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Barcelona, Catalonia to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from €81: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Barcelona, Spain
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Barcelona 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.

$81 - Bus, night trainBest price
2245 kmDistance
6h 24m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Barcelona 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  24m
Estimated price
€136-441
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
48h  8m
Estimated price
€81-179
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2245 km
Duration: 6h 24m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  18m
Estimated price
€120-373
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
45h  30m
Estimated price
€146-1360
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
14h  24m
Estimated price
€167-436
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
49h  1m
Estimated price
€179-1363
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
47h  43m
Estimated price
€1361-1362
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
41h  9m
Estimated price
€1364-1365
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
27h  30m
Estimated price
€1366-1367

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $158 $172 $150 $171 $174 $169 $220
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Traveling From Barcelona to Istanbul

Traveling from Barcelona to Istanbul offers you a fascinating contrast between Barcelona's vibrant Catalan culture and the rich, historic tapestry of Istanbul, where East meets West.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and charm for visitors.

Karaköy
• Trendy cafes and art galleries line the streets.
• Great views of the Bosphorus River.
Beyoğlu
• Bustling Istiklal Avenue with shops and restaurants.
• Rich history with charming architecture throughout.
Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic sites like Hagia Sophia.
• Vibrant local markets full of culture.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visits to Istanbul's attractions can elevate your experience significantly.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays, especially in the off-season, offer a quieter experience.
Basilica Cistern
Late afternoon visits often mean reduced crowds and a serene atmosphere.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul features a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to explore the city. Understanding the weather can help you plan activities, from enjoying outdoor cafes in warm months to exploring historical sites during the cooler season.

Dining in Istanbul: A Culinary Journey

Do not miss trying a plate of meze at a traditional Turkish restaurant like Hamdi, where a variety of small dishes create an inviting shareable experience. This dining style contrasts with Barcelona's tapas, emphasizing bold spices and fresh local ingredients that truly reflect Istanbul's rich culinary heritage.

Barcelona - Istanbul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Barcelona 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 Barcelona (BCN) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
6h 24m
Estimated price
136-441
Website
airserbia.com

Plane from Barcelona (BCN) to Istanbul (IST) via Belgrade

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
1368-4418
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Barcelona (BCN) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
4416-4417
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
02 981 1040
Website
yubim.eu

Bus from Barcelona to Sofia

Average Duration
35h 30m
Estimated price
4419-1368

Bus from Sofia Serdica Knyaginya Maria Luiza to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
1797-1798
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Sofia Serdica Knyaginya Maria Luiza to Istanbul Esenler Otogari

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
1797-1798
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Sofia to Istanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
1791-1799
Train
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Plovdiv to Halkali

Average Duration
8h 39m
Estimated price
811-812

Train from Sofia to Halkali

Average Duration
11h 49m
Estimated price
814-815
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
renfe.com

Train from Barcelona-Sants to Marseille St Charles

Average Duration
4h 49m
Estimated price
1791-1792
Ferry
Contact phone
+39.081.496.444
Website
grimaldi-lines.com

Ferry from Porto di Barcellona to Porto di Civitavecchia

Average Duration
20h
Estimated price
1791-1792

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

Traveling between Barcelona 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 unforgettable road trip from Barcelona to Istanbul, spanning 1832 miles of diverse landscapes and cultures. 💰 Navigate through the varying price ranges of €461 to €738 for the journey, ensuring a balance between budget and convenience for your travels through Europe.
Average price
€461 - €737
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: During your journey from Barcelona to Istanbul, expect a range of catering services. The train lines typically offer a choice of meals that reflect both Spanish and Turkish cuisines, along with a selection of drinks, including local wines, soft drinks, and tea/coffee. Be sure to check if the train offers a dining car or mobile food service for an enjoyable meal experience.
Seating Options: The main operators on this route, such as Renfe and Turkish State Railways (TCDD), provide multiple seating options. You can choose between First Class, which offers more spacious seating and greater comfort, or Economy Class, which is more budget-friendly but still provides a decent level of comfort. If you prefer a quieter environment, consider reserving a seat in the Business Class section if available.
Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Istanbul's Sirkeci Station, be prepared for a busy environment. The station does provide luggage storage services, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. Additionally, restrooms are available; however, showers might not be, so plan accordingly. After arriving, you can take advantage of the nearby tram system for an easy transfer to the city center.
🛫 Flying from Barcelona to Istanbul is convenient and efficient with direct flights offered by Air Serbia and Turkish Airlines. The quickest flight option takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, getting you to your destination in no time. 🌍 The journey covers around 1,700 kilometers and typically lasts about 6 hours and 24 minutes, allowing travelers to enjoy stunning views from above as they traverse the Mediterranean region from west to east. Arriving in Istanbul Airport, you'll be immersed in a vibrant mix of cultures and rich history. 💸 Flight prices for the route between Barcelona and Istanbul can range from €140 to €455, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. With various options available, you can choose a flight that suits your budget and schedule for a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
Departure Point
Barcelona Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight, consider Turkish Airlines and Air Serbia for the best service and competitive prices; check their official websites for the latest promotions: Turkish Airlines and Air Serbia.
• Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST), follow the signs for 'Havaist' buses or taxis; expect a taxi fare of approximately 300-400 TL (around $15-$20) to reach the city center, depending on traffic.
• Given the flight duration of about 3h 30m, pack snacks and a refillable water bottle, as in-flight dining options can be limited and it's a good idea to stay hydrated for the lively Istanbul atmosphere upon arrival.
There are no direct routes available, with the journey typically involving transfers. The total travel time is around 45 hours and 30 minutes. 🛣️ Route options vary, with each journey taking approximately 2 days and involving 4 transfers. From Barcelona to Istanbul, you may pass through cities like Paris, Milan, Sofia, and Varna, covering a distance of around 2,900 to 3,000 km. 💰 Prices for the Barcelona to Istanbul bus ride range from €150 to €209. Make sure to check the schedules and connections with the respective bus agencies for a smooth and efficient journey between these vibrant European cities.
Departure Point
Barcelona station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Esenler Otogari station

Trips from Barcelona