- Must visit
Istanbul Modern
Leading contemporary art museum on the Bosphorus with strong Turkish and international exhibitions in a landmark waterfront building.
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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 $70. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $70, and a flight costs an average of $70.
Distance: 347 miles (560 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|
$164 Average price Cheapest | $325 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 1m Average total duration Fastest 3h 1m 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 $164 (€131).
The fastest way to travel from Athens to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 1m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 15h 24m.
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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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 $70 (€56)
Distance 347 miles (560 km) |
Average bus duration 15h 24m |
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 $70 (€56)
Bus providers: ArdaTur from Athens to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Athens to Istanbul with ArdaTur for as low as $70 (€56). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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.
Entertaiment on board
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.
- Must visit
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Major archaeology museum complex displaying masterpieces from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world.
- Must visit
Kariye Museum
Restored church-museum famed for exceptional Byzantine mosaics and frescoes that rival the city’s most celebrated monuments.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic square between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, ideal for walking among Istanbul’s greatest imperial monuments.
- Must visit
İstiklal Avenue
Lively pedestrian avenue lined with historic passages, shops, consulates, and culture venues in the heart of Beyoğlu.
- Must visit
Galata Neighborhood
Historic uphill quarter around the tower with narrow lanes, old facades, and photogenic walks toward Karaköy.
Adana Kebab
Grilled minced lamb kebab from southeastern Turkey, served with vegetables and lavash. A staple in Istanbul kebab houses and a classic local favorite.
- Gluten-free
Midye Dolma
Rice pilaf, currants, pine nuts, and herbs stuffed into mussel shells. A famous Istanbul street food, especially along waterfront districts.
- Vegetarian
Baklava
Layers of thin dough with pistachios or walnuts and syrup. An Ottoman dessert strongly associated with Istanbul's historic sweet shops.
Matbah Restaurant
Historic Sultanahmet restaurant known for refined Ottoman dishes and elegant service in a classic setting near major sights.
Asmalı Cavit
Beloved meyhane in Beyoğlu serving classic meze, rakı, and seasonal seafood in a lively, traditional tavern environment.
Balıkçı Sabahattin
Established Bosphorus fish restaurant known for fresh seafood, meze, and water views. A polished choice for a classic Istanbul dinner.
Turkish lira (₺)
Moderate for major city breaks: dining and transit are reasonable, but central hotels and tourist areas cost more than many nearby Turkish destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ₺250-450 for street food or simple lokanta meal.
- Mid-range
- ₺600-1,200 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ₺1,500+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- ₺90-160 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 5-10% if service not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.
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 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:
- 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.
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:
- 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.
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.
No, there is no 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:
- 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:
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Athens to Istanbul.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Athens to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Athens to Istanbul.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Athens to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur.
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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