Rome, Lazio to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from €79: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Rome to Istanbul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$79 by busBest price
1381 kmDistance
5h 36m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rome 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 | $115 | $82 | $58 | $67 | $77 | $93 | $144 |
Traveling From Rome to Istanbul
Your journey from Rome to Istanbul presents a fascinating shift from Italy's ancient architecture and art to Turkey's vibrant bazaars and rich culinary traditions.
Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul
Istanbul boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct cultural experience.
Karaköy
• Trendy cafes and art galleries line the streets.
• Close to the historic Galata Tower.
Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic sites like Hagia Sophia.
• Rich in history with museums and palaces.
Kadıköy
• Lively food markets and local eateries.
• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and music venues.
Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions
Timing can greatly enhance your experience at Istanbul's major sites.
Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays are quieter; aim for mornings right after opening.
Grand Bazaar
Late afternoon visits provide a less hectic atmosphere for shopping.
Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, creating diverse conditions for your travels. The best visit times are spring and fall, offering pleasant weather that enhances your exploration of this historic city.
Dining Recommendation in Istanbul
Try the iconic street food dish, simit, at one of Istanbul's bustling waterfront stands, which delivers a delightful crunch and sesame flavor that starkly contrasts with Rome's pasta and pizza culture. The vibrant atmosphere of the city’s markets and the use of local, fresh ingredients create a dining experience that’s both lively and unforgettable.
Rome - Istanbul operators
Explore transport companies operating between Rome and Istanbul, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
turkishairlines.com
Plane from Rome (FCO) to Istanbul (IST)
Average Duration
2h 37mEstimated price
1239-4360Website
airserbia.com
Plane from Rome (FCO) to Istanbul (IST) via Belgrade
Average Duration
4h 42mEstimated price
107-4364Website
flypgs.com
Plane from Rome (FCO) to Istanbul (SAW)
Average Duration
2h 33mEstimated price
4363-1234Website
croatiaairlines.com
Plane from Rome (FCO) to Istanbul (IST) via Split
Average Duration
4h 59mEstimated price
4365-4366Contact phone
+90 444 8 233Website
tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr
Train from Ayrilikcesme to Yenikapi
Average Duration
14mEstimated price
4368-4369Contact phone
+39 06 68475475Website
trenitalia.com
Train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale
Average Duration
1h 8mEstimated price
790-791Train from Roma Termini to Bari Centrale
Average Duration
4h 7mEstimated price
43695-107Train from Roma Termini to Venezia Mestre
Average Duration
3h 48mEstimated price
793-107Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
flixbus.de
Bus from Roma Tiburtina TiBus to Istanbul Esenler bus station
Average Duration
33h 25mEstimated price
436870-1218Bus from Bucharest to Istanbul Esenler bus station
Average Duration
11h 10mEstimated price
1214-1219Contact phone
+355 69 31 41 219Website
artanitravel.com
Bus from Rome - Tiburtina to Elbasan
Average Duration
18h 6mEstimated price
0-0Contact phone
+90 212 658 18 51Website
alparturizm.com.tr
Bus from Tiranë to Istanbul
Average Duration
14h 30mEstimated price
793-796Bus from Elbasan to Istanbul
Average Duration
14hEstimated price
793-1210Rome to Istanbul: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Rome 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.
🚗 Begin your exciting road trip from Rome to Istanbul, covering a distance of 1389 miles. With approximately 20 hours and 50 minutes of driving ahead of you, prepare for a scenic journey through multiple countries.
🌍 Enjoy the fluctuating landscapes as you traverse through picturesque towns, historic landmarks, and breathtaking views. The prices for this unforgettable adventure range from €369 to €554, varying based on your preferences and choice of route.
Average price
€369 - €553
Useful tips for train travellers
• For your train journey from Rome to Istanbul, you can choose between operators such as Trenitalia (trenitalia.com) and Turkish State Railways (TCDD) (tcdd.gov.tr). Trenitalia offers comfortable seating options like First Class, Business Class, and Economy, while TCDD also provides various levels of comfort similar to those found in European trains. Be sure to check both sites for schedules, prices, and any seasonal offers.
