Milan, Lombardy to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from $82: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Milan to Istanbul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$82 by busBest price
1679 kmDistance
5h 14m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Milan 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.
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Compare prices for your selected dates
| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fly | $70 | $78 | $57 | $66 | $104 | $106 | $128 |
Traveling From Milan to Istanbul
The journey from Milan to Istanbul offers a fascinating contrast between Milan's chic fashion scene and Istanbul's rich tapestry of history and vibrant culture.
Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul
Istanbul boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences to visitors.
Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic attractions like Hagia Sophia.
• Vibrant markets and authentic Turkish cuisine abound.
Beyoğlu
• Lively nightlife with trendy bars and clubs.
• Bustling Istiklal Street lined with shops and cafes.
Kadıköy
• Charming atmosphere filled with street art and markets.
• Great local dining options with fresh seafood.
Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions
Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia
Visit early morning or late afternoon for quieter exploration.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays in the off-peak season offer a more peaceful visit.
Grand Bazaar
Arrive right at opening to avoid the mid-day rush.
Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, rainy winters, making spring and fall the best times to visit for pleasant weather. Your travel experience can be greatly influenced by the season, so planning ahead ensures you enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Dining in Istanbul
Don't miss the chance to try a traditional kebab at Ziya Şark Sofrası, where the smoky flavors and tender meats reflect Istanbul's vibrant culinary heritage. The lively atmosphere and the use of fresh, local ingredients provide a dining experience that contrasts beautifully with Milan's elegant but more subdued Italian cuisine.
Milan - Istanbul operators
Explore transport companies operating between Milan and Istanbul, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
lufthansa.com
Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Istanbul (IST)
Average Duration
5h 14mEstimated price
$230-480Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Istanbul (IST) via Frankfurt
Average Duration
5h 25mEstimated price
$230-750Website
alitalia.com
Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Istanbul (IST) via Rome
Average Duration
5h 1mEstimated price
$140-550Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) via Rome
Average Duration
5h 5mEstimated price
$100-360Website
turkishairlines.com
Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)
Average Duration
6h 20mEstimated price
$150-550Website
flypgs.com
Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) via Rome
Average Duration
4h 30mEstimated price
$100-360Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) via Munich
Average Duration
4h 40mEstimated price
$100-360Contact phone
02 981 1040Website
yubim.eu
Bus from Stazione Centrale - Piazza Duca d'Aosta to Sofia
Average Duration
21h 47mEstimated price
$120-160Bus from Venezia, Viale Stazione to Sofia
Average Duration
17h 33mEstimated price
$120-160Contact phone
+3590885700870Website
citylines.eu
Bus from Sofia Serdica Knyaginya Maria Luiza to Istanbul Esenler Otogari
Average Duration
9hEstimated price
$30-34Website
terravision.eu
Bus from Piazza Luigi di Savoia to Bergamo Airport Bus Station
Average Duration
50mEstimated price
$7-11Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
flixbus.de
Contact phone
+90 212 658 00 61Website
huntur.com.tr
Bus from Sofia Serdica Bus Station to Istanbul Büyük Otogari
Average Duration
7h 30mEstimated price
$35-45Contact phone
+39 06 68475475Website
trenitalia.com
Train from Milano Centrale to Venezia Mestre
Average Duration
2h 15mEstimated price
$23-80Train from Milano Centrale to Bologna Centrale
Average Duration
1h 6mEstimated price
$20-70Contact phone
+35929311111Website
bdz.bg
Train from Sofia to Halkali
Average Duration
11h 49mEstimated price
$12-26Contact phone
+49 89 54880111Website
optimatours.de
Other from Villach Hbf/Bbf to Edirne
Average Duration
31h 31mEstimated price
$220-1200Milan to Istanbul: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Milan 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 journey from Milan to Istanbul by car, covering a distance of 1225 miles. Feel the excitement of exploring multiple countries and diverse landscapes along the way.
💸 The prices to travel from Milan to Istanbul by car range from €323 to €507, offering flexibility for different budget preferences. Experience the freedom of the open road as you navigate through scenic routes and charming towns.
🕌 Arrive in Istanbul after approximately 18 hours and 26 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine that this iconic city has to offer. A road trip full of adventure and discovery awaits you on this thrilling journey across borders.
Average price
€323 - €507
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard services on the train from Milan to Istanbul often include a catering option featuring local Italian and Turkish delicacies. Expect to find a dining car where you can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages. Some operators may also offer meal service directly to your seat, including vegetarian options, so check in advance for the specific operator you're using.
The train operators on this route typically offer various seating options. For the journey between Milan and Istanbul, you can choose from First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class provides spacious seating and enhanced amenities, while Business Class may offer a good balance of comfort and affordability. Economy Class is more budget-friendly but may have less legroom. It's advisable to book tickets in advance to secure your preferred class.
Two main operators run train services from Milan to Istanbul: Trenitalia (trenitalia.com) and Turkish State Railways (TCDD) (tcdd.gov.tr). Make sure to check their websites for updated schedules, ticket prices, and any potential changes due to operational conditions. Also, consider exploring additional options for local transport schedules by visiting the local transit authorities in the cities you may stop at along the way.
🛫 Traveling from Milan to Istanbul by plane involves taking a flight with one stopover, typically lasting around 4 hours and 35 minutes. Airlines like Air Dolomiti, Lufthansa, Alitalia, and Turkish Airlines operate flights on this route.
🌍 The total duration of the journey from Milan to Istanbul by air is approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes. This allows travelers to reach their destination efficiently and comfortably, with various airlines providing options for different preferences and budgets.
