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Flights to Istanbul

Cheap flights to Istanbul from $468

This is the cheapest round-trip flight price found by a momondo user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to Istanbul departing on 4/28. Fares may change, and may not be available for all flights or travel dates. Click the price to refresh the search for this deal.
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Cheap Istanbul flight deals and tips

Summary info about Istanbul flight prices, duration and airlines

Best One-Way Price

$196

Best Round-Trip Price

$468

Fastest flight time

14h 55m
The best one-way flight price to Istanbul from United States in the last 72 hours is $196 (New York John F Kennedy Intl to Istanbul).
The best round-trip flight price to Istanbul from United States in the last 72 hours is $468 (Los Angeles to Istanbul).
The fastest flight to Istanbul from United States takes 14h 55m (New York John F Kennedy Intl to Istanbul).

Istanbul flights insights and trends

Explore insights for your Istanbul flight to craft the best travel plan

What is the cheapest month to fly to Istanbul?

In general, January is the cheapest month to fly from United States to Istanbul. Due to it being the ‘off-season’ during this time, you can expect flight prices to be around $864. If you aren’t able to travel to Istanbul during the month of January, then flying in February is also cheap. Prices for this month can be found on momondo for an average of $896.

What is the absolute cheapest flight to Istanbul?

Users booking trips to Istanbul from Gazipaşa found flights 86% cheaper than the average price of flights to Istanbul. To find the cheapest price to Istanbul from your area, use momondo’s Airport-to-Airport Pricing Tool.
See prices from:

What is the cheapest day to depart on your flight to Istanbul?

The cheapest day to depart from United States to Istanbul is on a Tuesday when prices can be found for as low as $1,033. Be sure to avoid booking your departure on a Friday as prices are generally higher than usual. According to our data, the average ticket price to Istanbul on Friday is $1,117.

What is the cheapest time of day to depart on your flight to Istanbul?

Our most recent data shows that the best time of day to fly to Istanbul is in the afternoon. Flights from United States to Istanbul during this time can be as low as $867. If you have a flexible travel schedule, then try to avoid flying in the morning when prices are $1,136 on average. Flights to Istanbul from United States in the morning are generally more expensive because this time of day is more convenient for travelers’ schedules.

How long does it take to fly to Istanbul?

On average, it takes 13h 05m to fly from United States to Istanbul if you fly out of Los Angeles (the most popular airport in United States) and into Istanbul (the most popular airport in Istanbul). If you’re flying out of Miami and into Istanbul, then the flight time is around 11h 05m.

How far in advance should I book a flight to Istanbul?

We recommend purchasing flights from United States to Istanbul 52 days ahead of your departure date because this is when momondo users tend to see the best flight rates. On average, our users have found flights to Istanbul for $1,038. In the past 72 hours, momondo users found flights from United States to Istanbul for as low as $956.

Cheapest flights to Istanbul airports

Find the cheapest flights to these Istanbul airports from your nearest city or airport
Los Angeles
Istanbul Airport

CHEAPEST ROUTE FROM Los Angeles TO Istanbul

Los Angeles (LAX) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

Typically, flights to Istanbul from Los Angeles are cheaper when flying from Los Angeles to Istanbul, which has an average price of $1,194

CHEAPEST MONTH TO FLY TO ISTANBUL FROM LOS ANGELESJanuary17% cheaperFlying from Los Angeles to Istanbul costs on average just $1,001 in January
MOST EXPENSIVE MONTH TO FLY TO ISTANBUL FROM LOS ANGELESJune32% more expensiveIt costs about $1,580 for flights to Istanbul from Los Angeles in June
MOST POPULAR MONTH TO FLY TO ISTANBUL FROM LOS ANGELESJune347% more users visitedMore momondo users searched in flights to Istanbul from Los Angeles in June than any other month

Frequently asked questions about flying to Istanbul

Istanbul’s strategic position, straddling Europe and Asia across the Bosporus strait, means that cultural influences from diverse groups can be found in this fascinating city. If you visit during the summer, be prepared for daily high temperatures of 78 – 84 degrees Fahrenheit, and huge crowds at the attractions. Reserve your flights and rooms in advance if you plan to come during the summer. You might consider planning your trip for either spring or fall, as these shoulder seasons offer comfortable temperatures, slightly fewer tourists and a plethora of interesting festivals and events. If you don’t mind cold temperatures and rain, a winter visit offers the best opportunity for cheap accommodation and flights to Istanbul. You can expect average daily highs of 47 – 52 degrees Fahrenheit in December – February, so bring a warm coat.

When is the best time to plan a beach trip to Istanbul?

Visitors planning their vacations to Istanbul should book their flights for July or August if they are planning on visiting Kilyos Beach. For those looking to visit another area beach, Florya Plaji is a great option in the Istanbul area.

