1map logoGo to main page

Istanbul, Istanbul Province to Bucharest, Bucharest region from $17: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Istanbul, Turkey
to
Bucharest, Romania

How to Get from Istanbul to Bucharest: 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.

$17 by trainBest price
455.3 kmDistance
8h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Istanbul to Bucharest 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
Bus
Average Duration
3h  3m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
16h  32m
Estimated price
$17-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 455.3 km
Duration: 8h 34m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Bulgarian Railways (BDZh)
Train
Average Duration
18h  31m
Estimated price
$20-44
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  27m
Estimated price
$53-72
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  34m
Estimated price
$100-150
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
10h  11m
Estimated price
$269-372

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $40 $40 $40 $40 $40 $40 $40
Fly $73 $75 $68 $82 $73 $84 $82
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Istanbul to Bucharest

Embarking on a journey from Istanbul to Bucharest reveals a fascinating contrast between Istanbul's vibrant, bustling streets steeped in history and Bucharest's charming blend of classical architecture and modern flair.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bucharest

Bucharest boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct atmosphere and charm.

Lipscani
• Vibrant nightlife with trendy bars and clubs.
• Rich history with beautifully restored buildings.
Victoriei
• Home to several museums and cultural institutions.
• Elegant architecture from the early 20th century.
Cotroceni
• Peaceful streets with beautiful gardens and parks.
• Features the impressive Cotroceni Palace.

Best Times To Visit Bucharest's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your Bucharest experience significantly.

Palace of the Parliament
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds.
Old Town (Lipscani)
Weekdays are quieter, making strolling through the streets more enjoyable.
Herastrau Park
Late afternoon in spring offers a peaceful escape with fewer visitors.

Bucharest Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bucharest experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and early fall the best times to explore the city comfortably. Weather can greatly influence your travel experience, from enjoying outdoor cafes in pleasant temperatures to dressing warmly for winter festivities.

Dining Recommendation in Bucharest

Try the traditional Romanian dish, sarmale, which are cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice, offering a distinct flavor profile compared to the rich spices of Istanbul's cuisine. Dining at a local restaurant like Caru' cu Bere immerses you in a lively atmosphere adorned with stunning architecture, showcasing Romania's unique culinary heritage.

Istanbul - Bucharest operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from İstanbul Esenler bus station to Bucharest

Average Duration
10h 10m
Estimated price
$50-75
Contact phone
+359 (0) 885754058
Website
https://burgasbus.info

Bus from Istanbul to Burgas South

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$18-23
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
https://www.bdz.bg/en

Train from Halkali to Gara Bucureşti Nord

Average Duration
14h 44m
Estimated price
$15-35

Train from Halkali to Bucureşti

Average Duration
16h 44m
Estimated price
$17-40
Plane Show flights
Website
tarom.ro

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Bucharest Otopeni (OTP)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$95-360
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Bucharest Otopeni (OTP)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$95-360
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+4-0723-201.555
Website
nikaromgroup.autogari.ro

Other from Bucuresti to Acumulatorul

Average Duration
12m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+359 89 345 5533
Website
https://atlastaxi.eu

Other from Burgas to Bucharest

Average Duration
4h 41m
Estimated price
$250-350

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

Traveling between Istanbul and Bucharest 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 exciting road trip from Istanbul to Bucharest, covering a distance of 396 miles. The journey promises stunning landscapes and a mix of cultural experiences along the way. 💰 Prices for the car trip from Istanbul to Bucharest range from €92 to €138, making it a cost-effective way to explore these vibrant cities at your own pace. 🏛️ Arrive in Bucharest after an approximate 8-hour and 34-minute drive, ready to discover the rich history, impressive architecture, and warm hospitality of the Romanian capital.
Average price
€92 - €138
🚂 Starting from Istanbul, travelers can embark on a scenic train journey to Bucharest with a travel time of approximately 16 hours and 32 minutes. Although there is no direct train route, passengers will make transfers at Halkali and Gara de Nord stations along the way. 🌍 The train services between Istanbul and Bucharest are operated by Bulgarian Railways, offering a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation for those looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Turkey and Romania. With a range of ticket prices varying from €17 to €36, this journey provides an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.
Departure Point
Halkali station
Arrival Point
Gara Bucureşti Nord station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the train route from Istanbul to Bucharest include catering options with a dining car where you can purchase meals and drinks. The menu varies, but you can generally expect a mix of Turkish and Romanian dishes, along with international options. Be sure to check the available services at the beginning of your journey to plan your meals!
• The train offers several seating options tailored to your comfort: First Class seats provide spacious arrangements with reclining options and access to premium services. Business Class offers a good balance of comfort and price, with reserved seating and more legroom. Economy Class features standard seating, which is still comfortable but less spacious. If you prefer priority boarding and better amenities, consider upgrading to First or Business Class.
• There are multiple operators for the Istanbul to Bucharest route, including the Turkish State Railways (TCDD) and CFR Calatori. You can check schedules and book tickets through their websites: TCDD (tcdd.gov.tr) and CFR Calatori (cfrcalatori.ro).
🛫 Flying from Istanbul Airport to Bucharest Otopeni Airport is a convenient and quick way to travel between Turkey and Romania. The direct flight offered by Turkish Airlines and Tarom takes only 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a popular choice for travelers.
Departure Point
Istanbul Airport
Arrival Point
Bucharest Otopeni Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Check your luggage policy with both Turkish Airlines and Tarom, as they have different allowances and fees, especially for carry-on items, and this can save you from unexpected charges.
• Upon arrival at Bucharest Otopeni Airport, follow the clear signage to the exit and be prepared for a quick passport control process, as it usually moves relatively fast; downloading the Bucharest Airport app can help with real-time updates and navigation.
• Expect to pay around 50-70 RON (approximately 10-15 EUR) for a taxi from Otopeni Airport to the city center; consider using the official taxi booths located in the arrivals area to avoid any scams and ensure a fair rate.
🚌 The bus journey from Istanbul to Bucharest takes approximately 10 hours and 27 minutes, offering a scenic route through various landscapes. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between the two cities range from €49 to €66, providing travelers with budget-friendly transportation options.

Trips from Istanbul

Trips to Bucharest