Cheap flights to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey, sits right at the center of Asia and Europe, with an airport serving as one of the major hubs into these continents. Flight times to Istanbul primarily depend on the preferred airline and stopovers in between the flights. Direct flights from Doha, Qatar, range between 4h 10min-4h 45min, whereas one-stop flights take approximately 17h 5min.

Direct flights to Istanbul come from several neighboring countries, like Qatar, Ethiopia, and as far as Germany. The most popular flights come from Doha, Qatar (DOH); Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Air Arabia, and Royal Jordanian are airlines offering flights from Doha. Ethiopian Airlines dominates direct flights from Addis Ababa (ADD), with Turkish Airlines and Egypt Air flying the same route. From Dubai (DXB) fly nonstop with Emirates Airlines and Turkish Airlines.

Buses and taxi services connect Istanbul International Airport to the city center, costing you between QR 3.28-18.93 with a duration of 50-100min depending on the traffic levels; however, there is also a metro line and car hires available. Just outside every airport level there are airport taxi ranks, and depending on the time of travel, taxi fares vary but average QR 155.75. From the airport, two bus shuttles operate every 30-45 minutes, directly to and from the city center at a low cost of QR 12. The metro line in Istanbul is still in operation; from the airport, take the M11 to Gayrettepe, with an expected train swap to M2 taking you to Vezneciler Station, which is within walking distance to Sultanahmet Square, the city center. Renting a car is also an option available for more convenient and independent travel around the city and to the city center.

Istanbul is a city full of Turkish and European culture, offering a variety of things to see and experience. Although the city is famous for their renowned Blue Mosque, it also has hidden gems only a few know. One simply cannot afford to miss the delight of seeing the Topkapi Palace. For almost half a century, generations of sultans enjoyed residing within the four lush green courtyards of this pavilion. Enjoy a scenic ride around the city on the Bosphorus Cruise, sailing through the Asian and European shores displaying mansions and old places galore. End the day by enjoying Instanbul’s nightlife scene, with live local music, sipping on your favorite cold drink. With several establishments around the city, Turkey is also famous for its rejuvenating Hamam scrub, leaving your body refreshed and clean, you’ve got to try it.

Depending on the passport type, the purpose of your visit, and the country of origin, most travellers require some kind of visa to enter Istanbul, with different fees. Qatar passport holders qualify to obtain an e-visa, valid for 30-90 days. The e-visa is available for purchase online, with specific requirements for each country.

Flights to Istanbul have seen a 5% increase in demand compared to the previous year.

Istanbul Airport is IST. This code is created by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and airlines use IATA codes to identify the departing or arrival airports in the flight routes they service. Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), Bursa Yenişehir Airport (YEI), İzmit Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO), Tekirdag Corlu Airport (TEQ) are some additional IATA codes for airports related to your trip.