Flights to and from Istanbul

About Istanbul

Istanbul, the vibrant metropolis bridging Europe and Asia, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and bustling bazaars. It serves as Turkey's economic, cultural, and historic heart, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Travelers to Istanbul can immerse themselves in the city's captivating blend of ancient and modern attractions, from the iconic Hagia Sophia and majestic Blue Mosque to the lively Grand Bazaar and vibrant Taksim Square.

Istanbul's two international airports, Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), ensure excellent connectivity with destinations worldwide, while the city's efficient public transportation network makes exploring its treasures a breeze.

Popular Landmarks in Istanbul

• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapı Palace
• Blue Mosque
• Grand Bazaar
• Bosphorus Strait
• Taksim Square
• Galata Tower
• Dolmabahçe Palace
• Spice Bazaar
• Istiklal Avenue

Istanbul Airports

Istanbul is served by two major airports:

• Istanbul Airport (IST): Located on the European side of the city, Istanbul Airport is one of the largest airports in the world and serves as Turkey's main international gateway.
• Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW): Situated on the Asian side, Sabiha Gökçen Airport primarily handles domestic and regional flights, providing convenient access to Istanbul's Asian neighborhoods.

Airlines Serving Istanbul

Istanbul's airports are served by a diverse range of airlines, offering flights to destinations across the globe. Some of the major airlines operating at IST and SAW include:

• Turkish Airlines
• Pegasus Airlines
• AnadoluJet
• Corendon Airlines
• SunExpress
• Lufthansa
• Qatar Airways
• Emirates
• British Airways
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Transportation from Istanbul Airports

Both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) offer various transportation options to reach the city center and beyond:

• Shuttle Buses: Shuttle services operate between the airports and key locations in Istanbul, providing affordable and convenient transportation.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at both airports, offering a door-to-door service to travelers.
• Metro: Istanbul Airport is connected to the city's metro network, providing a fast and efficient way to reach central Istanbul.
• Car Rentals: Several car rental companies have desks at both airports, offering flexibility for travelers who prefer to explore Istanbul by car.

Hotels in Istanbul

For travelers requiring accommodation near Istanbul's airports, several hotels offer convenient options:

• YOTEL Istanbul Airport: Located within Istanbul Airport, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and convenient access to flights.
• Hilton Garden Inn Istanbul Airport: Situated near Istanbul Airport, this hotel provides modern amenities and a complimentary shuttle service.
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Istanbul Airport: Offering luxurious accommodation and a range of dining options, this hotel is ideal for travelers transiting through Istanbul Airport.
• Courtyard by Marriott Istanbul Airport: Providing stylish rooms and convenient amenities, this hotel offers a comfortable stay near Istanbul Airport.
• Hampton by Hilton Istanbul Ataturk Airport: Located near Ataturk Airport, this hotel offers modern rooms and easy access to the airport terminals.

Best Day to Book Flights to Istanbul

For the best deals on flights to Istanbul, consider booking your tickets on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Airlines often release new fares and adjust prices mid-week, making these days ideal for finding lower prices. Additionally, booking your flight at least 2-3 months in advance can help you secure better rates. Monitoring airfare trends and setting up price alerts can also assist in finding the most affordable options for your journey to Istanbul.

Popular Connecting Flights from Istanbul

Istanbul's airports serve as major hubs for connecting flights to destinations worldwide. Some of the most popular connecting routes from IST and SAW include:

• Istanbul to London (LHR): Connecting flights to London Heathrow Airport provide access to the United Kingdom and Europe.
• Istanbul to Dubai (DXB): Flights connecting to Dubai International Airport offer onward connections to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
• Istanbul to Paris (CDG): Connecting flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport provide access to France and continental Europe.
• Istanbul to Frankfurt (FRA): Flights connecting to Frankfurt Airport offer access to Germany and onward connections within Europe.
• Istanbul to New York (JFK): Connecting flights to New York's JFK Airport provide access to the United States and beyond.

Top Days to Book Flights to Istanbul

Booking flights strategically can significantly cut down your travel costs to Istanbul. Industry insights suggest that mid-week days like Tuesday and Wednesday are the best for finding affordable flight deals. Here are some useful tips to help you get the best prices for your trip to Istanbul:

• Book on Tuesdays and Wednesdays: Airlines frequently release promotions on Monday nights, making Tuesday and Wednesday ideal for snagging the best prices.
• Fly on Weekdays: Traveling on weekdays, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often results in lower fares compared to weekends.
• Utilize Price Alerts: Set up price alert tools to track flight prices and receive notifications when they drop for your desired travel dates.
• Stay Flexible with Dates: Flexibility with your travel dates can help you take advantage of lower fares. Consider shifting your trip by a day or two for better rates.
• Book Early: Booking your flight well in advance can help you secure lower prices. Last-minute bookings tend to be more costly.
• Avoid High-Demand Periods: Avoid booking flights during peak seasons, such as holidays and school breaks, when prices are usually higher.
• Search in Incognito Mode: When searching for flights online, use incognito mode or clear your browser cookies to prevent price hikes based on your search history.