1map logoGo to main page

Istanbul to Athens from $86: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Istanbul, Turkey
to
Athens, Greece

How to Get from Istanbul to Athens: 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 - Bus, car ferry, ferryBest price
563.7 kmDistance
2h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Istanbul to Athens 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
Turkish Airlines, Aegean Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  54m
Estimated price
$130-385
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
22h  12m
Estimated price
$86-177
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 563.7 km
Duration: 2h 54m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Crazy Holidays
Bus
Average Duration
15h 
Estimated price
$85-120
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
11h  32m
Estimated price
$220-330

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $98 $91 $111 $131 $125 $137 $104
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Istanbul to Athens

Traveling from Istanbul to Athens offers you a fascinating contrast between the bustling, vibrant streets of Turkey's largest city and the rich historical ambience of Greece's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Athens

Athens boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Plaka
• Charming streets filled with traditional tavernas.
• Close proximity to the Acropolis and ancient sites.
Monastiraki
• Famous for its vibrant flea market.
• Great dining options and street food delights.
Kolonaki
• Upscale shopping and trendy boutiques.
• Lively cafes perfect for people-watching.

Best Times To Visit Athens's Attractions

Discovering Athens's attractions is best accomplished with a few strategic timing tips.

Acropolis
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
National Archaeological Museum
Midweek mornings are ideal for a serene experience away from tour groups.
Plaka District
Explore in the late afternoon or early evening for a lively atmosphere as locals dine.

Athens Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Athens enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making spring and fall the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. Weather plays a significant role in your travel experience, influencing outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities.

Dining in Athens: A Culinary Contrast

While in Athens, try moussaka at a traditional taverna, where layered eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel create a comforting, rich flavor profile distinct from Istanbul's kebabs and mezes. The atmosphere in these local eateries, often filled with locals and adorned with charming décor, enhances your experience, offering a sense of community and authenticity.

Istanbul - Athens operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Athens (ATH)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$120-470
Website
en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Athens (ATH)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$120-470

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Athens (ATH) via Thessaloniki

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$140-550
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+30 2310241545
Website
https://www.crazyholidays.gr/root.en.aspx

Bus from Istanbul to Athens

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
$85-120
Contact phone
0850 222 34 55
Website
https://www.metroturizm.com.tr/en

Bus from Istanbul Otogar to Ayvalik

Average Duration
6h 37m
Estimated price
$14-20
Ferry
Contact phone
0545 783 50 61
Website
jalemtur.com

Ferry from Ayvalık to Mytilene

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$27-27
Contact phone
+302108919800
Website
https://www.bluestarferries.com/en-gb/

Ferry from Mytilene to Piraeus

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
$45-120
Contact phone
+30 210 89 19 800
Website
https://www.hellenicseaways.gr/en-gb

