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Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from $757: 13 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Cologne 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.

$757 - Train, FlyBest price
2026 kmDistance
5h 56m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne 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
6h  35m
Estimated price
$73-453
Recommended
route map
Distance: 2026 km
Duration: 5h 56m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  10m
Estimated price
$87-435
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  56m
Estimated price
$130-550
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$132-439
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  28m
Estimated price
$156-747
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  22m
Estimated price
$753-754
Company
various
Train
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
33h  12m
Estimated price
$757-758
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
35h  47m
Estimated price
$759-760
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
49h  60m
Estimated price
$761-762
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
41h  35m
Estimated price
$763-4774
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
46h  36m
Estimated price
$4775-4776
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
48h 
Estimated price
$4777-4778
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
22h  4m
Estimated price
$4779-4781

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $73 $60 $50 $54 $50 $67 $53
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cologne to Istanbul

The journey from Cologne to Istanbul offers a fascinating contrast between the modern efficiency of Germany and the vibrant, historical tapestry of Turkey.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul showcases diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Beyoğlu
• Bustling street life with shops and cafes.
• Iconic Galata Tower offers stunning city views.
Sultanahmet
• Home to major historical sites like Hagia Sophia.
• Rich in cultural heritage and local eateries.
Kadıköy
• Trendy cafes and vibrant nightlife on the Asian side.
• Great local markets for fresh produce and snacks.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can significantly enhance your experience in Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning on weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Topkapi Palace
Late afternoons offer shorter lines and a quieter atmosphere.
Grand Bazaar
Midweek visits are best, as weekends get particularly busy.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul enjoys a temperate climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the best times for comfortable sightseeing. Weather can impact your travel plans, so be prepared for sudden rain in the warmer months and chilly breezes during winter visits.

Dining Recommendation

Try the legendary kebab at Zübeyir Ocakbaşı, where grilled meats and smoky flavors create a culinary experience that's vibrant and lively. Unlike the hearty dishes of Cologne, dining in Istanbul invites you to savor fresh ingredients and experience the communal atmosphere that comes with traditional Turkish hospitality.

Cologne - Istanbul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne 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 Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
5h 56m
Estimated price
121-485

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
69-426
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
4852-4266
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
bahn.com

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
1240-1241

Train from Köln Hbf to Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
1242-1243

Train from Köln Messe/Deutz Bf to Augsburg Hbf

Average Duration
3h 42m
Estimated price
4853-4267

Train from Frankfurt to Hauptbahnhof

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
1244-1245

Train from Köln Hansaring to Düsseldorf Hbf

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
1246-4028
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
nightjet.com

Train from Köln Hbf to Wien Hbf

Average Duration
10h 50m
Estimated price
816-4263
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Gara Bucureşti Nord to Halkali

Average Duration
14h 44m
Estimated price
818-4027
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+381 11 7620255
Website
fudeks.rs

Bus from Augsburg to Belgrade

Average Duration
12h 30m
Estimated price
4024-4267
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Bucharest to Istanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
11h 10m
Estimated price
4063-1212
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Belgrade to Istanbul Hotel Montenegro

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
4062-4026
Contact phone
+40 745 766 766
Website
maxibustravel.ro

Bus from Köln Hauptbahnhof to Bucharest

Average Duration
23h 11m
Estimated price
8182-0
all-pages.transport_car train
Contact phone
+49 89 54880111
Website
optimatours.de

