a cost-effective adventure.
Average price
€92 - €138
🚆 Traveling from Bucharest to Istanbul by train is a scenic and convenient way to explore both countries. While there is no direct train, the journey involves transfers at Gara Bucureşti Nord and Halkali stations, taking approximately 16 hours and 33 minutes. 🌍 Bulgarian Railways operate the train services between Bucharest and Istanbul, offering a comfortable and affordable travel option for those looking to experience the unique beauty of Eastern Europe. The prices for this train journey typically range from €15 to €35, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers.
Departure Point
Gara Bucureşti Nord station
Arrival Point
Halkali station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the train from Bucharest to Istanbul, catering services typically include a dining car offering hot meals, snacks, and beverages. Expect to find a menu featuring local Romanian and Turkish dishes, as well as vegetarian options. It's advisable to take cash in local currency (Romanian Lei or Turkish Lira) for on-board purchases, as credit cards may not always be accepted.
• This route offers multiple seating options: 1st Class, which provides comfortable reclining seats and more spacious compartments, and 2nd Class (Economy), which has standard seating arrangements. Most travelers find the 1st Class experience more pleasant, especially for the longer journey. Various operators may provide slightly different amenities, so check with them regarding the exact seating arrangements before booking.
• The main operators for the Bucharest to Istanbul train route are CFR (Romanian Railway, (cfrcalatori.ro) and TCDD (Turkish State Railways, (tcdd.gov.tr). Make sure to check their websites for up-to-date schedules and pricing before your journey.
🛫 Prepare for a quick and convenient journey from Bucharest to Istanbul by taking a direct flight that only lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes. Both Tarom and Turkish Airlines provide flights between Bucharest Otopeni Airport and Istanbul Airport. ✈️ As you bid farewell to Istanbul, reflect on the seamless travel experience that took you from the heart of Romania to the captivating city that straddles Europe and Asia.
Departure Point
Bucharest Otopeni Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with either Tarom or Turkish Airlines as both airlines provide direct flights from Bucharest Otopeni Airport to Istanbul Airport, ensuring a quicker journey of approximately 1h 15m.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, be prepared to navigate the large international terminal; look for signs directing you to the baggage claim and customs, and consider using airport staff for assistance if needed.
• Take note that a taxi from Istanbul Airport to the city center generally costs between 300-400 Turkish Lira (approximately $12-$15), and using the official taxi stand outside the arrivals hall is recommended for safety.
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Bucharest to Istanbul, travelers can embark on a journey that involves transfers in places like Razgrad Central Bus Station. The total travel time, including transfers, typically lasts around 15 hours and 10 minutes. 🌍 The route from Bucharest to Istanbul is operated by different bus companies, such as PEGASUS GROUP Ltd. for departure and Citylines for the arrival at Istanbul Büyük Otogari station. The bus trip usually takes approximately 12 hours and 22 minutes to reach the final destination. 💰 Travelers should expect to pay varying prices ranging from €46 to €69 for the bus journey between Istanbul and Bucharest.
Departure Point
Bucharest Horoscop Hotel station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Büyük Otogari station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before embarking on your journey, book your tickets in advance with Pegasus Group Ltd. (pegasus.com) or Citylines (citylines.ro) to secure better rates and check their schedules, as frequencies can vary and may sell out quickly.
• Bring snacks, water, and entertainment for the bus ride as there are limited stops along the way; the ride from Bucharest to Razgrad might not provide ample dining opportunities, and you may want to maximize your comfort during the approximately 15-hour journey.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Büyük Otogari, familiarize yourself with the station layout in advance (iett.istanbul) to find bus connections to various parts of the city, as this is a major hub that can be overwhelming; be sure to check local transport options such as Havaş shuttle services for convenient transfers into the city center.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Bucharest to Istanbul.

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The distance between Bucharest and Istanbul is approximately 455.4 km by road. It takes around 21 hours and 33 minutes to travel from Bucharest to Istanbul by train, while combining a bus and a flight reduces the travel time to approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it takes about 8 hours and 36 minutes to cover the distance by car, and taking a bus would take around 14 hours and 41 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Bucharest to Istanbul is to take the night train. This option is cheaper and takes approximately 21 hours and 33 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving would be the quickest option, taking around 8 hours and 36 minutes.
When traveling from Bucharest to Istanbul, the prices for a train ticket range from €15 to €33. Alternatively, if you prefer taking the bus, the prices range from €34 to €49.
To get from Bucharest to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can choose to drive by car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 632.5 km, and it takes around 8 hours and 36 minutes to complete the journey. The prices to rent a car for this trip can range from €92 to €137.
To travel from Bucharest to Istanbul without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. This journey takes approximately 13 hours and 53 minutes and the cost typically ranges from €27 to €55.
There is no direct link between Bucharest and Istanbul by train or bus. However, there are options available with transfers. The train journey takes approximately 21 hours and 33 minutes, with transfers at Gara Bucureşti Nord and Halkali. The bus journey takes around 15 hours and 30 minutes, with transfers at various locations such as Razgrad Central Bus Station before reaching Istanbul Büyük Otogari.
The flight between Bucharest and Istanbul takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability, but typically it can range from around $100 to $300 for a one-way ticket.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, travelers can find options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Istanbul start at €22 per night, offering affordable options for those on a tight budget.