Ferry from Mytilene to Piraeus

Average Duration
14h 10m
Estimated price
$45-130

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

Traveling between Istanbul and Athens 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 adventurous road trip from mystical Istanbul to the historical city of Athens covering a distance of 1094.4 km. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of driving as prices vary from €203 to €304 for this scenic journey through diverse landscapes and charming villages. ⏱️ With an approximate driving time of 11 hours and 32 minutes, immerse yourself in the rich culture and captivating sights along the way, making unforgettable memories on this cross-country drive.
Average price
€203 - €304
🚆 **Starting from Istanbul to Athens by train** 🌍: There are two routes available for this journey, with the first route taking approximately 15 hours 53 mins to cover the 946 km distance. 🚌 **Route 1:** The first step involves taking a bus towards Piraeus, which lasts about 15 hours 30 mins. The bus departs from Istanbul Bus Station and arrives at 34-36 Akominatu Street in Athens, operated by Arda Tur. 🚌 **Route 2:** The second route is slightly longer, at 1,090 km and 16 hours 3 mins. This route includes a transfer, with the first step being a bus towards Thessaloniki, lasting around 8 hours 45 mins, before transferring to a bus towards Piraeus for an additional 6 hours.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the train from Istanbul to Athens typically include catering options such as light snacks and beverages. Depending on the class of service, passengers in First Class and Business Class can enjoy more extensive meal selections, including local and international dishes. It’s a good idea to check ahead, as the availability of these services may vary by operator.
• The train line offers a variety of seating options including First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class seats provide the most comfort, with wider seating and more legroom, while Business Class offers a good balance of comfort and cost. Economy Class is more budget-friendly but can be less spacious. Consider booking in advance, especially for First Class, as they tend to fill up quickly.
• For the Istanbul to Athens route, the main operators are the Turkish State Railways (TCDD) and TrainOSE. You can find more information and book tickets through their respective websites: TCDD at tcdd.gov.tr and TrainOSE at trainose.gr Be sure to check the schedules and availability as they may vary.
• When you arrive at the Larissa Train Station in Athens, be prepared for a bustling environment. There are luggage lockers available where you can leave your bags, and restrooms are accessible, though showers may not be available. Make use of these facilities if you plan to explore the city before checking into your accommodation.
• The fastest way to get from Larissa Train Station to the city center is by taking Metro Line 1 towards Kifisia, which connects you to Monastiraki Station, a central hub. Alternatively, buses like Line 060 and 040 also provide direct routes to Syntagma Square, the heart of Athens. Check the current metro schedule for the quickest possible transfer.
🛫 Flying from Istanbul Airport to Athens Airport is convenient with direct flights that take only 1 hour and 30 minutes. Both Aegean Airlines and Turkish Airlines operate flights on this route. ✈️ The total travel time from Istanbul to Athens by plane is around 2 hours and 54 minutes. 🌍 Prices for flights between Athens and Istanbul can range from €120 to €355, offering a range of options to suit different budgets for this popular route.
Departure Point
Istanbul Airport
Arrival Point
Athens Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with either Aegean Airlines or Turkish Airlines, as both provide direct options that take about 1h 30m; check Aegean Airlines' website or Turkish Airlines' website for the best deals and in-flight service details.
• Upon arrival at Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos), look for clear signages directing you to public transport options; the easiest way to reach the city center is via the Express Bus X95, which connects to Syntagma Square, or opt for a taxi that costs approximately €38-€50 during the day and slightly more at night.
• Consider packing light as both airlines enforce strict baggage allowances; Turkish Airlines allows a checked bag of up to 30 kg for economy class, while Aegean allows 23 kg, so check their baggage policies on their websites to avoid any extra fees.
🚌 Hop on a direct bus from Istanbul to Athens, with services operating once a week on Thursdays. The journey, lasting approximately 15 hours, offers a convenient way to travel between the two vibrant cities. 💰 With prices ranging from €78 to €111, the bus trip between Athens and Istanbul provides an affordable and hassle-free travel option for those looking to explore the beautiful landscapes and historical sites of both Turkey and Greece.
Departure Point
Istanbul station
Arrival Point
Athens station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Istanbul to Athens.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Istanbul and Athens is 563.3 km. The typical travel time by bus and car ferry is approximately 23 hours and 5 minutes. The other option is to travel by plane, which takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it will take you approximately 11 hours and 26 minutes, while the bus journey takes around 14 hours.
For a cost-effective option, taking a bus from Istanbul to Athens would be the most budget-friendly choice. Although it takes a longer time of 14 hours, the ticket prices range from €73-€110. However, if time is of the essence, flying is the most time-efficient option. With a travel time of just 2 hours and 56 minutes, although slightly more expensive ranging from €91-€348, it allows for quicker arrival in Athens.
The prices for a bus ticket from Istanbul to Athens vary between €73 and €110.
To get from Istanbul to Athens without using public transportation, you can opt for a road trip by car. The driving distance is approximately 1084.7 km and it takes around 11 hours and 26 minutes to reach Athens. However, keep in mind that the prices for this option can vary, ranging from €201 to €302.
The best way to travel from Istanbul to Athens without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 14 hours and costs between €73 and €110.
Yes, there is a direct link between Istanbul and Athens. There is a bus service operated by Crazy Holidays that departs once a week on Mondays, with a journey time of approximately 14 hours. The bus departs from Istanbul and arrives at Athens, providing a convenient and affordable option for travel between the two cities.
The flight duration from Istanbul to Athens is typically around 1 hour and 25 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from €97 to €341, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Athens. There are over 2,247 hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices starting at €43 per night.

Trips to Athens