Ankara, Ankara Province to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from $12: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Ankara to Istanbul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$12 RideshareBest price
354.1 kmDistance
3h 38m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Ankara 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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| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $22 | $22 | $22 | $23 | $22 | $22 | $22 |
| Fly | $25 | $29 | $26 | $28 | $27 | $28 | $27 |
Traveling From Ankara to Istanbul
Traveling from Ankara to Istanbul presents you with a journey that contrasts the serene, traditional feel of the capital with the vibrant, bustling energy of Turkey’s largest city.
Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul
Istanbul boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.
Beyoğlu
• Home to the famous Istiklal Avenue.
• A hub for art galleries and cafes.
Sultanahmet
• Features iconic sites like Hagia Sophia.
• Rich in history and stunning architecture.
Kadıköy
• Known for its vibrant market scene.
• Offers a laid-back, local vibe.
Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions
Timing your visits to Istanbul's landmarks can enhance your experience significantly.
Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays are quieter; aim for a visit during the off-peak season.
Grand Bazaar
Go early in the day for a less hectic shopping experience.
Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit for pleasant temperatures. Weather can significantly influence your travel plans, as summer crowds peak and winter can bring occasional rain and chill.
Dining Recommendation
In Istanbul, savor the vibrant flavors of meze at ‘Meze by Lemon Tree,’ where small dishes highlight fresh local ingredients and innovative presentations, creating a social dining experience distinct from the hearty, home-cooked meals typical in Ankara. The lively atmosphere and diverse culinary influences in Istanbul elevate your dining experience, allowing you to explore the city's rich gastronomic heritage.
Ankara - Istanbul operators
Explore transport companies operating between Ankara and Istanbul, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+90 444 8 233Website
tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr
Train from Ankara to Istanbul Söğütlüçeşme
Average Duration
4h 23mEstimated price
$7-13Contact phone
+90 224 294 55 62Website
flixbus.com.tr
Bus from Ankara bus station to İstanbul Esenler bus station
Average Duration
6h 30mEstimated price
$14-20Contact phone
0850 222 34 55Website
metroturizm.com.tr
Bus from Ankara to Istanbul Otogari
Average Duration
7h 34mEstimated price
$15-21Contact phone
0 850 333 35 35Website
pamukkale.com.tr
Bus from Ankara to Istanbul Esenler
Average Duration
6h 45mEstimated price
$15-22Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228Website
blablacar.com
Other from Ankara to İstanbul
Average Duration
5h 25mEstimated price
$12-12Website
turkishairlines.com
Plane from Ankara (ESB) to Istanbul (IST)
Average Duration
1h 20mEstimated price
$30-85Website
flypgs.com
Plane from Ankara (ESB) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)
Average Duration
1h 7mEstimated price
$24-95Ankara to Istanbul: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Ankara 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 a scenic road trip from Ankara to Istanbul, spanning 281 miles of diverse Turkish landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the countryside along the way.
💰 Explore budget-friendly options to reach Istanbul from Ankara by car, with prices ranging from €46 to €74. Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a group, there are cost-effective ways to make the journey without breaking the bank.
Average price
€46 - €74
🚆 The trip from Ankara to Istanbul by train involves a transfer at Söğütlüçeşme. The journey typically takes around 4 hours and 45 minutes, including the transfer.
🎫 Ticket prices for the Ankara to Istanbul train can range from €8 to €12, providing an affordable and straightforward option for those looking to travel between these two vibrant Turkish cities.
Departure Point
Ankara station
Arrival Point
Istanbul Söğütlüçeşme station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Ankara to Istanbul train route include a catering service offering freshly prepared meals, snacks, and beverages. You can find a dining car where you can enjoy Turkish cuisine and coffee. Be sure to check the menu upon boarding, as options may differ throughout the day.
• The high-speed train from Ankara to Istanbul offers various seating options: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class seats provide more space and offer complimentary meals. Business Class features comfortable seating with access to power outlets and complimentary refreshments. Economy Class, while less spacious, is economical and still quite comfortable for the journey.
• There are two main operators for the Ankara to Istanbul route: TCDD Taşımacılık (Turkish State Railways) and YHT (High-Speed Train). You can visit their websites for schedules and ticket booking: tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr for TCDD and yht.com.tr for YHT. Useful links include istanbul-kartepe.com for local transport schedules and istanbulmap.com for station maps.