all-pages.transport_car train from Villach Hbf/Bbf to Edirne

Average Duration
31h 31m
Estimated price
4029-810

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

Traveling between Cologne 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 epic road trip from Cologne to Istanbul, covering a scenic distance of 1507 miles. Strap in for an adventurous journey through diverse landscapes and cultures. 💰 Budget-wise travelers can rejoice as the prices to drive from Cologne to Istanbul range from €359 to €553. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of exploring multiple destinations along the way without breaking the bank. 🏛️ Arrive in Istanbul after approximately 22 hours of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant markets, and exquisite cuisine of this mesmerizing city that straddles two continents. Enjoy the sense of accomplishment and the unforgettable memories made on this cross-country road trip.
Average price
€360 - €554
💸 The prices for a train ticket from Cologne to Istanbul can vary from €164 to €308, depending on the class and amenities offered during the 46-hour and 36-minute long journey. It's a unique and budget-friendly way to explore Europe and Asia by rail.
Departure Point
Koeln Hbf station
Arrival Point
Halkali station
🛫 Traveling from Cologne to Istanbul by plane offers a convenient journey with a quick direct flight that takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes. Both Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines provide flights between Cologne Bonn Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport. 🌍 The flight duration of 6 hours and 35 minutes allows you to reach the vibrant city of Istanbul from Cologne comfortably and efficiently. The airlines offer a range of options for travelers looking to explore the historic and cultural delights of Istanbul. 💸 Prices for flights between Istanbul and Cologne can vary between €71 and €440, making it possible for travelers to find a suitable option based on their budget and travel preferences. Prepare for an exciting trip filled with rich experiences as you journey from Germany to Turkey.
Departure Point
Cologne Bonn Airport
Arrival Point
Sabiha Gokcen Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Opt for direct flights with Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines for the most time-efficient route; check their websites for real-time pricing and potential discounts: Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines.
• Upon arrival at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, follow the signs for 'Havalimanı' (Airport) to find the public transportation options; consider purchasing an Istanbulkart at the airport to save time on your journey to the city center.
• Expect taxi fares from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim Square or Sultanahmet to range between 250-350 Turkish Lira (approximately €10-€15); use the BiTaksi app for safer rides and to estimate fares based on real-time traffic.
🚌 Starting from Cologne the bus journey to Istanbul is a long but scenic route that takes approximately 35 hours and 47 minutes to reach the final destination. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Istanbul and Cologne can vary between €187 to €210, offering travelers a range of options to choose from based on their budget and preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cologne to Istanbul.

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The distance between Cologne and Istanbul is approximately 1259 miles by air. By train, it takes about to reach Istanbul from Cologne and involves a train journey to Dusseldorf followed by a flight. If you choose to fly directly from Cologne to Istanbul, the typical travel time is around 5 hours and 56 minutes. Alternatively, driving from Cologne to Istanbul takes approximately 22 hours and 1 minute, while taking a bus would require about 46 hours and 1 minute.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cologne to Istanbul is by bus, which costs between €136 and €208 and takes approximately 46 hours and 1 minute. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, with a travel time of around 5 hours and 56 minutes at a cost of €100 to €453. Consider your budget and preferred travel time when choosing between these transportation options.
When traveling from Cologne to Istanbul the prices for a train ticket range from €177 to €335. Alternatively, the prices for a bus ticket from Istanbul to Cologne range from €138 to €204. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, season, and class of travel. It is recommended to check with the specific train and bus operators for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To travel from Cologne to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1503 miles and it takes around 22 hours to reach Istanbul by car. Prices for renting a car and covering the fuel costs vary between €353 to €543.
The most efficient way to travel from Cologne to Istanbul without a car is by taking a combination of train and bus, including a night bus. This journey takes approximately 34 hours and 31 minutes and costs around €163-€389. By using this mode of transportation, you can enjoy the convenience of transportation without the need for a car.
There is no direct link between Cologne and Istanbul. However, there are train services available that involve transfers in cities such as Vienna and Bucharest. The journey takes approximately 2 days and 3 hours, including the transfers. The train services are operated by Nightjet and Bulgarian Railways.
The flight duration between Cologne and Istanbul is typically 3 hours and 15 minutes for a direct flight. The prices for flights between the two cities can vary, ranging from €105 to €454. It is recommended to check with different airlines to find the best deal that suits your budget and travel preferences.
There are numerous options for accommodation in Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels available, travelers can easily find a place to stay that meets their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Istanbul start at €22, making it accessible for a range of travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Istanbul offers a variety of choices to suit your needs.