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Istanbul, Istanbul Province to Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia from $16: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Istanbul, Turkey
to
Thessaloniki, Greece

How to Get from Istanbul to Thessaloniki: 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.

$16 by busBest price
517 kmDistance
2h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Istanbul to Thessaloniki 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
Turkish Airlines, Aegean Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  46m
Estimated price
$142-387
Recommended
Company
Arda Tur
Bus
Average Duration
9h  45m
Estimated price
$16-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 517 km
Duration: 2h 46m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  37m
Estimated price
$120-180

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $42 $42 $42 $42 $42 $42 $42
Fly $128 $109 $104 $135 $142 $142 $153
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Istanbul to Thessaloniki

The journey from Istanbul to Thessaloniki offers you a fascinating transition from the bustling streets and rich history of Turkey's largest city to Greece's vibrant seaside charm and laid-back atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki’s neighborhoods are a delightful mix of history, culture, and modern life.

Ladadika
• Known for vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Historic district filled with colorful buildings.
Ano Poli
• Offers stunning views of the city and sea.
• Rich in Byzantine history and architecture.
White Tower Area
• Home to the iconic White Tower landmark.
• Lively promenade perfect for walks and cafes.

Best Times To Visit Thessaloniki's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Thessaloniki's attractions.

The White Tower
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer fewer crowds and great light for photos.
Aristotelous Square
Explore the square early on weekdays to enjoy the lively atmosphere without heavy foot traffic.
Ano Poli
Visit during the early evening for stunning sunset views and a peaceful stroll.

Thessaloniki Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Thessaloniki experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and early fall ideal for pleasant exploration. Knowing seasonal variations helps tailor your travel plans to ensure enjoyable experiences while sightseeing.

Dining in Thessaloniki: A Taste of the Local Flavors

Try the local specialty, 'Gyro', served at Drakoulis, where the slow-cooked meat and fresh ingredients create a taste profile that differs from the kebabs you might find in Istanbul. Enjoy the casual, vibrant atmosphere and the distinct use of Greek herbs and spices that reflects Thessaloniki's rich culinary heritage.

Istanbul - Thessaloniki operators

Explore transport companies operating between Istanbul and Thessaloniki, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Istanbul Airport to Thessaloniki Airport

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$140-550
Website
en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Istanbul Airport to Thessaloniki Airport

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$140-550
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
0700 20 544
Website
ardatur.bg

Bus from Istanbul Esenler Otogari to Thessaloniki Monastiriou Bus Stop

Average Duration
9h 45m
Estimated price
$30-50
Contact phone
0850 222 34 55
Website
metroturizm.com.tr

Bus from Istanbul Otogari to Thessaloniki

Average Duration
11h 45m
Estimated price
$16-25
Contact phone
+90 212 658 18 51
Website
alparturizm.com.tr

Bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki Macedonia KTEL Bus Station

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
$26-40

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

Traveling between Istanbul and Thessaloniki 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 picturesque road trip from Istanbul to Thessaloniki spanning 369 miles of diverse landscapes and charming vistas. 💸 The journey by car offers flexibility in pricing, with options ranging from €111 to €166 to reach the captivating city of Thessaloniki with ease. ⏱️ Enjoy a seamless 6-hour and 37-minute drive, immersing yourself in the cultural richness that awaits in Thessaloniki, making it a perfect blend of adventure and exploration.
Average price
€111 - €166
🛫 Flying from Istanbul to Thessaloniki is a convenient and quick option with a direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 20 minutes. 🛬 The total duration of the flight from Istanbul to Thessaloniki is approximately 2 hours and 46 minutes, offering a speedy way to travel between these two vibrant cities in Turkey and Greece. The ticket prices for this route can range from €131 to €357, depending on the airline and time of booking.
Departure Point
Istanbul Airport
Arrival Point
Thessaloniki Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Turkish Airlines for convenient direct service, which often provides meals and complimentary soft drinks, enhancing your travel experience.
• Upon arrival at Thessaloniki Airport, follow the clearly marked signs to baggage claim, as this can be a bit congested; it’s wise to allocate extra time if you’re planning to catch a taxi or a shuttle into the city.
• Expect to pay approximately €25-€35 for a taxi ride from Thessaloniki Airport to the city center, and remember to have cash on hand, as not all taxis accept credit cards; also, check the local transport options through the Thessaloniki public transport website for additional commuting options.
🚌 Depart from Istanbul Esenler Otogari to Thessaloniki Monastiriou Bus Stop for a approximately 9 hours and 45 minutes journey by bus with Arda Tur. 💰 Prices for the bus ride between Thessaloniki and Istanbul range from €15 to €37, making it an affordable and convenient way to explore these two beautiful cities.
Departure Point
Istanbul Esenler Otogari station
Arrival Point
Thessaloniki Monastiriou Bus Stop station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the latest schedule and availability with Arda Tur and other operators like Metro Turizm and Kamil Koç before your trip, as changes may occur; you can find schedules and book tickets at Arda Tur, Metro Turizm, and Kamil Koç.
• Bring snacks and drinks for the journey, as the bus may not have food options available; popular local snacks from Istanbul are simit or Turkish delight, which are easy to pack.
• Upon arrival at Thessaloniki Monastiriou Bus Stop, look for signs directing you to local transport; it's well-connected, and you can easily catch a taxi or a bus to the city center; the nearby bus stop for city buses is useful, and you can find more information at Thessaloniki Public Transport.

Trips from Istanbul