- Must visit
Topkapı Palace Museum
Former imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans, known for its courtyards, treasury, sacred relics, and Bosphorus views.
No buses found
We are not able to find a bus between these two places.
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Athens to IstanbulShowing times and prices for Jul 08
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Athens to Istanbul bus with ArdaTur
Travel Information
Compare flight for Athens to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Athens to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $55, and a flight costs an average of $55.
Distance: 347 miles (560 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|
$136 Average price Cheapest | $313 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 0m Average total duration Fastest 3h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Athens to Istanbul is a flight with an average price of $136 (€112).
The fastest way to travel from Athens to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 0m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 16h 0m.
Yes, you can take a flight between Athens and Istanbul.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Athens to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Athens to Istanbul by flight
Compare flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Athens to Istanbul buses with Omio?
ArdaTur as well as Infobus offer buses services from Athens to Istanbul.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ArdaTur tickets.
Why book with Omio vs ArdaTur?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ArdaTur, but also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Istanbul.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Athens to Istanbul
Greece
Turkey
Take a bus from Athens to Istanbul and enjoy the approximately 347 miles (560 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $55 (€45)
Distance 347 miles (560 km) |
Average bus duration 16h 0m |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 63 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $55 (€45)
Bus providers: ArdaTur, Infobus from Athens to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Athens to Istanbul with ArdaTur, Infobus for as low as $55 (€45). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
ArdaTur
About
ArdaTur is a bus company based in Haskovo, Bulgaria, established in 1991. It offers extensive bus services across seven countries, including Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Germany. ArdaTur operates over 233 daily departures, primarily from major cities like Istanbul, Sofia, and Thessaloniki, providing both intercity and regional routes. The company emphasizes passenger comfort with amenities such as Wi-Fi, restrooms, individual monitors, and complimentary food and drinks on international lines. ArdaTur maintains a modern fleet of over 80 luxury buses and has its own garage and service facility to ensure vehicle reliability and safety.
Luggage & cancellation policy
ArdaTur frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Additional luggage
Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
Refund
If the trip is delayed through the fault of the carrier, 100% of the ticket value and compensation for direct costs to the place of departure will be refunded with supporting documents.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are possible when buying a ticket or at Arda Tur offices up to 24 hours before departure during weak periods and 72 hours during busy periods.
Toilets
Accessibility
Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Bikes
Only foldable bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Istanbul
Things to do in Istanbul
Discover the best of Istanbul — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Istanbul trip today.
- Recommended
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Major museum complex with outstanding collections from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world, including the Alexander Sarcophagus.
- Recommended
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
Set in the former Ibrahim Pasha Palace, this museum is noted for carpets, calligraphy, woodwork, and ethnographic displays.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic heart of the old city, surrounded by Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and major Byzantine and Ottoman monuments.
- Must visit
Istiklal Avenue
Istanbul’s best-known pedestrian avenue, lined with historic buildings, shops, passages, galleries, and lively street life.
- Recommended
Galataport
Redeveloped waterfront promenade with public art, Bosphorus views, and strong recent popularity among visitors and social media users.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Simit
A ring-shaped bread coated with sesame seeds, sold by street vendors and bakeries. It is a classic Istanbul breakfast snack and everyday staple.
Balık Ekmek
A famous Istanbul street food of grilled fish served in bread with salad and onion, especially associated with the Eminönü waterfront.
İskender Kebap
Thinly sliced döner meat over pide bread with tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt. It is one of Türkiye’s best-known hearty meat dishes.
Mikla
One of Istanbul’s landmark fine dining restaurants, known for contemporary Turkish cuisine, tasting menus, and panoramic city views.
Karaköy Lokantası
A well-known modern lokanta serving refined Turkish classics and meze in an elegant but lively setting in Karaköy.
Hamdi Restaurant
A famous long-running restaurant near Eminönü known for kebabs, lahmacun, and wide views over the Historic Peninsula.
Turkish lira
Moderate for most tourists. Food and transit are good value, while hotels in central areas can be costly.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- TRY 150-300 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- TRY 400-900 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- TRY 1,500+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- TRY 80-150 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Around 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated for hotel staff and delivery drivers.
Istanbul Senin
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 27 TRY
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
İstanbul Havalimanı, Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1, Istanbul -> Sirkeci Station, Istanbul
- Distance
- 41 km
- Travel time
- 55 min
- Use an Istanbulkart for Metro, Tram, Ferry and Bus travel; single-use paper tickets cost more per ride.
- Card payment is generally not accepted directly on municipal buses and trams, so load credit onto an Istanbulkart in advance.
FAQs: Bus from Athens to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Istanbul by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
When taking a bus from Athens to Istanbul, you can count on ArdaTur, Infobus for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Athens and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, you can take a flight between Athens and Istanbul.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Athens to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- ArdaTur
- Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Athens to Istanbul for bus company ArdaTur, Infobus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Istanbul are:
- Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel that served as a church and mosque, now a museum
- Topkapi Palace, the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans with extensive collections of artifacts
- Blue Mosque, an iconic mosque known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets
- Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir featuring impressive columns and atmospheric lighting
- Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
The best things to do in Istanbul include:
- Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets offering a wide range of goods
- Bosphorus Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks
- Spice Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with exotic spices, sweets, and local delicacies
- Turkish Bath, experience a traditional hammam for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Explore Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street known for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Athens to Istanbul depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- ArdaTur
- Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company ArdaTur, Infobus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Athens to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Athens to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- ArdaTur
- One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Athens to Istanbul:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Athens to Istanbul. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Athens to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Athens to Istanbul with the following bus company: Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Athens to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur, Infobus.
Istanbul is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Athens will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Athens to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Türkiye uses the Turkish Lira (TRY) as its currency. Travelers often find cards widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases, local markets, and rural regions where card acceptance may be limited.
In Istanbul, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides without a meter, unofficial tour guides offering expensive or fake services, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, agree on prices beforehand, and stay vigilant in busy areas to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular bus connections from Athens
More options for your journey from Athens to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Athens
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
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