- Must visit
Istanbul Modern
Türkiye’s leading museum of modern and contemporary art on the Karaköy waterfront, known for major Turkish and international exhibitions.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Belgrade to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Belgrade to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $110.
Distance: 502 miles (809 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$47 Average price Cheapest | $231 Average price | $194 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 23m Average total duration 12h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration Fastest 2h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.8 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.4 - 4.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Belgrade to Istanbul is a bus with an average price of $47 (€38).
This is compared to other travel options from Belgrade to Istanbul:
A bus is $184 (€149) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Belgrade to Istanbul costing on average $231 (€187).
The fastest way to travel from Belgrade to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 26m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belgrade and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Belgrade to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $47 (€38) compared to roughly $194 (€157) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $147 (€119). The journey takes 12h 53m versus 9h 24m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by City Lines, Luks Yonca, Luks Yonca.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Belgrade to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Luks Yonca | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $47 |
Live departures
Belgrade to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Belgrade to Istanbul buses for today, Wednesday, June 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 12:00 PM Belgrade | 11h15 | 11:15 PM Istanbul | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Belgrade to Istanbul by bus or flight
Compare bus and 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 Belgrade to Istanbul buses with Omio?
City Lines as well as Luks Yonca or Luks Yonca offer buses services from Belgrade to Istanbul.
Omio is the only official third party seller for City Lines tickets.
Why book with Omio vs City Lines?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for City Lines, but also compare tickets for the likes of Luks Yonca or Luks Yonca to find the best option for your trip from Belgrade 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare City Lines with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Belgrade to Istanbul.
Why book with Omio over Busbud or Checkmybus?
- Official reseller: City Lines tickets can only be bought on Omio or City Lines's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for City Lines tickets. Busbud or Checkmybus do not sell City Lines tickets as they are not official sellers.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Belgrade to Istanbul.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Belgrade to Istanbul
Serbia
Turkey
Buses from Belgrade to Istanbul run on average 1 times per day, taking around 12h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:00, the last at 20:00. The fastest bus covers the 502 miles (809 km) distance in 11h 15m.
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
Distance 502 miles (809 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€38) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 11h 15m |
First bus 7:00 AM |
Last bus 8:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 77 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
Bus providers: City Lines, Luks Yonca from Belgrade to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Belgrade to Istanbul with City Lines, Luks Yonca for as low as $47 (€38). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
City Lines
About
"City Lines" can refer to several different bus companies. One prominent example is Citylines, a leading Bulgarian bus company headquartered in Sofia. It operates an extensive network of 44 routes, connecting 22 cities across Bulgaria and serving 9 European nations with an average of 19 trips daily. Citylines coaches offer amenities such as air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Another is Rochester City Lines, a family-owned and operated charter bus company in Minnesota, United States, providing services for college, corporate, event, religious, school, and workforce transportation. They offer a fleet including motorcoaches, minibuses, and executive vans. Historically, National City Lines, Inc. (NCL) was a significant public transportation holding company in the United States, founded in 1920. NCL acquired numerous local transit systems, often converting streetcar lines to bus operations, a practice sometimes referred to as "bustitution." Additionally, "City Line" is also the name of a bus rapid transit (BRT) line in Spokane, Washington, operated by the Spokane Transit Authority. This 6-mile route, which opened in 2023, utilizes modern, zero-emission battery-electric buses and connects key areas including downtown Spokane and the University District.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 0m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€50)
City Lines frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; must be booked in advance.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
Luks Yonca
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 30m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
Luks Yonca frequency
1 a day
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
Topkapı Palace Museum
The former Ottoman imperial palace with treasury, courtyards, and imperial collections that reveal centuries of court life.
- Recommended
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
A major complex of archaeology museums near Gülhane, famous for classical antiquities and artifacts from ancient civilizations.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
The historic heart of old Istanbul, surrounded by major monuments and ideal for first-time visitors exploring on foot.
- Must visit
Istiklal Avenue
The city’s best-known pedestrian avenue, lined with historic buildings, shops, passages, galleries, and constant urban energy.
- Recommended
Galataport Waterfront
A fashionable Bosphorus promenade in Karaköy that has become highly popular for strolling, views, and contemporary city atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Simit
A ring-shaped bread crusted with sesame seeds, widely eaten in Istanbul for breakfast or as a street snack with tea and cheese.
Balık Ekmek
A classic Istanbul street food of grilled fish served in bread with salad and onion, especially associated with the Eminönü waterfront.
- Gluten-free
Kuru Fasulye
A traditional Turkish stew of white beans, often cooked with butter or meat and commonly served with rice in Istanbul lokantas.
Mikla
One of Istanbul's best-known fine dining restaurants, blending Turkish ingredients with modern technique and offering panoramic city views.
Karaköy Lokantası
A stylish, established lokanta serving refined Turkish home-style dishes and meze, popular for both lunch and evening dining.
Hamdi Restaurant
Well-known terrace restaurant near Eminönü, famous for kebabs, pistachio specialties, and sweeping views over the Golden Horn.
Turkish Lira
Moderate for tourists: local food and transit are affordable, while hotels and upscale dining in central areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- TRY 150-300 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- TRY 400-900 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- TRY 1,500+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- TRY 80-180 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Around 5-10% in casual restaurants and 10% in nicer places. Round up taxis. Small tips for hotel staff are appreciated; not expected for fast food.
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
- 50 min
- Use an Istanbulkart for Metro, Tram, Ferry and Bus fares; single-use paper tickets cost more per ride.
- Card payment is generally not accepted onboard IETT buses and trams for regular fares, so load credit onto an Istanbulkart in advance.
FAQs: Bus from Belgrade to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belgrade 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Belgrade to Istanbul can start from as little as $47 (€38) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Belgrade to Istanbul is $47 (€38) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Belgrade to Istanbul is 11h 15m to travel the 502 miles (809 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Belgrade to Istanbul leaves at 7:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Belgrade to Istanbul leaves at 8:00 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Belgrade to Istanbul with City Lines, Luks Yonca, Luks Yonca. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Belgrade to Istanbul, you can count on City Lines, Luks Yonca, Luks Yonca for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Belgrade and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Istanbul from Belgrade is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Belgrade to Istanbul is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belgrade and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Belgrade to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Belgrade to Istanbul for bus company City Lines.
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 Belgrade to Istanbul depends on the bus companies:
- City Lines
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company City Lines.
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 Belgrade to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Belgrade to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Belgrade to Istanbul:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Belgrade to Istanbul. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Belgrade to Istanbul with the following bus company: City Lines
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Belgrade to Istanbul with the following bus company: City Lines.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Belgrade to Istanbul with the following bus company: City Lines.
Since neither Belgrade nor Istanbul are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Serbia and Türkiye. 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 Belgrade 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Belgrade to Istanbul
Belgrade
Istanbul
The major bus station for departures in Belgrade is Beograd, Autobuska stanica (Novi Beograd) (Београд, Аутобуска станица (Нови Београд)). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Beograd, Autobuska stanica (Novi Beograd) (Београд, Аутобуска станица (Нови Београд)) for your trip from Belgrade to Istanbul.
Beograd, Autobuska stanica (Novi Beograd) (Београд, Аутобуска станица (Нови Београд))
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Istanbul is Istanbul, Hotel Amir. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Istanbul, Hotel Amir for your trip to Istanbul from Belgrade.
Istanbul, Hotel Amir
information
Istanbul
information
Most popular bus connections from Belgrade
More options for your journey from Belgrade to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Belgrade
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
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