Is there an alternative airport near Istanbul?

Those flying to Istanbul could potentially find better pricing at Istanbul Airport (21 mi from Istanbul city center), Tekirdağ Corlu Airport (55 mi from Istanbul city center), İzmit Cengiz Topel Airport (61 mi from Istanbul city center) or Bursa Yenişehir Airport (62 mi from Istanbul city center) depending on the month and departure airport.

Is there a cheaper alternative to flying into Istanbul?

The cheapest airport near Istanbul is typically Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport with an average price of $235/person. These prices vary based on where travelers are coming from. It is suggested that travelers looking to save money try momondo’s Airport-to-Airport Pricing Tool.

Are there flights to Fatih?

Yes, if you fly to Istanbul in Istanbul which is the closest available airport to Fatih (20.3 mi away).

What’s the closest airport to Taksim Square?

Istanbul airport is 20.8 mi from Taksim Square in Istanbul, making it the closest airport.

When did momondo last update prices for flights to Istanbul?

Prices for flights to Istanbul are refreshed on a daily basis.

How many operators does momondo search for flights to Istanbul?

How old do you have to be to fly to Istanbul?

Although the minimum age for a child to fly alone is five, airlines that offer an unaccompanied minor (UMNR) service may have their own age limits, which could be impacted by factors such as flight length, timing, and layovers. It is recommended that you verify with the airline you are booking with for travel to Istanbul.

What documentation or ID do you need to fly to Istanbul?

The travel and health documents required for your trip to Istanbul can vary based on your itinerary and personal situation. As a rule, consider having multiple documents such as a national ID card or driver’s license, and a passport valid for six-months after you plan to arrive at Istanbul. We always recommend checking with your airline or a trusted third party such as IATA to get advice.


Istanbul flight deals found on momondo

Check out some of the best fares from airports in United States to Istanbul found recently by users on momondo
Multiple Airlines
Apr 28
LAX4:25 pmLos Angeles
25h 40m
1 stop
IST4:05 amIstanbul
May 17
IST11:20 pmIstanbul
53h 45m
2 stops
LAX7:05 pmLos Angeles
Multiple Airlines
Apr 28
LAX4:25 pmLos Angeles
25h 40m
1 stop
IST4:05 amIstanbul
May 21
IST4:50 amIstanbul
48h 15m
2 stops
LAX7:05 pmLos Angeles
Multiple Airlines
Apr 28
LAX4:25 pmLos Angeles
25h 40m
1 stop
IST4:05 amIstanbul
May 23
IST10:20 pmIstanbul
28h 25m
2 stops
LAX4:45 pmLos Angeles
Multiple Airlines
Apr 28
LAX4:25 pmLos Angeles
25h 40m
1 stop
IST4:05 amIstanbul
May 19
IST4:50 amIstanbul
48h 15m
2 stops
LAX7:05 pmLos Angeles
Multiple Airlines
Apr 28
LAX4:25 pmLos Angeles
25h 40m
1 stop
IST4:05 amIstanbul
May 19
IST4:50 amIstanbul
48h 15m
2 stops
LAX7:05 pmLos Angeles
Multiple Airlines
Apr 28
LAX4:25 pmLos Angeles
25h 40m
1 stop
IST4:05 amIstanbul
May 26
IST9:55 pmIstanbul
49h 35m
2 stops
LAX1:30 pmLos Angeles

Find the cheapest one-way flights to Istanbul

If you're looking for one-way flights from United States to Istanbul, view some of our deals below.
Multiple Airlines
May 5
JFK6:20 pmNew York John F Kennedy Intl
19h 20m
1 stop
IST8:40 pmIstanbul
Multiple Airlines
May 4
JFK1:30 amNew York John F Kennedy Intl
19h 35m
1 stop
IST4:05 amIstanbul
Multiple Airlines
May 5
JFK6:20 pmNew York John F Kennedy Intl
14h 55m
1 stop
IST4:15 pmIstanbul

How to travel around Istanbul

There are a multitude of options for getting around Istanbul, as you might expect of a large city that spans a waterway. It’s probably a good idea to avoid driving in the city; only rent a car if you are travelling further and require one. Traffic is very busy, and drivers here can be manic. Road signs are in Turkish, so unless you have an understanding of the language, leave the driving to the locals. Fortunately, there are many other choices for transport. For several modes, including ferries, trams, the metro, funicular or buses, you can purchase an Istanbulkart and save nearly 50% on the standard ticket price. They are available at ticket offices near transport stops and cost ₺10.00 TRY. You must load sufficient credit for travel.

