$68 Cheap Flights from London to Istanbul
One-way
Departing from
London
Going to
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul (IST)
Turkey • February, 2026
85% AI deal score
$705 $281
Istanbul (IST)
Turkey • February, 2026
85% AI deal score
$705 $281
Istanbul (IST)
Turkey • February, 2026
84% AI deal score
$705 $285
Istanbul (IST)
Turkey • April, 2026
83% AI deal score
$740 $188
Top Cheap Flight Deals from London to Istanbul
Recent round-trip flight deals to Istanbul
Thu, Mar 19 - Fri, Mar 20
Cheapest
London (LGW) - Istanbul (IST)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
Istanbul (IST) - London (LGW)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
$185
$68
-$117
63%
Wed, Mar 11 - Thu, Mar 12
London (LGW) - Istanbul (IST)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
Istanbul (IST) - London (LGW)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
$185
$68
-$117
63%
Mon, Feb 9 - Wed, Feb 11
London (LGW) - Istanbul (IST)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
Istanbul (IST) - London (LGW)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
$118
$68
-$50
42%
Fri, Mar 13 - Sun, Mar 15
London (LGW) - Istanbul (IST)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
Istanbul (IST) - London (LGW)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
$185
$68
-$117
63%
Tue, Mar 10 - Thu, Mar 12
London (LGW) - Istanbul (IST)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
Istanbul (IST) - London (LGW)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
$185
$68
-$117
63%
Fri, Mar 13 - Tue, Mar 17
London (LGW) - Istanbul (IST)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
Istanbul (IST) - London (LGW)
Eastwind Airlines airlines • Direct
$185
$68
-$117
63%
The cheapest time to fly to Istanbul
Ready to jet to Istanbul on a budget? Check out these popular routes with surprisingly cheap fares (one-way prices):
Facts About Flights from London 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.
IST Airport Deal Stats
Current most discounted routes
Avg. most discounted routes (last 3 months)
IST airport insights
Best days to catch a deal
Sat, Wed
The best chance to snag a deal for Istanbul Airport appears to be on Fridays, as it has the lowest count. Saturday and Wednesday also show a higher number of deals, suggesting prices may be more competitive on those days compared to the rest of the week.
Avg. deal survival time
16.4 hours
Deals for Istanbul Airport typically last around 16.4 hours. You'll need to act fast to secure these fleeting offers.
Rare deal frequency
16 deals
We discovered 16 rare flight deals for Istanbul Airport in the last month alone. These rare deals had an AI Deal Score of 90+, typically resulting from mistake fares, special promotions, or ultra-discounts.
Average price drop
-83%
On average, flights to Istanbul Airport experience a price drop of 83.4%, making it a potentially great destination for budget-conscious travelers. Keep an eye on flight prices to take advantage of these significant savings.
Next 4 weeks: deal forecast
Istanbul Airport Flight Forecast - Next Month
Based on current trends, flight prices to Istanbul Airport are expected to remain stable in January 2026, with a slight chance of a minor price increase due to the holiday season extending into the new year.
Top 5 biggest price drops (last 3 months)
Found on December 19
Bristol - IST
$1,085 → $47
96%
Found on December 19
Melbourne - IST
$6,900 → $535
92%
Found on December 18
Nottingham - IST
$1,060 → $121
89%
Found on December 21
Cardiff - IST
$1,290 → $141
89%
Found on December 24
San Salvador - IST
$3,225 → $366
89%
Check these nearby airports too
Looking for more options? These airports near IST sometimes drop rare deals too:
Adnan Menderes (ADB)
~3 rare deals/month
Esenboğa International (ESB)
~6 rare deals/month
Nevşehir Kapadokya (NAV)
~3 rare deals/month
If you’re flexible with departure cities, it’s worth keeping an eye on nearby airports — especially ADB and ESB for long-haul deal surprises.
When Is the Best Time to Fly from London 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!
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!
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
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Istanbul Weather
Weather in Istanbul
Wed, Dec 24
10%
14° 8°
10%
Thu, Dec 25
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Istanbul
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!
