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Istanbul to Thessaloniki from $16: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Istanbul, Turkey
to
Thessaloniki, Greece

How to Get from Istanbul to Thessaloniki: 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 busBest price
517 kmDistance
2h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Istanbul to Thessaloniki 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  46m
Estimated price
$142-387
Recommended
Company
Arda Tur
Bus
Average Duration
9h  45m
Estimated price
$16-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 517 km
Duration: 2h 46m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  37m
Estimated price
$120-180

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $42 $42 $42 $42 $42 $42 $42
Fly $128 $109 $104 $135 $142 $142 $153
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Istanbul to Thessaloniki

Traveling from Istanbul to Thessaloniki offers you a vibrant clash of cultures, where the bustling energy of a city steeped in history transitions into a laid-back, yet equally rich, Mediterranean atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and experiences.

Ladadika
• Vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
• Historic architecture and cozy cafés.
Ano Poli
• Charming, traditional streets with stunning views.
• Rich in Byzantine history and landmarks.
Aristotelous Square
• Central hub for shopping and socializing.
• Home to iconic buildings and bustling atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Thessaloniki's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Thessaloniki's attractions.

White Tower
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer fewer crowds and great light for photos.
Rotunda
Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience at this historical site.
Aristotelous Square
Evenings are ideal for enjoying the lively atmosphere and local events.

Thessaloniki Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Thessaloniki enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it pleasant for travelers throughout the year; spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring its rich history and vibrant culture. Be mindful that summer heat may impact your comfort during outdoor activities, while winter brings cooler temperatures perfect for cozy indoor experiences.

Dining in Thessaloniki

Savor the flavors of the iconic dish 'Bougatsa,' a delightful pastry filled with custard, cheese, or minced meat, which contrasts beautifully with the rich spices of Istanbul’s culinary scene. Dining at a local taverna, you’ll experience a relaxed atmosphere that embraces fresh, Mediterranean ingredients, allowing you to enjoy a different pace and palate.

Istanbul - Thessaloniki operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Istanbul Airport to Thessaloniki Airport

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$140-550
Website
en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Istanbul Airport to Thessaloniki Airport

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$140-550
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
0700 20 544
Website
ardatur.bg

Bus from Istanbul Esenler Otogari to Thessaloniki Monastiriou Bus Stop

Average Duration
9h 45m
Estimated price
$30-50
Contact phone
0850 222 34 55
Website
metroturizm.com.tr

Bus from Istanbul Otogari to Thessaloniki

Average Duration
11h 45m
Estimated price
$16-25
Contact phone
+90 212 658 18 51
Website
alparturizm.com.tr

Bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki Macedonia KTEL Bus Station

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
$26-40

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

Traveling between Istanbul and Thessaloniki 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 Istanbul to Thessaloníki, covering a distance of 593.8 km in approximately 6 hours and 37 minutes. 💰 Explore the budget-friendly options for this road trip, with prices ranging from €110 to €165 for the journey by car.
Average price
€111 - €166
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Istanbul to Thessaloniki is by taking a direct flight which only takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. 🌍 The flight duration from Istanbul to Thessaloniki is approximately 2 hours and 46 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from €131 to €356.
Departure Point
Istanbul Airport
Arrival Point
Thessaloniki Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Turkish Airlines for convenient direct service, which often provides meals and complimentary soft drinks, enhancing your travel experience.
• Upon arrival at Thessaloniki Airport, follow the clearly marked signs to baggage claim, as this can be a bit congested; it’s wise to allocate extra time if you’re planning to catch a taxi or a shuttle into the city.
• Expect to pay approximately €25-€35 for a taxi ride from Thessaloniki Airport to the city center, and remember to have cash on hand, as not all taxis accept credit cards; also, check the local transport options through the Thessaloniki public transport website for additional commuting options.
🕒 The journey typically takes around 9 hours and 45 minutes, operating once daily and every day of the week. The bus services from Istanbul to Thessaloníki are operated by Arda Tur, ensuring a comfortable ride for passengers. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Thessaloniki and Istanbul range from €15 to €37, offering an affordable and hassle-free way to travel between these two vibrant cities in Turkey and Greece.
Departure Point
Istanbul Esenler Otogari station
Arrival Point
Thessaloniki Monastiriou Bus Stop station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the latest schedule and availability with Arda Tur and other operators like Metro Turizm and Kamil Koç before your trip, as changes may occur; you can find schedules and book tickets at Arda Tur, Metro Turizm, and Kamil Koç.
• Bring snacks and drinks for the journey, as the bus may not have food options available; popular local snacks from Istanbul are simit or Turkish delight, which are easy to pack.
• Upon arrival at Thessaloniki Monastiriou Bus Stop, look for signs directing you to local transport; it's well-connected, and you can easily catch a taxi or a bus to the city center; the nearby bus stop for city buses is useful, and you can find more information at Thessaloniki Public Transport.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Istanbul to Thessaloniki.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Istanbul and Thessaloniki is approximately 510.2 km or 316.9 miles. If you choose to travel by plane, the typical travel time is around 2 hours and 46 minutes. However, if you prefer to drive, it takes approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes to drive from Istanbul to Thessaloniki, covering a road distance of 588.1 km. Another option is to take a bus, which typically takes around 8 hours and 45 minutes to reach Thessaloniki from Istanbul.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Istanbul to Thessaloniki is by bus, with prices ranging from €10 to €46. Although it is the cheapest option, it does take longer, with a travel time of 8 hours and 45 minutes. However, if time is a priority, flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of just 2 hours and 46 minutes, though it is more expensive, with prices ranging from €110 to €348.
When traveling from Istanbul to Thessaloniki the prices for a bus ticket can vary between €10 and €46.
To travel from Istanbul to Thessaloniki without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 587.4 km, and it takes around 6 hours and 34 minutes to drive from Istanbul to Thessaloniki. You can expect to pay around €110 - €165 for a car rental and fuel expenses for this journey.
The best way to travel from Istanbul to Thessaloniki without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes and costs between €10 and €46.
Yes, there is a direct link between Istanbul and Thessaloniki by bus. The bus service operated by Arda Tur departs once daily from Istanbul Esenler Otogari and arrives at Thessaloniki Monastiriou Bus Stop. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes.
The flight duration between Istanbul and Thessaloniki is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket typically ranges from €113 to €343.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Thessaloníki. With over 1431 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels start at €43 per night, offering a range of options for travelers. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a more budget-friendly option, you will have no trouble finding suitable accommodation near Thessaloníki.