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Munich, Bavaria to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from $92: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Munich, Germany
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Munich 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.

$92 - Plane, TrainBest price
1893 kmDistance
4h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Munich 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
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  15m
Estimated price
$159-507
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  26m
Estimated price
$92-299
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1893 km
Duration: 4h 15m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  39m
Estimated price
$117-1480
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  57m
Estimated price
$134-424
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$142-422
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
32h  20m
Estimated price
$1573-1574
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
35h  36m
Estimated price
$1575-1576
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
39h  42m
Estimated price
$1577-1578
Company
various
Drive
Train
Average Duration
36h  58m
Estimated price
$1579-1580
Company
various
Train
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
28h  24m
Estimated price
$1581-1840
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
40h  25m
Estimated price
$1841-1842
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
17h  49m
Estimated price
$1843-1844

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $78 $86 $84 $79 $87 $87 $80
Fly $71 $69 $54 $54 $62 $55 $76

Traveling From Munich to Istanbul

Traveling from Munich to Istanbul presents an opportunity to experience the tranquility and order of Bavarian culture juxtaposed with the vibrant and bustling lifestyle of Turkey's largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul’s neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every type of traveler.

Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia.
• Rich in history and cultural heritage.
Beyoglu
• Famous for its lively nightlife and street art.
• Offers a mix of trendy cafes and boutiques.
Kadikoy
• Vibrant local markets and food scene.
• Great views of the Bosphorus from waterfront areas.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience at Istanbul's iconic sites.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Grand Bazaar
Explore on weekdays to enjoy a quieter shopping experience.
Topkapi Palace
Late afternoon visits often result in smaller crowds and cooler weather.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a temperate climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal seasons for visiting. Understanding the weather can help you pack appropriately and plan activities to fully enjoy what this vibrant city offers.

Dining Recommendation in Istanbul

Try the traditional Turkish dish, meze, at a local meyhane, where a variety of small plates offer a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures. Unlike Munich's hearty sausages and pretzels, dining in Istanbul immerses you in a lively atmosphere filled with enticing aromas and fresh, local ingredients.

Munich - Istanbul operators

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

Plane
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Munich (MUC) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
134-870

Plane from Salzburg (SZG) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
871-872

Plane from Munich (MUC) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
877-872

Plane from Nuremberg (NUE) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
2h 58m
Estimated price
4625-874
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Munich Central Bus Station to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
32h 20m
Estimated price
1481-1482

Bus from Munich Central Bus Station to Burgas Bus Station South

Average Duration
35h 36m
Estimated price
1483-1484

Bus from Plovdiv Bus Station South to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
28415-4240
Train
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
bahn.com

Train from München Hbf to Salzburg Hbf

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
28418-2842

Train from Salzburg Hbf to Budapest-Keleti

Average Duration
5h 12m
Estimated price
1344-4629
Contact phone
+90 444 8 233
Website
tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr

Train from Ayrilikcesme to Yenikapi

Average Duration
14m
Estimated price
2840-2841
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
nightjet.com

all-pages.transport_night train from München Hbf to Salzburg Hbf

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
28410-4626
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
13460-2840200

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

Traveling between Munich 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.

Average price
€284 - €412
Departure Point
München Hbf station
Arrival Point
Halkali station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the train from Munich to Istanbul, catering services vary by operator. For example, the DB (Deutsche Bahn) offers a mobile bistro service with snacks, meals, and drinks available for purchase. In contrast, Turkish Railways provides complimentary snacks and beverages in First Class, while Economy Class has limited options available for purchase. Be sure to check for any specific catering options pertaining to your chosen operator ahead of your trip.
• The train lines operating on the Munich to Istanbul route typically include Deutsche Bahn (DB) and the Turkish State Railways (TCDD). You can choose between First Class, which offers spacious seating and more amenities; Business Class, with comfortable seats and access to lounges; or Economy Class, which is more budget-friendly with basic seating. Visit the operators’ websites for booking: DB - bahn.com; TCDD - tcdd.gov.tr
• Upon arrival at Istanbul's Halkalı Station, expect a busy atmosphere. You can leave your luggage at the station in the luggage storage facility. Additionally, restrooms are available, though showers may not be. To reach the city center swiftly, take the Metro from Halkalı Station to Zeytinburnu, then transfer to Tram T1 towards Bağcılar. This route will get you to the heart of Istanbul efficiently.
Departure Point
Salzburg Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Check in advance for any visa requirements for Turkey, as German citizens usually don't need a visa for short stays but having the latest information is essential. Consider visiting the official Turkish e-visa website at evisa.gov.tr
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST), follow the signage for passport control, which can get busy; consider downloading the Istanbul Airport app for real-time updates on wait times and other services at the airport.
• Expect to pay around 300-400 Turkish Lira (approximately €11-15) for a taxi ride from Istanbul Airport into the city center; alternatively, you can use the Havaist shuttle buses, which are more economical with prices starting around 20 Lira and are a good way to avoid traffic.
Departure Point
Munich central bus station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Esenler Otogari station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Munich to Istanbul.

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The distance between Munich and Istanbul is approximately 989 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: by train, it takes approximately 43 hours and 59 minutes; by taking a flight from Munich to Sabiha Gokcen and then a train, it takes around 6 hours and 35 minutes; by plane, it takes approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes. If traveling in the opposite direction, from Istanbul to Munich, it takes approximately 17 hours and 46 minutes by car and 32 hours and 12 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Munich to Istanbul is by taking a bus via Burgas, which typically costs between €100 and €154 and takes approximately 35 hours and 36 minutes. However, if you are looking for a quicker option, flying is the most time-efficient choice. Flights from Munich to Istanbul take around 5 hours and 50 minutes and typically cost between €118 and €445.
The prices for train travel between Munich and Istanbul range from €151 to €387. On the other hand, the prices for bus travel between Istanbul and Munich vary from €105 to €143. These prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the time of year, availability, and class of service. It is recommended to check with specific travel operators or booking websites for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from Munich to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can choose to drive the distance of 1173 miles. The journey by car typically takes around 17 hours and 46 minutes. The cost of this mode of transportation ranges from €272 to €409.
The best way to travel from Munich to Istanbul without a car is by taking a combination of train and bus. This journey typically takes around 27 hours and 52 minutes, and the cost ranges from €136 to €200. Taking a train from Munich to Istanbul is a comfortable and scenic option, and then you can switch to a bus for the remaining part of the journey. This option allows you to enjoy the journey while also being cost-effective.
There is no direct train or bus link between Munich and Istanbul. However, there are options available with transfers. The train journey takes approximately 43 hours and 59 minutes, with transfers at Salzburg Hbf, Budapest-Keleti, Videle, and Halkali. The bus journey takes approximately 32 hours and 12 minutes, with transfers at Haskovo.
The flight between Munich and Istanbul typically takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific flight and airline. In terms of cost, prices for a flight between Istanbul and Munich can range from €126 to €440, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
Near Istanbul there are numerous accommodation options available. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices start at €22, making it accessible for various budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone in Istanbul.