• Onboard services on trains between Rome and Istanbul include catering options such as snack bars and dining services offering light meals and beverages. In First Class compartments, you may find complimentary meals and drinks provided. Be sure to bring your own snacks, as longer journeys may not always have extensive catering services available.
• When arriving at Istanbul's main station, Sirkeci Station, remember that there are luggage storage facilities available to leave your belongings while you explore the city. The station also has public restrooms and showers for freshening up after your journey. To navigate the station seamlessly, take a moment to check out the station's layout before disembarking.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Rome to Istanbul is by taking a direct flight that lasts approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. Airlines such as Alitalia, Croatia Airlines, Air Serbia, and Turkish Airlines offer flights between Rome Airport and Istanbul Airport.
🌍 The total flight duration from Rome to Istanbul is around 5 hours and 36 minutes, including any layovers or connections. This provides travelers with a convenient and efficient way to reach their destination in Turkey from Italy.
💸 Prices for flights between Istanbul and Rome can vary, ranging from €127 to €450 depending on the airline, booking time, and availability.
Departure Point
Rome Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking with Turkish Airlines, as they often offer complimentary meals and drinks on the flight, making your travel experience more enjoyable; check their website for meal options: turkishairlines.com
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, be prepared for large crowds and allow extra time to navigate through customs and baggage claim; signs are available in English, but it’s helpful to download the Istanbul Airport app for real-time updates and navigation support: istairport.com
• From Istanbul Airport (IST) to the city center, taxi prices are typically around 300-400 TRY (approximately €10-€15), but be aware that traffic can significantly affect travel time; consider using public transport like the Havaist airport shuttles as an economical alternative, which you can learn more about here: hava.ist
🚌 Setting off from Rome - Tiburtina, your bus journey to Istanbul will take approximately 33 hours and 10 minutes with transfers along the way.
🌍 The route will cover a distance of 2,189 kilometers with multiple transfers in cities such as Munich, Sofia, Haskovo, and Bursa before reaching Istanbul.
Departure Point
Roma Tiburtina TiBus station
Arrival Point
İstanbul Esenler bus station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Rome to Istanbul.
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The cheapest way to get from Rome to Istanbul is by taking a combination of bus and train. This option typically costs around €110-€146 and takes approximately 42 hours and 2 minutes. While it may be a longer journey compared to flying, it is a budget-friendly alternative for travelers looking to save money on transportation.
The fastest way to travel from Rome to Istanbul is by flying. There are several airlines that operate direct flights between the two cities, which can take around 5 hours and 36 minutes. The cost of a flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but prices typically range from €101 to €458. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the best deals and to book your flight in advance for the most affordable options.
The distance between Rome and Istanbul is approximately 858 miles. The road distance is 1386.2 miles. The most common methods of transportation between the two cities include flying, which takes around 2-3 hours, and train or bus, which can take around 42 hours.
The best way to travel from Rome to Istanbul without a car is by taking a combination of train and bus. Start by taking a train from Rome to Sofia, Bulgaria, which takes approximately 23 hours. From Sofia, you can then take a bus to Istanbul, which takes around 12 hours. The total travel time is approximately 35 hours and 44 minutes, and the cost ranges from €146 to €275, depending on the specific train and bus options chosen.
The total travel time from Rome to Istanbul is approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes, including transfers. This time may vary depending on the mode of transportation and any potential delays. It is recommended to check the schedule and availability of flights, trains, and buses to plan accordingly and account for any additional travel time.
There are numerous accommodation options available in Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, visitors have a wide range of choices. Prices start at €22 per night, making it accessible for different budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, travelers can find suitable accommodation options to meet their needs and preferences.