🛫 Experience a smooth and quick journey from Ankara to Istanbul by taking a direct flight from Ankara Airport to Sabiha Gokcen Airport, lasting just 1 hour. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines provide convenient options for this route.
🏙️ Once you arrive in Istanbul, after a flight time of approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes, you can explore the vibrant city's rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. With a range of attractions to visit, Istanbul offers a memorable experience for travelers.
💸 Ticket prices for flights between Istanbul and Ankara typically range from €56 to €104, giving you flexibility in planning your trip based on your budget and preferred airline. Enjoy a comfortable and efficient journey as you travel between these two dynamic Turkish cities.
Departure Point
Ankara Airport
Arrival Point
Sabiha Gokcen Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Ensure your departure from Ankara Esenboğa Airport is timely; the airport can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons, so arriving at least 1.5 hours prior to your flight is advisable to navigate security and any potential delays.
• Upon arriving at Sabiha Gökçen Airport, be prepared for the layout, which can be a bit confusing; follow the clear signs for baggage claim and ground transportation, and consider using the airport's information desks if you need assistance navigating your way to the city.
• Expect to pay approximately 300-400 Turkish Lira (around €10-15) for a taxi ride from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to the downtown Istanbul area; alternatively, check out Havaş shuttle buses for a budget-friendly transport option, which costs around 60 Lira to Taksim Square.
🚌 The journey from Ankara to Istanbul by bus is convenient and frequent, with services departing hourly and operating every day. The trip typically takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes to reach İstanbul Esenler bus station.
💰 Bus tickets between Ankara and Istanbul are reasonably priced, ranging from €13 to €20 depending on the operator and time of booking. This affordable mode of transportation provides a cost-effective and efficient way to travel between these two major cities in Turkey.
Departure Point
Ankara bus station
Arrival Point
İstanbul Esenler bus station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Ankara to Istanbul.
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The distance between Ankara and Istanbul is approximately 220 miles by air, 280.7 miles by road, and 280.7 miles by car. Traveling by train, it takes around 4 hours and 48 minutes to reach Istanbul from Ankara. By taking a flight to Sabiha Gokcen and then a train to Istanbul, the travel time is approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes. If traveling by plane, it typically takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes to reach Istanbul from Ankara. Driving from Istanbul to Ankara takes approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes, while a bus journey can take around 6 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Ankara to Istanbul is by train, which costs between €7-€10. Although it takes 4 hours and 48 minutes, it offers a budget-friendly alternative. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. Although more expensive, with prices ranging from €36-€82, flying allows for a faster journey between the two cities.
The prices of a train ticket between Ankara and Istanbul range from €7 to €10. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket between Istanbul and Ankara can range anywhere from €7 to €25. These prices may vary depending on the specific train or bus operator, as well as the class of service chosen. It is recommended to check with the respective operators for the most accurate and up-to-date ticket prices.
A convenient option to travel from Ankara to Istanbul without using public transportation is through Blablacar's carpooling service. This service provides rideshare options between the two cities, which can be a great alternative if you don't have a driver's license or want to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Ankara and Istanbul is approximately 281 miles, and it usually takes around 4 hours and 32 minutes to drive from one city to another. The prices for carpooling can vary but generally range from €45 to €73.
The best way to travel from Ankara to Istanbul without a car is by train. This option takes approximately 4 hours and 48 minutes and costs around €7-€10. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes and costs between €7-€25. Alternatively, you can choose to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes and costs between €36-€82. Overall, all three options provide efficient and affordable ways to travel between Ankara and Istanbul without a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between Ankara and Istanbul. Traveling by train, the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 48 minutes, with transfers at Söğütlüçeşme. Turkish Railways operates the train services. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service departing from Ankara bus station and arriving at İstanbul Esenler bus station. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, with services operating hourly.
The flight between Ankara and Istanbul typically takes 1 hour. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from €37 to €78. It is the quickest and most convenient mode of transportation for this route.
There are numerous accommodation options near Istanbul. With over 1596+ hotels available, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Istanbul start at €22 per night, ensuring there is something for every traveler's budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget accommodations, or boutique hotels, there are plenty of options to choose from near Istanbul.
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