💸 Prices for flights between Istanbul and Milan can range from €219 to €443, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the flight that best suits their budget and travel plans. With convenient flight options, exploring these two vibrant cities is made easier and more accessible for all.
Departure Point
Milan Linate Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 35m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book early to find competitive fares on your flight from Milan Linate to Istanbul; the lowest prices typically range between €214 to €433 and advance bookings can help secure the best deal.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST), use the 'Welcome Center' for assistance with shuttle connections or transportation options; it's conveniently located in the arrivals hall to help you navigate your journey into the city.
• Taxis from Istanbul Airport to the city center cost approximately 350-450 TRY, so be prepared with cash or a mobile payment option to avoid any delays; if you prefer public transportation, the Havaist airport shuttle is a reliable alternative.
🚌 If you're planning a bus trip from Milan to Istanbul be prepared for an adventure with multiple transfers along the way. The journey takes approximately 31 hours and 47 minutes, including stops at Sofia and other cities.
🌍 Route options vary, with distances ranging from 2,173 km to 2,515 km, and transfers occurring in cities like Munich, Sofia, and Bucharest. Choose from different agencies like FlixBus and Arda Tur, each offering unique routes and schedules for your convenience.
🎫 Prices for the bus tickets can range from €148 to €206, depending on the route and agency chosen. Enjoy the scenic views and immerse yourself in the diverse cultures as you make your way from Milan to the vibrant city of Istanbul.
Departure Point
Stazione Centrale - Piazza Duca d'Aosta station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Esenler Otogari station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Milan to Istanbul.
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The distance between Milan and Istanbul is 1044 miles or 1222 road miles. The typical travel time from Milan to Istanbul by train is approximately . The fastest option is to fly, taking 6 hours and 49 minutes. By car, it takes around 18 hours and 23 minutes, and by bus, it takes approximately 30 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Milan to Istanbul is by bus, with prices ranging from €111-€139. However, this option will take the longest, with a travel time of 30 hours and 30 minutes. If you are looking for a quicker option, the train and fly combination is your best bet. This option takes 6 hours and 1 minute and costs between €93-€417.
The prices for a train ticket from Milan to Istanbul can range from €191 to €378. Alternatively, taking a bus from Istanbul to Milan could cost between €115 and €136. These prices may vary depending on factors such as date of travel, time of booking, and class of service. It is recommended to check with different transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
One option to get from Milan to Istanbul without using public transportation is to drive. The driving distance between Milan and Istanbul is approximately 1222 miles, and it takes around 18 hours and 23 minutes to complete the journey by car. However, it is important to note that the prices for this mode of transportation can vary between €325 and €510.
To travel from Milan to Istanbul without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey by bus takes approximately 30 hours and 30 minutes and costs between €111 and €139. There are both regular buses and night buses available for this route. It is important to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
There is no direct train or bus link between Milan and Istanbul. To travel by train, you would have to take multiple transfers, which would take approximately 2 days and 3 hours. Bus services also require transfers and take about 30 hours and 30 minutes. It is recommended to consider alternative modes of transportation such as flying, as it takes around 6 hours and 49 minutes.
The flight between Milan and Istanbul typically takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the flight route and any layovers. The cost of a flight between these two cities can range from €91 to €352, depending on various factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and the class of travel.
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 start at €22, providing budget-friendly options for those seeking affordable accommodations. Whether you prefer luxurious hotels or cozy guesthouses, Istanbul offers a diverse range of accommodations to cater to different preferences and budgets.
Trips from Milan
- Milan to Portofino
- Milan to Bolzano
- Milan to Turin
- Milan to Trieste
- Milan to Bellagio
- Milan to St. Moritz
- Milan to Parma
- Milan to Bologna
- Milan to Siena
- Milan to Madrid
- Milan to Genoa
- Milan to Verona
- Milan to Naples
- Milan to Rome
- Milan to Varenna
- Milan to Barcelona
- Milan to Zermatt
- Milan to Vienna
- Milan to Nice
- Milan to Lucerne
- Milan to Monaco
- Milan to Florence
- Milan to Lugano
- Milan to Venice
- Milan to Paris
- Milan to Bari
- Milan to Pisa
- Milan to Interlaken
- Milan to Tirano
- Milan to Amsterdam
- Milan to Munich
- Milan to Geneva
- Milan to Como
- Milan to Bergamo
- Milan to Zurich
- Milan to London
- Milan to Novara
- Milan to Amalfi
- Milan to Garda (Verona)
- Milan to Cinque Terre
Trips to Istanbul
- Ankara to Istanbul
- Budapest to Istanbul
- Venice to Istanbul
- Belgrade to Istanbul
- Athens to Istanbul
- Rome to Istanbul
- Antalya to Istanbul
- Bucharest to Istanbul
- Pamukkale to Istanbul
- Madrid to Istanbul
- Bodrum to Istanbul
- Paris to Istanbul
- Sofia to Istanbul
- Brussels to Istanbul
- Barcelona to Istanbul
- Vienna to Istanbul
- Berlin to Istanbul
- Kayseri to Istanbul
- CAPPADOCIA to Istanbul
- Frankfurt am Main to Istanbul
- Munich to Istanbul
- Dublin to Istanbul
- Amsterdam to Istanbul
- Lucca to Istanbul
- Amman to Istanbul
- London to Istanbul
- İzmir to Istanbul
- Zonguldak to Istanbul
- Chicago to Istanbul
- Marmaris to Istanbul
- Phoenix to Istanbul
- Dubai to Istanbul
- Lisbon to Istanbul
- Boston to Istanbul
- Baku to Istanbul
- Warsaw to Istanbul
- Tehran to Istanbul
- Tbilisi to Istanbul
- Orlando to Istanbul
- Tampa to Istanbul