Yes, you can drive from Rome to Istanbul. The driving distance is approximately 1386 miles, and it takes approximately 20 hours and 47 minutes to complete the journey. However, it's important to consider the different countries and their entry requirements, as well as the tolls and border crossings along the route. Additionally, it's essential to have the necessary documents, such as a valid international driver's license and car insurance, before embarking on this long road trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Rome and Istanbul. However, there are bus services available that depart from Roma and arrive at Istanbul Otogari via Sofia. The journey usually takes around 39 hours, including transfers. It is advisable to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
To catch the bus from Rome to Istanbul you will need to go to the Roma station. This is the departure point for the bus services operated by Georg. Make sure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
The bus from Rome to Istanbul arrives at Istanbul Otogari station. This is the main bus terminal in Istanbul where most long-distance buses arrive and depart. It is located in the Bayrampasa district, about 10 kilometers northwest of the city center. From the bus station, travelers can easily find transportation options to their final destinations in Istanbul.
To get to Istanbul from the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus or public transportation. Taxis are the most convenient but can be quite expensive. Shuttle buses are a cheaper option and often have designated stops in the city. Public transportation, such as buses or trains, are the most affordable but may involve transfers and longer travel times. It is recommended to research and plan your route in advance based on your budget and preference.
There are several airlines that offer flights between Rome and Istanbul. Some of these airlines include Croatia Airlines, Aegean Airlines, and Lufthansa, among others. These flights typically depart from Rome Airport and arrive at Istanbul Airport. It is recommended to check with each specific airline for their schedules, fares, and any additional requirements or restrictions before booking your flight.
The fastest way to travel from Rome to Istanbul is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight time is around 2 hours and 35 minutes. Multiple airlines, including Croatia Airlines, Aegean Airlines, and Lufthansa, offer flights from Rome Airport to Istanbul Airport. The prices for flights between the two cities can range from €104 to €459.
The flight duration from Rome to Istanbul is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes for a direct flight. However, please note that flight times may vary depending on factors such as the airline, weather conditions, and air traffic. It is advised to check with the respective airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date flight schedules and durations.
Trains from Rome to Istanbul arrive at Halkali station. Halkali is a major railway station located on the European side of Istanbul. It is well-connected to the city center and other parts of Istanbul through various transportation options such as buses and taxis. Upon arrival at Halkali station, travelers can easily continue their journey to their desired destination within Istanbul.
Yes, there is no direct train between Rome and Istanbul. However, there are indirect train services available. The journey would involve transferring trains at various stations such as Venezia Mestre, Wien Hbf, Gara Bucureşti Nord, and Halkali. The total travel time for this route is approximately 2 days and 4 hours.
To catch the train from Rome to Istanbul you will need to go to Roma Tiburtina station. This is the departure point for train services operated by Trenitalia Frecce. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance and arrive at the station on time to catch your train to Istanbul.
The cost of a flight from Rome to Istanbul typically ranges from €104 to €459. The price may vary depending on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance you book your ticket. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and use travel search engines to find the best deal. Additionally, consider booking your flight in advance to secure the lowest fare possible.
The cost of a train ticket from Rome to Istanbul can vary depending on factors such as the class of service and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. On average, prices range from €201 to €349. It is recommended to check with the specific train operator for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost of a bus from Rome to Istanbul ranges from €109 to €162. It is important to note that prices can vary depending on the bus company, time of year, and availability. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal. Additionally, it is advisable to book in advance to secure the most affordable fare.
The cost to drive from Rome to Istanbul varies from €366 to €549. This cost includes fuel expenses, tolls, and other miscellaneous expenses along the route. It is important to consider that this is an estimate and prices may vary depending on factors such as vehicle type, fuel efficiency, and the current cost of fuel. Additionally, it is essential to factor in the duration of the trip and the additional costs that may arise, such as accommodations and meals during the journey.
Trips from Rome
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Trips to Istanbul
- Ankara to Istanbul
- Budapest to Istanbul
- Venice to Istanbul
- Belgrade to Istanbul
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- 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
- Milan 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
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- Tampa to Istanbul