1map logoGo to main page

Zagreb, Zagreb City (Area) to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from €68: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Zagreb, Croatia
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Zagreb 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.

$68 by busBest price
1347 kmDistance
5h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Zagreb 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
5h  19m
Estimated price
117-360
Recommended
Company
Citylines NSIS1330
Bus
Average Duration
21h  30m
Estimated price
68-82
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1347 km
Duration: 5h 19m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Citylines NSIS0830
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
21h  30m
Estimated price
68-82
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  3m
Estimated price
92-372
Company
FlixBus N1999
Bus
Average Duration
24h  15m
Estimated price
124-1170
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
6h  56m
Estimated price
153-624
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
25h  17m
Estimated price
1171-1172
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
12h  46m
Estimated price
1173-1174

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $66 $68 $64 $67 $65 $64 $66
Fly $118 $67 $117 $63 $118 $135 $72

Traveling From Zagreb to Istanbul

The journey from Zagreb to Istanbul offers a fascinating contrast between the serene charm of Croatia's capital and the vibrant, bustling energy of Turkey's largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul's neighborhoods are a tapestry of culture, history, and modernity.

Beyoğlu
• Lively streets filled with cafes and shops.
• Home to the iconic Galata Tower.
Sultanahmet
• Major historical sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
• Picturesque views of the Bosphorus.
Kadıköy
• Trendy area with vibrant markets and local eateries.
• Great spot for enjoying the sunset over the sea.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Planning your visits to Istanbul’s top sights can greatly enhance your experience.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning for fewer tourists and a serene atmosphere.
Basilica Cistern
Late afternoon visits offer a quieter experience, avoiding peak hours.
Topkapi Palace
Go on weekdays during off-peak months to explore more comfortably.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a temperate climate with hot summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to explore. Understanding the weather can significantly enhance your travel experience, whether you prefer vibrant city life in the sun or cozy ambiance during the cooler months.

Dining in Istanbul: A Taste Adventure

Don't miss sampling the iconic dish, manti, at a local eatery like Tandır, where you'll savor Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat and topped with a rich yogurt sauce. The lively atmosphere and bold flavors in Istanbul provide a vibrant culinary journey that stands in stark contrast to the milder, heartier dishes you might find in Zagreb.

Zagreb - Istanbul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Zagreb 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 Zagreb (ZAG) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
5h 19m
Estimated price
117-360
Website
airserbia.com

Plane from Zagreb to Istanbul

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
3602-3603
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Zagreb to Sabiha Gokcen

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
1175-3604
Train
Contact phone
+90 444 8 233
Website
tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr

Train from Ayrilikcesme to Yenikapi

Average Duration
14m
Estimated price
3605-3606
Bus
Contact phone
043 277 100
Website
cazmatrans.hr

Bus from Zagreb to Belgrade

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
68-3609
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Belgrade to Istanbul Hotel Montenegro

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
681-682
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Zagreb to Plovdiv Bus Station South

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
1175-360510
Contact phone
0850 222 34 55
Website
metroturizm.com.tr

Bus from Sofia to Istanbul Otogari

Average Duration
9h 30m
Estimated price
36056-36065

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

Traveling between Zagreb 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.

Departure Point
Zagreb Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport, be prepared for a larger-than-average customs and immigration process; it's advisable to download the Istanbul Airport app to get real-time updates on wait times and gate information.
• For transportation from Istanbul Airport to the city center, expect to pay around 250-300 Turkish Lira (approximately €10-12) for a taxi; it's best to use the official taxi queue to avoid fraud and ensure safer transit.
• Before your flight, check Turkish Airlines' meal options or Air Serbia's in-flight services to enhance your traveling experience, as these airlines alternate on this route and have varying flight amenities.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Zagreb to Istanbul.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Zagreb and Istanbul is approximately 734 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 831.8 miles. If you opt for public transportation, it takes about 25 hours and 22 minutes to travel by bus and train, while a flight takes around 3 hours and 2 minutes. Driving by car from Istanbul to Zagreb takes around 12 hours and 43 minutes, and taking the bus from Istanbul to Zagreb takes approximately 21 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Zagreb to Istanbul is by taking a bus, which costs €63-€81 and takes 21 hours and 30 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the fastest way to reach Istanbul is by flying, which takes only 3 hours and 2 minutes but costs €127-€398. It is recommended to consider both cost and time factors when choosing the transportation option that best suits your needs.
The prices of a bus ticket between Zagreb and Istanbul can range from €67 to €81. The specific cost may depend on factors such as the time of year, the bus company, and the class of service chosen. It is recommended to check with different bus operators or travel agencies to find the best price and options for your travel.
To travel from Zagreb to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can consider driving your own car or renting one. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 832 miles, and it takes about 12 hours and 43 minutes to drive from Zagreb to Istanbul. The prices for renting a car and driving to Istanbul vary, ranging from €190 to €290. It's important to note that driving long distances can be tiring, so it's advisable to take breaks and plan for accommodation along the way.
To travel from Zagreb to Istanbul without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 21 hours and 30 minutes and the ticket prices range from €63 to €81. There are several bus companies that operate this route and provide comfortable and convenient transportation. It is recommended to book the tickets in advance to secure a seat on the preferred date and time.
No, there is no direct link between Zagreb and Istanbul by bus. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers, departing from Zagreb station and arriving at Istanbul Hotel Montenegro. The journey duration, including transfers, is approximately 21 hours and 30 minutes. The bus services are operated by Cazmatrans NOVA d.o.o. and Citylines.
The flight duration between Zagreb and Istanbul is typically 2 hours and 15 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from €135 to €397. It is advisable to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels in Istanbul start at €22 per night, making it accessible for a variety of budgets. Whether you prefer a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly option, you will easily find a suitable place to stay in Istanbul.