Cheap Flights to Istanbul
One-way
Departing from
Indianapolis
Going to
Istanbul, Turkey
This is the lowest one-way flight price found by RatePunk users in the last 24 hours for a flight departing from Istanbul. Fares are subject to change and may not be available for all dates. (Data last updated 11/6/2025).
Popular airlines to Istanbul
ITA Airways
British Airways
Ryanair
Flydubai
KLM
Lufthansa
Air Fiji
Qatar Airways
Flight deals up to 90% off
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Facts About Flights to Istanbul
To help you plan your journey, here are some quick Istanbul flight facts and tips.
Istanbul city airports
Istanbul is served by two major international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the larger and newer of the two, having replaced Atatürk Airport as the primary international gateway. IST boasts a massive capacity, modern facilities, and a wide range of international connections, making it a global hub. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), located further from the city center, is a popular choice for budget airlines and domestic flights, but it also offers a growing number of international routes. SAW generally experiences less congestion and can be a convenient option depending on your destination and airline. Both airports offer various transportation options to reach the city center, including taxis, buses, and airport shuttles.
Pro tip: search “Istanbul (Any)” to see fares to all Istanbul airports – sometimes one is cheaper than the others on your dates.
Insights for flights to Istanbul
Cheapest airport
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)
Hey there, jet-setter! Looking for the most budget-friendly gateway to Istanbul? Look no further than Sabiha Gokcen (SAW), your wallet's new best friend. Located on the Asian side, SAW is known for its efficient service and a wide array of budget airlines, making it the perfect starting point for your Istanbul adventure without breaking the bank!
Nonstop vs. 1-stop
100+ cities
As a major travel hub, Istanbul efficiently links Europe and Asia, offering travelers numerous connection opportunities. Popular routes include those connecting to major European cities like London, Paris, and Frankfurt, as well as destinations in Asia such as Dubai and Singapore.
Number of airlines
80+ airlines
Istanbul is a vibrant hub served by over 80 airlines, connecting you to destinations far and wide; some popular choices include Turkish Airlines for full-service and Pegasus Airlines for budget-friendly travel.
Typical price range (round-trip)
300$ - 800$
Generally, flights to Istanbul can range from $300 to $800. Prices tend to increase during peak tourist seasons like summer and major holidays. Also, flights from farther locations are generally more expensive.
Flight frequency
500+ flights
Flights to Istanbul are available almost every day, but do note that during the summer months and around major holidays, you might see an increase in flight frequency due to higher demand. Also, flights are more frequent in the mornings and evenings.
When Is the Best Time to Fly to Istanbul
Timing is everything when hunting for cheap flights. Here are data-backed insights on the best times to fly to Istanbul:
Cheapest month
February
Cheapest month
If you're dreaming of minarets and Turkish delights without emptying your wallet, February is your golden ticket to Istanbul! This month offers the cheapest flights, letting you explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture with fewer crowds and lower prices. Just pack a coat, as it can be chilly, but the warm Turkish hospitality will surely make up for it!
Best day to book
Tuesday
Best day to book
Snagging the best flight deal to Istanbul might just depend on when you decide to book! Historically, Tuesday is the day when airlines release discounted tickets to fill up the planes. Keep an eye on prices and you might just find your dream trip at an unbelievable price. Happy travels!
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday
Cheapest days to fly
To save some serious dough on your trip to Istanbul, consider flying on a Wednesday! Mid-week flights are often less expensive due to lower demand from business travelers. You can use those extra savings to indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine or pick up some beautiful souvenirs!
Advance booking sweet spot
2 months
Advance booking sweet spot
To get the best deal on flights to Istanbul, booking around 2 months in advance can be a sweet spot! This timeframe usually allows you to grab lower prices before the last-minute surge. Booking ahead of time gives you more flight options and seat selection, too!
Seasonal considerations
Distinct
Seasonal considerations
Seasonal factors play a distinct role in flight prices to Istanbul! Summer months are pricier due to high tourist traffic. Meanwhile, winter offers cheaper fares, but be prepared for cooler weather! So, your travel dates can significantly affect your budget.
TL;DR: To sum it up, February is the cheapest month to fly to Istanbul. Booking on a Tuesday and flying on a Wednesday can save you money. Aim to book about 2 months in advance. Be aware that prices vary significantly depending on the season. Happy travels to the vibrant city where East meets West!
Istanbul Airports & Ground Transportation
One big question for travelers is which Istanbul airport to fly into. Here’s a quick guide to Istanbul’s airports and how to get to the city from each:
Istanbul Airport (IST)
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the primary international airport serving Istanbul, Turkey. A vast and modern facility, it offers a wide array of amenities including duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges to cater to every traveler's needs. Located approximately 50 kilometers northwest of the city center, it has good connections to Istanbul via taxis, shuttle services, and public transportation. The Havaist airport shuttles provide convenient and direct access to various points in the city. With its sheer size, allow extra time to navigate this major hub!
Tip: Navigating Istanbul Airport can be a trek, so wear comfortable shoes!
Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW)
Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) is on the Asian side of Istanbul, offering a convenient gateway to the eastern part of the city and beyond. While smaller than Istanbul Airport, SAW still boasts a good selection of shops, eateries, and services. Transportation to and from the city is facilitated by Havabus airport shuttles, public buses, and taxis. The airport is named after Sabiha Gökçen, the first female combat pilot in Turkey, adding a touch of history to your travels. Consider SAW if you're staying on the Asian side to save travel time!
Tip: If you're heading to the Asian side of Istanbul, Sabiha Gokcen is your best bet to avoid long transfers.
Other airports
While Istanbul boasts its own impressive airports, consider nearby options like Tekirdağ Çorlu Airport or even Bursa Yenişehir Airport for potentially cheaper flights! The downside? You'll need to factor in extra travel time and transportation costs to reach Istanbul, like a bus or private transfer, which can eat into any savings. However, if you're up for a mini-adventure and snag a truly great flight deal, the journey to Istanbul could be part of the fun!
Airport transfers
Navigating from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen Airport to the city center is a breeze with numerous options. Hop on the Havaist airport shuttle for a budget-friendly ride, grab a taxi for door-to-door service, or utilize the efficient metro and tram lines for a local experience. With so many choices, you'll be exploring Istanbul's wonders in no time!
What to Do in Istanbul
Istanbul isn’t just about getting there – it’s about enjoying the country once you arrive! Here are some top things to do in Istanbul, organized by interest:
Sightseeing & landmarks
Get ready to be transported back in time as you explore Istanbul's iconic landmarks! From the Hagia Sophia to the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, you'll be mesmerized by the rich history and stunning architecture around every corner.
Arts & culture
Immerse yourself in Istanbul's vibrant arts and culture scene. Discover traditional Turkish art, wander through contemporary galleries, and experience captivating performances that showcase the city's artistic soul.
Food & nightlife
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure in Istanbul! Indulge in delectable Turkish cuisine, from savory kebabs to sweet baklava, and experience the city's lively nightlife with rooftop bars and traditional taverns.
Shopping & fashion
Shop 'til you drop in Istanbul's bustling bazaars and trendy boutiques! Discover unique souvenirs, exquisite textiles, and the latest fashion trends as you explore the city's diverse shopping scene.
Nearby getaways
Escape the city buzz with a rejuvenating getaway to nearby gems like the Princes' Islands or Bursa. Explore charming towns, relax on pristine beaches, and immerse yourself in nature's beauty just a stone's throw away from Istanbul.
No matter your interest – be it art, food, nightlife, or nature – Istanbul has something for everyone. And the best part? Many events and attractions refresh throughout the year, so there’s always something new to experience each visit.
Events in Istanbul This Month
regional oil and gas conference
The Regional Oil and Gas Conference will be held at the Sheraton Istanbul City Center from November 27 to November 28, 2025. This event will bring together key figures to discuss the future of the oil and gas industry, explore new technologies, and foster collaboration.
eğlenceli cinayetler kumpanyası - şirket
Get tickets to see Eğlenceli Cinayetler Kumpanyası - Şirket performing live at Dada Salon Kabarett Istanbul in Tuzla on November 7, 2025.
rio - kuzey bölgesi
Get tickets to see Rio - Kuzey Bölgesi performing live at Beyoğlu Hayal Kahvesi in İstanbul on December 11, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Istanbul
(Have more questions?) Feel free to reach out or check our comprehensive Istanbul travel guide. We’re here to help make your flight to Istanbul (and the trip itself) as smooth as possible.
Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Istanbul
Finally, to wrap up, here’s a cheat sheet of pro tips that experienced travelers use to save on Istanbul flights:
Be Flexible With Your Dates: Istanbul is a year-round destination, but flying during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can save you a bundle. Plus, you'll dodge the peak summer crowds!
Consider Nearby Airports: Istanbul has two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Check both, as sometimes flying into one can be significantly cheaper!
Snag a Steal With Stopovers: Non-stop flights are convenient, but flights with a layover or two can seriously slash the price. Think of it as a mini-adventure along the way!
Fly Mid-Week for a Deal: Generally, flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be cheaper than those on weekends. So, adjust your travel days for potential savings!
Book in Advance (But Not Too Early!): While last-minute deals are rare, booking too far in advance might not be optimal either. Aim to book 2-3 months ahead for the sweet spot.
Mix and Match Airlines: Don't be afraid to fly to Istanbul with one airline and return with another. Sometimes combining airlines can unlock better deals.
Use Incognito Mode: Airlines and booking sites sometimes track your searches and may increase prices accordingly. Use incognito mode in your browser to avoid this.
Take Advantage of Budget Airlines: Several budget airlines fly to Istanbul. While they may charge extra for frills, the base fares can be incredibly low – perfect for savvy travelers!
Set Up Price Alerts on RatePunk: Let RatePunk do the work for you! Set up price alerts for your desired dates and destination, and get notified when prices drop. Never miss a bargain again!
Consider Package Deals: Sometimes booking your flight and hotel together as a package can be cheaper than booking them separately. Explore package deals to see if you can save!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to find the cheapest flights to Istanbul and make the most of your travel budget. After all, the more you save on your flight, the more you can spend on a Broadway show, a nice meal, or an extra tour in Istanbul! 🎉✈️