Public Transportation

Each of these following transit options can be accessed with your Istanbulkart. Istanbul’s small but efficient metro system has 4 lines, including one that travels under the Bosporus. The Metrobus system offers 7 lines, a couple of which cross bridges from the European to the Asian side and back. They travel on dedicated bus lanes so are less affected by traffic jams. City buses are plentiful and cheap but can be crowded and prone to delay. Red and green buses require an Istanbulkart to ride, while the blue buses take cash. Trams and trolleys are also available, and travel between some of Istanbul’s best sights and attractions. There are also funiculars at several locations. These cabled rail lines are a unique mode of transport, often used for passage of steep inclines and sometimes travelling in tunnels. City operated ferries also travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. These slow ferries along with each of the above services can be accessed with your Istanbulkart, and fares are ₺2.60 TRY, as opposed to the usual ₺5, with additional transfers within a 2-hour journey window: ₺1.85 for the first transfer, ₺1.40 for the second, and ₺0.90 for all subsequent transfers. They can also be used to pay for fares for more than 1 traveler (1 swipe per person per ride).

Taxis

Taxis are readily available, and drivers are likely to approach you on the street, soliciting business. Your best bet is to have your concierge arrange for a taxi, unless you can communicate in Turkish. Taxi fares start at ₺3.35 TRY and rides up to 1.5 miles cost a fixed sum of ₺8.75 TRY. Bridge crossings of the Bosporus strait will also include tolls.

Dolmuş

Dolmuş are mini-van buses that travel on regular routes throughout the city. They carry around 10 people and don’t leave until they are full. They offer a good option for night transport that is much cheaper than a taxi. Prices are fixed, and usually around ₺2.25 TRY.

Fast ferries and sea taxis

Several companies offer fast ferry and sea taxi services to cross the Bosporus and get to various parts of Istanbul. These are more expensive than the city-operated ferries, but are an attraction themselves, and maybe worth the outlay if you consider them a sightseeing option.


Visa requirements for visiting Istanbul

U.S. citizens need to obtain their visa prior to arrival in Turkey. Visa applications can be submitted at Turkish missions abroad, or online through the e-Visa application system. For foreign nationals, please check the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.


Best things to do and see in Istanbul

Things to do and places of interest in Istanbul

The sheer number of fantastic sights and attractions in Istanbul can make it difficult to plan a thorough itinerary unless you’re here for a long visit. Here are our suggestions for your trip.

  • Visit the Hagia Sophia. This 537-dated structure was originally a Greek Orthodox church, then an imperial mosque. Today, it is a museum. Marvel at the amazing 141-foot wide, 213-foot high dome, and climb the spiral ramp to the gallery where you can gaze at the superb Byzantine mosaics.
  • The Topkapi Palace is an absolute must-see! This 15th-century dated complex was home to generations of sultans and their wives who were sequestered in the famous harem. Topkapi contains a treasury that puts the British crown jewels to shame, as well as stunning views over the Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Golden Horn.
  • Across the Sultanahmet square from the Hagia Sophia, you’ll see the Blue Mosque, an early 17th-century dated mosque boasting 6 minarets. Officially called Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it takes its common moniker from the blue tiles lining the impressive interior.
  • For outstanding views of the city, go to the top of the Galata Tower, located in Beyoğlu, the modern part of old Istanbul.
  • Tour the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, near Topkapi Palace. Here you can see the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great carved in incredible detail with scenes from his life.
  • For a taste of local nightlife, check out the Ortakoy, a neighborhood full of nightclubs and bars where Istanbul’s young and trendy gather. You’ll find it in the shadow of the Bosporus bridge.

Tips and tricks for visiting Istanbul

Don’t stay in the Taksim area if you’re looking for peace and quiet. The old buildings offer no respite from late night noise booming out from the clubs. However, if you’re looking to party, it’s the place to be!

To avoid being cheated by a taxi driver, always carry small bills so you can give them the exact fare and count it out from OUTSIDE of the taxi. If the driver insists you owe him more, ask to see his license, take a picture of it, and write down the license number.


Why use momondo?

Why should I use momondo to find a flight deal to Istanbul?

momondo compares prices from hundreds of airlines and agents so you can find and book the best deal on flights to Istanbul. Millions of users trust and use momondo every year so you are in good company.

Can I find flights to Istanbul with flexible booking policies on momondo?

Flights to Istanbul with flexible booking policies can be found by using the search form above and then selecting our dedicated flexible booking filter, which will highlight only the flights where this policy is applied.

How can momondo help me find flights to Istanbul?

momondo offers useful filters to help you find the right flight. Choose specific flight times, airports or even what payment method you prefer. We have numerous options to help you book your ideal flight to Istanbul.

I’m not ready to book a flight to Istanbul right now. Can momondo alert me if prices change?

Price alerts on flights to Istanbul are quick and easy to set up on momondo. Simply perform a search and select the price alert feature. It is as simple as that.


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